EV showcase events allow anyone to talk 1-on-1 with electric vehicle owners and check out a variety of EVs on display. (Photo courtesy of Drive Electric Alabama)
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (April 13, 2023) – Have you ever wondered how often electric vehicle owners charge their vehicles? Or where do they plug in? Or how much money do they save on gas?
Drive Electric Alabama, a statewide EV education and awareness campaign administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), is hosting showcase events throughout the state this month where anyone interested can have their questions about EVs answered and take a look at a range of different makes and models of EVs.
“These EV showcases provide a great opportunity for Alabamians interested in EVs to kick the tires, see firsthand the technology featured in these vehicles, and ask EV owners about their experiences with this new generation of vehicles,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “It’s amazing how far automobiles have come in my lifetime, and it’s significant that, as one of the nation’s top auto manufacturers, many of these advancements are being made right here in Alabama. Most folks on the road have probably noticed that EVs are quickly emerging as a major player in the auto industry, and these events allow Alabamians to learn more about EVs."
Each of the EVents will feature real-life EV owners showcasing their cars and engaging in 1-on-1 conversations with anyone who wants to know more.
Here’s a look at the EVents sponsored by local Drive Electric Alabama chapters on April 22.
North Alabama Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day EVent
When: Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Little River Canyon Center, 4322 Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, Fort Payne
“Electric vehicles are in the news all the time, and it can sometimes be confusing to separate myth from reality,” said Michael Staley, President of the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition. “That’s why most Alabamians trust EV owners for honest and candid information. These are people who are using EVs to commute to work every day, get their kids to practice, and maybe even take it on a family vacation.
“That’s precisely why these EVents are so powerful. It gives people the chance to learn more in a low-pressure environment.”
Virtually every major automobile manufacturer has committed to building EVs, including Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai, right here in Alabama.
ADECA has awarded grants totaling $4.1 million in 2021 and another $2.45 million in 2022 to build EV charging stations throughout the state. Applications for this year’s program just opened, with a May 22 application deadline.
On the federal level, applications can now be submitted for a new grant program, which funds EV charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s new Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program will provide $2.5 billion over five years, with this round of funding accounting for $700 million for projects that will be "publicly accessible.” Applications are due by May 30, 2023.
“Anyone who is considering an EV for their next car purchase, or just wants to learn more about EVs in general, should attend one of the EVents this month,” Staley said.
EVents in Alabama are part of the national Drive Electric Earth Day program, which is designed to share information about electric vehicles to alert potential EV owners about the vehicle's cost, range, performance, and other factors unique to EVs.
About Drive Electric Alabama
Drive Electric Alabama is an initiative of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). This effort exists with a mission to raise awareness and advocate for the eventual adoption, of electric vehicles in Alabama by engaging and educating Alabama residents about the benefits of electric vehicles in their everyday lives, their futures, and the energy and economic impact for our state. Learn more at driveelectricalabama.com.
