The next generation of police vehicles was spotted cruising around Barrington last month. 

Barrington Police officers recently had the chance to test drive a new Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV. For years, the local police department has entertained the possibility of incorporating electric vehicles into its fleet. 

Barrington Police Chief Michael Correia said the shift toward electric police vehicles seems more likely as car manufacturers continue to move more aggressively into the electric vehicle market, and away from fossil fuels. Chief Correia said the overall reaction from the officers who test drove the Mach-E was positive. The chief also took a turn behind the wheel.

When asked if the vehicle was fast enough to handle police work, Chief Correia said. “It was quick enough.”

Barrington Police Lt. Kevin Igoe handles most of the vehicle purchases for the department. He said Barrington Police have been interested in electric vehicles, so he reached out to Tesla and Tasca. The Tesla dealership told him they did not have any vehicles available for a test drive, but the Tasca dealership had just received a new Mustang Mach-E.

“I picked it up at Tasca and drove it back,” Lt. Igoe said. “Plenty of pick-up, and it seemed to handle well.”

Lt. Igoe said the Mustang Mach-E was the “Select” edition and included all-wheel drive. It is rated at 211 miles (per charge), he said, adding that it would be a front line car for the department. Lt. Igoe said it would probably go to a shift supervisor. 

One of the challenges with using an electric vehicle for police work, Lt. Igoe said, was the time required for charging the vehicle. The standard charge takes between six and eight hours, meaning the vehicle would need to sit and charge for a full shift before being ready for use. The quick charge option would provide an 80 percent charge in about 45 minutes, he said. 

Cabin space can be another issue facing police departments. Lt. Igoe said the Mustang Mach-E had a good amount of space — probably less than the Explorer, but more than Dodge sedans previously used by Barrington. 

The sticker price for the Mustang Mach-E used for the test drive was $49,895, Lt. Igoe said. 

Most years, the police department submits its vehicle purchase requests to the town council by July.