STATE COLLEGE — The Ferguson Township Police Department has officially added its first fully electric patrol vehicle to its fleet: a purpose-built Chevrolet Blazer EV police package. This new addition marks a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions and lowering long-term municipal operating costs.
Ferguson Township officials said in a statement that they chose to purchase an electric patrol vehicle that was built for law enforcement. Unlike standard civilian electric vehicles, the Chevrolet Blazer EV is engineered specifically for police use, featuring heavy-duty suspension, high-performance Brembo front brakes, and front seats specially designed to accommodate an officer’s duty belt and gear comfortably.
The all-electric cruiser directly supports the Township’s local climate action goals with zero emission patrols, allowing the police department to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels without compromising vehicle performance or public safety capabilities.
With an EPA-estimated range of roughly 280+ miles on a single charge, the cruiser easily covers the typical 60 to 95 miles per patrol shift.
A key feature for municipal law enforcement is the vehicle’s “protected idle” mode. This allows officers to leave the vehicle locked and powered on while stepping away, keeping essential emergency electronics, radios, and computers running without wasting fuel or risking an electronic system reboot.
By shifting to an electric platform, the Township will bypass traditional combustion-engine maintenance expenses, including routine oil changes, spark plug replacements, and complex transmission upkeep which will save tax dollars over the vehicle’s lifespan.
