New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
The New Bedford Police Department would like to announce that two of its frontline cruisers are now Ford hybrids.
Hybrid electric vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors, which use energy stored in batteries. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and by the internal combustion engine. The extra power provided by the electric motor allows for a smaller engine.
The battery can also power auxiliary loads and reduce engine idling when stopped. Together, these features result in better fuel economy without sacrificing performance (U.S. Dept. of Energy).
Hybrid cruisers can get around 23 miles per gallon when operating on city streets, as opposed to the regular models which only get around 17. This not only saves on fuel costs but helps to lessen the carbon footprint left by years of continuous patrolling. As of today, two west-end patrol units, #12 and #14, are hybrids. The goal is to outfit our entire fleet with hybrid vehicles in the near future, and perhaps even electric ones in years to come.
“We are proud to announce that our department has taken a significant step towards a more sustainable and fiscally responsible future. With reduced emissions, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced versatility, these new cruisers are a step in the right direction. These vehicles will undoubtedly help to save taxpayer money over the next few years.”-Paul Oliveira.
Photo by New Bedford Police Department.
