Electric vehicles (or EVs) are the future of transportation, but recent innovations may be transforming this vision into reality even faster. With advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure and vehicle design, EVs are becoming more practical and appealing to a broader audience. Michigan is in the midst of an electric vehicle transformation, but it’s not just traditional everyday “cars” making the switch, we’re seeing (and helping get) all types of all-electric machines on the road.   

The Rise of Electric School Buses 

It’s September, so of course that means back to school season and there are many districts bussing kids in style. Since 2021, we’ve been helping Michigan schools electrify their buses through PowerMIFleet, a program providing expertise and financial rebates for chargers to businesses and organizations considering electric vehicles.  

Like electric cars, these buses are equipped with batteries instead of internal combustion engines and produce zero direct tailpipe emissions – which helps improve air quality, particularly in school zones and around children. Plus, both students and bus drivers enjoy the quiet ride the electric bus delivers. And because electricity is generally cheaper than diesel and electric buses have fewer moving parts, they are known to have lower fuel and maintenance costs which can lead to significant cost savings for school districts over time.  

 

Electric Motorcycles

It’s not just cars that are going electric, we’re starting to see more electric motorcycles on the road, too. These all-electric, clutch-free machines are equipped with a rechargeable battery that can be charged using a standard household outlet and offer a smooth ride with plenty of customizable performance modes. They’re the perfect starter bike for anyone seeking a fun, convenient and cost-effective way to get around on two wheels. 

Could an electric motorcycle be the next step in your electric journey? Learn more about PowerMIDrive and the various charging rebates and incentives we have to offer. 

Fully Electric Bucket Truck  

What we’re most excited for is the upcoming arrival of our latest fleet innovation, the Altec TA60 Boom all-electric bucket truck that will service the greater Grand Rapids area in all its electric glory. The state-of-the-art truck is among the first of its kind, boasts a range of 135 miles and is designed to be easy to use, reliable and safe without compromising on performance. One of the standout features of this truck is its fast-charging ability. With a single charging port, the truck can be fully charged in just a few hours, thanks to the already installed DC fast-charging station at our Grand Rapids service center.  

Stay tuned for an official announcement after the truck’s delivery.  

National Drive Electric Week 

Did you know there’s an entire week dedicated to celebrating electric vehicles? National Drive Electric Week is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness of the many benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This year’s events take place from September 27 through October 6 and will be filled with plenty of local events that showcase the electric innovation we’ve highlighted throughout this blog. 

Are you considering going electric? RSVP for an in-person or online event to learn from owners who have done so – or follow us on Facebook for more information about the upcoming Ride & Drive events we’re hosting in the following cities: 

Saginaw – September 21, 2024  

Lansing – October 5, 2024 

Kalamazoo – October 19, 2024 

Exciting work continues to happen in the EV space and we’re happy to not only embrace the innovations driving us forward, but to help lead the way. 

Do you have questions about EVs? Check out this recent Hey, Consumers Energy! blog.

Interested in reading more about what’s happening in the EV space? Check out these blogs to learn more about the electric vehicle experience.