The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP is going green with the arrival of its first hybrid-electric cruiser.
The hybrid-electric patrol car has already hit the streets, said Const. Chris Terleski.
“The integration of hybrid vehicles is expected to continue as we modernize our fleet to help reduce emissions here in the North Okanagan and across the country,” Terleski said.
The vehicle is a hybrid-electric version of the RCMP’s Ford Police Interceptor utility vehicle.
“The advantage of the hybrid is that at low speeds and around town, the electric motor powers the vehicle saving money on fuel,” Terleski said. “At the same time, we still have the gas engine for situations when we need the speed and power.”
Hybrid patrol vehicles are also in use at other RCMP detachments across the country.
Terleski said that while the Vernon RCMP expects to add more hybrids to its fleet, how many and how quickly depends on what is available when one of their vehicles needs to be replaced.
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