The Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) has made a significant stride towards sustainability by introducing a fleet of 45 electric vehicles. Comprising 14 Ford Mustang Mach-Es, 27 Chevrolet Bolts, and four Ford F-150 Lightnings, these cutting-edge electric vehicles have been assigned to the Administrative Chiefs in Management and the Risk Reduction Office, which includes Fire Inspectors. Notably, the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Ford F-150 Lightning are among the most popular electric vehicles in the USA, even for civic services.
Kansas City has played a vital role in the growth of electric vehicle production, with Ford operating a plant in the area. The automaker has diligently worked to meet the surging demand for its electric vehicles, particularly the F-150 Lightning. In fact, Ford has revised its manufacturing targets multiple times to accommodate the unexpected level of interest. Furthermore, Kansas City is also home to Orange EV, a renowned American electric truck manufacturer. Last year, Orange EV announced its plans to establish its new corporate headquarters and manufacturing operations in the Turner Logistics Center, an industrial park currently under construction in Kansas City.
Recognizing the potential cost savings and environmental benefits, the City of Kansas conducted a thorough evaluation and decided to transition to electric vehicles. They found that the estimated net savings over the useful life of each electric vehicle, when compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts, amount to an impressive $14,000 per vehicle. By deploying this new electric fleet alone, the city anticipates savings exceeding $600,000. This strategic move by the fire department is part of Kansas City’s broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. A key milestone in this endeavor is the complete transition of the city’s vehicle fleet to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by 2030.
Interim Fire Chief Ross Grundyson expressed the department’s dedication to sustainable practices, stating, “We have a responsibility to future generations to think and act in a sustainable manner. Transitioning to electric vehicles is one step towards fulfilling this commitment.” He added, “KCFD’s shift to an electric fleet aligns with the city’s overarching goals to promote environmentally friendly initiatives and serves as a model for other departments in the region.”
According to the City’s Office of Environmental Quality, the municipal fleet currently accounts for approximately 15% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions. However, with the deployment of this new fleet of 45 electric vehicles, this figure is expected to decrease significantly. The KCFD’s progressive move sets an example for other organizations, showcasing the potential to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a greener future.
