“Shocking” Update: LKPD Tests its First EV Patrol Vehicle

Published on April 24, 2026

If you see a patrol vehicle zoom by but don’t hear the traditional roar of an engine, you might be one of the first to notice LKPD’s new electric patrol vehicle in action.

The department has officially added a Chevrolet Blazer EV to its fleet, launching a test and evaluation phase to determine if it’s suitable for the constant demands of patrol work.

Lt. Rob Murry manages the department’s patrol fleet and says even if the department considers adding more, “We don't want to run it 24/7, because that’s not how we would actually use them."

Right now, patrol vehicles get “hot swapped”, meaning most run nearly 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – just like police services.

Instead, the department is testing a staggered schedule: running the vehicle one shift, then giving it time to charge before re-deployment.

Perception vs. Performance

For those wondering if an electric vehicle can keep up with the challenges of high-performance work, Lt. Murry has a clear answer:  “That EV Blazer is pursuit rated and it is quite capable of doing anything any other patrol car we have can do.”

Technology-wise, the Blazer is not quite “Priority 1” call ready.  Its in-car computer system isn’t installed.

In the meantime, you might find it at the courthouse, around town doing follow up investigations, or at community engagement events.

The Blazer joins the Investigation Unit’s Mustang Mach-E and represents a "who knows?" moment for the department. As infrastructure and battery life continue to evolve, these quiet cruisers might become a more frequent fixture on the streets of Lawrence.