Phoenix EV Ride & Drive: A Community Charged with Energy
Under the wide-open skies of Phoenix, the Gateway Community College parking lot came alive on Saturday, October 4, 2025, as families, students, and first-time EV drivers poured in for the Phoenix EV Ride & Drive. The hum of conversation replaced the roar of engines as guests stepped into the future—one test drive at a time.
The event buzzed with excitement from the moment the first cars rolled into position. Rows of gleaming electric vehicles—from compact commuters to family haulers and adventure-ready SUVs—lined the lot, inviting visitors to explore, ask questions, and most importantly, drive. With the help of volunteer EV owners riding shotgun, curious newcomers got to feel firsthand what makes driving electric so exhilarating—the instant torque, the smooth silence, and that unmistakable grin that appears the moment the go-pedal is pressed.
A special thank-you goes to our dealership participants—San Tan Ford and Arrowhead Cadillac, both part of DRIVE Electric Arizona’s Trusted EV Dealership Program, along with Courtesy Kia, Courtesy Chevrolet, Courtesy Polestar, and Rivian—for providing test drive vehicles and staff to further expand the lineup of drivable vehicles. Their partnership helped ensure that guests could experience a diverse range of electric options—20 different test drive vehicles in total—showcasing everything from cutting-edge performance models to practical daily drivers.
Adding to the fun, the event’s raffle drew big smiles—each EV test drive earned an entry toward a Phoenix Rising family four-pack of tickets, courtesy of SRP. Guests also enjoyed sweet treats throughout the morning, thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes, whose delicious snacks kept drivers and volunteers energized between rides.
By midday, the air was filled with laughter and energy as 134 guest drives looped through the course, each one sparking new curiosity and confidence. The experience transformed skepticism into excitement as guests discovered that electric vehicles are CHEAPER, FASTER, BETTER.
Beyond the test drives, the event became a true community gathering. Partners including the Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association, City of Phoenix, Salt River Project (SRP), Arizona Public Service (APS), Gateway Community College, Kaizen Collision Center, Valley of the Sun Clean Cities Coalition, and DRIVE Electric Arizona came together with a shared purpose: to make EV education accessible and engaging. The open-air setting offered space for casual conversations, local resources, and friendly exchanges between drivers, advocates, and families exploring their first steps toward cleaner transportation.
🔹Trusted EV Dealership Spotlight
San Tan Ford and Arrowhead Cadillac proudly represent DRIVE Electric Arizona’s Trusted EV Dealership Program , a statewide initiative recognizing dealerships that go above and beyond to educate customers, provide accurate EV information, and deliver a transparent, confidence-inspiring buying experience.
Their continued participation in community ride and drive events helps ensure that future EV owners receive the support, expertise, and trust they deserve—on the lot and on the road.
As the event wrapped up, the lot slowly emptied, leaving behind that unmistakable sense of momentum—proof that EV enthusiasm in Arizona isn’t just growing, it’s thriving. With 134 drives completed across 20 unique EVs, the Phoenix EV Ride & Drive not only put “butts in seats,” it put electric dreams in motion.
This wasn’t just an event—it was a spark. And thanks to the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, dealerships, and community partners, Phoenix is charging ahead toward a cleaner, quieter, electrified future.
Photo credit: City of Phoenix
