Key Takeaways:
– UP.FIT, a division of Unplugged Performance, has transformed a Tesla Model S Plaid into a police car.
– The high-performance police vehicle was unveiled at the 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas.
– The modified Model S has integrated police lights to reduce aerodynamic drag.
– The vehicle retains its powerful tri-motor all-wheel drive powertrain.
– Despite the added weight due to police equipment, the estimated range drop is relatively small.
UP.FIT Transforms Tesla Model S into Police Cruiser
UP.FIT, the tuning division of California-based Unplugged Performance, has charmed the automotive industry with their latest project. Their Tesla tuners have converted a Model S Plaid into a bespoke police vehicle. This stunner made its debut at the 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas.
Acquiring New Wings for the LA Police
The Plaid police cruiser is destined to bolster the community outreach programs of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. This assignment is not a first, as Unplugged Performance’s UP.FIT division has executed several Tesla police conversions. They have a strong portfolio that includes a Cybertruck police cruiser and several other Model S modifications.
Redefined Aerodynamics With Integrated Police Lights
Police vehicles have significant need for high visibility. Addressing this, the engineers at UP.FIT designed a new wiring harness to integrate police lights. These lights are mounted behind the windshield, rear window, and along the side skirts. This design is a strategic departure from the conventional light bar method that can create aerodynamic drag.
Enhanced Safety Equipment
UP.FIT does not stop at light modification. They equipped this Model S Plaid with a push bar, high- and low-frequency sirens, and a public address system. While this added equipment increases the vehicle’s weight, it only dropped the car’s range marginally to an estimated 345 miles from the standard 359.
Performance Retained Despite Additional Weight
Police need speed and power to protect our streets. Despite the added weight of police-specific modifications, the converted vehicle retains the stock Model S Plaid’s power. Its tri-motor all-wheel drive powertrain still produces an impressive 1,020 hp, enabling it to reach 0-60 mph in a breathtaking 1.9 seconds.
Upgraded to Lighter Wheels and Upgraded Brakes
Unplugged Performance also ensured the vehicle could stand up to extreme conditions. They included lighter wheels and upgraded brakes in the police conversion. This means the high-performance electric cruiser can continue its duty in the most demanding situations.
EV Police Cars Not Exclusive to Tesla
While Tesla does not officially offer police-specific packages, departments can rely on aftermarket tuning companies such as Unplugged Performance for conversions. Other automakers are stepping into the game as well. General Motors offers a police version of the Chevrolet Blazer EV. Ford takes pride in their F-150 Lightning modified for police use, and has constructed a limited number of Mustang Mach-E police cars for the New York Police Department. Meanwhile, Stellantis is preparing to launch a police version of the Dodge Charger Daytona.
This trend signals a shift in the landscape of police vehicles. With electric models like the Tesla Model S Plaid police car, it’s clear that the future of law enforcement transportation is not just powerful, but efficient and environmentally friendly as well.