Hybrids join RCMP fleet of cop cars in Penticton
Two new hybrid police cars joined the Penticton RCMP fleet this month, with more coming in the new year.
The Ford Explorer SUV hybrids are both gas and battery powered, allowing the computers and electronics, like emergency lights, to operate entirely off the battery when the car isn’t running, according to an RCMP media release issued today, Dec. 5.
“This new set up will allow us to keep the electronics working and the lights active, without the vehicle idling,” Penticton RCMP media relations officer Const. Dayne Lyons said in the release. “The engine does kick on every so often just to keep the battery active, but you will see a noticeable reduction in idling time.”
Penticton RCMP and the City of Penticton worked together to get the vehicles. The two hybrid vehicles are already in service, and three more will be replacing aged-out police cars in the months to come.
“The City of Penticton is committed to a sustainable future, which is why we’ve adopted a Community Climate Action Plan and a Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan,” said the City’s community sustainability co-ordinator David Kassian in the release. “The move by the RCMP to hybrid cars is another positive step to building a bright, long-term future for residents.”
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