South Korea to Electrify Its Police Vehicle Fleet
On July 30, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS), the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA), and the Ministry of Environment (which oversees climate and energy matters) signed a memorandum of understanding to launch a new initiative at the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul. During the event, the three government agencies introduced a pilot project for an eco-friendly police station.
South Korea’s police vehicle fleet currently consists of approximately 17,600 units. As of the end of June 2026, only 2,185 units—12.4% of the fleet—were electric or hydrogen-powered models. According to procurement data for the 2023–2025 period, the KNPA acquires or leases approximately 1,908 new vehicles annually.
With the exception of certain vehicles intended for specialized purposes, South Korea has set a goal for all newly acquired or leased police vehicles to be electric or hydrogen-powered models by a specified deadline. The government anticipates that the superior performance and quiet operation of these zero-emission vehicles will significantly enhance the operational response capabilities of the police force. Furthermore, it is noted that software-defined vehicles (SDVs) have the potential to improve public perception regarding the quality of public safety services.
As part of the pilot project, the government will replace 22 internal combustion engine vehicles—currently used by police stations under the jurisdiction of the Gangnam Police Station—with electric vehicles. In addition, nine 200 kW fast chargers will be installed across six secondary police stations: two at each of the stations in the Yeoksam, Nonhyeon, and Cheongdam districts, as well as one at each of the following locations: Samseong A, Samseong B, and Sinsa.
Beyond serving as a testbed for a broader rollout, the pilot project at the Gangnam police station aims to increase the adoption of electric vehicles within the police force. Yoo Jae-sung, Acting Commissioner General of the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA), stated that the agency is committed to accelerating efforts to identify the second and third locations for this pilot project.
