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Council approves new hybrid Ford Explorer for police fleet, citing fuel savings and warranty
Summary
The council authorized purchase and outfitting of a 2025 hybrid Ford Explorer police vehicle for $70,062.97. Police said the department continues a gradual switch to mild-hybrid front-line vehicles to reduce fuel costs and idling wear.
The Hooksett Town Council approved the purchase and outfitting of a 2025 Ford Explorer hybrid police vehicle, at a total price of $70,062.97. Lieutenant Bradley representing the Hooksett Police Department explained the department has been transitioning front-line units to mild-hybrid models to reduce fuel consumption and idling wear; the vehicles carry a manufacturer warranty (noted in discussion as roughly 100,000 miles or five years for some components).
Lieutenant Bradley said the department's frontline fleet is now largely hybrid; non-hybrid older vehicles are being cycled out of front-line duty. Councilors asked about maintenance trade-offs and warranty support; staff said many reported electrical failures on mild-hybrids are rare and the initial price premium for the hybrid Explorer was modest relative to the broader fleet benefit. The motion passed on a roll-call vote.
Why it matters: The purchase is part of a multi-year fleet modernization that aims to stabilize fuel costs and improve vehicle efficiency. Next steps: purchase and outfitting proceed; the outgoing vehicle will be repurposed to unmarked/detective use.
