The Boulder County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) might be upping their patrol game.

According to a press release from BCSO, the department is testing out a 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD as a patrol vehicle. The car is mostly being used for traffic stops; however, the agency hopes to use it in other areas if the testing is successful.

BCSO is well aware that the idea of using a Tesla for police work may seem...unnecessary. Still, the agency has two reasons behind its decision: finances and the environment.

"We are keenly aware that many people perceive Tesla vehicles as 'luxury vehicles,' and while that is true for a large segment of their product line, Tesla's mission has been the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) into the mainstream market," read the release. "As such, Tesla vehicle prices have become much more affordable in recent years. Additionally, the specifications are comparable to the current Ford Police Interceptor (PI) SUVs currently in use for patrol, while providing exceptional safety performance and liability."

The Boulder County Sheriff's Office's new 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD patrol car. Courtesy of the Boulder County Sheriff's Office.
The Boulder County Sheriff's Office's new 2021 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD patrol car. Courtesy of the Boulder County Sheriff's Office.
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While a Tesla may be more expensive than a traditional police car upfront, the department estimates that, in the long term, it will save them around $16,590 in maintenance and gas costs.

BCSO also believes the vehicle will make the agency more environmentally friendly, as it will partially rely on solar panel charging.

"Several law enforcement agencies around the country have started to pave the way for the adoption of Teslas and other electric vehicles for their purposes," read the release. "Boulder County has always strived to be eco-friendly in all our operations, and we continue that commitment by being one of the first, if not the first law enforcement agency in the State of Colorado to bring a Tesla Model Y into our patrol fleet."

Now, there's no need to be paranoid every time you pass a Tesla on the road (especially if you're a safe driver). BCSO's vehicle is adorned with the department's signage and equipped with emergency tools.

Learn more about the agency's new Tesla here.

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