In 2022, Avondale Estates, Georgia, took a significant step towards modernization by transitioning part of its police department’s fleet from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). While Police Chief Harry Hess initially had reservations about this shift, the results quickly proved the worth of the investment, with the department enjoying noticeable monthly savings.
However, the transition to EVs is just one aspect of the department’s broader push towards efficiency and innovation. Partnering with Ford Pro has enabled the department to introduce a more organized and data-driven approach to vehicle maintenance, benefiting both the new EVs and the remaining gas-powered vehicles.
When Hess first joined the department, he found that vehicle maintenance had been inconsistent, with no solid plan in place. Determined to change this, he activated Ford Pro Telematics, a system that leverages the vehicle’s built-in modem or a plug-in device to collect essential data. This data, which includes vehicle health alerts, odometer readings, oil life, recalls, location, and driver behavior, is then analyzed and presented on a dashboard via the Ford Pro Intelligence software platform. This system allows Hess to monitor the fleet’s status in real time, ensuring timely maintenance and repairs.
READ MORE: From Skeptic to Advocate: Georgia Police Chief Champions Electrification Efforts
One of the key benefits of using Ford Pro Telematics is the ease with which it allows Hess to track and complete vehicle maintenance. For example, when a vehicle’s check-engine light comes on, Hess receives an immediate alert and can schedule the necessary repairs without delay. The system also enables him to keep a close eye on various metrics, making it easier to manage the fleet’s overall health and performance.
In addition to streamlining maintenance, Ford Pro Telematics has been instrumental in helping Hess develop a fleet replacement plan—something the department previously lacked. Now, patrol vehicles are scheduled for replacement every five years or at 100,000 miles. However, the real-time data provided by Ford Pro Telematics allows Hess to be flexible with these timelines. If a vehicle proves to be costlier to maintain, he can decommission it earlier, or if a vehicle is performing well, he can extend its service life.
For instance, Hess noted that one of the department’s Police Interceptor® Utility SUVs, despite reaching the five-year mark, is still in good enough condition to remain in service for another year. This decision saves the department money, which can then be allocated to other needs in the 2025 budget.
Avondale Estates exemplifies how even small towns can embrace cutting-edge technology. The transition to electric police vehicles is just one part of the town’s forward-thinking approach. By adopting sophisticated software to monitor and maintain its fleet, Avondale Estates is ensuring that its police department remains efficient and cost-effective, setting a strong example for other small communities looking to innovate.
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
