Anyone wanting to get an up-close look at electric vehicles (EVs) and learn more about their features can attend the National Drive Electric “EVent” at The Market at Pepper Place in Birmingham on Saturday, Oct. 3.

National Drive Electric Week, Sept. 26 to Oct. 4, is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness of the many benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Electric car owners will be on hand to promote EVs from 8 a.m. until noon. The event is hosted by the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition (ACFC) and is co-sponsored by ACFC, UAB Sustainability, Alabama Power Company, the City of Birmingham and the Zero Emissions Owners Group (ZEOG).

Several precautionary measures have been put in place in recognition of the COVID-19 pandemic. Masks will be required for all participants, and the reserved EV parking spaces in front of Bettola Restaurant have been expanded to promote social distancing.

The electric vehicle movement has gained traction in Alabama and throughout the country.

In July, Gov. Kay Ivey announced the Alabama Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan. The Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs helped to set short- and long-term strategies to guide expansion of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the state. Currently, there are approximately 400 EV charging outlets at 149 public charging stations in Alabama.

Electric vehicles give off zero emissions, are economical to drive and contribute to job creation in Alabama. Mercedes-Benz is set to produce its first electric vehicle in America at its Mercedes-Benz U.S. International plant in Tuscaloosa County. A battery plant for those vehicles is being built in Bibb County.

In response to more Alabamians discovering electric vehicles, the National Drive Electric Week “EVent” provides a prime opportunity for anyone to learn more about EV technology by talking to EV owners.