We <3 EVs!

Helping save the world has become a pretty big deal these days. From eating organic and composting to biking to work and drinking out of reusable bottles, many people have taken action right in their own homes to help clean up the environment.

Do you want to know an easy way to get in on the action? Well, if you are in the market for a new vehicle, you might want to consider buying an electric vehicle (EV). These vehicles run on electricity from a battery powered electric motor rather than traditional gasoline. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, improving the air quality in our North Texas region. EVs are slightly different from regular hybrid vehicles. Hybrids use electric power to aid the gasoline engine to be as efficient as possible.

Now you may be thinking, how can EVs possibly be more affordable when their price tags tend to be higher than traditionally-powered vehicles? It is true, EVs can be more expensive. However, remember most EVs are eligible for federal incentives, some up to $7,500. EVs also never require gasoline, oil changes, or regular maintenance when compared with traditional vehicles.

You may also be thinking that you do not want to drive around in a tiny, compact car, which is probably the image that comes to mind for many people when they picture an EV. Well, there is good news. Sport utility vehicles, high end luxury vehicles and even motorcycles are available with electric powertrains. No matter what type of vehicle you prefer, you are sure to find an EV that fits your style. Some of the most established brands in the world are committed to EVs for the long-haul. BMW, Audi, Porsche, and Hyundai are all launching new vehicles in the coming years or have significant updates coming to current EVs on offer. Chevy and Ford promise significant changes to their model line-up, mostly with electrified powertrains. The Chevy Bolt will be in wide-scale production by the end of the year and promised 200 miles of range and a starting price of $37,000 before any incentives. According to The New York Times, EVs have even gone global. Britain, France, Norway and India are making the shift from gas and diesel vehicles to electric vehicles.

If you are worried about finding a way to charge your EV when it is running low on power, take a look at the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fueling Station Locator and just type in your address, ZIP code or state to get started finding an energy fueling station near you.

Want to learn more about how an EV can fit into your life? Attend National Drive Electric Week right here in the metroplex. There are more than 170 events all around the United States taking place September 9-17 that demonstrate the importance and benefits of using EVs. If you live in the DFW area, The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) and Dallas-Fort Worth Clean Cities invite you to come see them at Grapevine Mills Mall on Saturday, September 9, from 10 am – 12 pm to participate in one of this special week’s many events. A few of the EVs featured at this event include: Tesla Model S and X, Chevy Volt and Bolt, Cadillac ELR and Ford Focus Electric. Activities include giveaways and ride and drives.

Make this your first step in not only changing the way you live your life, but the world you live in. To learn more and register for this free event visit: www.dfwcleancities.org/ndew.