By Joanna Putman
Police1
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Is the California Highway Patrol considering adding electric vehicles to its fleet? According to Lucid Motors, there might be potential with its law enforcement-modified Lucid Air EV.
Lucid Motors recently shared that its Lucid Air electric sedan, equipped with police lights, a crash bar, a public address system and a traditional black-and-white paint job, is part of CHP’s 2025 vehicle evaluations, according to Road and Track. The move would represent a significant shift from the CHP’s current lineup of Ford Explorers, Dodge Chargers and BMW motorcycles.
A modified version of the Lucid Air recently participated in California Highway Patrol vehicle testing. What do you think about the potential for Lucid Air to lend its unmatched combination of range, interior and cargo space and performance to law enforcement duty? pic.twitter.com/qgjyXwk8Uh
— Lucid Motors (@LucidMotors) November 10, 2024
With horsepower ranging from 420 hp in base models to 1,234 hp in the high-performance Lucid Air Sapphire, the Lucid offers plenty of power for CHP’s needs, potentially allowing officers to match or surpass the speed of most vehicles on California roads, according to the report. The Lucid Air’s range of 406-480 miles per charge is also a key feature, which could enable officers to cover extensive shifts without needing frequent recharging.
Lucid’s participation in CHP’s 2025 Police Vehicle Evaluation event is the latest in an emerging trend of EVs in law enforcement, according to the report. Other agencies, such as the NYPD and Menlo Park Police Department, have already adopted electric models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla’s Model Y for patrol duties.
The event also showcased some classic cruisers, including a 1992 Ford Mustang SSP, a 1966 CHP Dodge Polara and a 1999 Volvo S70 T5 — the only known Volvo patrol vehicle still in existence, according to CHP.
CHP is also testing other EVs, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, at its West Sacramento training facility, according to the report. There is currently no confirmed timeline or final decision on adding the Lucid Air to CHP’s active fleet.
