California cops apparently want Cybertrucks now
LOS ANGELES - Tesla patrol vehicles aren't something new in California.
Police departments across the Golden State already use or are testing Tesla patrol cars. The Anaheim Police Department, for example, debuted Model Y patrol vehicles in April.
"The Tesla Model Y was selected for its advanced features, including rapid acceleration, ample storage capacity, affordability, and low maintenance requirements, all of which are integral to police operations," Anaheim PD said in a statement.
With the recent rise in popularity of Cybertrucks, though, it seems law enforcement officers want customized Cybertrucks too.
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That's according to an internal email obtained by 404 Media through a public records request, which apparently shows that Anaheim police officers want to be the first in the country to have law enforcement-branded Cybertrucks.
The email was apparently sent back in February by Sergeant Jacob Gallacher to James Hedland from UP.FIT, a company that sells modified Teslas for use by authorities.
"P.S. I spoke with the Chief yesterday and we still want to be the first police agency to have a Cybertruck. If anyone can make that happen, I know it is you!" Gallacher wrote.
Gallacher later told 404 Media that the email was a bit of "a joke," but doubled down on the department's wish to be the first agency in the U.S. to have one - not for patrols at first, but maybe for "community engagement" to start.
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Gallacher said the Cybertruck could be used at parades or community events to "start conversations with the public," though he noted the high price point of the armor-like vehicle.
According to Tesla's website, a "standard" Cybertruck with rear-wheel drive costs $60,990, while all-wheel drive will run you around $19,000 extra.
The new Tesla vehicle uses ultra-strong glass and polymer-layered composite to absorb and redirect impact force for improved performance and damage tolerance. The electric truck also boasts a "nearly impenetrable exoskeleton," where every "component is designed for superior strength and endurance, from stainless-steel structural skin to Tesla armor glass," according to Tesla’s website.