Electric Vehicle Weekend Details
By Fred Larsen – Special to SUNonline/Orillia
It’s happening. The electrification of vehicles is gaining momentum. It’s something we can see first-hand on the roads, in parking lots and maybe even in your own driveway. If you are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, or curious about how and when, please drop by this coming weekend for Sustainable Orillia’s 5th annual All-Electric Vehicle Weekend.
This year, the event features more vehicles, more electrical options and more access to expertise than ever. You’ll get your questions answered by experts and owners, with opportunities to try out some of the options available to you.
The All-Electric Vehicle Weekend is a two-day, low-pressure opportunity to explore the current and fast-growing world of electric vehicles. It’s free and this year’s event expanded in scope to feature many new electric-powered options, such as lawn mowers, heat pumps, e-bikes, scooters and boats.
There is no need to leave your kids at home. The All-Electric Vehicle Weekend is truly family-friendly. Thanks to the team at the Kiwanis Club of Orillia, their Safety Village will be set up in Building #3 at ODAS Park and will be offering youngsters their own electric car rides.
You’ll find the exhibits and more in the Roller Rink Building at ODAS Park. Displays will be open from 9:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 5 and from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
In addition to the twenty exhibitors and subject experts who’ll be on-hand both days, Plug ‘n Drive will be back with several EV’s available for test drives.
You can also plan to attend the series of informative presentations scheduled over the two days:
| Time & Date | Presenter | Topic |
| 10:00 a.m. – Aug 5 10:00 a.m. – Aug 6 | Mary Mallin Plug n’Drive – Electric Vehicle Discovery Centre | EV Basics |
| 1:00 p.m. – Aug 5 | Tony Telford, Orser Technical | Installing Home Chargers |
| 2:30 p.m. – Aug 5 | Stan Mathewson, Sustainable Orillia | Calculate your Carbon Footprint |
| 1:00 p.m. – Aug 6h | Bruce McCrae, AmeriSpec Energy Advisor | Energy Audits and how to apply for a Canada Greener Homes Grant |
City of Orillia officials will be on-hand as well to answer questions and collect feedback on the city’s climate action plan, Orillia’s Climate Future. And just for fun there’s an amazing Silent Auction with some great items that will be of interest to all.
(Image Supplied)
