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Page 3 of 5 <br />City of Redwood City 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA. 94063 Tel: 650-780-7000 www.redwoodcity.org <br />ANALYSIS <br />Over the past year, Police Department staff conducted thorough evaluation of hybrid patrol vehicles <br />compared to traditional gasoline-powered pursuit vehicles, focusing on performance, operational <br />suitability, safety, and cost considerations. The analysis draws on nationally recognized testing and real- <br />world operational experience to assess whether hybrid vehicles can meet the demands of frontline patrol <br />and emergency response. The following key points summarize the findings and provide a clear overview <br />of the factors that should guide fleet decisions and deployment strategies. Below is a summary of study <br />findings and observations gathered by PD through their research and discussions with frontline staff. <br /> <br />1. Hybrid patrol vehicles show slower acceleration and lower top speeds compared to traditional <br />gasoline pursuit vehicles, which may affect emergency response and pursuit capability. ¹ ² <br />2. Additional weight from hybrid components can increase braking distances and reduce handling, <br />impacting officer safety during high-speed maneuvers. ¹ ² <br />3. Testing indicates hybrid vehicles are optimized for fuel efficiency and low-speed operation, rather <br />than the mixed-duty cycle demands of frontline patrol work. ¹ ² <br />4. High-speed pursuit performance, sustained acceleration, and emergency braking remain superior in <br />gasoline-powered pursuit-rated vehicles. ¹ ² <br />5. Repair of hybrid vehicles can be more complex and costly when warranty periods expire due to <br />specialized components, potentially affecting fleet readiness. ³ <br />6. While hybrid vehicles offer fuel savings, these benefits may be offset by required training, potential <br />liability concerns, and operational limitations during pursuits and emergency responses. ³ <br />7. Hybrid vehicles may be appropriate for administrative, community service, parking enforcement, or <br />investigative needs. ³ <br />8. Frontline patrol and pursuit operations continue to require vehicles that meet stringent performance, <br />safety, and operational standards. ¹ ² <br />9. Further adoption of hybrid vehicles would require additional officer training on vehicle operation, <br />emergency handling, and system limitations, adding time and resource considerations. ³ <br />¹ Michigan State Police Vehicle Evaluation Testing Reports (annual pursuit and performance testing data) <br />² California Highway Patrol Vehicle Evaluation Program (braking, handling, and real-world patrol <br />assessments) <br />³ Redwood City Police Department operational practices and policy considerations regarding patrol <br />vehicle deployment, training, and fleet management <br />On April 7, 2026, staff issued a Notice Inviting Bids (NIB), published on the City’s website and in the San <br />Mateo Daily Journal. Staff also notified prospective bidders of the NIB, and one bid was received by the <br />bid submission deadline. The NIB requested pricing for six 2026 Ford Police Interceptors. Given the need <br />to place an order for new Police Interceptors before the order bank closes, staff is recommending <br />purchasing six gas powered 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles. Staff will continue to monitor <br />changes in technology and continue implementing gas-alternative options in all other police functions <br />such as administrative, community service, and investigative duties to optimize fuel savings while <br />minimizing operational risk. <br />7.E. - Page 3 of 19 <br />105