Scotts Valley Police Department Becomes First Law Enforcement Agency in California to Acquire a Zero Electric Motorcycle

Local officers now able to patrol the streets in silence

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (January 6, 2010)– The Scotts Valley Police Department became the first law enforcement agency in California to accept delivery of a Zero DS electric motorcycle to assist in local patrols and traffic enforcement. The acquisition serves as a benchmark for evaluating the performance capabilities of the Zero DS in law enforcement situations, such as responding through traffic and on local bike trails. Due to its remarkably quiet all-electric drivetrain, the Zero DS is the perfect motorcycle for patrolling in urban areas where noise may be a factor.

“We are excited to be the first police department in California to receive an electric Zero motorcycle because it will allow our officers to patrol more places, more often,” said Lt. John Hohmann of the Scotts Valley Police Department. “Riding a police motorcycle requires a very special skill set because the officer needs to be alert and keep the public safe, while simultaneously scanning the area for criminal activity. We anticipate that the upright seating position, dual sport configuration and silent operation of the Zero DS is the perfect combination for local patrols and we can’t wait to put it to the test.”

“The city of Scotts Valley and its police department have been very supportive of Zero Motorcycles and we are very pleased that they chose us,” said Jay Friedland, Vice President of Sustainability for Zero Motorcycles. “We hope this opportunity serves as the touchstone for other law enforcement agencies to see the benefits electric motorcycles have when it comes to community patrols and traffic enforcement. The silent operation of the Zero DS allows each officer to hear what’s going on around them, which enhances awareness and safety. Zero DS motorcycles also are a great cost-effective solution for small departments and we are proud to be able to support those who keep our communities safe.”

Built from the ground up using Zero Motorcycles' proprietary Z-Force™ power pack and aircraft grade alloy frame, Zero achieves an industry leading power-to-weight ratio that increases range and maneuverability. The Zero DS has a range of up to 50 miles (80 km) and is highway legal. Each model combines state-of-the-art Z-Force technology with an ultra-light frame design to make them agile and fast where it counts. Characterized by instant acceleration and lightweight design Zero’s product line allows riders to take on anything from city streets to off-road trails.

ABOUT ZERO MOTORCYCLES:
Zero Motorcycles is the next step in motorcycle evolution and represents the ultimate electric motorcycle technology. Unencumbered by conventional thinking about how they design, manufacture, and sell high performance electric motorcycles, they are on a mission to turn heads and revolutionize their industry by combining the best aspects of a traditional motorcycle with today's most advanced technology.