East Wenatchee deploys nation's first hydrogen-powered patrol vehicle

EAST WENATCHEE — The East Wenatchee Police Department has become what officials believe is the first law enforcement agency in the nation to deploy a hydrogen-powered police vehicle, following an interlocal agreement with Douglas County Public Utility District.

The partnership, which includes collaboration with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation and Toyota, introduces a 2019 Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle into the department's fleet under a four-year lease agreement.

The initiative emerged after Douglas County PUD received four used Toyota Mirai vehicles through a Toyota grant program designed to demonstrate renewable hydrogen's potential as a clean fuel alternative.

"We're excited to explore the viability of hydrogen fuel cells in our community and encourage other agencies with fleet vehicles to consider adding hydrogen-powered cars to their operations," said Gary Ivory, General Manager of Douglas PUD. "The East Wenatchee Police Department's use of the Mirai will provide valuable real-world data to help us understand the practical benefits and challenges of hydrogen technology as we continue to expand its use."

The agreement ensures that hydrogen fuel costs will not exceed current fuel prices, with an automatic renewal option following the initial four-year term. The arrangement builds upon previous collaborative efforts between the two agencies, including a 2023 electric fleet vehicle infrastructure pilot project.

"Our department drives more miles than the PUD, so this is an ideal chance to learn from our experience. We're eager to see how hydrogen-powered vehicles perform in a law enforcement setting and help refine the integration of hydrogen fuel cells into our operations," Chief Johnson said.

The department has already experienced success with alternative fuel vehicles. "We've already seen significant success with the Ford Lightning EV truck," Chief Johnson said. "It costs about $3 per shift to charge, compared to $50–$70 per shift for traditional fuel. These types of opportunities help us explore new options that are both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable."

"We value our relationship with Douglas County PUD and together we're making important strides that will help improve efficiency and reduce our environmental impact, paving the way for a brighter future for our community," said Mayor Crawford.

The initiative coincides with ongoing construction of a renewable hydrogen production facility near Baker Flats, scheduled to begin commercial production in the first quarter of 2025. The facility is expected to produce hydrogen from renewable resources, contributing to maintenance cost reduction at the Wells Hydroelectric Project.

The City of East Wenatchee, incorporated in 1935, stands as Douglas County's largest municipality and is historically significant as the landing site of Miss Veedol, the first nonstop trans-Pacific flight.