Nestled on the northern California Mendocino Coast, Fort Bragg is a small town with a big commitment to sustainability. This commitment is evident in the Fort Bragg Police Department’s recent adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), specifically the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro Special Service Vehicles (SSVs). With a fleet of eight marked police vehicles, the department is transitioning to EVs to enhance their patrol capabilities while supporting environmental goals.
Early Adoption of Electric Pickup Trucks
Under the leadership of Police Chief Neil Cervenka, the Fort Bragg PD became one of the first police departments in the country to integrate electric pickup trucks into their fleet. The rugged terrain of California’s coastline demands vehicles with high ground clearance and four-wheel drive capabilities, making the F-150 Lightning Pro SSV an ideal choice. “I’d never used a pickup for patrol work, nor had any of the officers in Fort Bragg, but it made sense for many reasons,” Cervenka explained. The truck’s ample front trunk space, towing capabilities, and impressive acceleration—reaching zero-to-60 mph in under four seconds—further cemented its suitability for the department’s needs.
EV Charging Infrastructure and Challenges
The transition to electric vehicles includes setting up appropriate charging infrastructure. Fort Bragg PD is utilizing an EV incentive program from a local utility provider to install Level 2 and Level 3 chargers at the police station. In the interim, officers are using Level 1 chargers, which allow them to fully charge their vehicles overnight. Despite some initial challenges, such as two sergeants mistakenly using a Level 1 charger on a long trip, the department is quickly adapting and learning.
Chief Cervenka emphasized the importance of understanding EV charging levels. “The difference between a Level 3 and Level 1 charger is huge, and knowing how to find each one is important.” This lesson was reinforced during a successful 600-mile journey to Ontario, California, where the officers exclusively used Level 3 chargers, demonstrating the feasibility of long-distance travel with EVs.
Future Plans and Community Support
The Fort Bragg PD is not stopping with its current fleet. A fifth F-150 Lightning Pro SSV is on order, and the department plans to transition to a fully electric patrol fleet within the next two to three years. Community and city council support for this initiative has been strong, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Ford Motor Company, with its long history of serving police fleets, is enthusiastic about helping departments like Fort Bragg explore vehicle electrification and charger infrastructure setup. The company continues to support police departments across the country as they make the transition to electric vehicles.
