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Tesla Vehicles in Indiana's Police Squad Significantly Reduce Expenses by More Than $400,000

Bargersville Police Department's adoption of Tesla patrol cars, a first in Indiana, proves beneficial financially. After switching to electric vehicles, Chief Todd Bertram estimates savings of around $70,000 per year in fuel and maintenance costs, amounting to a total of nearly half a million...

Tesla-equipped police vehicles in Indiana generate significant savings of approximately $400,000...
Tesla-equipped police vehicles in Indiana generate significant savings of approximately $400,000 for the taxpayers.

Tesla Vehicles in Indiana's Police Squad Significantly Reduce Expenses by More Than $400,000

Bargersville Police Department Saves Half a Million Dollars with Electric Vehicles

The Bargersville Police Department in Indiana is reaping significant benefits from switching to electric vehicles (EVs), according to a report shared with the Indianapolis Star. The department, which was the first in the state to use a Tesla on patrol in 2019, has been experiencing substantial savings since the transition.

The savings began with the purchase of a single Tesla Model 3 in 2019. Despite criticism of Tesla's CEO Elon Musk, the Bargersville Police Department remained committed to the EV switch. This decision has proven to be a wise one, as the department has saved nearly half a million dollars in fuel and maintenance costs since the switch.

One of the main factors contributing to these savings is the lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline. Electricity costs much less per mile than gasoline, resulting in significant fuel cost reductions for the department.

Another key factor is the reduced vehicle maintenance expenses. EVs have fewer moving parts, eliminating the need for oil changes, and less frequent brake replacements. As a result, the Bargersville Police Department has not had to change brakes on any of their Teslas, avoiding expenses that can reach up to $1,500 for traditional cruisers.

The department's first Tesla was later sold for $21,000 after reaching close to 100,000 miles, demonstrating the resale value of EVs. The department currently has 13 electric vehicles serving a 16-officer force. Resale decisions for the Teslas in the department are made by the town council.

The savings the department has made since switching to electric vehicles have been significant, as stated by Police Chief Todd Bertram. For instance, the department saves approximately $70,000 to $80,000 annually since 2020 due to the use of electric vehicles. Compared to four older Ford patrol cars, the department saves $3,100 per month on gas for the Teslas.

In June 2024, the cost of charging the Teslas was $300, compared to $3,100 in gas for the four older Ford patrol cars. The department continues to save more as they add more electric vehicles to their fleet.

The Bargersville Police Department's example shows how local law enforcement can leverage EV technology to cut fuel expenditures and maintenance costs, contributing to overall departmental savings. However, precise dollar amounts saved by Bargersville PD may require looking into official municipal reports or press releases from the department or Indiana state sources.

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