The U.S. Department of Energy in February 2017 awarded a three-year grant program, the Midwest Electric Vehicle Opportunities: Learning, eVents, Experience (EVOLVE) project. The program was a partnership between the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest and seven Midwestern Clean Cities coalitions in seven states. The purpose of the project was to educate consumers, as well as public and private fleets, about the performance and environmental advantages of electric vehicles.
With this grant program, Midwest EVOLVE and its Clean Cities partners conducted events providing a hands-on experience to test drive a variety of locally available electric vehicles, which helped consumers and fleets determine the best vehicles and charging options for their personal and/or fleet needs. These events and showcases provided in-depth education in a variety of conveniently located, brand-neutral settings.
In addition to helping the public learn about electric vehicles, Midwest EVOLVE focused on fostering the rollout of additional charging stations throughout the Midwest, including public charging stations and employer-based workplace charging.
Electric vehicles are quiet, fun, practical and offer outstanding performance. They are ideal for the common commuter. Electric vehicles can help keep your town and your world clean, producing fewer emissions that contribute to climate change and smog than conventional vehicles.
Consumers seeking information about plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles can check out a vehicle purchase guidance tool created by Argonne National Laboratory, the EVolution Tool.
Plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles qualify for a $2,500 to $7,500 federal tax credit. Find tax credits and incentives.
For more information about the program please visit the Midwest EVOLVE Website.