The Los Angeles Police Department is now field-testing the Vectrix VX-3, a unique three-wheeled electric patrol vehicle that will be available in the spring. The LAPD is testing the scooter-type vehicle at the city's LA Live entertainment complex that includes Staples Center. The vehicle was debuted at the 2010 COPSWEST trade show. Photos by Paul Clinton.
Vectrix VX-3 Electric Vehicle
Agency badging can be added to the rear of the vehicle, which also includes a storage container under the seat compartment.
The Vectrix VX-3 is a three-wheel, fully electric vehicle that can reach a top speed of 68 mph and has a range of 35-55 miles with a 30 amp/hour LiFePO4 battery.
The multi-function throttle gives the rider three choices — acceleration, slowdown or regenerative braking.
A trio of gauges spread across the vehicle's blue-lighted instrument cluster, allowing riders to easily view estimated range (left), speed, and battery life (right).
The VX-3 uses a series of articulating components to allow an officer rider to lean the vehicle into turns while maintaining stability on a roadway. Vectrix claims "nearly silent operation."