With over 10 million electric vehicles sold in 2022 globally, more car owners are trading in their gas and diesel counterparts more and more. Beginning on September 22 until Oct 1, 2023 National Drive Electric Week, helps interested people across the country learn more about the benefits of electric vehicles.
To help do our part in celebrating National Electric Drive Week, we’ve put together this snapshot guide of the various benefits of electric cars and more about National Electric Drive Week!
When Did National Drive Electric Week Start?
National Drive Electric Week has been around since 2011 and was first introduced to the public by Plug In America, the Electric Auto Association, Sierra Club and EVHybridNoire. The intent of National Drive Electric Week is to connect curious people who may have an interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and connect them with actual EV owners.
EVs are becoming more common to see on the streets. Their explosive growth in the overall car market has risen steadily over the past few years. In 202, EVs market share grew from 4% to 14% in 2022 and is projected to increase further to 18% this year, based on the International Energy Agency.
How to Celebrate and Participate in National Drive Electric Week
There are many ways to get involved with Nation Drive Electric Week. With over 200 events nationwide to choose from, there’s a little something for everyone! Depending on your area, you can expect to see everything from parades, ride-and-drives, electric tailgate parties, and information booths.
To learn more about the numerous benefits of all-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars, trucks, and motorcycles, you can check out these EV events here in Minnesota.
What National Drive Electric Week Events Are Happening in Minnesota
To make it easier for you to find events that interest you, we’ve made the following list.
Electric Vehicle 101
When: Thursday, Sept. 28
Time: 6 – 7:30 P.M.
Location: The Rec Center, 3700 Monterey Drive
Join us to chat with local EV owners and experts, explore EV charging options for your home, have your questions answered by local utility representatives, and learn all about rebates and resources available.
Beltrami Electric Cooperative's EV Car Show
When: Thursday, September 28, 2023
Time: 4:00 - 6:30 P.M.
Location: Beltrami Electric Cooperative
EV owners will share their stories/benefits of EVs, overcoming range anxiety, and the best way to charge an EV battery. You'll hear about today's charging technologies and the programs available for your EV through your local electric provider for home charging off-peak rates and rebates.
EV-ER: Electric Vehicles in Elk River
When: Thursday, September 28, 2023
Time: 3:00 - 6:00 P.M.
Location: Elk River Farmers Market
Electric Vehicles in Elk River is a local National Drive Electric Week event where you can meet the EV community in your area. Visitors can check out Eddy, ERMU’s Chevy Bolt EV, as well as the City’s e-Bike. EV owners are also invited to register to bring their vehicles and share what they’ve learned through ownership. This event will also offer the opportunity to learn about new EVs, in-home and business charging, local public charging, and the EV driving experience.
EV Expo 2023
When: Saturday, September 23, 2023
Time: 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Location: Oak Grove Presbyterian
Oak Grove Presbyterian Church is hosting its 5th annual EV Expo on Saturday, September 23, from 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. The event will feature an electric vehicle (EV) ride and drive hosted by Minnesota Clean Cities Coalition, an opportunity to talk with EV owners, an info table to learn more, and a showcase of electric bikes, lawnmowers, school buses, and snowblowers.
Why Should You Consider Switching to Electric Vehicles
There are tons of benefits to considering the switch to an electric vehicle. It’s no surprise that 90% of EV owners would most likely purchase another electric vehicle if they were to get an additional vehicle. Some benefits include:
Environmentally Friendly
One of the most clear advantages of driving an EV is its impact on the environment. Since they have no tailpipe exhaust, they don’t emit any exhaust gases, reducing their contributions to air pollution, smog pollution, and greenhouse gases.
Lower Maintenance Costs
It’s cheaper to maintain an electric car than it is with all the associated costs of a gas or diesel-powered vehicle. Charging an electric car costs far less than fueling up at the pump. Since EVs don’t need regular car maintenance like oil changes or fluid top-ups, you save on maintenance costs too.
Better Driving Performance
EVs have a lower centre of gravity, which improves their stability, handling, and safety. Electric vehicles also have more responsive acceleration since they can produce peak torque from a complete standstill.
EV Grants, Credits, and Rebates
Many rebates, credits, and grants are available to help offset an electric vehicle's initial cost. One of the most common credits is the federal tax credit for battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. This credit gives EV owners up to $7,500 back, depending on the battery capacity.
Convenience Built-In
One of the best benefits of driving an EV is how convenient they are. Looking and searching for parking can be a thing of the past. You can often find free, priority, or dedicated parking bays for electric vehicles. Another benefit of EVs is how much quieter they are than gas and diesel vehicles.
Celebrate National Drive Electric Week With Weelborg Chevrolet
Looking for a way to celebrate National Electric Drive Week? Come on into Weelborg Chevrolet of New Ulm and take a peek at our selection of electric vehicles! Our knowledgeable dealership staff can answer any questions you may have about ownership, maintenance, what rebates and credits are available and anything else!
Contact us today at (877) 713-7134, or come on into Weelborg Chevrolet of New Ulm to learn more about our electric vehicles!
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