California Police Department Buys Tesla Cybertruck for Community Outreach

The vehicle is capable of responding to emergencies, but the department does not plan to use the truck for patrols. The Cybertruck will be used for community outreach and engagement.

October 9, 2024

The Irvine (California) Police Department is the first law enforcement agency to acquire a Tesla Cybertruck. The vehicle will be used primarily by DARE officers.Screen Shot from Irvine PD Video

The Irvine (California) Police Department has unveiled its newest police vehicle: a Tesla Cybertruck.

Irvine Police Chief Michael Kent told the Orange County Register he believes it to be the first police Cybertruck in the United States.

“I’m very proud to say that we’re the first police department in the country to have this in its fleet,” Kent said.

The vehicle is capable of responding to emergencies, but the department does not plan to use the truck for patrols. The Cybertruck will be used for community outreach and engagement, police officials said, and will principally be driven by DARE officers to schools.

The Tesla Cybertruck, plus its aftermarket equipment installation, cost the Irvine Police Department more than $150,000. An outfitted Ford Police Interceptor patrol car costs about $116,000, the department said.

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