Police Fleet Professional Magazine - Summer 2023

Whelen Innovation

Company Information

Signal Business Group LLC PO Box 3157 Bluffton, SC 29910-3157 www.signalbusinessgroup.com

Phone: 847-922-9371

Owner/Group Publisher Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Editorial Directors

Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com

Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Contributing Writers

Brad Brewer bbrewer@signalbusinessgroup.com

Jen Gavigan jengavigan@comcast.net

Police Fleet Expo - Trade Show Director

Lisa McDade lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com

Police Fleet Expo - Trade Show Management

Lisa McDade lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com

Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com

All Advertising & Booth Sales

Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com

Social Media Manager

Meghan McDade mmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com

Website Design/Management Michaletz Zwief, Ltd.

Magazine Design/Layout

Chris Quinn chris@quinnconcepts.com

Contact Info

Pete Kingwill Owner/Group Publisher pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Mobile: 224-805-6022

Lisa McDade Trade Show Manager lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com Mobile: 847-922-9371

Kirk Moen National Director kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com Mobile: 608-770-6364

Meghan McDade Social Media Manager mmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com

PPolice Fleet Professional is a digital publication distributed 4 times per year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) by Signal Business Group LLC.

Signal Business Group is a business-tobusiness media company serving law enforcement and public safety…connecting key buyers and sellers through digital and print products, webinars, streaming platforms, focus groups and trade show engagements (including education, networking activities and events).

In 2022, Signal Business Group acquired Hendon Media Group and all of its assets, including Police Fleet Expo, magazines, databases, newsletters, websites and more.

Aug 14-17, 202

New Orleans

Police Fleet Professional is an Industry Leading, Digital Publication…Distributed to Key Fleet Professionals in Public Safety.

Police Fleet Professional Magazine

WELCOME

Police Fleet Expo is Almost Here!

Column by Pete Kingwill Principal Signal Business Group LLC

TThe Police Fleet Expo (PFE) is our annual event that we look forward to every year.

The Expo is designed to help police fleet professionals learn more about new police vehicles, network with other colleagues and learn ways to better manage their fleets. For the first time in our 19 year history, we are hosting this event in the beautiful city of New Orleans!

Our training sessions span 3 days and range from basic fleet management (for those new to the position) to more advanced class offerings dealing with current critical issues facing departments and the fleet industry. We

have focused our training tracks to offer a variety of important sessions, including educational tracks on electric vehicles. All of this in addition to sessions conducted by GM Envolve, Ford Pro and Dodge Law and product update sessions from Harley-Davidson, BMW and others.

DriveX, our ride and drive experience, will take place at NOLA Motorsports Park, a full- service motorsports facility in Avondale, LA…20 minutes from downtown New Orleans. Here, attendees can test drive new police vehicles from Dodge Law, Ford Pro and GM Envolve on both the track and off-road course. Bridgestone offers attendees a chance to test drive vehicles with the latest Firestone Firehawk Police Pursuit tires and 15 vendors will have static displays.

Most emergency vehicle sirens create 110-120 decibels when turned on. Police sirens can sound louder than ambulances or fire trucks because cop cars usually have their siren mounted low on the front bumper. Fire trucks also mount their sirens on the bumper, but the large size of the vehicle absorbs some of the sounds.

There will be more than 8 hours of exhibit hall access, on Wednesday and Thursday, with roughly 80 fleet-related vendors showcasing their latest products and services. For full-pass attendees, there are now 4 nights of evening events that offer more time to spend with colleagues at various venues around New Orleans.

I would like to personally thank our staff, all of our exhibitors and attendees, our sponsors, guest speakers and presenters, the Hilton New Orleans Riverside (our host hotel), Fern Exposition Services, the

team at the New Orleans Ernest N Morial Convention Center, the New Orleans

2023 Police Fleet Expo

Police Fleet Expo 2023 brings together the largest group of Police Fleet Managers with vehicle manufacturers and equipment manufacturers and suppliers. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of the only Expo that is exclusive to all aspects of Police Fleet management.

Police Department, the staff at NOLA Motorsports Park and the City of New Orleans.

Oh, and save the date for PFE 2024…Aug 12-15, Fort Worth, TX!

Sincerely,

Pete Kingwill

Principal

Signal Business Group LLC

Police Fleet Professional Magazine

Police Fleet Expo

E: pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Meet Transdev (formerly First Transit / First Vehicle Services / First Mobile Tech)

Due to a recent acquisition, First Transit and Transdev are now part of the same company and will operate under the Transdev brand, moving forward. This transaction makes Transdev the leading operator of safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly public transportation services in the United States across a variety of transit modes, including fleet maintenance. Transdev U.S. works with their fleet maintenance clients to design customized maintenance solutions that significantly increase the safety and availability of their fleets, while reducing their overall operating expenses. They serve the people who serve their communities, including law enforcement and fire and rescue. To learn more, visit www.transdevna.com.

Police Fleet Expo (PFE), August 14–17…Comes to New Orleans

PFE is a four-day, interactive conference & expo that offers DriveX (a ride & drive event), multiple networking opportunities, relevant educational sessions, and 100,000 square feet of show floor space. This annual event provides exhibitors with some great one-on-one time with key buyers in law enforcement such as Police Fleet Managers, Directors, Police Chiefs, Upfitters, and others responsible for the purchase of police vehicles and the many components that can go on and in those vehicles. To register or lean more, visit www.policefleetexpo.com.

ntroducing GM Envolve

GM is about to begin a new era of rapid growth by giving business customers more ways to help reduce their environmental impact, streamline fleet operations, and increase driver safety. GM just announced they are launching GM Envolve—a onestop customer experience, designed with input from customers and dealers to make it easier to tap into all the products and services GM has to offer. At GM’s annual Fleet Solutions Summit, Steve Carlisle, Executive Vice President and President, North America, revealed GM Envolve to an audience of nearly 850 business customers and dealers, noting that GM Fleet is being reimagined as a onestop B2B/B2G partner.

In a dynamic and competitive market, GM Envolve will prepare customers to stay ahead of change through a streamlined set of products and services tailored to their business’ current and future needs. Through this new approach, GM expects to gain operating efficiencies and create more revenue-generating opportunities with current and future customers. Customers will have access to the connected GM ecosystem through a single account executive. This single sales touchpoint will simplify the purchasing experience and function as an extension of the customers’ team, bringing new energy and ideas with a holistic problem-solving mindset. These account executives will be backed by a dedicated team of experts to help identify and curate a package of GM’s technologies and innovative solutions for each customer’s business. GM Envolve customers can also manage their GM portfolio through an upcoming digital platform.

ew Orleans to Spend $15 Million on Police Cruisers and Other Vehicles

New Orleans is poised to spend $15 million on 129 new police cruisers, ambulances, and other vehicles, the latest allocation of $388 million in federal pandemic relief money that helped stabilize city finances and funded Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s police retention plan. The ordinance, which was passed unanimously by a City Council committee, comes as the city moves to update hundreds of aging vehicles after years of supply-chain disruptions. But the proposal has sparked discussion over how City Hall is spending its remaining $69.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and whether officials are providing enough information about where all that money is going. The city says there’s a dire need to upgrade the city fleet of 2,300 vehicles, which on average are over 13 years old. Officials believe aging rides are contributing to the high rate of turnover at the New Orleans Police Department and Emergency Medical Services. In response to a request from the Cantrell administration, the full council passed an emergency measure authorizing the city to seek informal bids for up to $75 million worth of new vehicles—the estimated cost of replacing 1,500 cars, trucks, ambulances, and SUVs.

Delaware State Police Releases “Retro” Patrol Vehicles for Centennial Anniversary

As the women and men of the Delaware State Police continue to celebrate its Centennial Anniversary, the Division strives to honor the agency’s history through a variety of methods. One of the ways the Division has acknowledged its lasting legacy is through the addition of several “throwback” retro patrol vehicles to the active fleet. A total of eight varied, marked vehicle schemes will patrol the highways, neighborhoods, and business districts of the State for the remainder of the centennial year. Six of the retro graphic designs depicted on these 2023 Chevrolet Tahoes are in the likeness of State Police vehicles from the 1930s to the 1980s. In addition to these six designs, the Division has also deployed several Tahoes, which will display the centennial graphics, all commemorating this momentous occasion.

South Pasadena: First City in United States to Replace Entire Police Fleet With Teslas

A committee with the Air Quality Management District approved a nearly $500,000 grant for the city of South Pasadena to swap out its entire police fleet for Teslas. It’s a part of an infrastructure project that was approved by the city council last year. “Some of them have K-9 capabilities, and they’ll be utilized for both the patrol and the detective administratives,” said Deputy City Manager Domenica Megerdichian. “The vehicles are undergoing upfitting.” The city will be leasing 10 Model Y and 10 Model 3 Tesla vehicles for 60 months. Megerdichian said the city saw Tesla as the best fit to convert to electric vehicles. The city’s infrastructure plan also includes installing more electric vehicle charging stations, both for the city and for public use. That plan was made possible through a partnership with Southern California Edison and is set to be finished by the end of 2024. Residents can see the new police Teslas patrolling within the next few months.

tica, NY Police Department Expands Fleet with Recon Electric Power Bikes to Be Used for Patrolling

Utica Mayor Robert M. Palmieri and Utica Police Chief Mark Williams announced the introduction of four new Recon Interceptor Power Bikes into the fleet of the Utica Police Department. The electric bicycles are part of the city’s efforts to reduce gun violence and will be utilized for the purpose of community policing and patrol in city parks. The bikes make it easier for officers to patrol large crowds, fit into tighter spaces, and cover more distance faster than traditional means of transportation. The bikes were purchased using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act as part of Utica’s effort to use the latest technology to improve the department’s capabilities.

Whelen Engineering Introduces Responder-to-Responder (R2R™) Alerts, Enabling Emergency Vehicles to Communicate with One Another Whelen Engineering recently released a new feature that allows emergency response vehicles to notify other emergency vehicles of their presence while on the way to an emergency. Responder-to-Responder (R2R™) alerts allow emergency vehicles to directly communicate in the field for enhanced safety and collision prevention. R2R™ Alerts work through Whelen’s Vehicle Safety Gateway®, the Whelen Cloud Platform®, and HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud® to improve the safety of first responders and other motorists on the road. The Whelen Cloud Platform (WCP®) is a web-based portal that provides real-time monitoring and control of emergency vehicle warning systems. Safety Cloud by HAAS Alert is a cloud-based connected safety platform that enables the sharing of critical information between vehicles, infrastructure, and emergency services. WCP customers can program how they’d like to receive R2R alerts through their Core™ control system.

ACloser Look at New York City’s Alt-Fuel Police Fleets

More than one-third of the nation’s largest police fleet is comprised of hybrid or electric vehicles (EVs). The New York City Police Department (NYPD), made up of more than 8,100 on-road vehicles, includes over 3,000 hybrids and EVs. Another 1,100 are on order. The NYPD has the largest alternative fuel police fleet in the nation, likely the world, Chief Fleet Officer and Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), Keith Kerman reported in a recent DCAS fleet newsletter. The city’s law enforcement fleets have 625 plug-in electric models and at least 446 more on order. By spring 2024, the city will have over 1,000 plug-in vehicles operating within its law enforcement agencies. Models being deployed within New York City’s law enforcement departments include the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford E-Transit, Chevy Bolt, Ford Police Interceptor Utility Hybrid, Toyota Prius Prime, and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. DCAS will be investing in additional Mach-Es, EV pickup trucks, EV vans, and other models for law enforcement agencies, in FY24.

lectric Vehicle Charging Outlets Continue to Grow

As the number of police departments adding electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) to their fleets continues to rise, so do the number of charging outlets across the country. In May 2023, the United States had over 138,000 charging outlets for plug-in electric vehicles (EVs). A considerable sum of these chargers are found in California (with almost 44,600 public and private power outlets). Powered by lithium batteries, EVs need to be recharged at intervals that vary according to the size of the battery and speed of the charger. Most police agencies use the 240-Volt Level 2 chargers, which can refill a large battery that is half full up to 80 percent in a few hours. Direct current (DC) chargers are much faster than regular alternating current (AC) chargers and can take less than 20 minutes to charge an electric car up to 80 percent. Though the average EV can travel about 250 miles on a charge today, there are others that can go much farther and it is predicted that their range will be up to 500 miles in the near future.

GM Wants to Adopt Tesla’s Charging Network as the Standard

General Motors electric vehicle owners can soon access Tesla’s vast network of electric vehicle fast chargers, called Superchargers. GM said it will begin to integrate Tesla’s charging ports, dubbed the North American Charging Standard (NACS) in the new EVs in 2025. GM’s move to adopt Tesla’s charging standard comes on the heels of Ford making a similar announcement for its electric cars. Tesla has more than 12,000 Superchargers across the United States and Canada. The partnerships with GM and Ford are a triumph for Tesla’s EV charging technology over the so-called CCS chargers that are used by most other EV makers. Tesla’s Supercharging stations currently outnumber CCS stations in the United States. In a statement, GM said it hopes its partnership with Tesla will help move the entire EV industry toward Tesla’s NACS charging ports.

ongboat Key Police Department’s New Take-Home Car Program

The Longboat Key Police Department (FL) wants to become more competitive with other police departments by adding cars to its fleet, allowing officers to take home their patrol vehicles. Though the department faces issues with hiring and retaining officers, Chief George Turner is confident that adding the additional vehicles will increase morale, commitment to the role, and attract more officers to the department. “Going forward with a take-home car program would improve a few different things,” Turner said. “One, it saves a lot of money. The cars are better maintained. They are assigned to individual officers. That is their office per se. The equipment stays in the car, we don’t keep moving electronic equipment from one car to another. Everything in the car lasts for the length of the car, which means all of our equipment will last eight to 10 years as well. Another big reason is retention and recruitment of our officers.” The Longboat Key Police Department is the only department in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Pinellas, and other surrounding counties through much of Florida that does not have take-home cars. “It’s a win-win for both the officers and for the town,” Turner said. As discussions about starting such a program move forward, when the department could have the cars out on the road is still up in the air due largely to supply-chain issues. Over the next six years, town staff estimates that adding the vehicles will save the town about $800,000. Over 15 years, that savings estimate increases to $1.75 million. A patrol car costs about $62,000 fully equipped, with yearly inflation increasing that number between 6 and 10 percent each year.

The Important Role of Mobile Routers and the Benefits to Police Fleet Managers

Modern police vehicles rely heavily on mobile technology as a force multiplier, resulting in better access to information, increased operational efficiency, and improved situational awareness. Increasingly, agencies are finding that mobile routers are an essential tech component due to the number of devices that are operating in the vehicle and the need for reliable connectivity. Since the routers are connected to and managing the technology in the vehicle, they can monitor and optimize the performance of the connected devices. This means that officers can access critical information without interruption. This article will outline the benefits of mobile routers for police fleet managers and cover key considerations when selecting the best mobile router for public safety operations.

Router Basics

First, let’s cover some basics of router functionality. There was a time when the technology in a patrol car was primarily a radio and possibly a radar gun. Today’s patrol vehicles are frequently outfitted with license plate readers, video cameras, smartphones, and computers—all of which may require a connection to the Internet. The best way to ensure these devices have a managed and secure connection is by using a mobile router.

Usually mounted in the trunk or cargo section of a vehicle, routers

serve as the central hub for establishing an Internet connection on the go. Routers provide wireless connectivity to devices in the vehicle by connecting them to a cellular network. Equipped with one or more SIM cards, routers help ensure a cellular connection is maintained and available. Typically, a router supports several devices and can simultaneously maintain multiple connections. This allows officers to quickly access online resources, maintain communications with dispatch, and share information seamlessly. This is the basic role of a router, but there is much more to be aware of, including selection criteria and the benefits that a router can provide to effective fleet management.

Ruggedness

Public safety operations take place in challenging environments. Temperature and humidity extremes, exposure to dust, rough treatment, and an expectation of always-on reliability are all absolutes. This is why it is important to invest in purpose-built rugged mobile routers. Look for a router that is certified for shock/vibration in accordance with MIL STD 810G and SAE J1455 standards. This will ensure that the router can withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in the field. Also important is the IP rating, which indicates a router’s level of dust and water resistance. Look for an IP rating of at least IP67, indicating the router is dustproof and can tolerate temporary water immersion.

Connections

Mobile routers for today’s police vehicles should be able to support both wired and wireless devices. For wired connections, it is essential that there be enough ports with different types of connections to provide flexibility. Common connection types include Ethernet, RS-232 serial, and USB. Ensure the provided connections will meet your operational requirements. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is also important because it ensures effective and efficient connection to the network without cumbersome manual configurations.

Flexibility

Given the evolving landscape of cellular technology and the variations in frequency bands utilized by different carriers, it is imperative to opt for public safety routers with flexible frequency band capabilities. By ensuring compatibility with the relevant frequency bands for your specific operational needs, you can maximize your network infrastructure longevity as systems evolve. An increasingly important router feature for many agencies is dual-SIM capability, which enables easy switching between cellular carriers. This is particularly advantageous for agencies operating in expansive geographic areas where carrier coverage may vary based on location. Dual-SIM provides a degree of redundancy, further helping ensure reliable connectivity. Maximizing the connection options provides enhanced operational effectiveness in diverse environments. Mobile routers should also be capable of simultaneous connectivity on wireless local or wide-area networks.

Cloud-based Device Management

A cloud-based device management system enhances the efficiency of IT staff in managing and supporting mobile devices. It offers centralized configuration, device monitoring, and software upgrades across the entire fleet, resulting in substantial time savings and reduced IT-related expenses. This remote support capability is particularly advantageous for police vehicles, allowing them to stay on the road while benefiting from effective assistance. Moreover, a cloud management layer enables additional functionalities like geofencing, telematics, and advanced security, further augmenting the system’s capabilities.

Telematics and Operational Benefits

Telematics is the use of technology to collect and analyze data from vehicles. Mobile routers can facilitate the collection of key data from police vehicles, including vehicle location, fuel consumption, and driving actions. This information can be used to improve fleet efficiency and reduce costs. Telematics provides data that is more informative for fleet operations because multiple factors are considered. For example, oil changes are generally based on mileage, but police vehicles are frequently left idling. By leveraging telematics, fleet managers can monitor vehicle health, identify potential issues before they escalate, and implement preventative maintenance schedules. This proactive approach minimizes downtime due to unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of fleet vehicles.

Routers Extend Coverage

Mobile routers are generally connected to an external antenna, and this significantly extends effective coverage. By capturing signals from a more optimal location outside the vehicle, the antenna helps reduce the impact of radio frequency interference caused by electronics within the vehicle, such as radios and computers. This can result in a cleaner, stronger signal, leading to better call quality, faster data transfers, and more reliable connections.

Public Safety Transition to 5G

With the emergence of 5G technology, police vehicle fleets stand to benefit greatly from an upgrade to 5G mobile routers. Faster data transfer with minimal latency and improved network reliability will significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of police operations. Perhaps the most notable benefit will be seen with video transmissions, an area that is rapidly expanding with officers now having access to real-time drone feeds and public security cameras.

Carrier Considerations and 5G Networks

Hardware is important, but smartphones and in-car computers are worthless if officers can’t access data or run desired applications. When it comes to carriers, remember the “three C” priorities in this order: coverage, customer support, and cost. Coverage should be the number-one determining factor. Conventional wisdom in government purchasing is to go after the lowest bid, but this is a time when service quality and capability should be the determining factor.

After coverage, customer support is essential to successful router integration and overall operational effectiveness. Law enforcement agencies know the importance of a trusted partner, and this should be your benchmark for customer service. Public safety technology projects can present some challenges,

especially when integrating a new component like routers. If you’re evaluating carriers, ask other agencies about their experience and the level of support they have received. Carrier representatives may not have all the answers, but they should have the resources and referrals to help resolve issues in a timely manner.

T-Mobile for Government offers agencies access to the nation’s largest 5G network and provides priority access and preemption to organizations that are eligible for Wireless Priority Service (WPS). T-Mobile also provides these agencies with data priority for mobile devices. Since WPS is the only way to ensure priority calling across multiple carriers, T-Mobile assists agencies in the WPS registration process. All these services are provided without additional charge. In addition, T-Mobile has first responder rate plans that are budget-friendly, both for agencies and individual lines.

Conclusion

Reliable communication, data access, and timely vehicle maintenance are essential for police vehicle fleets. By effectively managing in-vehicle technology, enabling telematics, and embracing the power of 5G, mobile routers can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of police operations.

About the Author: Dale Stockton is a 32-year veteran of law enforcement and founder of Below 100, an award-winning officer-safety initiative designed to reduce police line-of-duty deaths. He is a retired police captain from Carlsbad, California, and taught criminal justice classes for over 20 years. Stockton is also an accomplished technology practitioner who has managed major projects, including personnel locate devices, license-plate recognition systems, and regional smartphone deployments. He is a graduate of FBI NA Session 201.

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Police Fleet Expo 2023 Preview

By Brad Brewer & Police Fleet Professional Staff

WWelcome to Police Fleet Expo 2023…and the great city of New Orleans!

New Orleans, LA (NOLA) is known for coming alive during Mardi Gras, but the Big Easy has far more to offer than colorful beads and lots of partying. Things to do in New Orleans include enjoying live jazz music, exploring paddlewheel steamboat tours, walking through sculpture gardens, and eating lots of local Creole and Cajun cuisine. There is a great deal of history in this unique southern city, a fact that will appease both history buffs and patriotic travelers alike. And you will never have a shortage of haunted attractions in New Orleans. Pack lightly with summer attire, because the average August temperature can easily reach 92 degrees F, with lows around 76 degrees F.

A trip to NOLA has made its way onto many bucket lists, appealing to night owls, families, and foodies alike. Whether you take a walk through the city streets and attractions steeped in tradition, or dine at a new trendy restaurant, New Orleans is ready to welcome you with open arms. The French Quarter is a well-known district that stands out for its colorful history

and bar scene, making it a popular stop, on any given day. Popular activities include touring historical homes and the famed Bourbon Street.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, you’ll find the Arts District of New Orleans. Also known as the Warehouse District, the Arts District has undergone a resurgence over the past few decades and transformed into a hub for art and culture. Bordered by Canal Street, Loyola Avenue, the Pontchartrain Expressway, and the Mississippi River, you’ll know once you’ve entered the quiet yet vibrant neighborhood. Cobblestone streets, art galleries, new restaurants, and museums all add to the charm of this area.

Lakeview is just a short distance from downtown and gained its moniker from its location near Lake Pontchartrain. This neighborhood is a must-stop destination for anyone visiting New Orleans who has an interest in throwing a line in the water or taking a lazy, thoughtful stroll along the shore. New Orleans tours and day trips are always available to take you through the most popular areas.

The Bridgestone Driving Experience is an opportunity to test drive police vehicles with the latest Firestone Firehawk Police Pursuit tires.

During this event, attendees will have the opportunity to compare the Firehawk against other tires and feel the difference for themselves. This is a rare opportunity to compare apples to apples when it comes to testing tires. Same location, same track, same vehicles, same conditions…there’s even a section with water!

Since its opening day on D-Day (June 6, 2000), nearly two million visitors have toured the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. A must-see for history buffs and all patriots, it has been designated by the U.S. Congress as America’s official WWII Museum. Powerful images and extraordinary artifacts bring to life the American Spirit, the courage, teamwork, and sacrifice of the young men and women who won the war and changed the world.

Once upon a time, the cabaret shows in The Big Easy were frowned upon, but these days, they are something to see while you’re in New Orleans. Other sites that attract people from around the country include the New Orleans Opera and the Chickie Wah Wah jazz and dance club.

There is so much for tourists to do in the heart of Louisiana. Home to St. Louis Cathedral and its fair share of aboveground cemeteries, New Orleans is rich in history, and you’ll never find a better bowl of gumbo anywhere. Don’t leave without a visit to French Market, which is the oldest public market in the nation. Eat a delicious beignet at Café Du Monde. Tour

Jackson Square and catch some of the best jazz performances in the world on Frenchmen Street.

Police Fleet Expo 2023 will bring together the largest group of Police Fleet Professionals with vehicle manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, and suppliers. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of the only Expo that is exclusive to all aspects of Police Fleet Management. This year’s training and trade show will take place at the beautiful New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center at 900 Convention Center Boulevard.

There will be more than 90 police fleetrelated companies, displaying new vehicles, new vehicle products, and vehicle accessories. Join YouTuber (and Miami Police Officer) NickOffDuty as he walks the show floor and visits with various companies and tests their latest offerings. New vehicles will be on display from the Big 3 auto manufacturers plus the latest products from aftermarket manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. Get a hands-on feel for the latest products and services…right after sitting in on cutting-edge presentations that directly pertain to you (whether you

are highly experienced or new to Police Fleet Management, or your agency is small, medium, or large). Police Fleet Expo offers outstanding fleet training taught by industry experts, which includes five separate educational tracks from which to choose.

Share new ideas and solutions with other Police Fleet Professionals in your area of expertise. Discuss solutions that assist you in performing your job more effectively and test drive the newest police vehicles, all in one location.

Police Fleet Expo is a non-associationaffiliated Expo. It is designed to be cost-effective to allow more managers the opportunity to attend. The goal of PFE is to provide today’s Police Fleet Professional with a “one stop shop” so you can conserve valuable training money and see everything at one show.

Saves money on fuel

INTERMOTIVE

Sunday, August 13

4:00pm–7:00pm Registration Desk Open

The Morial Convention Center (Outside Hall E)

Registration Desk is open for check-in and answers to your questions. If you are not currently registered for Police Fleet Expo 2023, please visit the sign-up kiosk prior to visiting the Registration Desk.

7:00pm–10:00pm — Federal Signal Welcome Reception

The Federal Signal Welcome Reception is a place to gather once you’ve arrived and picked up your credentials. Make plans for the Expo and visit with friends in a casual environment at the Hilton host hotel. Enjoy drinks and appetizers and relax after your day of travel.

Monday, August 14

8:00am–4:00pm — Registration Desk Open

The Morial Convention Center (Outside Hall E)

9:00am–3:30pm — DriveX Driving Experience

NOLA Motorsports Park

The first bus leaves for the track at 8:45am. Busses run throughout the day, transporting attendees to and from the track. PFE’s renowned DriveX event kicks off the Expo at the beautiful NOLA Motorsports Park, located 15 minutes from the convention center. Get behind the wheel of the latest sedans/SUVs from Dodge Law, Ford Pro, and GM Envolve. There will be a track course for attendees to test the new vehicles plus a unique off-road course.

GM Envolve will have a full lineup of vehicles, including the first-ever Pursuit Rated Blazer EV PPV, which will be on static trade show display along with the 2024 Tahoe PPV & Silverado PPV. For the Ride & Drive track and off-road event, GM Envolve will have the Silverado PPV and Tahoe PPV as well. Ford Pro will have several vehicles available, the PIU and F-150 Police Responder for on-road testing, and the F-150 Police Responder and Expedition SSV for offroad testing. On display, the Ford Pro will also have a F-150 Lightning and Mach-E. Dodge Law will have the Dodge Durango Pursuit and Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles on display and at the track.

Next to the Test Drive Entrance, there will be 15 police vehicle equipment vendors showcasing the latest police vehicle equipment. Make sure to stop by each vendor and see their products installed on an actual vehicle. Get a feel for exactly how the equipment works, installs, and functions. The Bridgestone Driving Experience is an opportunity to test drive police vehicles with the latest Firestone Firehawk Police Pursuit tires. During this event, attendees will have the opportunity to compare the Firehawk against other tires and feel the difference for themselves. This is a rare opportunity to compare apples to apples when it comes to testing tires. Same location, same track, same vehicles, same conditions…there’s even a section with water!

6:00pm–10:00pm - Whelen Networking Event

The Sugar Mill

Join Whelen at The Sugar Mill (across from the convention center) for a night of Mardi Gras fun, including worldfamous NOLA cuisine, cocktails, music, entertainment, gaming, VIP stations, and much more. This is an invitationonly event including FULL PASS attendees so please be sure to visit the Whelen table (next to the Registration Desk) to pick up your credentials. You must bring your credentials to get into the event.

Tuesday, August 15 7:30am–4:00pm — Registration Desk Open

The Morial Convention Center (Outside Hall E)

8:00am–8:15am - Opening Ceremony

La Nouvelle Ballroom, 2nd Floor, Morial Center

8:30am–4:15pm - Educational Sessions

PFE will host three days of vital and topical training sessions designed specifically for Police Fleet Professionals. Sessions range from Fleet Management 101 for those new to the position, to more advanced class offerings dealing with the important issues facing the fleet industry. All of this is in addition to the invaluable manufacturer’s sessions conducted by Ford Pro, Dodge Law, and GM Envolve, where you get a chance to hear from the very people who design your law enforcement vehicles. Not only do you get to hear from the Big 3, but you get the opportunity to get answers to questions directly from the OEM representatives.

6:00pm–9:00pm - Code 3 / Laguna / Westin Public Safety / Printek Networking Event

Creole Queen Paddlewheeler

Join Code 3, Westin, Laguna & Printek for their casino-themed event aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler located at 1 Poydras Street near the host hotel. The night will include a variety of New Orleans-inspired dishes, tables with a wide range of classic casino games, and plenty of giveaways to be raffled off throughout the night. There will be several police vehicles on display next to the paddlewheel boat. The boat will remain docked. Come enjoy a wonderful evening in exciting New Orleans! Pick up your ticket near the boat entrance after showing your PFE badge. This event is for FULL PASS attendees.

Wednesday, August 16

8:00am–4:00pm — Registration Desk Open

The Morial Convention Center (Outside Hall E)

9:00am–11:55am - Educational Sessions

1:00pm–5:30pm - Police Fleet Expo (PFE) Day 1

PFE offers over eight hours of expo hall access, over two days, to more than 90 fleet-related vendors.

6:30pm–9:30pm - SoundOff Signal / Setina Manufacturing / InterMotive / 911 Circuits Networking Event

Mardi Gras World

Indulge your inner partier! Join SoundOff Signal, Setina, InterMotive, and 911 Circuits as we explore Mardi Gras World together. Feel the need for beads while you stroll through the famous floats den. Head into the enchanting mansion for a one-of-a-kind experience with authentic southern fare and flare. You’ll be feeling les bon temps as the party and DJ spins you into a night of Mardi Gras revelry! This event is for FULL PASS attendees only. You MUST wear your badge to enter.

Thursday, August 17

7:30am–1:15pm — Registration Desk Open

The Morial Convention Center (Outside Hall E)

8:00am–9:50am - Super Session (Planning for Electric Vehicles…The Time is Now)

10:00am–2:00pm - Police Fleet Expo (PFE) Day 2

PFE offers over eight hours of expo hall access, over two days, to more than 90 fleet-related vendors.

See you soon in New Orleans! For the latest updates, please visit www.policefleetexpo.com

70 Years of Innovation and Service

By Brad Brewer & Police Fleet Professional Staff

Today’s law enforcement fleet manager is inundated with vendor products promoting the latest and greatest in technology. Let’s face it, most of the top-tier suppliers make some very good products. So, after you see and feel the new products, you must make a decision that’s best for your agency. You have done your due diligence and now you must consider other metrics like warranty, longevity, business ethics, vendor stability, supply chain, and innovation. How long have they been around? What impacts will supply chain issues have on product availability? Are they going to stand behind what they are selling me? Not all product vendors can answer those questions.

Then there are those companies that tick all the boxes and have been in the law enforcement industry for decades. As a New England-based manufacturing company with 70 years in the business and facilities encompassing one million square feet, Whelen Engineering is an example of a company that can answer those questions, and more.

Whelen is a company that prides itself in providing solutions that are designed, engineered, tested, and approved by the very people who use them. This is done through a strong partnership between Whelen’s engineering, sales, and manufacturing teams (many of whom are former or current first responders), and its end user customers. Whelen prides itself in hiring the very people they build products for, so they can ensure they deliver the best solutions and who better

to advocate for that then people who have done the job.

The other piece of the solution is how vertical integration enables a more stable production process and increases reliability for customers. Whelen recognized years ago that vertical integration is more than just a part of a good business model; it is critical to success. Its strategic planning allows it to circumvent the unpredictability of the supply chain with relative ease, especially when compared with manufacturers that choose offshore processes.

Vendors with vertical integration of both engineering and manufacturing capabilities are better able to control the priority of work that needs to be done across all departments to maintain and support the products.

Over the past year and a half, the engineering team at Whelen has modified or redesigned over 60 electrical hardware designs, including changes to bills of materials, printed circuit board (PCB) schematics and layouts, and embedded

code (firmware). Whelen’s in-house testing facilities and capabilities ensure they are not compromising on quality and standards, despite having to react quickly and make design changes due to the supply chain challenge. Whelen’s ability to control its destiny despite all the obstacles and shortcomings of the current supply base makes a critical difference.

When comparing suppliers, one must consider their reliability, especially considering the challenges that still exist in the supply chain today. It is important to look for a supplier that has the experience and resources to navigate difficulties and deliver the goods. When supply bases break down like they have over the past several years, manufacturers like Whelen use their vast in-house resources to ensure product pipelines remain stable for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and other customers. This ability to adapt and overcome daily challenges allows control of all sides of engineering and manufacturing. Adjustments are made as necessary to continue the flow of shipments, and products get where they are needed the most.

By being both the designer and manufacturer and not just the assembler, manufacturers like Whelen can pivot and make enhancements internally to continue building products with only slight delays or interruptions to customers. Within vertically integrated companies, the operations, purchasing, and engineering teams are in constant communication, helping to make certain that production pipelines stay robust.

This tight communication among internal departments means that if purchasing determines there is a future supply chain problem with a specific part, for example, the engineering department will immediately work to find (or make) a similar part. If the component does not fit perfectly into a design, an engineering change will occur, and the necessary adjustments will be made. The redesign, qualifying, and testing of the new part is all done within the engineering department, while the manufacturing department works simultaneously to update processes and develop production testing.

In Whelen’s case, by making nearly all its product components internally, it avoids many of the pitfalls that other manufacturers face. By manufacturing everything from sheet metal parts to plastic-injection molded parts, electronic circuit assemblies, and printed circuit boards on site and by performing powder coating, hard coating, and vacuum metallization in-house as well, it controls the process and eliminates many of the variables that cause backlogs and delays for suppliers that rely on outsourcing to manufacture their products.

While the focus on new builds and new products is of paramount importance, one should not overlook the service and support a manufacturer provides after the sale. As the industry continues to sort out supply challenges and many face the end of life (EOL) of certain products, service and support continue to be of critical importance.

innovate

Some manufacturers recognize this fact and have plans in place to meet the demands of their customers. Whelen always has the resources, staff, and knowledge base to face challenges head on, as shown by the success Whelen is still achieving in today’s challenging marketplace. By choosing a flexible and vertically integrated supplier, law enforcement personnel are ensuring they can keep their vehicles on the road today and in the future.

Whelen also prides itself with continually advancing its technology and thinking beyond the traditional boundaries of current trends. As emergency scenes are made safer with the latest technology and improved product features, suppliers are beginning to take a bigger picture approach to scene safety.

This no longer includes just what’s happening on scene; vendors must look at the moments involved in getting officers to the scene. Whelen started to ask questions like, “How do first responders interact with each other while en route to an emergency call?” and “How do first responders interact with the apparatus and other drivers on the road when responding to a call?” Whelen is asking questions that go beyond traditional visual and audible alerting to uncover new ways to make emergency responses even safer

for all first responders and everyone else on the road too.

One of those trends is the use of cloudbased systems. Most fleet managers are familiar with “the cloud.” Historically, its primary use for the emergency market was to provide access to information and help fleet managers understand and better manage their apparatus. Telematics, a fancy word used to describe fleet management software that offers a comprehensive view of vehicles and aids in operational efficiency, has been in use since the 1960s. Its adoption into the law enforcement industry began in the early 2000s and is a commonly found feature in vehicles today and will soon reach the tipping point of becoming a standard part of builds.

As this happens and the connectivity of the fleet market increases, suppliers are using this readily available technology to improve safety in new and innovative ways. Currently, the latest advancements in cloud-connected safety mean it’s now possible for fleets around the country to digitally alert motorists to their presence, incorporate responder-to-responder alerting, as well as control and direct traffic signal priority at intersections, otherwise known as emergency vehicle preemption (EVP).

manufacturedinamerica

While every new safety feature is important, that last one on the list, EVP, is a huge deal because we all know that approaching an intersection is one of the most precarious moments first responders face when responding to a call. Emergency vehicles approaching the same intersection from multiple directions creates an extremely challenging situation. With the latest technology enabled, the driver of each responding vehicle receives a notification that another emergency vehicle is approaching the intersection at the same time, alerting first responders to take extra precautions when clearing the intersection.

One emergency vehicle incident between two responding vehicles that results in a collision is not only embarrassing but potentially very costly. Today, through products like Whelen Engineering’s Vehicle Safety Gateway (VSG) and the company’s partnership with Global Traffic Technologies (GTT), intersections can now interact with apparatus by using enhanced precision and GPS data through the Whelen Cloud Platform®, which directly links the apparatus to an intersection. The earlier issue of range limitation no longer applies, as the cloud can communicate directly to the signal from any distance. This new, centralized technology is not dependent on a line of sight to the intersection either, so it’s equally effective around corners.

The granularity and fine-tuning of a fleet’s interaction with an intersection becomes much more robust as it is controlled by hardware that interacts with the cloud. First responders and fleet managers no longer need to rely on dated hardware mounted on the apparatus or intersections that require routine maintenance to ensure receivers are tuned accordingly. This new technology and partnership allow first responders to get to emergency scenes more safely than ever before while providing peace of mind that wasn’t possible even a few years ago.

Consider for a moment this scenario. An emergency vehicle approaches an

intersection that is located within a turn. The vehicle is outside of the range of infrared preemption, so the signal does not receive the preemption request until the vehicle has turned the corner and is now headed directly toward the signal. This leaves little time for the preemption to be granted and for the signal to clear, so the officer must slow down or stop to proceed through the intersection safely. This results in delayed response times and the apparatus does not get to the emergency as quickly as possible.

Now consider this enhanced scenario with a police vehicle approaching an intersection that is located within a turn. Immediately on switching the vehicle into response mode, and even before approaching the intersection, the signal starts to calculate the vehicle’s estimated time of arrival (ETA) using GPS data based on direction and speed. Once an ETA is determined, and once the vehicle has met the ETA or distance parameter that is set by the department, a green light is automatically requested, and the vehicle clears the intersection safely and quickly. With no range limit or sightline requirements, the technology’s ability to preempt around corners and utilize second-by-second GPS data offers a significant improvement in navigating intersections safely and efficiently.

Another amazing new technology for not just law enforcement but all first responder vehicles is Digital Alerting, offered through HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud®. This is a revolutionary new way technology is improving emergency scene safety by notifying the motoring public that an apparatus is nearby.

When an apparatus is in motion and connected to the cloud service, alerts can be pushed to the motoring public around it through phone navigation applications like Waze and Apple maps. Notifications like “Emergency Vehicle Approaching” and “Emergency Vehicle Ahead, Please Slow Down and Move Over” are examples of what a driver may see. HAAS Alert says its technology can reduce the risk of collisions by 90 percent. Some vehicle

manufacturers, including Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram, are designing their own infotainment systems to receive these alerts. This means drivers will receive notifications even when not using a navigation app.

At nighttime emergency scenes, lighting studies and the science behind them continue to guide the direction of the newest safety enhancements that are brought to market. Today, Whelen is focusing on four key areas. Lowering light intensity, removing flash edges through Dynamic Variable Intensity™ light patterns, using slower flash patterns, and synchronizing flash patterns among vehicles with V2V sync are critical components of creating a calmer and safer nighttime scene. These critical safety components are incorporated into many of Whelen’s newest products and as new studies and information are uncovered, they use the knowledge to improve products even further, as with the all-new Edge® 9X lightbar. The Edge 9X combines the most valuable design aspects of Whelen’s most popular lightbars with an all-new look and expanded customization.

The Edge 9X Series celebrates Whelen’s long history of providing innovative, lifesaving equipment to not just law enforcement but the entire emergency warning industry. This new lightbar is designed for durability, competitively priced, and highly configurable for a wide range of applications. With models available in both Short (9SX) and Tall (9TX), the Edge 9X Series is an ideal solution for any vehicle application.

Regardless of the application, Whelen Engineering products continue to not only be industry-leading but cutting-edge innovation. This 70-year-old American company prides itself on pushing the envelope when it comes to enhancing the safety of their customers. That’s probably why a few of their customers have chosen to work there!

CREATING SAFER STREETS

SPEEDENFORCEMENT

RADAR

• Industry-Leading Police Radar

LIDAR

• Industry-Leading range and accuracy

TRAFFICSAFETY

Street Dynamics Web Portal

Messaging Signs

Radar Speed Signs

Charging Station Providers for Electric Police Vehicles

Every fleet professional knows that having reliable vehicles at the ready is critical for operational success in order to protect the public. Today, police departments need to plan for the future, keeping in mind their vehicles’ longevity and impact on the environment. One of the biggest issues facing agencies today is whether to transition to electric vehicles and/or hybrid electric vehicles…and how to do it effectively. New York City, for example, recently purchased 1,250 electric vehicles and they will transition to all electric by 2035. As the number of police departments adding electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) to their fleets continues to rise, so do the number of charging outlets across the country.

In May 2023, the United States had over 138,000 charging outlets for plug-in electric vehicles (EVs). A considerable number of these chargers are found in California (with almost 44,600 public and private power outlets). Powered by lithium batteries, EVs need to be recharged at intervals that vary according to the size of the battery and speed of the charger. Most police agencies use the 240-Volt Level 2 chargers, which can refill a large battery that is half full up to 80 percent in a few hours. Direct current (DC) chargers are much faster than regular alternating current (AC) chargers and can take less than 20 minutes to charge an electric car up to 80 percent. The average EV can travel about 250 miles on a charge today, but others can go much farther and it is predicted that their range will be up to 500 miles in the near future.

Some charging station providers are working directly with police departments to help them with their electric vehicle charging needs. As more and more police departments replace their gas-powered vehicles with electric vehicles, it is important to know the who, what, where of charging stations.

Many companies are now providing this essential service for public safety. Below is a look at some of the providers and their plans for implementing charging stations throughout the United States.

CLEAR THE WAY FOR IMPROVED SAFETY WITH THE WHELEN CLOUD PLATFORM®

SCAN QR CODE TO LEARN MORE

ENHANCE OFFICER SAFETY

Our integration with HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud® protects responders further by enabling them to deliver advance-warning Digital Alerts to drivers notifying them when emergency vehicles are ahead. Emergency vehicles can also notify other emergency vehicles of their presence while on the way to an emergency with Responder-to-Responder Alerts.

RESPONDER-TO-RESPONDER (R2R®) ALERTS

Help prevent incidents by delivering real-time alerts to emergency vehicles responding to a scene.

DIGITAL ALERTS

Notify local drivers of stopped or approaching emergency vehicles with real-time updates, reducing response time and helping keep drivers and emergency responders safe.

GEOFENCING

Utilize set geographic boundaries to trigger automated functions that can help keep first responders and motorists safe.

TRAFFIC PREEMPTION

The Whelen Cloud Platform has now integrated with GTT’s Opticom Cloud Emergency Vehicle Preemption (EVP) Solution. Opticom mitigates risk and expedites emergency response time by clearing intersections and giving officers the green light to respond to emergencies safely. Opticom has reduced intersection crash rates by up to 70% while enabling officers to arrive up to 25% faster.

Siemens Industry Inc.

www.siemens.com

Based in the Orlando, FL area, Siemens Industry Inc. is working with OEMs, energy providers, fleet operators, companies, cities, and end customers to make electromobility a reality. In addition to products, they offer complete solutions for electromobility that combine many years of expertise, innovative software, and high-performance products.

The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly increasing. With that comes the need for electric vehicle smart charging infrastructure to support a variety of facilities, such as police departments, office buildings, retail shops, hospitals, airports, universities and colleges, parking garages and parking lots, schools, hotels, apartment/ condo buildings, as well as along highway corridors. Deploying smart EV charging technology at commercial facilities helps reduce the carbon footprint and energy consumption. It also demonstrates forward-thinking technology that meets the needs of customers today and well into the future.

The VersiCharge AC EV chargers are ideal for a cost-effective electric vehicle charging solution. They have a userfriendly app, flexible communication connections, open payment options, secure billing, faster charging, OCPP, and more.

VersiCharge AC electric vehicle chargers can be connected directly with backend systems, making it scalable and cost-efficient for police departments. Compatible with all common EVs and applicable charging standards, the VersiCharge offers delayed and planned charging, plus secure billing and open payment options for customer convenience. Other features of the VersiCharge AC Level 2 EV Charger include OCPP back-end; indoor and outdoor rated (NEMA 4/ IK 8); three-year

warranty; 20-foot cable with integrated cable management; easy-to-use app; and cloud-based services available for easy management.

EV Connect

www.evconnect.com

EV Connect, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging management solutions, and Skycharger, a leader in EV charging, joined forces to offer a Fleet-asa-Service (FaaS) program that provides fleet operators with new financing and service options for EV charging. In response to a call for zero-emissions goals by the Corporate Electric Vehicle Alliance and NAFA Fleet Management Association, the FaaS program offers fleet operators a way to acquire, deploy, and maintain EV charging infrastructure with no upfront costs. This comprehensive, operating expenses-based service model provides a cost-effective solution for fleet managers looking for a hassle-free and cost-effective option for managing electric, or zero-emission, fleets.

The FaaS program offers EV charging at a monthly cost, including the cost of electricity. It also comes as a “full-stack approach,” which simplifies the entire process, from installation to driver support. Through turnkey EV charging solutions, FaaS customers benefit from expert consulting at every phase of the electric vehicle supply equipment’s life cycle, from site planning to deployment, operations, and management. Skycharger customers also benefit from the EV Connect Shield program, which provides central management of charging station operations and maintenance, including station hardware, software and networking, technical field service, as well as parts sourcing and replacement.

SCIpact

www.scipact.com

Founded in 2020 by Michael Bartlett, SCIpact’s goal is to provide sustainable, creative, and impactful solutions for

the issues facing facility managers today, including rising energy costs, renewable energy and sustainability trends, and fleet electrification. Through SCIpact’s experience working with the federal government, they have developed relationships with numerous Fortune 500 companies and federal contractors. This allows them to provide economical and high-quality products and services nationwide to all levels of government (federal, state, and local) as well as commercial and industrial clients. Electrification partners include SemaConnect, InCharge, Apadana, and Charge Point.

The expert team at SCIpact offers a unique set of skills and experiences within the EV market, providing turnkey solutions from planning, permitting, installation, service, and training. SCIpact’s leadership has helped guide and develop several programs and installations within the federal government. SCIpact’s VP of Federal Development, Daniel Bakke, has installed EV charging stations with the NAVY, DECA, ARMY, USAF, USMC, GSA, VA, & USPS. In the last five years, Bakke has provided guidance to the federal government on developments, changes, and planning guidelines for the federal government through industry day events, conferences, and one-on-one consulting.

SemaConnect/Blink Charging

www.blinkcharging.com

In June 2022, SemaConnect was acquired by Blink Charging (still operating as SemaConnect).

Whether a fleet is already electric, or planning to add electric vehicles, how and where the fleet charges are necessary components of a successful EV program. Whether an officer charges their electric police vehicle at a depot center, along their route, or at home, Blink has fleet charging solutions with detailed fleet reporting functionality.

functioning of the most demanding electrical applications and onboard electronics.

• Cost-effective solution designed as a drop-in replacement to other manufacturers

• Compact and rugged

• Switchable design enables quick and easy resetting

• Multiple mounting options

The Blink Fleet Program allows agencies to adopt the technology necessary for a green future. Notable features include:

• Bringing sustainable practices and green initiatives to your agency

• Building on existing EV charging infrastructure

• Maximizing savings on cost with power management controls

• Reducing CO2 emissions along heavily traveled routes

• Saving an average of 35% on lifetime vehicle maintenance cost

• Managing and reporting fleet usage with Blink Network services

• Creating a reliable and ready fleet system

District Fleet www.districtfleet.com

District Fleet offers custom fleet management and advanced e-Mobility solutions. They align an agency’s specific requirements with innovative strategies and technologies, delivering

best-in-class results for fleet managers. District Fleet has a full portfolio of fleet solutions designed to help optimize fleet operations, including vehicle accessories, add-ons, emerging vehicle technologies, and fleet management techniques that can help save time and money, as well as the environment.

Since they understand the unique demands law enforcement agencies have when it comes to safety, performance, and reliability, they can customize a solution for any department. Their turnkey fleet electrification services help agencies define requirements and develop a streamlined procurement process to purchase and deploy Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). Installation planning involves helping agencies identify site specific requirements and develop a formal installation plan. This step is designed to address electrical service requirements, communications, security, billing, and GOV versus POV usage requirements.

EVSE site assessment can be an onsite visit or virtual and identifies and determines installation location, electrical service requirements and availability, specific site requirements, safety analysis, and more. Utility coordination involves assessing local grid infrastructure, metering, billing, and customer service to help avoid costly expenses later on. District Fleet assists agencies in choosing a portfolio of fast, safe, secure, and reliable EV Charging stations and smart management software. Site preparation includes the installation and/or modifying of electrical services based on a fleet’s electrical plans.

Protecting Night Vision to Create Effective Work Conditions and Safety

The paths of science and engineering cross at SoundOff Signal when it comes to lighting solutions that protect night vision for increased human performance in low-light scenarios. The company’s focus is on safety, and while this usually refers to external vehicle signaling lights, the type and amount of internal vehicle lighting is just as important.

Proper lighting in an enclosed workspace enables adaptive vision, allowing people to perform their jobs effectively and react quickly to unfolding emergency situations. SoundOff Signal provides many types of lighting equipment to hundreds of municipalities and commercial institutions across the country and works with their specialists on the proper resolutions for each task.

Doug Baker, Senior Vice President of Technology and Chief Innovation Officer at SoundOff Signal, reveals the science behind the company’s lightning solutions inside a vehicle at night, and how to best preserve night vision, also known as Scotopic vision. And he breaks it down quite simply, “a low level of red light is used to protect night vision.”

Human eyes have a slow adjustment immediately following exposure to white or other high levels of visible light. This can make it challenging to view objects

and information when the lighting conditions change rapidly. However, if we are exposed to low levels of red light, human eyes can adjust quickly to dark condition viewing, allowing emergency personnel and civilians to operate easily and safely when moving from a properly lighted workspace to a low-light area. Some examples of these scenarios include cockpit lighting in an aircraft and interior vehicle lighting, such as a police cruiser or utility service truck. Each one requires someone’s vision to be able to work on a task inside the vehicle, such as reading gauges or filling out paperwork while quickly adapting to the outside environment’s low light.

There is a quick anatomy lesson to explain this science. “Our vision uses a combination of chromatic (color) discernment and light/dark discernment ‘sensors’ in our eyes. These are typically referred to as cones and rods. Our brains automatically process all of this information together, even though it comes from different types of optical sensors,” Baker explains.

Humans have the ability to see color through a combination of different cones, which are generally red, green, and blue sensitive. The light that we can see is measured as 400 to 700 nanometers (nm) wavelength range (Figure 1), which is a small slice of the energy across the wider electromagnetic spectrum. Under daylight conditions, the brain focuses on signals from the cone sensors to provide high-resolution color vision and ignores the saturated signal from the ultra-lightsensitive rods. In low-light conditions, only signals from the ultrasensitive rods are processed to provide grayscale visual sensation. We experience this at night by seeing objects but not with much color discernment.

Figure 1: Response of the eye in daylight (blue, green, and red cones) and nighttime (rod), also called Scotopic vision.

Figure 1

With the understanding that our rods are the critical sensor for night vision, we start to see the strategy to “save” those sensors for when we need to see in the dark without waiting for a photo-chemical adaptation delay in the eye. Any sudden overload to the rod sensor will temporarily reduce the responsiveness (low-light night vision) due to the highly stimulated or saturated rod sensor,” Baker inserts. This is exacerbated by the fact our Scotopic vision is most sensitive from low to mid wavelengths (from blue to green wavelengths). For example, flipping the lights off in a room will cause a slow response in your vision as your eyes adjust to the darkness and the same holds true for the opposite when suddenly going from the dark to lights on.

Because of this effect, small amounts (i.e., dim) of red light do not stimulate the rod very much, shown graphically in Figure 2 by the small amount of overlap between the energy in a red LED and the rod sensitivity curve. In contrast, “white” light contains energy in all the blue, green, and red regions. White light, even in low amounts, does stimulate the rod sensor. A perfect scenario for this problem is working at night under the typical white dome light in a vehicle, then straining to see outside into low-light areas. This is the reason so many special service vehicles are equipped with a red dome light option, because it preserves the person’s rod sensor and thus improves their rapid “night vision.”

Figure 2: SoundOff Signal’s red LEDs produce a peak of 640 nm making it easier for the eye to discern, as you can see in the graph. As a contrast, blue light, which is commonly associated with cell phone screens, is in the 400–500 nm range, which if you’ve ever looked at your cell phone in the dark of night, it adversely affects your ability to adjust quickly to the natural low-light environment. Fans of military-based movies will recognize green imagery in night vision goggles and that wavelength falls between 500–600 nm on the scale. The green light is less impactful on the Scotopic scale than blue, but not nearly as favorable as red.

Using science to drive its engineering, SoundOff Signal’s lighting solutions include controllers, allowing for custom management of the LED lights. These purpose-driven tools are designed to help everyone get their job done effectively and safely.

About the Guest Author: Doug Baker is a Senior Vice President of Technology and Chief Innovation Officer at SoundOff Signal, a leader in vehicle lighting, control systems, and electronic warning solutions for law enforcement since 1992.

Figure 2

Fleet products

Police Fleet Professionals love new products and some of these products are just now hitting the law enforcement and public safety market. Below are just a few you might want to look into getting for your department.

InterMotive Blackout Module™ for Covert Surveillance

TUFLOC® TufBox™ Locking Drawer Systems and Storage Bin

M

ake covert surveillance easier with InterMotive’s Blackout Module (BOM), which allows officers to operate in the dark without drawing attention to the vehicle. BOM eliminates exterior and interior lights and chimes (features vary by chassis). Activation is simply the press of a button, and the vehicle can be driven and stopped while concealing its presence. The system automatically disengages when the vehicle reaches a configurable speed (5–20 mph) or can be deactivated manually. To learn more, click here: www.InterMotive.net or visit our booth at Police Fleet Expo 2023 in New Orleans (Booth # 807).

he TufBox Locking Drawer Systems from TUFLOC provide a way to safely secure guns, store equipment, and organize belongings. Manufactured with heavy-duty steel, the TufBox is built to withstand the everyday demands that are expected of all TUFLOC products. Available for all SUVs and cruisers, the TufBox Storage Bin is constructed of high-density plastic and the organizer is designed to fit under the TufBox Drawer, but it can also be used as a stand-alone organizer in the rear of SUVs and cruisers. The Storage Bin comes complete with a set of dividers. A hinged cover is also available. For more information, click here: www.tufloc.com.

Whelen Edge® 9X Series Lightbars

he Edge 9X combines the most valuable design aspects of Whelen’s most popular lightbars with an all-new look and expanded customization! The Edge 9X Series celebrates Whelen’s long history of providing innovative, lifesaving equipment to the emergency warning industry. The Edge 9X is designed for durability, competitively priced, and highly configurable for a wide range of applications. With models available in both Short (9SX) and Tall (9TX), the Edge 9X series is an ideal solution for any vehicle application. To learn more, click here: www.whelen.com or visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #210).

SoundOff Signal obSERVE+ Dome Light – 3” Compartment Light

oundOff Signal’s obSERVE+ 3” Dome Light is a powerful yet sleek new compartment light. This high-performing interior light offers a low-amp draw, superior efficiency, and hours of long-lasting reliability. The low-profile surface mount design allows for multiple mounting options and easy installation. This light is available in single- or dual-color with individual control and incorporates a low-power dim mode for nighttime. The LED color options consist of white, white/red, and white/ blue. Other interior lighting options available include rectangular dome lights, a 6” round dome light, and an 8” round light coming soon. To learn more, click on this link: obSERVE+ Dome Light - 3” | SoundOff Signal or visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #100).

TruckVault Drone Responder 9 and Drone Responder 6

Havis VSX Console for Public Safety Professionals

or over 80 years, Havis has proudly served as a trusted law enforcement partner offering an extensive range of mounting, docking, storage, K9 transport, and prisoner transport solutions. Havis empowers public safety professionals by keeping them connected through accessible, secure, and reliable technology. We prioritize durability, safety, and rugged mobility for mission-critical moments, which exceed even the strictest requirements. Visit Havis at PFE 2023 (Booth #220) to discover our leading VSX console, which incorporates the strength of a heavy-duty steel mounting structure with a lightweight polycarbonate plastic chassis. Its strength, resistance, and performance reimagine the workspace for public safety professionals. To learn more, click here: www.havis.com or visit our booth at PFE 2023 (Booth #121).

ruckVault’s Drone Responder 9 and Drone Responder 6 are used by the Mobile Police Department and Saint James Parish Sheriff’s Office. TruckVault stands for secure transport and efficient deployment of department gear. These made-to-order vaults are designed with the ever-changing needs of agencies nationwide. From drone command centers to multi-purpose vaults for rapid response to custom storage solutions, TruckVault proudly serves the officers and organizations keeping our communities safe. See the NEW Drone Responders and meet our Public Safety Sales Managers at PFE 2023 (Booth #547) and click here for more information: www.truckvault.com

Pro-gard™ Products Cargo Storage Floor

ro-gard recently launched the Cargo Storage Floor, an innovative two-compartment storage system designed to expand the cargo space for law enforcement officers. This system enables easy storage of various weapons, equipment, and electronics, by creating an elevated floor in the cargo area. This CSF is easy to install and securely mounts to the existing OEM mounting points. Crafted with powder-coated steel, this product prioritizes security and durability. The first compartment ensures the safe locking and securing of sensitive weapons, equipment, and duty gear, while the second compartment accommodates electronics and even includes a removable tray for effortless installation. To learn more, visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #309) or click here: www.pro-gard.com.

otorola Solutions recently announced that City of London Police will roll out VB400 body-worn cameras to its entire police force. The new VB400 body-worn camera is designed to make it easy for a team to capture high-quality, first-person video in small to mid-size police agencies. For more information, click here: www.motorolasolutions.com.

und Industries presents the all-new CGR20-TD Charger Aluminum Slide Out Equipment Drawer, compatible with the Dodge Charger (2020 +). It is designed to mount under the packing shelf in the trunk of the vehicle, providing a convenient, secured, and protected mounting area for electronics, weapons, gear, etc. For more information, click on the link below or visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #427). https:// lund-industries.com/products/trunk-boxes/ dodge-trunk-storage/cgr20-td#.ZEl19XbMLIU.

Gamber-Johnson G Police Fleet Professional Magazine | Summer 2023

Docking Station

amber-Johnson’s new docking station is designed for reliable compatibility with the Panasonic Toughbook 40 rugged computer. This docking station features Quad RF antenna pass-through and lite port replication including: Ethernet, Serial, USB-A, and USB-C and seamless integration with all other Gamber-Johnson mounting and vehicle equipment solutions. Visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #319) or click here: www.gamberjohnson.com.

Code 3 C5517 SERIES REFLEX® (17” LED Minibar) and the CITADEL™ PILLAR SERIES (Exterior Lighting System)

he C5517 Series 17” LED minibar is a compact and powerful warning solution with permanent, vacuum magnet and magnet mount options. This minibar, outfitted with 60 (single-color) and 180 (dual-color) high-intensity LEDs, provides full 360-degree lighting to attract the attention of drivers on the road. It features 37 single-color and 97 dual-color flash patterns and models with vacuum-magnet mounts that include a cigarette plug switch with on/off and flash pattern control. Code 3’s Citadel™ Pillar Series is designed to seamlessly integrate with Chevy Tahoe and Ford PIU emergency vehicles to provide a sleek OEM look and feel. Equipped with six rear-facing and two intersection LEDs, the Citadel Pillar delivers enhanced on-scene safety for first responders. The easy-to-install D-pillar light features 77 dualcolor or 58 tri-color flash patterns and Matrix® compatibility allowing for unlimited configurations. Available with CD3794 or CD5031 lightheads. Visit us at PFE 2023 (Booth #509) or click here: www.code3esg.com.

Setina SPT MAX…MAXimize your Patrol Truck

roviding a trunk for your truck, the SPT MAX makes the most of your vehicle by offering secure gear storage, a protected flip-down electronics bay, and a locking drawer deep enough for a long gun. All of this while still allowing a safe space for suspect transport, including seat and center-pull seat belt system. Setina stays out in front of the MAX. To learn more, visit www.setina.com.

Stalker Speed Module

ave you updated your patrol vehicles recently, only to find that the OBD-II port used to connect your radar to your vehicle’s computer VSS system disappeared? The new Stalker Speed Module solves this problem with a tiny device that installs in under two minutes on the back of your existing Stalker dashmount units. It combines proprietary Inertial Navigation Technology with a traditional GPS unit to precisely track vehicle speed even in areas where GPS signals are weak or unavailable, such as forests, dense urban environments,

Kustom Signals…The Argus Body Worn Camera

K

ustom Signals announces the release of the Argus Body Worn Camera (BWC), a cutting-edge device designed for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone who needs reliable video recording in the field. Argus BWC is a rugged camera that offers advanced features and capabilities that are powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) for seamless recording, monitoring, and evidence management. It is built to withstand the toughest conditions, with IP67 and MIL STD 810G construction. The camera is also equipped with a powerful battery that lasts up to 12 hours and is hot-swappable, so the camera will continue recording while the battery is being changed out. Argus BWC will be available soon for purchase…for more information just click here www.kustomsignals.com/argus.

DURABOOK S14I…Every Second Counts in a Public Safety Emergency

very second counts in a public safety emergency so you need a laptop that can keep up with you. That’s where DURABOOK come in. The S14I in-vehicle laptop is the computing solution that public safety professionals on the front lines can rely on…engineered to improve efficiency in the field with paperless documentation, real-time reporting, applications, communications, mapping, and more. The S14I delivers the features today’s professionals need, along with instant access to the department’s network, databases, and the real-time intelligence needed to keep communities safe.

Click here for more information…

https://www.durabook.com/us/2021/05/durabook-s14i-laptop-within-vehicle-dock-meets-the-needs-of-public-safety-professionals/

Trikke Positron Can Transform How Your Agency Patrols

rikke Positron is a personal patrol vehicle equipped with electric all-wheel drive. It bridges the gap between police vehicles and foot patrols, empowering officers to better connect with their community while saving agencies money and increasing operational efficiency over foot patrol. Available in 2 models…60V and 72V.

To learn more click here… www.trikkemobility.com

License Plate Reader Technology…The ELSAG Mobile Plate Hunter

he Mobile Plate Hunter ALPR system can be mounted on patrol cars, capturing license plate numbers throughout an entire shift. If a suspect license plate number is read, audible and visual alarms alert the officer within milliseconds of license plate capture. Cameras, a processing unit and proprietary software…allow operators to capture images of license plates and instantaneously compare them with millions of hot list records to identify vehicles of interest. Hot lists may be updated manually or wirelessly. The alert communicates the nature of the crime or infraction associated with the plate so operators understand the risks before exiting the patrol car. Also, because the system works behind the scenes, in-car computing allows operators to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the scene.

For more information, click here: https://www.leonardocompany-us.com/lpr/elsag-mobile

COMING SOON

Police Fleet Professional – Fall 2023 Issue

Aug.

DriveX (NOLA Motorsports Park)

Monday, August 14th

DriveX (Ride & Drive Experience at the famous NOLA Motorsports Park)

3 Days of Training Sessions (including how to begin laying the groundwork to electrifying your fleet) Over 100 Fleet Related Vendors

Evening Events

Explore & Enjoy The Hospitality of New Orleans And Much More…

Host Hotel: Hilton New Orleans Riverside

For any questions about Police Fleet Expo 2023 please email Kirk Moen at kmoen@signalbusiness group.com or call at 608-770-6364. www.policefleetexpo.com