Mandelieu-La Napoule Police Drive a Tesla Model 3!

Four Tesla Model 3s have joined the Police fleet in Mandelieu-La Napoule, a first in France.

The wealth of a municipality is often reflected in the means it invests in its law enforcement. In the south of France, the question is taken seriously as one of the top political arguments. Accordingly, the mayor of the charming town of Mandelieu-La Napoule tweeted upon receiving the first four Tesla Model 3 police cars: “Security, your first right and our primary obligation“.

The mayor proudly states that this makes Mandelieu-La Napoule the first municipality in France to be equipped with Tesla, but not just any: Model 3 cars produced in China, whereas the Model Y, more practical for daily charging of equipment or personnel, is produced in Germany.

This unusual choice could backfire, as Sébastien Leroy anticipates: “Pity that French manufacturers did not respond to our call for bids.” Was it viable, considering that Renault notably has the electric Scenic and Peugeot the 3008 or 5008? Strange nonetheless, as national preference would have been appreciated. Unless voters prefer glamour.

Significant usage savings?

The switch to electric vehicles is to be applauded for several reasons. First, regarding operating costs. Sébastien Leroy continues: “Operational optimization in cities, savings on energy and maintenance of 85%.” The Town Hall estimates monthly savings of 650 euros per vehicle on fuel, but also highlights reduced maintenance. “Last year, we spent the equivalent of a new car on repairs due to issues with particle filters and clutches.” Mandelieu-La Napoule police specify that they keep their cars an average of 5 years, and hope to extend this with Tesla.

Furthermore, the quiet operation will be an advantage during interventions and patrols, and finally, air quality will improve with fewer liters of diesel burned.

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