For decades, police cars in the USA have been characterized by brawny V6 or V8 powerplants. They guzzle down gas at a rapid rate but have been praised for their performance and high intimidation factor. Nobody wants to see a Ford Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility or Dodge Charger Pursuit taking up space in their rearview mirrors. Lately, however, police departments around the country have been switching to electric cars from the likes of Tesla, as in the town of Linn Creek, Missouri. While not all police officers are happy with EVs, many have been won over by the instant acceleration and lower maintenance costs. The latest to join the EV patrol party is Dallas County.

Dallas County has now added three Tesla Model 3 Performance cars to its police fleet. It joins police departments in New York and California that have already turned to EVs. However, the move is a bit more peculiar for Dallas County, which is based in a state where specific franchise laws prevent Tesla from being able to sell to the public directly.

In order to purchase a Tesla like a Model 3 or Model Y in Texas, customers have to start the process online and then trek to another state to pick up their car. That's one way to stop widespread EV adoption in its tracks, but it hasn't prevented Dallas County's police department from spending a total of $190,320 on three Model 3s.

It's no surprise that Dallas County went for three Model 3 Performance variants. This range-topping model currently costs $62,990. With dual motors and all-wheel drive, it can reach 60 mph in only 3.1 seconds and continue to a top speed of 162 mph. Essentially, not one of America's most stolen cars will be able to outrun this Tesla.

Speed aside, the zero-emission running of an EV and the fact that police cars log thousands of miles each year make it clear why EVs are finding favor with law enforcement officials. It's a pity that strict franchise laws in Texas will continue preventing some Texans from buying a Tesla themselves.