Independence Days not only bring out the hot dogs and beer, but also a chance to recognize those who include patriotic acts in their daily living. EV'ers have made a deliberate choice to get away from using gasoline, avoid sending money out of the country and being dependent on other countries. Each owner is taking steps on an individual basis to help the local economy, strengthen national security and improve air quality. Individuals may not make big steps alone, but the steps of many does add up.

According to SacEV, there are about 7,000 Electric Vehicles in the Sacramento Region alone, in which local drivers together annually:

So, in honor of the fourth of July, let's give a very enthusiastic salute to our patriotic electric car drivers, who are showing us how to be Independent from gas and contribute to our air quality, local economics and national security!

Electric cars are here, they're fun to drive, and driving electric is both practical and patriotic! Way to go Everyone!! Happy 4th of July!!

-SacEV

In spite of lower gas prices, PEV sales are continuing to show strength nationally. In the Sacramento region there are about 7,000 PEVs on the streets, with another two to three hundred PEVs being sold monthly.   

According to SacEV President, Guy Hall, the economic and performance benefits of these vehicles are continuing to draw buyers.  “Crystal balls are notoriously difficult, but given the data we see, the Sacramento region will break $100,000,000 in PEV purchases in 2015.” Hall points out and adds, “Over half will be purchased for less than $25,000 after incentives.”

The used market for plug in electric vehicles is also heating up as  leases expire from 2012 sales and many PEV owners trade up for new technology. SacEV’s spokesperson and strategic advisor Lloyd Levine said, “I’ve already ordered a the new model 2016 Volt to replace my current Volt. The Volt is the best car I have ever owned. It is stylish, fun to drive, rich in features, and in almost three years of driving I have only used 105 gallons of gas. The new Volt improves on the old one in every possible way.”  

New PEV incentives and improved technology are pushing down the used prices to $10,000 to $20,000, with some deals under $10,000.   At the same time, companies such as Nissan are legitimizing the used market by adding their electric LEAF to their Certified Used program, which will add a measure of reassurance for those who prefer to buy used cars checked by the dealer to ensure they meet strict guidelines from the car maker.

-SacEV

Wondering about how to finance an EVSE installation?   How about a state backed, low interest loan, with a 10% or more rebate back to you when the loan is paid off.  Too good to be true?

California has been in a leading role for electrifying transportation from smart cars to to school buses. The California Pollution Control Financing Authority, in partnership with  the California Energy Commission, has been developing a program to help businesses finance the installation of charging stations.   Not only will the state mitigate the lender's risk, but adds an innovative feature, rebating 10% or more to both the lender and the borrower when the loan is paid off.

Borrowers are rebated 10% of the loan amount or more after the loan is paid off.

Here are the details.   The program funds the financial lender, a bank, credit union, etc, with a loan loss reserve (LLR) of 20% of the loan amount.   The loan can be for any activity relating to the installation of a charging infrastructure including planning, permits, equipment, transformers, construction, signage, etc. The lending institution can provide the loan for any term, fixed or variable interest, secured or unsecured.  On final payoff of the loan, the 20% LLR is split between the lender and the borrower.   This is essentially a 10% rebate of the principle to the borrower!

If the installation of the charging station is in a multi unit dwelling, or in a disadvantaged community, the program expands the LLR to 30% of the loan amount.  In this case after the loan is paid off, both lender and borrower receive 15% of the loaned amount.

-SacEV