The first annual Drive Electric Earth Day (DEED) will be held in April 2019 with dozens of events across the United States celebrating the many benefits of electric vehicles (EVs), including cleaner air, a smoother ride and greater convenience.
Building upon the great success of National Drive Electric Week, held each September for eight years, Plug In America, the Sierra Club and Electric Auto Association are partnering again to give environmentally focused communities the opportunity to connect with zero emission vehicles through Earth Day events that demonstrate how clean vehicles can help fight climate change and clean the air. Community organizations, businesses, utilities and government entities can incorporate EV test drives, showcases and speakers expanding their events with actions individuals can take today for clean air.
Recently, the one millionth EV was sold in the United States, a milestone in the shift to clean plug-in vehicles. There are now approximately 50 models of EVs available in the U.S., many with longer ranges at lower prices than in previous years. Vehicles powered by electricity produce no emissions, promoting cleaner air, reducing greenhouse gases, and helping in the fight against climate change.
“Making the switch to driving electric is one of the most impactful things people can do to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Joel Levin, executive director of Plug In America. “Earth Day is a great opportunity for people to experience the many benefits of electric vehicles first-hand in a non-sales setting.”
“Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions harming our climate,” said Mary Lunetta, Sierra Club electric vehicle campaign representative. “Celebrating Earth Day by educating the public about the many zero emission transportation options available is a powerful way to accelerate a 100% clean transportation future for our planet and all who inhabit her.”
“Electric vehicles at Earth Day events are where green meets fun, where clean air saves money and quiet brings performance,” said Guy Hall of the Electric Auto Association. “The excitement of EVs is here now.”
FLO, one of the largest EV charging networks in North America, is the exclusive national charging sponsor and Audi of America is a national sponsor of Drive Electric Earth Day.
“We are pleased to partner with Plug In America, and many other organizations and individuals working to inspire communities across the country to connect with and celebrate nature,” said Fabien Fayard, vice-president, marketing at FLO. “What better way than to help spread the word to highlight the benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles as a greener way to get around. Together, we can all play a part in accelerating the shift to clean-powered electric vehicles and contribute to make Earth Day every day!”
“At Audi, we want consumers to go electric with confidence. That confidence starts with initiatives like Drive Electric Earth Day that work to bring awareness surrounding the benefits of electric vehicles – like the Audi e-tron, our fully electric five-passenger SUV – to communities across the U.S.,” said Filip Brabec, vice president, product management, Audi of America. “With one in three of our U.S. customers choosing to drive an electric vehicle by 2025, we know it’s critical to support customer-centric programs like this now,” added Brabec.
To learn more about Drive Electric Earth Day and create an event in your community, visit driveelectricearthday.org.