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Takoma Park council approves three hybrid patrol SUVs after extended electric-vehicle debate
Summary
After hours of questioning about charging, pilot data and costs, the Takoma Park City Council voted to authorize purchase of three hybrid police SUVs while directing staff to pursue additional EV pilot information and budget planning for future electrification.
Mayor Talisha Searcy opened a prolonged debate on the city’s proposed purchase of three police SUVs, asking the police chief to summarize staff work on electric-vehicle options before the council voted.
Chief Duval told the council the vehicle replacement committee reviewed electric alternatives, including the pursuit-rated Chevy Blazer EV, but concluded the Blazer costs about $16,000 more per unit than the hybrid being purchased and that the city’s current and near-term charging capacity — including potential need for chargers at officers’ homes — made moving to pursuit-rated EVs premature. "I do not feel comfortable, with the current charging capabilities, of the Chevy Blazer, moving forward with it at this time," the chief said.
That asse…
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