Last weekend, the Chicago Auto Traders Association held its Chicago Drives Electric event with a unique opportunity for buyers to connect face-to-face with manufacturers.
CBS News Chicago’s Jamaica Reflections went to the show to learn more about what EVs are powering the market right now.
“There’s a lot of confusion on the topic of EVs and EV ownership. You know, how far do I have to go from point A to point B? All of these topics are very influential,” said Jennifer Morand, president of the Chicago Auto Trade Association. “We have a wide variety of cars, from Alfa Romeo to Volvo, to Chevy at four price points. different. available. “So if people are a little bit on the edge, they don’t know if they want to go completely into the EV space. They want to try, test, drive, if you have to do it. A hybrid may be an option for them.
That’s really what we’re here to teach consumers over the weekend,” Morand said. This show offers a unique opportunity, especially for first-time buyers. It may be your only chance to get into the back of some cars. Morand said many dealers wait weeks, sometimes even months, just to sign up for a test drive.
“The problem is that you can’t go into your market and get into those vehicles with low inventory levels as they are. So the fact that we have all these models here is rare for those who buy, test, drive and learn about these cars.
We also have experts on hand talking about everything people need to know about electric car ownership, tax credits and incentives until you want to pay off the mortgage said Morand. While electricity is good for Mother Earth, it’s also good for your wallet.
In Illinois, consumers can receive a $4,000 rebate on the purchase of an all-electric vehicle. And at the federal level, you can get up to $7,500 in tax credits.
According to Consumer Reports, consumers will save between $6 and $10,000 over the lifetime of their electric vehicle compared to a gas-powered vehicle. Although the government is encouraging people to switch to electricity, our public infrastructure needs strong community support.
Chicago Power, led by CEO Elbert Walters III, is leading the charge and creating a network of publicly accessible power stations. “The most important thing is to make sure that the equipment is good and reliable. That’s one of the main things. Therefore, to make sure that this electrification will take place.
For example, the city of Chicago for all new construction with multiple parking spaces up to 20% only to be allocated for electric vehicles, “said Walter. “The government and the state are encouraging the companies to put these chargers in the infrastructure because as we know the cars are coming fast, but the infrastructure will also be there to save,” Morand added. .
Morand went on to say “about programs like Chicago Drives Electric and educating people all about affordability, not just cars, but what they really need to do in their daily lives to support the decision to buy an electric car.
If you can’t make it this weekend, no worries. Chicago Drive Electric is coming to Auto Show 2023, with tickets on sale in November.
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