THE ECO-FRIENDLY POLICE FORCE

EV Channels Review

This episode of Fully Charged explores Gloucestershire's pioneering initiative to transition its police fleet to electric vehicles. The force has moved beyond token gestures, now aiming for 21% of its fleet to be fully electric, comprising 65 Nissan Leafs and 9 electric vans, totaling 74 vehicles. A significant investment has been made in charging infrastructure, with 87 charging points across 16 locations, enabling effective deployment even in rural areas. The transition began with first-generation Leafs and progressed through second-generation models, with officers initially apprehensive but now largely won over by the technology's capabilities. The review highlights the logistical challenges, particularly concerning charging infrastructure at older police stations, and the shift from departmental vehicle ownership to a pooled electric fleet. While currently used for general duties and not high-speed response, the aspiration is to expand to pursuit vehicles. The financial benefits are substantial, with projected annual savings of around £137,000 from fuel and servicing, alongside a reduction of approximately 190 tons of carbon per year. The initiative is presented not just as an environmental effort but as a way to make Gloucestershire an 'employer of choice' and a 'green and pleasant county.'