A Driving Force of Nature

Electric Vehicles Pave Local Streets

You’re accustomed to seeing blue parking signs that designate “reserved for handicapped,” but what about the green “reserved for electric vehicle” placards? Central Florida drivers may be surprised to learn that more than 300 public charging stations have been installed within a 70-mile radius of downtown Orlando – one of the largest infrastructure projects in the nation! Through the efforts of Get Ready Central Florida (GRCF), founded in 2009 by the Orange County Government and core stakeholders, Orlando became one of nine cities nationwide to receive Department of Energy funding to literally drive this green initiative, with stations located at shopping malls, libraries, parks, community centers, public buildings, hotels, theme parks, and parking garages.

According to GRCF, electric vehicles (EV) emit 75% fewer greenhouse gases than traditional vehicles. Comparatively, extended range EV’s achieve mileage of more than 45 mpg – resulting in less carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, organic vapors, and particulate matter released into the air. Solar charging stations, as well as solar farms operated by power plants, further ‘put the breaks’ on emissions. Sceptics, however, continually question the financial investment, but EV prices are becoming more affordable. A Chevy Volt, for example, can cost as little as $26,685 (after the $7,500 federal tax credit). John Parker, Sr. Environmental Specialist at Orange County Environmental Protection Division, says that consumers need to consider the “overall cost of ownership.” Parker explains, “The initial out-of-pocket expense to purchase a new EV might be higher, compared to a traditional vehicle, but the cost to then operate the car is much less ─ no more oil changes or high-priced gasoline. In fact, EV’s require minimal maintenance.”

Parker says that most EV drivers charge at home using a 120-volt wall outlet, though some are equipped with a 240-volt for faster charge capabilities. “The public stations are used to recharge vehicles on longer commutes. There are also local solar grid charging stations available to recharge solar-powered vehicles. Any remaining power needed to complete the charge comes from the power grid. When the conditions are right, you can get about 70% of the power from the sun with about 30% coming from the power grid,” Parker said.

Thanks to local infrastructure, the Central Florida market has improved economic development by attracting EV companies, including Nissan LEAF, Chevy Volt, Ford Focus & C-Max, Tesla Roadster, and the new Mercedes Benz B-class. Additionally, many area businesses, such as Frito Lay, use all-electric delivery trucks (part of their more than 2,000 North American EV fleet) and report fuel savings of greater than 700,000 gallons per year. Mark Thomason, a GRCF partner who was instrumental during the installation phase with his previous role at Palmer Electric, appreciates many factors about his leased Nissan LEAF. “It’s fun to drive! EV’s are quiet and don’t heat up or shake; basically, they perform as a car should,” says Thomason, whose “environment-friendly” car can get 75 miles on a single charge. “Plus, the convenience is unbeatable. I can charge my vehicle at home, at work or, when necessary, public stations. There’s no need to find a gas station and wait for a pump.” Thomason says he typically allows 4-6 hours to achieve a full charge at home.

Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), who supported the installation of nearly half of the local public charging stations, says that usage rates are steadily increasing. In January, OUC reported a monthly record of 831 charging sessions, totaling 11,916 charging sessions since the program launched in June 2010. 196 unique EV drivers are accessing OUC’s 135 charge stations, says Erika Hodges, OUC’s Corporate Communications Manager, “This number has grown from only 99 unique users this time last year. We estimate that we have roughly 1,000 electric vehicles in the Orlando region, so this means that 20% of local EV drivers are currently utilizing our public charging facilities.”

Ready to get behind the wheel of America’s transportation future? Drive Electric Orlando (driveelectricorlando.com) can help you test drive the concept with a car rental experience! Be sure to also visit GRCF’s website (plugandgonow.com) to access the “Charging Station Map,” linked with the Alternative Fuels Data Center, to find charging station locations – either low cost or free ─ locally and nationwide.