Maui residents who are curious about Electric Vehicles (EV) or hybrids will have a hands-on opportunity to learn about them at the “EV Showcase,” on Saturday, August 12th at Queen Kaahumanu Center, 10 am to 2 pm. The event will feature a variety of both EV and hybrid makes and models including Kia, Tesla, Toyota, Chevy, Nissan and BMW. Experts will give tips on the benefits of purchasing or leasing these vehicles; offer advice on financing from Maui County Federal Credit Union and HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union and Maui Electric Company (MECO) will compare their EVWatt Plan to the costs of a conventional vehicle. Additionally, there will be refreshments, prize drawings and giveaways.

JUMPSmartMaui will also launch EVohana during the event. Membership in EVohana provides access to 44 chargers across 13 Fast Charger stations island-wide. MEDB has accepted ownership of these stations to assure continuity of the fast charging network service in Maui.

“Consumer demand for EVs and hybrids has never been higher,” said Leslie Wilkins, MEDB’s President and CEO. “Batteries with more charge capacity, more charging stations, the price of gasoline, and residents becoming more environmentally conscious are all contributing factors.”

Sharon Suzuki, President of MECO, explained, “As we work to achieve a complete clean energy future, electrification of ground transportation will play an integral role in reducing our state’s overall carbon footprint and increasing use of renewable resources on our islands. It’s through partnerships like the EV Showcase that we hope to fuel interest to get more EVs on our roads.”

Fred Redell, Energy Commissioner for the County of Maui, added, “Options for electric vehicles are expanding rapidly as new models are being introduced by almost every car manufacturer. New options and an expanding market mean opportunity and Maui County is pleased to see MEDB and MECO increasing awareness.” According to the vehicle registration database, there are a total of 737 all-electric vehicles registered in Maui County in addition to 3,525 hybrid-electric vehicles. For more information email: info@jumpstartmaui.com or call (808) 875-2300.