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Electrify America, in collaboration with Valley Clean Air Now (Valley CAN) and Charge Across Town, has released a 10-minute mini-documentary titled “Leading the Change, Electric Cars and Equity in the Central Valley.” This documentary showcases the transformative impact of their Ride and Drive events in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Funded by Electrify America, these events have significantly influenced public perceptions of electric vehicles (EVs) and boosted adoption rates.
The eight counties of California’s San Joaquin Valley, home to over 4 million people, serve as an agricultural hub for America. However, the region is also known for being one of the most air-polluted, socially stratified, disadvantaged, and low-income areas in the country. This documentary chronicles the efforts of Valley Clean Air Now and Charge Across Town to provide EVs for Equity Ride and Drives in the San Joaquin Valley from 2019 to 2024.
Funded by Electrify America, the “EVs for Equity” program targets communities most affected by air pollution and affordability barriers to help them transition to EVs. From 2019 to 2024, the program has assisted over 3,000 residents in adopting electric cars.
Key Highlights
- High Adoption Rates: Over 3,000 zero-emission vehicles are now on the road thanks to these programs.
- Positive Perceptions: Following test drives, nearly 90% of attendees reported a positive impression of EVs, up from a predominantly neutral stance.
- Broad Reach: More than 4,000 test drives were conducted, allowing participants to experience the benefits of EVs firsthand.
- Increased Consideration for EV Ownership: The percentage of attendees considering EV ownership rose from 70% to 85% after the events.
Supporting a Cleaner Future
Titled “Leading the Change, Electric Cars and Equity in the Central Valley,” this documentary provides an in-depth look at the experiences and stories of individuals who participated in the Ride and Drive events. Funded by Electrify America, these events have significantly shifted public perceptions of EVs and increased their adoption rates.
“Our work in the San Joaquin Valley is very important to our mission to provide access to zero-emission vehicles that are affordable and accessible to everyone,” said Brenna Corrigan, Senior Manager of Brand Strategy, Electrify America. “We see ride and drives as one of the most effective ways to increase EV adoption – going from internal combustion engine cars to zero-emission vehicles after getting behind the wheel of an electric car.”
For more information on these initiatives and to stay updated on upcoming events, visit ValleyCAN, Charge Across Town, and Electrify America. For inquiries about partnering or participating in future events, please contact [email protected].
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