Solebury Unveils First EV Police Vehicle In Bucks County

SOLEBURY TOWNSHIP, PA — The Solebury Township Police Department has made history as the first law enforcement agency in Bucks County to integrate an electric vehicle into its patrol fleet - marking a step toward sustainability and the modernization of community policing.

The department's new electric vehicle (EV), a fully-equipped Chevrolet Blazer, is now on active duty, offering a quieter, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered cruisers. Outfitted with all the necessary law enforcement technology, the EV is designed to meet the rigorous demands of police work while reducing the department's carbon footprint, the department said in a press release.

"This is an exciting milestone for our department and our community," said Chief Kelley Warner. "By integrating electric vehicles into our fleet, we're not only enhancing our operational capabilities, but also taking meaningful action to reduce our environmental impact."

According to the chief, the Blazer EV PPV was developed with input from law enforcement across the U.S. and Canada, featuring police-specific seats to accommodate duty belts, programmable steering wheel buttons for emergency equipment, vinyl flooring, a spacious cargo area without a false floor, and a Rear Camera Mirror for better visibility. These features address officer comfort and operational needs.

The transition to electric vehicles is part of a broader effort by Solebury to embrace green technologies and reduce municipal emissions. During the coming months and years, the department plans to monitor the performance and cost-effectiveness of the EV closely, with the potential to expand the electric fleet in the future, she said.

"Monitoring actual range (estimated at 250–290 miles) against patrol demands, especially in high-speed or extended operations, will be critical," said the chief. "Departments will assess charging times," she said.

"Officer satisfaction with the vehicle’s comfort (e.g., police-specific seats, space for gear), ease of use (e.g., programmable controls, contactless ignition), and quiet operation for covert approaches will also be evaluated.," she said.

"The department will track the vehicle’s performance in real-world conditions, including acceleration, handling, and braking, as well as its durability under the rigors of patrol work," said the chief.

The reliability, availability, and cost of charging stations will be monitored, including the impact of power grid stability and potential outages. Departments will assess whether existing infrastructure meets operational needs or requires upgrades.

The move has been met with enthusiasm from residents and local officials alike, who see it as a forward-thinking investment in the township's future, said Chief Warner.

The new Chevrolet Blazer is now on active duty in Solebury Township.