Electric vehicles are increasingly on the road and in the news.
This weekend, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will begin a series of information meetings on electric vehicles throughout the state. The meetings are part of Drive Electric Alabama, a statewide electric vehicle education and awareness campaign.
“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.”
Michael Staley, president of the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition, said the meetings are important for prospective electric vehicle owners.
“Electric vehicles are in the news all the time, and it can sometimes be confusing to separate myth from reality,” he said. “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.”
Owners of electric vehicles will be on hand at the events to show their cars and answer questions.
The meetings are:
- Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon, Wiregrass Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day EVent.
Johnny Henderson Park in Enterprise in conjunction with the Weevil City Cruisers’ 26th Annual Car Show - Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Montgomery Area Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day.
Central Alabama Electric Cooperative, 103 Samuel Hunt Drive, Prattville - April 22, 8 a.m. to noon, Birmingham Area Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day EVent.
The Market at Pepper Place, in parking lot near Bettola Restaurant and Jeni’s Ice Cream - April 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., North Alabama Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day EVent.
Little River Canyon Center, 4322 Little River Canyon Rim Parkway, Fort Payne - April 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Bay Area Drive Electric Alabama Earth Day EVent.
Mobile Japanese Gardens, 700 Forest Hill Drive, Mobile
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
