MANILA, Philippines -- To cope with the skyrocketing fuel prices, the Philippine National Police might soon be using electric cars for routine patrols, Director General Avelino Razon said.

Razon recently unveiled a proto-type, four-seater, electric patrol car, which boasts of being free of emission and noise. The vehicle, which looks like a golf buggy, is powered by electricity.

“This prototype electric patrol car could be used to conduct routine patrol in shopping areas like Makati and Ortigas,” he said.

“This is powered by electricity, not gasoline. So we can save gas at the same time we can improve patrol activity of our Mamang Pulis (Mr. Police) with minimal expenses,” Razon told reporters.

Razon said the electric car -- equipped with headlights, tail lights and blinkers -- is now undergoing “field tests” to find out if other police stations across the country can also use it.

The electric-powered car has an automatic transmission and reaches speeds of up to 30 kilometers per hour. It can accommodate up to four persons.

“It is not intended to run after criminals but only to patrol the streets as part of our increased police visibility,” Razon said.

The PNP is also considering using bicycles in its cost-effective scheme to fight street crimes.