REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
SUBMITTED TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Oliver Chi, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Sean Crumby, Director of Public Works
Subject:
title
Authorize the City Manager to execute a Sole Source purchase order for the purchase of two (2) Tesla Model Y Electric Vehicles for addition to the Police Department fleet
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Statement of Issue:
All sole source purchases over $50,000 must be approved by City Council. Staff is recommending approval of a sole source purchase of two (2) Tesla Model Y Electric Vehicles.
Financial Impact:
The quote for both vehicles is $104,860. Funds in the amount of $160,000 for this purchase are available in Air Quality Management District (AQMD) fund 20185201.85050. The additional funds will be used to outfit the vehicles.
Recommended Action:
recommendation
Approve the sole source purchase of two (2) Tesla Model Y Electric Vehicles.
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Alternative Action(s):
Do not approve the purchase.
Analysis:
The City is in the process of transitioning its fleet to alternative fuel and away from traditional fossil fuel. This will incorporate electric vehicles and smaller trucks, as well as utilizing alternate fuels for larger, heavy-duty equipment, where practical. To that end, staff has begun exploring electric vehicle (EV) options for its police patrol cars.
Tesla provided cars for the City to test in September, at which time the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y were driven. Staff determined that the Model 3 rear seating area was not large enough to accommodate one or more arrested individuals, and the trunk space was not sufficient to contain the various electronics and patrol equipment that the Police Department requires. However, the Model Y’s seating and cargo space were larger and able to accommodate both needs.
Currently, Tesla is the only EV manufacturer to offer an appropriately sized SUV that can be converted into a patrol car. Staff investigated other EVs and visited Huntinton Beach Ford to consider the Mach E. Unfortunately, that vehicle and others do not meet the size requirements and other needs of the Police Department. The Model Y provides more power and a longer lasting battery system than any other manufacturer at this time. Compared to other EVs, the Tesla’s also have an unobstructed view with minimal blind spots that will enhance public safety.
Environmental Status:
Not applicable.
Strategic Plan Goal:
Non Applicable - Administrative Item
Attachment(s):
1. Sole Source Purchase Justification