Over the next few weeks, six 2021 Ford Interceptor sheriff’s vehicles will begin traveling Wood County roads.

However, these vehicles differ from the current SUVs in that they are hybrid models, operating on electric and gas.

The cost for the hybrid models was $36,232 per vehicle, $3,600 higher than gas versions and delivery of the models took longer than expected–they were ordered in the first quarter of 2021.

But Sheriff Wasylyshyn expects the SUVs to save the department thousands of dollars over the course of their lifetime.

“A few years ago, I was approached by [Wood County] Commissioner Craig LaHote about hybrids. I looked into other police departments who were pleased with the vehicles,” he explained.

The sheriff was particularly impressed with the mileage. “They went from getting 16 miles per gallon to 24, and idling was not as hard on them.”

He added, “In our line of work, the vehicles do a lot of idling.”

With the increased mileage, the sheriff expects to “save a significant amount of money on fuel over time.”

Captain Rod Konrad agreed, estimating the savings to be in the thousands and possibly higher if gas prices continue to rise.

The captain noted hybrid vehicles have another benefit. “They are just as powerful with initial take off quicker with electric.”

The SUVs are currently in the Wood County garage where they are being retrofitted with computerized light packages.

Sheriff Wasylyshyn appreciates the work done by mechanics at the county garage, where his vehicles have been taken for the past several years for maintenance.

“Having the county garage work on our cars has saved us tens of thousands of dollars. It’s been huge having them,” he said, adding, “Their quality is second to none.”

The lighting package is new to crews who are now adding more lighting to the rear of the SUVs.

Lieutenant Greg Panning said the computerized system is new to every one in the department.

“We can make each light do something independently,” he said, pointing out the steering wheel will feature a # symbol that deputies can use to turn on the lights.

Lighting can be programmed to reflect day/night and cloudy/rainy conditions.

“And we can turn down the bars to low glow when patroling neighborhoods. We will refine it as we go along,” the lieutenant said.

Of course for members of the department, there will be a learning curve, he explained. “There will be training.”

The sheriff will be one of the first to drive an Interceptor with others distributed among the road patrol deputies.

Sheriff Wasylyshyn looks forward to the SUVs being road ready in a few weeks. “There is no question about it. These are the best lit, most economical vehicles.”