what do you mean a waste? you think every cops race at 160mph behind some bad guy? most police will never pursuit you dont need a big engine to drive in residential streets or to go to some hosue to file a report, you think being a cops is all about pursuit?
That's right, because we all know that investing in Mustangs for pursuit cars is a better idea.
And since half the people here are on the kick of assuming that this electric vehicle is used to replace all gas vehicles, let's throw in bicycles, while we're at it, then count those Mustangs as regular patrol cars.
What you don't seem to get is that a MAJOR part of law enforcement is being prepared and being able to react with a decisive, proportionate response.
Yes, you are right...you don't need a big V8 to drive down a residential street or to go to a house to take a report. But consider this: what if, while gently rolling electrically down that residential street, a call comes in? "Officer down, shots fired, bank robbery in progress, all units respond". And you look down at your trusty "charge-o-meter" and you realize you just don't have the "juice" to help out?
But hey, you'll still be able to coast over to that house to write a report, won't you?
Also, don't forget that many cop cars have upgraded electrical systems to drive additional lights, radios, laptops, etc. Does this company's estimate of a charge include driving all of the electrical accessories in addition to the wheels?
The full quote "The cruiser cannot operate in heavy rain because standing water could destroy its electrical circuits. Light rain and snow are not an issue." I'm not sure why you couldn't shield it from water being sprayed upwards by the tires, unless by standing water they mean going thru water up to your batteries? Perhaps this is due to it being a prototype.
There are definitely places for electric vehicles - postal delivery, UPS trucks, etc. For the police, I think a hybrid would be better. Still can sit in idle with the engine off when needed, and get the instant electric-power boost when you need to go. Obviously the Prius doesn't handle the terrain a police cruiser needs to cover (or tuned for heavy acceleration), but there are more options now, like the Ford Explorer. Isn't there a Malibu hybrid now or coming soon? I would think the police would be all over those options.
Now that we've thrown 'em off the trail, use the form below to get in touch with the people at Engadget. Please fill in all of the required fields because they're required.
"but can't chase down baddies in heavy rain for fear of water "destroying its electrical circuits."
This alone is reason not to purchase it! Sigh....This whole eco crap is beyond logical reasoning. This car is a waste of tax payer money.
and to get away from a ticket just throw a water bottle at the hood of the cop!
what do you mean a waste?
you think every cops race at 160mph behind some bad guy?
most police will never pursuit
you dont need a big engine to drive in residential streets or to go to some hosue to file a report, you think being a cops is all about pursuit?
That's right, because we all know that investing in Mustangs for pursuit cars is a better idea.
And since half the people here are on the kick of assuming that this electric vehicle is used to replace all gas vehicles, let's throw in bicycles, while we're at it, then count those Mustangs as regular patrol cars.
Great thinking, people.
@coplice:
What you don't seem to get is that a MAJOR part of law enforcement is being prepared and being able to react with a decisive, proportionate response.
Yes, you are right...you don't need a big V8 to drive down a residential street or to go to a house to take a report. But consider this: what if, while gently rolling electrically down that residential street, a call comes in? "Officer down, shots fired, bank robbery in progress, all units respond". And you look down at your trusty "charge-o-meter" and you realize you just don't have the "juice" to help out?
But hey, you'll still be able to coast over to that house to write a report, won't you?
Also, don't forget that many cop cars have upgraded electrical systems to drive additional lights, radios, laptops, etc. Does this company's estimate of a charge include driving all of the electrical accessories in addition to the wheels?
The full quote "The cruiser cannot operate in heavy rain because standing water could destroy its electrical circuits. Light rain and snow are not an issue."
I'm not sure why you couldn't shield it from water being sprayed upwards by the tires, unless by standing water they mean going thru water up to your batteries? Perhaps this is due to it being a prototype.
There are definitely places for electric vehicles - postal delivery, UPS trucks, etc. For the police, I think a hybrid would be better. Still can sit in idle with the engine off when needed, and get the instant electric-power boost when you need to go. Obviously the Prius doesn't handle the terrain a police cruiser needs to cover (or tuned for heavy acceleration), but there are more options now, like the Ford Explorer. Isn't there a Malibu hybrid now or coming soon? I would think the police would be all over those options.