Oakwood, Ohio Celebrates the City’s First Electric Police Cruiser
Recently, Executive Director Chris Celek represented the EVA at a landmark event for the city of Oakwood, Ohio. They gathered to celebrate the official launch of Oakwood's first-ever electric police vehicle – a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for our communities.
The star of the show was a stunning new Chevy Blazer PPV, outfitted with all the necessary equipment found in Oakwood's conventional patrol SUVs. This isn't just any EV; as the GM representative proudly announced, it's the first electric vehicle specifically designed for police use in the entire state of Ohio.
But the story behind this milestone goes deeper than just a new vehicle. It's a story of vision, persistence, and community advocacy.
For the past three years, Drive Electric Dayton's very own founder and past president, Tim Benford, has been a tireless champion for electric vehicles in Oakwood. As a resident himself, Tim recognized the immense potential for the city to benefit from EV adoption.
He diligently educated city officials on the tangible advantages of switching to electric, highlighting the significant fuel cost-savings, reduced maintenance expenses, and the crucial health benefits that cleaner air brings to our neighborhoods. Tim's dedication and passion have been instrumental in making this momentous occasion a reality.
With the Chevy Blazer PPV in action, it's clear that Oakwood has embraced the future of policing. This isn't just about replacing a gas-powered vehicle with an electric one; it's about investing in a more sustainable, efficient, and healthy future.
This celebration serves as a reminder that progress happens when local governments, community advocates, and industry leaders come together with a shared vision. Our organizations are incredibly proud to have played a part in this journey, and we congratulate the city of Oakwood on this remarkable achievement.
We look forward to seeing more communities across Ohio and beyond follow Oakwood's lead and embrace the electric revolution.
