Drive Electric Dayton Launches Statewide Electric Vehicle Association Chapter
A new advocate for electric transportation in Ohio begins now with the launch of the EVA of Ohio. This new statewide nonprofit organization will expand EV education, advocacy, and ride-and-drive events to all corners of the Buckeye State.
The new chapter is an expansion of the successful Drive Electric Dayton (DED), which has served as a local chapter of the national EVA for the past seven years. Congratulations are in order for the dedicated volunteer members of Drive Electric Dayton. Since their first event in 2017, these members have held or participated in hundreds of events, reaching tens of thousands of people in the Dayton region and beyond, sharing their real-world knowledge of the benefits of driving electric.
Rap Hankins, president of Drive Electric Dayton, will lead EVA of Ohio along with the DED Board of Directors. Hankins has been a pivotal force in this effort, driven by the clear interest he has seen from the public.
"These experiences have taught us that Ohioans are interested in EVs to help them lower costs, pollute less, and enjoy driving more," said Hankins.
Under the new structure, the organization will continue to operate as Drive Electric Dayton in the Miami Valley, where it is well-known. Throughout the rest of the state, it will operate as the Electric Vehicle Association of Ohio, working with EVA members and supporters to give more Ohioans their first experience in an EV.
The launch comes at a crucial time for EV adoption in the state. Key statistics show:
Eight percent of vehicles registered in Ohio are now electric.
The state ranks fourth in the U.S. for automakers' investments in EV manufacturing.
An estimated 25,000 Ohioans are expected to be employed in EV manufacturing by 2030.
Hankins emphasized the organization's future goals. "The goal of the Electric Vehicle Association of Ohio is to help Ohio residents, businesses and governments prepare for the future of electric transportation," he stated. "EVs will bring real jobs so our families, neighbors and communities in Ohio can continue to thrive and grow."
A big congratulations to Rap Hankins and all the volunteer members of Drive Electric Dayton for their tireless work and remarkable success. This launch is a testament to their passion and a significant step forward in Ohio's transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.
