The Vancouver Police Department, with funding from the City of Vancouver, has added two new, fully-electric motorcycles to its fleet of vehicles, becoming one of the first police agencies in Canada to use pure electric motorcycles for police operations.
“We want to ensure our members have access to the right tools to do their jobs effectively and efficiently and keep Vancouver safe. These new electric motorcycles will work well in high pedestrian and cyclist areas and will allow our officers to safely interact with the public. And, since there is no exhaust and less noise, the bikes will be less disruptive,” says Chief Constable Adam Palmer, Vancouver Police Department.
“It’s exciting to see VPD be one of the first police agencies in Canada to roll-out clean, green and quiet electric motorcycles as part of their fleet,” says Mayor Gregor Robertson. “The VPD’s pure electric motorcycles are a welcome addition to the City, who already has the largest municipal electric vehicle fleet in Canada. These new electric motorcycles will help the VPD keep pedestrians and cyclists safe, while carefully and efficiently maneuvering through high traffic areas.”
Over the years, the Traffic Section has used a variety of motorcycles, including BMW, Yamaha and Kawasaki, but in its 100-year history, Harley Davidson is the manufacturer used most often. The VPD motorcycle drill team exclusively uses Harley Davidson Electra Glide motorcycles.
The VPD’s motorcycle fleet has expanded to include the two Zero DSRP motorcycles that were purchased from Daytona Motor Sport. The Zero motorcycles are 100% electric and have no gears, clutch or noise. They give off no emissions and minimal heat and vibrations. They have a range of up to 227 kilometres in city riding on a full charge and a top speed of 165 kilometres per hour. The motorcycles are designed by Zero Motorcycles, a California-based manufacturer, specifically for use by police agencies. The bikes are equipped with everything a police officer needs, including emergency lights and sirens, safety components and storage. The new motorbikes are dedicated to cyclist and pedestrian safety.
The VPD already has two fully-electric cars and eight hybrid vehicles in its fleet for use by investigative and administrative staff. Another 20 fully-electric cars will be added later this year.
Electric motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular in North America. The VPD is the 100th North American Police Agency to use Zero motorbikes.
