Hybrid Vehicles for Emergency Response Operations

The hybrid drive system makes the Escape essentially an electric car with gasoline engine backup. In low-load situations such as stop-and-go city driving, the vehicle runs exclusively on electric power and is capable of achieving 40 miles per gallon and logging up to 500 miles between fill-ups.

In what may be the nation's first "build-out" of a compact, hybrid vehicle, MA DEP worked with aftermarket specialists to procure and install all of the "bells and whistles" required to conduct emergency response operations, including: light emitting diode (LED) light-bars; sirens and public address systems; push bumpers; front and rear hideaway strobe lights; hands-free cell phone/radio communication devices; GPS unit; and equipment drawers and compartments. The hybrid response vehicles are now in service in all regions of the state.