The Palaszczuk Government continues to lead the way in clean, green, renewable energy, today announcing 100 percent of the Queensland Police Service's operational SUV and sedans will be hybrid models within two years.
As Queensland works to achieve 70 percent renewable energy by 2032, the QPS is powering toward a fully hybrid or plug-in hybrid SUV and sedan fleet, with almost three quarters of all operational vehicles now environmentally responsible.
Police Minister Mark Ryan said in the past three years the QPS has steadily been growing the number of fuel-efficient hybrids and plug-in hybrids in operation.
"I am proud to advise that as of today, a remarkable 71 percent of police sedans and SUVs are now low emission hybrid vehicles," Minister Ryan said.
"Police will be adopting a 'hybrid first' policy for its sedans and SUV fleet, and will progressively replace all non-hybrids with new, more efficient hybrid vehicles," he said.
"We will always provide the very best tools and technology to our police, and today's announcement is just another example of the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to give our dedicated officers the greatest equipment available."
The announcement sees the QPS lead the way among all Australian policing agencies when it comes to the planning of a environmentally responsible fleet.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Wheeler said QPS vehicles collectively clocked up around 1.5 million kilometres each week travelling across the vast state.
"The very nature of operational policing means our officers are constantly on the move," Acting Deputy Commissioner Wheeler said.
"We know the vehicles must be fit for purpose, reliable and able to be used in challenging circumstances.
"We are aiming to achieve a 100 percent hybrid sedan and SUV fleet within two years, subject to supply constraints and operational requirements.
"This is not only extremely important for the environment in terms of reducing emissions, but also helps to offset the rises in fuel and operational costs we are all experiencing," he said.
The QPS will look to capitalise on its substantial rooftop solar assets as it moves towards a full electric vehicle future in the years to come.
Fast facts:
- QPS currently travel approximately 77 million kilometres per year, averaging 212,638 kilometres per day
- Logan District is leading the state with 46% hybridisation of its entire fleet.
- Both Brisbane Region and Southeast Region have reached 40% hybridisation across their entire fleet.
- QPS have already started suitability testing on a range of EV vehicles
