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EV PAL

Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) revolution to ‘electrify’ the Prairies

Jun 8, 2023 | 3:30 PM

The Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta (EVAA), which describes itself as a trusted, member-based organization, has unveilled what they say is a novel initiative that aims to electrify the prairies and accelerate the electric vehicle revolution.

EV Prairies Action & Leadership (EV PAL) – described as a visionary project funded by a federal investment of nearly $300,000 through Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan) Zero Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative (ZEVAI), Alberta, including the Cities of Calgary, Edmonton, and Grande Prairie, EV PAL is set to support the transition to a decarbonized future in Alberta.

Officials say EV PAL will reach across boundaries by gathering invaluable insights and best practices from across Canada, bringing vital knowledge into the prairies’ electric vehicle movement. With an unwavering commitment to providing reliable and locally relevant information, EVAA says it will employ an array of innovative education and awareness-building tools to complement existing efforts.

Officials say this knowledge will empower individuals and organizations alike to embrace the electrifying potential of electric vehicles. As a member-based organization, EVAA says it serves as a trusted source of electric vehicle information and a driving force within the EV community. By joining EVAA, the organization says individuals and businesses can gain exclusive access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and the latest updates in the electric vehicle industry.

However, to unite key stakeholders, EVAA says it is spearheading the creation of the Prairie ZEV Consortium – described as a pioneering coalition that will bring together EV enthusiasts, experts, and decision-makers across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This collaboration is expected to set the stage for a future where electric vehicles reimagine the way motorists traverse the prairies.

EVAA says embarking on this transformative journey would not be possible without the generous support of NRCan, which the organization says exemplifies their unwavering commitment to advancing zero-emission vehicle awareness and education projects throughout the prairies. Through the ZEVAI, officials say NRCan is empowering communities, businesses, Indigenous peoples, fleet owners, and personal vehicle enthusiasts to champion the widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles, thereby paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

With a membership of over 110 members, including local electric utilities, EVAA says it has firmly established itself as a driving force within the ZEV community.

“Zero-emission vehicles are helping Canadians to reduce emissions and save money on fuel while creating good jobs throughout the supply chain, including across the Prairies,” says The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources. “Investing in zero-emission vehicles will put more Canadians in the driver’s seat on the road to a net-zero future and help achieve our climate goals.”

“With this funding powering our initiatives, EVAA is set to accelerate the journey towards increased adoption of electric vehicles across Alberta and the Prairies,” adds Andrew Batiuk – EVAA Board Member. “Our mission is not a short trip, but a long-range plan towards a greener, cleaner future. EVAA believes that the road to wide-scale adoption of EVs is paved with comprehensive understanding and confidence in this transformative technology.”

“As we plug into our communities,” he continues. “We are excited to spark the shift in transportation modes, helping to charge forward into a new era of sustainable mobility.”