Police Department's Hybrid Hits the Streets

By Jenna Gaillard
Westport News Posted: 11/12/2008 10:15:18 AM EST

The Westport Police Department unveiled its first hybrid car Monday at New Country Toyota on Post Road East.

A 2009 Toyota Prius hybrid and two BMW bicycles were donated to the police department by New Country Toyota and will be added to the departments "green fleet."

"I just decided it would be in the best interest of the community," said John Della Penna, general manager of New Country Toyota. "We're like one. It's good for everybody."

He said the reputation of the dealership and its previous owners didn't have a good relationship with the town or the police department.

Since August, New Country Toyota and the police department have been working together on getting the hybrid vehicle and the two bicycles.

So far, the Westport police only have one hybrid car but, according to Deputy Chief Dale E. Call, the department is planning on getting a second one next year, and possibly a third.

The hybrid car has been used by the police department for two weeks. It replaced another police vehicle that was 10 years old and had high mileage.

Call said he's already seen a decrease in the fuel usage with the hybrid car, as it uses less than one gallon a day.

The hybrid vehicle will be used for parking control and enforcement throughout Westport.

Police officer Darryl Falcone said the hybrid car will also be used for traffic assistance, which consists of taking care of commuter traffic or helping with traffic at schools. The bicycles will be used by police officers who are trained for bike patrol and will be used around Compo Beach, downtown and the railroad station.

According to Call, many police officers haven't gotten a chance to drive the hybrid car. However, Falcone has. He said it "drives like a dream."

"It takes a quick second to get used to," said Falcone. "It runs so quiet that half the time you can't even tell it's on."

To turn on the hybrid vehicle, you have to place the small, rectangular shaped key, which also has a lock and unlock button, into a slot, then put your foot on the brake and push the power button.

According to First selectman Gordon F. Joseloff, who attended the unveiling ceremony, this is the first Prius purchased for Westport. He said the hybrid vehicle is better for the citizens of Westport.