In a surprising turn of events, the police force in Basel-Stadt, Switzerland, has announced its decision to prolong the operational lifespan of seven Tesla Model X electric vehicles. Originally acquired in 2019 and scheduled for replacement by the end of 2025, these cars have demonstrated remarkable durability that exceeded initial expectations. This unexpected robustness has prompted officials to reconsider their decommissioning plans.

Details of the Decision

During a recent press briefing, a spokesperson from the cantonal police explained that the Tesla Model X units had shown significantly less wear and tear compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Initially, it was anticipated that these electric models would be retired after five years of service. However, upon evaluation, it became evident that they could remain functional for much longer.

The seven Tesla Model X vehicles were among the first electric models chosen by the Basel-Stadt police due to their ability to meet stringent operational requirements. Each unit underwent modifications costing approximately 140,000 Swiss francs, tailored specifically for law enforcement duties. To date, each vehicle has logged over 100,000 kilometers without major issues.

Currently, the Basel-Stadt police fleet consists of around 200 vehicles, with eight Nissan Leaf models joining the ranks three years ago. Only one of these Nissan Leafs is used for official police duties, while the rest serve other administrative functions.

Looking forward, there is no set timeline for replacing the Tesla Model X units. Should a new procurement process occur, Tesla will have the opportunity to compete for future contracts.

From a broader perspective, this development highlights the growing reliability and efficiency of electric vehicles in demanding environments such as law enforcement. It serves as a testament to the advancements in EV technology and suggests potential benefits for other public services considering electrification.