Plug In Day

National Plug-In Day, a large, nationwide gathering of plug-in vehicles.  It is to show America that the vehicles are here and viable—so buy one already!  There are local gatherings in 15 cities. Organized by Plug In America, Sierra Club, and the Electric Auto Association.  http://www.pluginamerica.org/pluginday

Over 50 plug-in vehicles are scheduled to be there so far.  There are several home conversions and interesting projects, but the vast majority are factory electric vehicles.  There will be some representatives from local electric utilities and makers of charging stations as well.

It’s great that we have plug-in cars.  We get to enjoy the smooth, quiet ride; the torque and instant throttle response; and the low maintenance and operating costs.  And we’re doing our part for our nation’s economy, energy security, and clean air.  But to make a dent in these issues, a whole lot more people need to buy them!  The cars are finally here; incentives and ordinances are in place—consumer demand will be the critical factor in the very near future.

Most Americans still have not even seen a modern electric vehicle, much less ridden in one.  Their perceptions are based on golf carts and older NEVs. We want to show them that the cars are here, and they are cars that you want to drive!

Anybody interested in plug-in vehicles is welcome to stop by, check out the vehicles, and ask questions of the owners.  Bring friends and family!

Attendees will include:

• Puget Sound Energy (sponsor)
• City of Mercer Island (sponsor)
• Plug In America (organizer)
• Sierra Club (organizer)
• Seattle Electric Vehicle Association (the Electric Auto Association is an organizer)
• Charge NW, with a Coulomb Chargepoint charging station
• Representatives from a few local plug-in dealers: Stadium Nissan, MC Electric, Go Green...
• UW will bring information on a special project

And for vehicles, we're expecting:

• 24 Nissan Leafs (some giving rides)
• 14 Tesla Roadsters (some giving rides)
• 8 home conversions
• 4 vehicles from the 90's California program
• 3 other factory vehicles: Chevy Volt, Wheego LiFe, Lectric Leopard