Road to an electric vehicle future

PSE invites the public to free ride and drive events

In an effort to get more electric vehicles on the road in Washington, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is giving the public a chance to test drive the newest electric vehicles on the market.

At the events, the public can experience the zippiness, torque, range and handling ability from multiple models of electric cars. The first event is Friday, Aug. 2 at Westfield Southcenter Mall.

“In order to make a real and positive impact on our energy future, we need to change how we get around. We believe that one of the biggest barriers to electric vehicle adoption is lack of knowledge and experience,” said Heather Mulligan, PSE manager of Clean Energy Solutions. “Supporting the growth of electric vehicles through ride and drive events is our way of making an impact.”

Electric vehicle ownership is growing at a rapid pace. There was an 81 percent increase in electric car sales from 2017 to 2018, proving that electric vehicles are here to stay, PSE said. Despite the uptick in electric vehicle ownership, transportation continues to be Washington’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.

Thanks to a new Washington state tax incentive, starting Aug. 1, drivers can save up to $2,500 on the lease or purchase of a new electric vehicle under $45,000, or up to $1,600 on the lease or purchase of a used electric vehicle under $30,000.

To find a PSE ride & drive event near you or to learn more information on owning and charging electric cars, visit PSE.com/electriccars.