Unplugged Performance, an aftermarket tuning company based in Hawthorne, California, has made waves in the automotive industry with its innovative modifications for Tesla vehicles. With the recent launch of its UPfit division, the company introduced its first product, the Tesla Model Y Police Vehicle. This futuristic police car was unveiled at the Tesla Takeover event in San Luis Obispo, California, signaling Unplugged Performance’s foray into the fleet car market.
Tesla Model Y Unplugged Performance
One of the key selling points of the Tesla Model Y Police Vehicle is its affordable cost. With a price tag of $91,990 ($50,490 for the base vehicle and an additional $41,500 for the UPfit modifications), it offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional police vehicles such as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility Hybrid, which costs approximately $7,000 more. Moreover, the city of South Pasadena has already placed an order for 20 of these electric police cars, becoming the first U.S. city to fully transition its police fleet to electric vehicles.
Unplugged Performance best part of several benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) in the context of law enforcement and public safety operations. Firstly, EVs offer significant cost savings compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. With lower fuel and maintenance costs, EVs prove to be a more economical choice for police departments. Additionally, their environmental advantages, such as zero emissions, contribute to a cleaner and healthier community.
In terms of functionality, EVs provide a practical solution for police forces. Unlike conventional police vehicles that consume a significant amount of fuel while idling, EVs demonstrate minimal energy requirements, enabling onboard electronics to operate efficiently. This feature is particularly valuable as police cars often need to power various electronics, such as communication systems and emergency lights.
The customization options offered by UPfit for the Tesla Model Y Police Vehicle further enhance its suitability for law enforcement. The interior modifications include seat covers, molded seats, and high-durability materials to withstand the demanding requirements of police work. On the exterior, enhancements such as grille guards, custom lighting, and performance braking systems improve the vehicle’s functionality and safety. UPfit also provides tech add-ons like GPS and radio systems, as well as armoring packages for enhanced officer protection.
Ben Schaffer, the CEO of Unplugged Performance, emphasizes the company’s expertise in developing integrated solutions that seamlessly integrate with the Tesla ecosystem. His assertion that “the most capable, safest, most comfortable environment for an officer to spend the bulk of their day is inside a properly equipped Tesla police car” As cities like South Pasadena lead the way in adopting electric police fleets, the future of law enforcement vehicles appears to be electrifying.