The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has announced that all its operational SUV and sedan vehicles will be hybrid models within two years.
According to the police, at present almost three quarters of all QPS operational vehicles are environmentally responsible.
Minister for Police, Mark Ryan said that in the past three years the QPS had steadily been growing the number of fuel-efficient hybrids and plug-in hybrids in operation.
“Police will be adopting a ‘hybrid first’ policy for its sedans and SUV fleet, and will progressively replace all non-hybrids with new, more efficient hybrid vehicles,” Mr Ryan said.
He said the announcement saw the QPS leading the way among all Australian Policing Agencies when it came to the planning of an environmentally-responsible fleet.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Wheeler said QPS vehicles collectively clocked up around 1.5 million kilometres each week travelling across the State.
“The very nature of operational policing means our officers are constantly on the move,” A/Deputy Commissioner Wheeler said.
“We know the vehicles must be fit for purpose, reliable and able to be used in challenging circumstances.”
He said the QPS target was 100 per cent hybrid sedan and SUV fleet within two years, subject to supply constraints and operational requirements.
“This is not only extremely important for the environment in terms of reducing emissions, but also helps to offset the rises in fuel and operational costs we are all experiencing,” A/Deputy Commissioner Wheeler said.
“The QPS will look to capitalise on its substantial rooftop solar assets as it moves towards a full electric vehicle future in the years to come.”
