Bedford, NY - New York State Senator Pete Harckham announced today that the Town of Bedford police has purchased a new EV pickup patrol truck thanks to $100,000 in state funding that he secured.

“Public Safety is the number one responsibility of the government,” Harckham said. “Our law enforcement agencies must have the ability to purchase advanced technology and new police vehicles and equipment, in order to effectively patrol and protect our communities. I congratulate Bedford Town Supervisor Ellen Calves and Bedford Police Chief Melvin Padilla, Jr. for showing that public safety and sustainability are not mutually exclusive.”

Harckham has delivered more than $35 million of State Senate funding to municipalities, first responders and nonprofits since taking office in 2019. That amount includes more than $10 million for emergency first responders. 

“The addition of this vehicle to our fleet helps demonstrate our department's commitment to sustainability, modernization, and technological advancement,” Padilla said. “It also aligns with our efforts to attract a diverse and forward-thinking workforce showcasing our investment in advanced technology as a powerful tool in appealing to a new generation of tech savvy candidates who value environmental responsibility and innovation.” 

The newly incorporated vehicle in the Bedford fleet is a 2023 Fully Electric Ford F150 Lightning with an extended range battery. The vehicle is designed for police use, featuring an extended-range battery for enhanced performance and capability. It offers a targeted 580 horsepower, 775 lb-ft of torque, and a 10,000-pound towing capacity, with 0-60 mph acceleration in under four seconds. The vehicle has a range of 325 miles.

“We thank Senator Harckham for his support of our police department by securing vital funding for an important vehicle which will serve our community well,” Calves said. “The Senator has always made Bedford a priority and we appreciate that.”

The vehicle purchase was funded by a $100,000 Community Resiliency, Economic Sustainability, and Technology program (CREST) grant, which is administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) to support community and economic development.