The LAPD's 100-Strong BMW i3 Fleet Has Hardly Been Touched

In 2016 the LAPD made a big statement about its intentions to go green, by adding 100 BMW i3s to its fleet. Around 18 months on, well, that statement’s looking a little hollow.

A CBS report by David Goldstein revealed that many of the cars - intended for use in non-emergency capacities - have hardly been touched in that time. A surprising number have only clocked three-figure mileages since joining the fleet, and even the more leggy examples have covered just a few thousand miles.

One car has averaged just six miles a week, meaning - once you factor in the lease - the car has cost taxpayers $15.67 a mile. The total cost for this seemingly unloved fleet? A cool $10.2 million. Ouch.

The potential embarrassment for the LAPD deepens with the revelation that when the i3s have actually been driven, it’s often been for employees to run personal errands. Goldstein followed one commander in an i3 who took the car to a manicure appointment, while the driver of another i3 was spotted picking up someone from the Los Angeles University and heading out for a spot of lunch. Doesn’t sound like police business, does it?

Responding to the investigation, LAPD Deputy Chiet Jorge Villegas said that the cars are supposed to be “only for business not personal use” and that the force will “look into” any potential misuse. Despite the findings, Villegas still considers the project a “success.”