Bacolod city: The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is transitioning to a lower carbon footprint and a cost-effective fleet with the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) to its 10 police stations. The initiative aims to enhance police visibility, improve response times, and boost operational efficiency while significantly reducing fuel consumption.

According to Philippines News Agency, the electric vehicles were procured by the city government at a cost of PHP14 million. Mayor Greg Gasataya handed over the EVs to BCPO Director Col. Eugene Rebadomia at a ceremony held at the Bacolod City Government Center grounds. Mayor Gasataya emphasized the importance of modernizing peace and order operations through this transition to an electric fleet.

The deployment of these 10 EVs is expected to provide the BCPO with a more efficient means of patrolling. The vehicles are equipped with 201 horsepower engines and offer a driving range of up to 490 kilometers. With a 63.2 kWh battery, each vehicle can be fully charged within five to seven hours, which is adequate for a full day of patrol operations.

The electric vehicles come with advanced features such as 360-degree cameras and sensors, keyless entry, front and side curtain airbags, and AC/DC charging capabilities. These features ensure both reliability and protection for personnel in the field. The BCPO expressed optimism about this new chapter, highlighting the benefits of adopting technology and electric-operated patrol vehicles.

In a separate statement, the BCPO noted that these advanced mobility solutions would enhance police visibility while reducing reliance on unstable petroleum products, paving the way for a safer and more economically sustainable city.