Free EV education and test drives now in Calgary and Ottawa, coming soon to Richmond and Kingston

TORONTO, ON –(COMMUNITYWIRE)– Plug’n Drive, a non-profit dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) education and advocacy, has launched the “EVs are for Everyone Cross-Canada Tour.” This two-year initiative aims to increase public awareness and understanding of EVs, offering hands-on education and test drive opportunities in communities across Canada.

Supported by Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative (ZEVAI), the tour seeks to reduce barriers to EV adoption through interactive learning experiences. “The EVs are for Everyone Tour addresses the lack of access, awareness, and comfort many Canadians have with electric vehicles,” says Tracy Walden, Vice President of Engagement at Plug’n Drive. “Our goal is to provide people with the information and experiences they need to make informed decisions about transitioning to EVs.”

A key feature of the tour is the Mobile EV Education Trailers (MEETs), which will set up in communities for two to four weeks at a time. One MEET will travel through Eastern Canada, and another through Western Canada. These trailers serve as community hubs where visitors can learn about EVs, explore charging options, and test drive the latest models from leading manufacturers.

In addition to the MEETs, the tour includes EV Roadshows—one- to three-day events designed to bring EV education to smaller or more remote communities. These roadshows feature pop-up educational displays and fleets of electric vehicles, offering more people the opportunity to test drive EVs. While the tour won’t reach all rural areas, efforts will be made to extend its reach as far as possible.

“Test drives are a crucial part of the decision-making process for potential EV buyers,” says Walden. “The EVs are for Everyone Tour creates a relaxed, no-pressure environment where participants can compare different EV models and experience their benefits firsthand.”

Walden also highlights one of the most exciting aspects of EV driving: instant torque and acceleration. “Many people don’t expect the fast, smooth acceleration that comes with EVs, which makes test driving them an exciting experience.”

MEET hubs will be in Calgary, Alberta, and Ottawa, Ontario throughout September, with upcoming stops in Kingston, Ontario and Richmond, British Columbia in October. All test drives are free, and participants must be 21 or older with a valid driver’s license. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking an appointment is encouraged.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, visit the calendar of events.