LA County sheriff unveils next-generation patrol vehicles

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department announced today that it is rolling out more than 300 new vehicles to modernize its fleet, boost efficiency, and strengthen safety for both deputies and the public.

Modernization has been a key priority for Sheriff Robert Luna. He has focused effort on replacing aging equipment and taken steps to ensure deputies are equipped with reliable tools to help them serve Los Angeles County, according to the Sheriff’s Information Bureau.

“The department is deploying approximately 280 new black and white SUVs. Twenty-five have already been assigned, with more to come. The new vehicles will reduce maintenance costs, feature improved safety lighting, advanced siren systems, and collision avoidance technology. Forty-eight are hybrid patrol units, supporting both operational needs and sustainability goals,” sheriff’s officials said.

The department’s new fleet also includes 10 Ford F-150 “Responder” pickup trucks designed for pursuit. Two are designated for K9 operations and the remaining eight are assigned to mountain patrol stations.

“Recent updates include 20 new court services transportation buses that have reduced inmates missing court from more than 1,000 to an average of three per week. Fourteen additional buses are on order for 2025, and EV options are being evaluated,” sheriff’s officials said in a statement.

EV Pilot projects are underway. The Department is trying out seven all-electric F-150 Lightning trucks and 13 Ford Mach-E vehicles serving in non-emergency capacities.

“Our Department currently operates with nearly 2,000 patrol vehicles, many of which are beyond their service life. Approximately 400 are obsolete Crown Victorias. Over 1,100 are more than eight years old, and more than 700 have surpassed 100,000 miles,” according to sheriff’s officials.

The sheriff’s department noted that many patrol cars have logged more than 200,000 miles, driving up maintenance expenses and raising safety concerns. Between January and July, deputies handled more than 430,000 service calls, underscoring what the department described as an “urgent need for a reliable, modern, and safe” patrol fleet that can meet both operational standards and community demand.

The department is also considering adding ballistic glass to future vehicles, according to sheriff’s officials.

“This fleet modernization is about giving deputies the tools they need to serve and protect effectively, efficiently, and safely,” Luna said.

“We are committed to providing safe and sustainable resources that uphold our tradition of service,” he added.

Detective Kyle Andersen said, “Our guys that put the cars together really thought about the deputies and made sure we have the features needed to do the job every day.”

Sheriff’s officials asserted that the LASD remains committed to a modern, sustainable fleet that gives deputies the safest and most effective tools to serve every community in Los Angeles County.