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| | FEBRUARY 2025 VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2 |
| | | ABOUT US
DRIVE Electric Arizona is Arizona's statewide "Drive Electric" program developed as an Arizona non-profit corporation under the DRIVE Electric USA Initiative. With grant funding from the Department of Energy, and in partnership with 27 states across the country, DRIVE Electric Arizona's mission is to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. Currently, DRIVE Electric Arizona’s three chapters are Valley of the Sun, Tribal Nations (formerly Three Rivers Tribes), and Route 66 Kingman.
Launched in January 2024, the all-volunteer organization and its partners educate consumers, utilities, utility regulators, and government officials. They engage auto dealers and fleet leaders, in addition to assisting with EV infrastructure planning.
SPREAD THE WORD
Could you please do us a favor? We need your help spreading the word about DRIVE Electric Arizona. We are hoping you will take a moment and forward this newsletter to a friend or colleague who might be interested in our work. Please help us increase our presence.
Forward this link to subscribe (https://www.driveelectricaz.org/subscribe) |
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| |  | Visit our website to see WATTS HAPPENING and to RSVP to get involved!
March 12, 2025 | AZ Electric Fleet Day, Tempe
March 22, 2025 | March Rally: Meetup & Drive, (On or Off Road), Cave Creek
March 22, 2025 | “Cars of Encanterra” Car Show, San Tan Valley
April 5, 2025 | Fight for Air Climb/American Lung Association, Scottsdale
April 8, 2025 | Earth Day @ Glendale Community College, Glendale
April 12-13, 2025 | Electrify Expo, Glendale
April 19, 2025 | Phoenix Electric Vehicle Ride & Drive, Phoenix (new venue)
April 19, 2025 | Concours in the Hills, Fountain Hills (rescheduled from February)
April 23, 2025 | Earth Day Expo (Day 1) - San Carlos Apache Tribe, San Carlos
April 24, 2025 | Earth Day Expo (Day 2) - San Carlos Apache Tribe, San Carlos
May 2-4, 2025 | 2025 Historic Route 66 Arizona “Electrified” Fun Run, Kingman
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| |  | |  | Powering Arizona’s EV Future Through Community Join a Professional, Passionate Community of EV Enthusiasts Creating Positive Change Through Education, Advocacy, and Engaging Events |
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| Every great movement starts with people who care. At DRIVE Electric Arizona, we're bringing together enthusiastic volunteers, committed stakeholders, and forward-thinking supporters to create something extraordinary – a professional, welcoming community that's accelerating Arizona's transition to electric vehicles through the power of shared knowledge and collective action.
The path to sustainable transportation can feel complex and overwhelming. Many Arizonans want to embrace electric vehicles but need clear guidance and hands-on experience. Meanwhile, passionate EV advocates seek meaningful ways to share their knowledge and create impact. That's where our professional approach to community building makes all the difference.
DRIVE Electric Arizona transforms individual passion into collective impact through professionally organized events, strategic education initiatives, and collaborative advocacy efforts. Our welcoming volunteer community combines enthusiasm with expertise to create engaging experiences that make EV adoption accessible, understandable, and achievable for all Arizonans.
DriveElectricAZ.org |
| | EV SPOTLIGHT
Join the Movement: Start a DRIVE Electric Arizona Chapter in Your Community
At DRIVE Electric Arizona, we’re dedicated to accelerating electric vehicle (EV) adoption across the state. Our success is built on the passion and commitment of local communities coming together to promote sustainable transportation. By establishing a local chapter, you can play a pivotal role in this transformative journey.
What Are DRIVE Electric Arizona Chapters?
DRIVE Electric Arizona chapters are volunteer-driven groups of EV enthusiasts and advocates within a specific region. These chapters focus on:
• Community Engagement: Hosting events like Ride & Drives, EV showcases, and educational forums to provide hands-on experiences with electric vehicles.
• Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with local policymakers to support EV-friendly initiatives and infrastructure development.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Partnering with businesses, utilities, and other organizations to overcome barriers to EV adoption.
Why Start a Chapter?
• Empower Your Community: Provide residents with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about EVs.
• Drive Sustainable Change: Contribute to reducing emissions and promoting cleaner air in your region.
• Build a Network: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and stakeholders passionate about electrification.
Support from DRIVE Electric Arizona
We are committed to ensuring the success of our chapters by offering:
• Training and Resources: Access to materials, workshops, and guidance to effectively run your chapter.
• Event Support: Assistance in organizing and promoting local events to engage the community.
• Collaborative Platform: Opportunities to share best practices and collaborate with other chapters statewide.
Get Started Today!
Embarking on this journey is straightforward:
1. Express Interest: Reach out to us at contact@driveelectricaz.org to discuss your vision and learn more about the process.
2. Gather a Team: Assemble a group of enthusiastic volunteers who share your passion for EVs and sustainable transportation.
3. Plan and Launch: With our support, develop a strategic plan tailored to your community’s needs and officially launch your chapter.
Together, we can make electric transportation accessible and appealing to all Arizonans. Join us in driving the future of mobility.
For more information, visit our website at www.driveelectricaz.org. |
| | | | EV LIVING
Fight Inflation by Going Electric:Why an EV Could Be the Solution to Rising Costsby Drive Electric Arizona • Education
With inflation increasing the cost of everything from groceries to utilities, it’s easy to feel like there’s no relief in sight. One area that may offer a surprising solution, however, is transportation—specifically, the switch to an electric vehicle (EV). While purchasing or leasing an EV requires an initial investment, the long-term savings and benefits of going electric could help ease some of the financial pressure that inflation brings. Here’s how choosing an EV could make a difference. |
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| | 1. Lower Fuel Costs: Say Goodbye to Rising Gas Prices
Gas prices are one of the most direct ways inflation affects your wallet, fluctuating frequently and typically rising over time. EV owners, however, bypass gas stations entirely, relying instead on electricity, which is often significantly cheaper per mile. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that EV owners can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually on fuel costs alone. By charging at home during off-peak hours or using free or discounted public charging options, you can control your energy expenses in a way that’s impossible with gasoline. |
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| 2. Reduced Maintenance Costs: Fewer Moving Parts, Lower Bills
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to traditional internal combustion engines, resulting in lower maintenance requirements and fewer repair bills. Say goodbye to oil changes, exhaust repairs, and fuel filter replacements. Not only does this mean fewer expenses, but also fewer surprise repair bills—something that’s especially valuable in an inflationary economy. On average, EVs cost about half as much to maintain as gas-powered vehicles, allowing owners to save money over the vehicle’s lifetime.
3. Incentives and Tax Credits: Financial Boosts from Government Programs
Many federal, state, and local governments offer tax credits, rebates, or other incentives for purchasing or leasing an EV. The federal tax credit, for instance, can reduce the cost of a new EV by up to $7,500, while some states add even more savings. In an inflationary period, these savings can make the upfront cost of an EV more manageable, potentially offsetting some of the immediate financial challenges. |
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| 4. Leasing an EV: Avoid Depreciation and Lower Monthly Payments
For those hesitant to make a long-term commitment, leasing an EV could be a smart way to combat inflation. Leasing often comes with lower monthly payments than buying, and it lets you switch to newer models as technology improves. Since leasing agreements often include warranty coverage for the duration of the lease, repair and maintenance costs are also minimized. Additionally, by leasing, you avoid the depreciation hit that comes with buying, making it easier to manage your budget without the worry of the vehicle losing significant value. |
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| 5. Environmental Benefits: Cutting Carbon Emissions While Cutting CostsBeyond the financial benefits, going electric also aligns with sustainable goals. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a smaller carbon footprint. As governments prioritize environmental sustainability, drivers who embrace EVs today may enjoy additional incentives or rewards down the line, as well as potential savings if carbon taxes or restrictions become more widespread.
6. Savings on Time and Convenience: The Power of Charging at Home
One often-overlooked benefit of EV ownership is the convenience of charging at home. With a home charging station, you can leave behind the routine of fueling up at gas stations, saving both time and money. While there’s an upfront cost to install a home charger, many regions offer incentives to offset this expense, and the long-term savings add up. Plus, not having to budget time or money for regular fuel stops can be a valuable asset as prices and schedules continue to fluctuate. |
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| Combat Inflation, One Mile at a Time
As inflation affects nearly every aspect of life, finding ways to save is more important than ever. Switching to an EV—whether through purchase or lease—could provide substantial relief on fuel, maintenance, and even monthly payments, helping you regain control over your budget. With cleaner, cost-efficient, and reliable transportation, an electric vehicle offers a path to savings and sustainability, making it a solid option to consider in challenging economic times.
Additional Information A Comprehensive Guide to Arizona EV Incentives, Rebates & TOU Charging Programs |
| | DRIVE ELECTRIC ARIZONA CHAPTER UPDATES |
|  | | (January 25, 2025) DRIVE Electric Arizona, a nonprofit electric vehicle education and advocacy organization, conducted its first rural electric vehicle Ride & Drive event in Cave Creek, Arizona, a town of about 5,100 people in Maricopa County.
Hosted by the Desert Foothills Library, the event provided attendees with an opportunity to talk to owners of 15 different EV models and drive 10 of them. The Ride & Drive was prefaced by an educational presentation and discussion at the library on Thursday afternooon, before the event, to spur interest and engage library goers about EVs. |
| | Vehicles present included… • Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ • BMW i4 • Tesla Model X • Rivian R1T • Rivian R1S • Lucid Air • GMC Hummer EV • Ford Mustang Mach-E • Ford F-150 Lightning EV • Chevrolet Bolt • Chevrolet Bolt EUV • Cadillac Lyriq, • Hyundai Ioniq 5 • Nissan Ariya …providing an impressive 90 drives in the 4-hour event without the pressure of a selling environment. |
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| | |  | Photo Credits: Shaun Barnette & Suzanne Martinson |
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| | February Rally - Meetup at Windows & Wheels |
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| (February 8, 2025) February’s Rally was an absolute blast as we gathered at our newest sponsor, Windows & Wheels Auto Detailing in Gilbert! Owners Wills and Daniela went above and beyond to welcome our volunteers and guests, treating everyone to a delicious spread of snacks and hot coffee—just the thing to kick off an exciting morning!
The first 10 attendees got an awesome surprise—a detailing kit prize pack, complete with a handy carry case and a variety of high-quality cleaning supplies! Our dedicated volunteers also scored huge discounts on products and services, making the day even sweeter.
One of the highlights? Read more… |
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|  |  | Photo Credits: Rachel Culin |
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| | Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts |
|  |  | Photo Credits: Rachel Culin & Peter Culin |
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| (February 21-23, 2025) What a weekend! DRIVE Electric Arizona spent an unforgettable three days in beautiful Fountain Hills, joining one of the biggest events of the year—the Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts. With hundreds of thousands of visitors strolling through, our passionate volunteers and their EVs became a must-see attraction!
From Friday to Sunday, our lineup was stacked with some of the hottest electric rides out there: Ford F-150 Lightning, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model Y, GMC Hummer EV, Cadillac Lyriq, Rivian R1T, Lucid Air, Polestar 2, and Rivian R1S. Whether it was first-time EV explorers or long-time enthusiasts, the curiosity and excitement were off the charts!
By Sunday evening…Read more… |
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| | | (February 22, 2025) For the second year in a row, DRIVE Electric Arizona electrified the Chandler Innovation Fair with an exciting showcase of EVs! This year, 10 amazing electric vehicles were on display—doors open, seats ready, and eager visitors climbing in to experience the future of transportation firsthand.
This event is always a blast because it gives us a chance to connect with families, curious car enthusiasts, and future EV owners, showing them that there’s an electric ride for everyone—whether you need a family-friendly hauler, a daily commuter, or a powerhouse work truck.
This year’s featured EVs…Read more… |
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| | Photo Credits: Peter Culin |
| | | | | | CALL TO ACTION!
Support DRIVE Electric Arizona
As we work to grow Arizona's EV community, there are many easy ways to support DRIVE Electric Arizona: • please share this newsletter with your peeps • engage on our social media sites • participate in EVents • make a donation |
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| With your help, we are heightening awareness about DRIVE Electric Arizona and our three growing chapters: Valley of the Sun, Tribal Nations, and Route 66 Kingman. |
| | | FORCE FOR GOOD Arizona Impact for Good is a membership organization devoted to uniting nonprofits and philanthropy across the state. DRIVE Electric Arizona is working with AZ Impact for Good to strenghen our all-volunteer efforts to advance our mission to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles throughout Arizona. |
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| |  | | | | | Help us sustain our momentum by tagging us in your posts
and using the following hashtags! |
| #DriveElectricAZ #VOTSEVA
#indigenousEVowners
#Route66EV
#driveelectric |
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| #electricvehicle
#eva
#deaz
#electrified #zeroemissions |
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| | | Charge On!
John S Martinson and Peter Culin
Co-Founders
DRIVE Electric Arizona
Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association |
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