The Irvine Police Department in California made headlines for becoming one of the first law enforcement agencies to purchase a Tesla Cybertruck. Public records obtained by Forbes revealed that the department spent more than $150,000 on the vehicle, including $20,000 for additional customizations. The department described the purchase as a way to engage with the community and generate excitement.
The invoices showed that the department opted for the most expensive Cyberbeast model, which offers greater horsepower and range than the regular Cybertruck. In addition to the vehicle’s $99,990 retail price, Irvine police also paid an extra $20,000 for the “Foundation Series” package. This package included premium accessories like laser-etched cabin graphics, a glass roof sunshade, “full self-driving (supervised)”, and an attachable bottle opener. The department stated that the Cybertruck will not be used for patrolling, but rather as part of their Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) unit.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Cybertruck purchase, reports revealed that Tesla’s Cybertruck had been recalled four times by the time Irvine police bought theirs in May. Other buyers reported flaws such as a faulty accelerator pedal assembly, loose trim, and malfunctioning windshield wipers. However, Sergeant Karie Davies referred to the Cybertruck as a “cool showpiece” and stated that the truck was paid for using the city’s fleet funds account.
In addition to the purchase of the Cybertruck, the Irvine Police Department also paid $20,000 to Unplugged Performance, a Tesla customization company, for the installation of unspecified “law enforcement equipment.” The company offers a service called “UP.FIT,” which can facilitate specialty tool and weapon storage, prisoner partitions, canine enclosures, and internet access through SpaceX’s Starlink. The department coordinated with Unplugged Performance to create a custom car wrap for the Cybertruck.
Irvine is not the only police department considering adding Cybertrucks to its fleet. In January, the Rosenberg, TX police department inquired about the Cybertruck’s potential as a police vehicle, to which Elon Musk responded. Police in Dubai and Anaheim have also shown interest in incorporating Tesla vehicles in their fleet. California State Senator Dave Min announced funding for Irvine PD to transition towards a zero-emissions fleet, which may include electric vehicles like the Cybertruck.
While Irvine PD currently has no plans to purchase another Cybertruck, they have received positive feedback from employees who initially had reservations about the vehicle. Despite its high cost and reported flaws, the Cybertruck has gained attention as a unique addition to law enforcement fleets. The department’s innovative approach to community engagement and commitment to environmental sustainability reflect their dedication to serving and protecting the city of Irvine.
