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Published on November 13, 2024
East Wenatchee Police Department Innovates with Nation's First Hydrogen-Powered Police CarSource: City of East Wenatchee

In a pioneering move for law enforcement, the East Wenatchee Police Department is leaping into the future of eco-friendly transportation. The introduction of a hydrogen-powered vehicle to their fleet comes through an interlocal agreement with Douglas County Public Utility District (PUD), detailed in an announcement by East Wenatchee's official website. This vehicle, a Toyota Mirai, represents the first hydrogen-powered police car in the nation, breaking the mold for energy use in public service.

This green initiative is buoyed by the efforts of several players including the Bonneville Environmental Foundation and Toyota. Douglas County PUD managed to secure four used Toyota Mirai vehicles, thanks to a grant from Toyota, fueled to demonstrate renewable hydrogen's potential as a clean energy source. “We’re excited to explore the viability of hydrogen fuel cells in our community and encourage other agencies with fleet vehicles to consider adding hydrogen-powered cars to their operations,” Douglas County PUD's General Manager Gary Ivory told East Wenatchee's website.

Following this announcement, East Wenatchee Police Chief Rick Johnson initiated a partnership, resulting in the police department’s adoption of the Mirai for a trial period. Under the agreement, the city can lease the 2019 model for four years, with an assurance that the price of hydrogen fuel will not surpass that of regular fuel. “Our department drives more miles than the PUD, so this is an ideal chance to learn from our experience," Chief Johnson said.

East Wenatchee Mayor Jerrilea Crawford also chimed in to express her pride in the advancements brought forth by these collaborations. "We value our relationship with Douglas County PUD and together we’re making important strides that will help improve efficiency and reduce our environmental impact," Mayor Crawford stated in a statement on their website, signaling an optimistic horizon for community and ecological welfare.