FIRST in the country, the Valenzuela City government has embraced a ‘green program’ following its acquisition of a fleet of 41 electric vehicles (EVs) amounting to P75.7-million that would be used as patrol cars for the local police.
This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation through the adoption of electric vehicles, marking a significant step toward eco-friendly urban development, said Mayor Wes Gatchalian.
“As we headstart a shift from conventional peace and order vehicles to ecologically-safe electric vehicles, the city government entered into a groundbreaking partnership with ACMobility and BYD Philippines to launch the ‘Go Green Valenzuela’.”
He said 40 BYD Dolphin Electric Mobility units would be deployed as patrol cars for the city police force while the other one would be used by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
“This move makes Valenzuela the first local government unit in the country to implement such an extensive fleet of EV police cars.”
In going green, the mayor cited Valenzuela’s goal to advance public safety by equipping local police with reliable and environmentally sustainable vehicles, promote environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint of government operations, and enhance cost efficiency through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses.
Electric charging stations for the acquired vehicles would be positioned at several 3S Centers across the city. There would also be charging stations situated at the city hall, ALERT Center and SM Valenzuela.
With a maximum power of 150 kilowatts (kW) or 204 horsepower, a battery capacity of 44.9 kilowatt per hour (kWh) and a range of 405 kilometers, EVs can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in around 30 minutes.
This vehicle also has anti-theft equipment, regenerative braking, and an electronic stability program; certifying its efficiency for police use, the local government said.
Gatchalian has expounded his key points dubbed AIR: Advancing Peace and Order, Igniting Green Initiatives, Revving up Cost Efficiency.
He aims Valenzuela to be the first local government unit with the largest number of EV police fleet and with the largest charging stations in the country.
“We take the wheel of change and drive toward the horizon of a cleaner future,” said the mayor who’d be running unopposed for a second term in the May 2025 midterm elections.
