Police put BEVs on trial

Hyundai models helping force in non-operational work at 15 locations across the country.

Posted on 09 December, 2022

Hyundai New Zealand is providing nearly 40 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to help the police force move closer to creating an emissions-free fleet within five years.

New Zealand Police is trialling 34 64kWh Hyundai Kona models and five 72kWh Ioniq 5 vehicles in non-operational work at 15 locations across the country.

The performance and suitability of the BEVs will be analysed by police over the next six months.

Officers are continuing to use Skoda plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) for frontline work due to the different operational requirements.

Police have a fleet 3500 vehicles and say that as part of a five-year plan to be emissions-free they want to procure zero-emissions vehicles where practical

Hyundai NZ says the BEVS will provide police support personnel with the technology, space, and efficiency needed for a demanding work environment, while helping to reduce transport emissions.

“Hyundai offers a growing range of plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered and battery-electric vehicles … All have become common choices for business fleets and are operational in commercial and consumer use around the country,” it adds.