Providence, RI- The future of automobile manufacturing is clear- it’s electric. AAA Northeast is taking a multi-faceted approach to educating the motoring public on evolving electric vehicle technology, from putting drivers behind the wheel of electric vehicles to guiding drivers to charging station locations. A recent AAA consumer survey demonstrates that 25% of American drivers are considering an electric vehicle for their next purchase. Among those who reported interest in purchasing an electric vehicle, 77% cite their primary concern is the cost of gasoline.
AAA Northeast’s new website AAA.com/EV is a compendium of information on electric vehicles. The site is a resource for those interested in learning more about EV models available in the marketplace, and savvy consumers looking to calculate the costs of EV ownership. Content includes tips on vehicle maintenance and charging station locations along customized routes. Consumers can find weekly updates to stay apprised of changes in the evolving EV automotive industry.
Those looking to buy or lease a new or used EV will find information on federal, state, and energy rebates such as Rhode Island’s DRIVE EV program designed to accelerate the adoption of EVs by Rhode Island drivers. Rhode Island residents are eligible for up to $2,500 in tax credit for new battery electric vehicles and up to $1,500 for new plug-in hybrids through the Driving Rhode Island to Vehicle Electrification program. “The transportation sector accounts for more than one-third of statewide greenhouse gas emissions, and electric vehicle adoption is one of many strategies that will assist in achieving emissions reduction goals mandated by the 2021 Act on Climate. This Act requires a reduction of the state’s 1990 greenhouse gas emission by 45 percent by 2030, 80 percent by 2040, and net-zero emissions by 2050,” said Diana Gugliotta, Director of Public Affairs, “Our resources will help consumers interested in leasing or purchasing an EV understand the financial incentives and assist consumers in making an educated shift to an electric vehicle when they are ready.”
AAA’s Driver Training School has been teaching behind-the-wheel and classroom education for over 80 years. This month, students will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of an electric driver training car for the first time. AAA Northeast recently added Hyundai’s Ioniq electric vehicles to the driving school fleet. “Training young drivers on electric vehicles makes good sense- it is highly likely that when the young men and women purchase their own vehicles in the future, they will be electric vehicles. Although safe driving skills translate vehicle to vehicle, there are nuances in electric vehicles that are important to explain as we teach young people to drive,” said Steve Rossetti, Director of AAA Northeast’s Driver Training School. AAA Northeast also plans to offer free EV education programs to communities and drivers of all ages in the coming months.
“Our members are asking questions about transitioning to electric vehicles, and we are enthusiastic about having the resources to advise them and provide the information they need as consumers and drivers,” said Randy Delgado, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Innovation.