The switch to an EV interceptor is claimed to reduce maintenance costs by up to $27,012 compared to a hybrid Ford.
Well-known authorized Tesla tuner Unplugged Performance (UP) unveiled its latest creation, a Tesla Model Y Interceptor, set to replace all Ford hybrid police interceptors in South Pasadena, making it the first city in the US to use EVs as police cruisers. And this could be a good thing, given a non-hybrid Ford Police Interceptor Utility will typically burn 60% of its fuel on idle.
As you may expect, turning a Tesla Model Y into a proper cop car requires extensive modifications, and no tuner is better suited for this job than Unplugged Performance. Keep in mind, the Californian tuning house is already famous for building fantastic electric track weapons since the original Model S came out in 2012, including the Model S Plaid Nürburgring Prototype that set a lap record at Pikes Peak with Randy Pobst behind the wheel in 2021.
First off, the Model Y was fitted with the Pursuit Package, including a new performance brake and suspension setup for accommodating high-speed chases. As for other mandatory police modifications, a push bar, sirens, strobe lights, a PA system, and Whelen Arges spotlights were installed. Moreover, the interior was equipped with durable seat covers, prisoner cell partitions, K9 containments, firearm equipment racks, and other necessary electronic gizmos such as GPS and computers. Clients can even go a step further and opt for the Armouring Package, allowing the vehicle to withstand ballistic attacks, including high-velocity rifle rounds.
Needless to say, UP is obsessed with building electric police vehicles. In fact, it’s so invested in similar projects that it created a new division dubbed “UPfit,” promising a convenient one-stop solution for all hardware and software needed to convert vehicles to police cruiser EVs. Additionally, the Tesla tuner claims to have extensive government connections and business experience to ensure a seamless transition towards electric vehicles, having developed its own strategies and method.
While there are still some criticisms about using EVs as emergency service vehicles, UP says switching to EVs, especially Teslas, will have its own benefits. Despite a limited range and long charging time, the Model Y will bring lower maintenance costs and no greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, switching to electric will also cut an average of 2,839 gallons of fuel per vehicle in one year and reduce pollution by up to 55,000 pounds of carbon dioxide. Not to forget, Tesla also has the largest supercharger network and one of the fastest sharing speeds, so the limited range won’t be such a big deal overall.
Gallery: Tesla Model Y Interceptor by Unplugged Performance
