The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has purchased three Tesla Model 3 electric cars as part of a trial of battery-powered vehicles for first-responders.

The trio of Teslas joined the fleet in late 2022 to “determine operational feasibility” but have only recently begun appearing on social media.

QFES told Drive the Model 3 was selected due to its extended range.

“In support of Queensland’s Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032, QFES is working with its operational services to reduce emissions across its fleet,” a spokesperson said in a statement.

It’s not the first time emergency vehicles have switched to battery power in Australia.

Victoria Police have been trialling a Tesla Model X as a highway patrol vehicle since mid 2019.

In January 2022, New York Police Department announced it would start using Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUVs as part of its fleet.

In June 2022, Western Australia Police Force began trialing a Hyundai Ioniq 5, together with a hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai.

In July 2022, police in Britain acquired a Tesla Model 3 and a Kia EV6 for operational duties.

QFES says it is developing new initiatives to “manage the impacts of climate change on emergency services”, including planning for zero emissions targets.

Extracted in full from: Tesla Model 3 electric car on trial as emergency vehicle in Queensland – Drive

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