Nay Chehab, Program Analyst, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
As we bid farewell to summer and transition to fall, there are many things to look forward to, such as kids in school, cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and National Drive Electric Week. This year’s celebration spans eight days from Sept. 10 to 18, with nearly 200 events across the country to familiarize people with the power, convenience, and widespread availability of electric vehicles.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more prominent with more than 30 models currently available. As of July 2016, there were more than 480,000 EVs on the road, a significant increase from just 18,000 in 2011.
Since National Drive Electric Week made its debut in 2011 under the moniker National Plug In Day, the celebration has grown from day-long to an entire week, and from 29 events to 198 events dedicated to driving electric. In addition to the stateside celebration, last year’s events included international participation in seven Canadian provinces, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. This year there are events being organized in Europe as well.
Each event is unique, but they all showcase a diverse selection of electric vehicles, provide an opportunity to test drive EVs, and are completely free and open to the public. From EV enthusiasts, to automotive fans, to those interested in technology and preserving the environment, or just commuters looking to save money, there is something for everyone at National Drive Electric Week.
The Department of Energy’s Clean Cities Program continues to play an integral role in National Drive Electric Week. Clean Cities Coalitions work on reducing the nation’s consumption of petroleum in transportation by supporting alternative fuel vehicles like EVs. With such promising growth in EVs, transitioning away from a petroleum-based economy becomes a real possibility, and Clean Cities Coalitions are using National Drive Electric Week as a conduit for spreading the drive electric message.
From Sept. 10 to 18, take a look around and find a National Drive Electric Week event near you. Come experience the Best.Drive.EVer. by feeling the power and convenience of an electric vehicle. Then maybe you, too, can be part of the rEVolution!
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