The world’s fastest police car is a Tesla Model S Plaid

Unplugged Performance, a leading Tesla tuner, has introduced the UP.FIT Tesla Model S Plaid Pursuit at SEMA 2024, claiming the title of the world’s fastest police patrol car. This vehicle is more than a concept. It is ready for ordering and will join the police forces in Los Angeles.

Villains and thieves have one more worry, at least in the US. Built on Tesla’s high-performance Model S Plaid platform, the law-enforcing UP.FIT Plaid Pursuit boasts over 1,000 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds.

The vehicle is set to join the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Motorsports community outreach program, highlighting a move toward integrating electric vehicles into public service roles.

Minimizing effects on range

A standout feature of the Plaid Pursuit is its proprietary electrical wiring harness, which enables the integration of forward—and rear-facing warning lights directly into the vehicle’s glass.

This design enhances visibility and aerodynamics compared to traditional rooftop light bars without affecting range too much. Additional features include side skirt lighting, a push-bumper with integrated warning lights, and high- and low-frequency sirens.

Performance enhancements include upgraded braking components, and UP-forged lightweight wheels, which provide better handling and durability during demanding interventions. Unplugged Performance has strong expertise in developing performance kits for Tesla vehicles.

According to the builders, their Plaid adaptation is well-suited for traffic enforcement and especially high-speed pursuits. The Model S’s top speed is nothing short of 280 km/hour, but at such a tempo, the battery—and range of 530 kilometers—drains faster than snow in the sun.

Fast track to a cleaner future?

“The UP.FIT Plaid Pursuit embodies everything we value in electric police vehicles,” stated Ben Schaffer, CEO of Unplugged Performance. “From outstanding acceleration and range to reduced maintenance and fuel costs, this platform equips law enforcement with the latest tools to enhance their mission while saving taxpayers’ money and promoting a cleaner future.”

Gradually, more police departments are starting to adopt EVs in their fleets. Last spring, the police in Ghent began trials with the Volkswagen ID.4. These must give feedback on whether electric vehicles are plausible beyond secondary tasks and can meet the rigorous demands of police work without compromise.

However, high-performance intercepting police vehicles are primarily found in Italy and the Emirates. Both nations don’t shy away from Lamborghinis and even Bugattis but have steered away from battery-powered models.

On the U.S. East Coast, the Miami Police adopted a Rolls-Royce Ghost, unveiled in May 2024. This vehicle serves as a recruitment tool to boost the appeal of police work.