The Irvine Police Department in Orange County, California, on Oct. 8 announced it has what it believes to be the nation’s first police Tesla Cybertruck.

The department had told the public in July that the electric vehicle was “coming soon.”

The truck is a fully equipped police vehicle, but it won’t be used for patrolling the neighborhood, said the police department.

It’s part of an effort to develop “unique and innovative ways to connect with our community and the youth of Irvine,” said the department in a statement on X. “The truck will support our Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program and community outreach efforts.”

The truck will also be able to respond to emergency situations and assist the community when needed, according to the statement.

The Irvine Police Department runs one of two DARE programs in the state of California. Founded in 1993, the program aims to educate elementary school students through in-school presentations and videos to prevent the use of illicit substances, gang membership, and violent behavior.

“For over three decades, our DARE officers have driven attention-grabbing and one-of-a-kind vehicles that never fail to turn heads and excite students,” said the department.

Police said other methods, such as officers on horseback and K-9 officers, also help spark conversations in the community.

The police department will be hosting pop-up events so local residents can meet with officers and take advantage of photo opportunities with the Tesla Cybertruck in the coming weeks, according to the department.

The news went viral on X, where some criticized the police department for buying the electric truck.

“As a resident, this is a waste of taxpayer dollars. The vanity of the Irvine police department is appalling,” said X user Harry Penn.

Others supported the purchase of the vehicle.

“Contrary to what some believe, this is not a waste of taxpayers money. It will actually save a lot in fuel and maintenance costs and provide superior performance in many cases,” said Richard Jones on X.

Tesla started deliveries of the Cybertruck in November 2023 after a two-year delay due to production problems and battery supply constraints. The truck features a stainless steel body, armored glass that can resist the impact of a baseball at 70 miles per hour or Class 4 hail, and bulletproof doors that can resist .45 caliber and 9 millimeter rounds.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk launched the “Blade Runner” movie-inspired vehicle to refresh the company’s aging lineup amid slowing EV demand.

Reuters contributed to this report.