• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Thirty personnel from the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) have completed a specialized training program on the operation and maintenance of newly acquired electric patrol vehicles.
The fleet, consisting of 10 units valued at P1.4 million each, was donated by the Bacolod City Government for a total investment of P14 million.
Jose Miguel Montinola, Manager of GAC under Ponce Automobile Corporation, explained that the transition to electric vehicles is expected to significantly reduce operational costs, with an estimated monthly electricity consumption of only P1,000 per unit.
The vehicles require an eight-hour charging period to reach a full battery, which provides a driving range of up to 500 kilometers.
The technology features an automated system where accessories such as air conditioning and infotainment activate upon the driver’s entry, and the vehicle is operated through a simple shifter and brake sequence.
The vehicles require minimal maintenance, with servicing scheduled only every six months due to the absence of traditional engine components.
The units also include an automatic sunroof feature that remains functional even while the emergency light bars are in use.*
