AAA Oklahoma speculates that pick-up truck-loving Oklahomans might be more interested than ever to learn about electric vehicles after this week’s announcement by Ford Motor Co. of an $11 billion investment in a new assembly plant for all-electric F-Series trucks and three electric battery plants.
The automobile safety group encouraged Oklahomans to learn more about electrical vehicles through events this week during the 11th annual Drive Electric Week. (September 25 – October 3)
A recent AAA survey showed the majority (91%) of EV owners said they were concerned about things like insufficient range and finding a place to charge before they purchased their first electric vehicle. But that same survey found that those worries disappeared post purchase and with more education.
“Electrification is the fast-approaching future. By offering free charging stations at our AAA Car Care locations, AAA is helping members and non-members alike take that step forward with greater confidence, knowing that we will be there to support their embrace of the new technology,” said Ed Tobler, Senior Vice President of Car Care & Retail Operations for AAA Club Alliance.
This year’s National Drive Electric Week comes at a pivotal moment for EVs to become increasingly widespread and accessible as President Biden has proposed $174 billion in funding for transportation electrification. Numerous automakers have announced their commitment to manufacturing electric cars and are releasing new models, including pick-up trucks and SUVs.
“AAA is consistently on the leading edge of transportation innovation. Looking towards expanded electrical vehicle services for our members is a top priority,” said Colleen St. Leger, Vice President for Business Acceleration and Innovation with AAA Club Alliance.
According to the International Energy Agency, nearly 1.8 million Electric Vehicles were registered in the United States in 2020 – more than triple the number registered in 2016.
There are now nearly 5,700 public-access EV charging stations in the U.S. EV in-vehicle electronics will typically provide location information for nearby charging stations.
Source: AAA Oklahoma