Buckle up, Kingston—Mobile EV Education Trailer (MEET) is at the INVISTA Centre for the week.
Hosted by Plug’n Drive, an Ontario-based non-profit organization leading the charge toward widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption, the trailer offers participants free test drives of the latest EV models. This is a unique opportunity to experience cutting-edge vehicle technology first-hand.
The trailer is located in the parking lot behind the INVISTA Centre in Kingston’s west-end, and will be running until Oct. 20. You can sign up very easily on the Plug’n Drive site—it only took me two minutes to register.
It’s not just about getting behind the wheel—though that was definitely my favourite part. In addition to the test drives, MEET also features a comprehensive information booth where you can learn about the environmental and economic benefits of switching to an EV. The trailer offers educational resources to clear up common misconceptions around EVs, such as concerns about cost, charging availability, and maintenance.
At the trailer, I struck up a conversation with a man who had just made the leap to an EV. He admitted his initial reluctance was fueled by the usual concerns—too few charging stations near his home and the seemingly steep price tag of EVs.
While the transition to EVs is initially daunting, I was assured it can be simpler and more accessible than people think. While EVs may not be for everyone, the barriers are shrinking.
The Canadian government now offers a federal incentive of up to $5,000 for EV purchases, and the cost savings are notable—electricity in Ontario is about a quarter of the price of gasoline. With 209 charging ports across Kingston, charging accessibility is becoming much less of a concern. Even options like hybrid-electric vehicles are becoming increasingly reliable and available, offering more choice for consumers.
Out of the four vehicles at the site, I personally got behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Blazer EV. MEET also offers test driving on the Ford F-150 Lightning, Hyundai IONIQ 5, and the Volvo XC40. While I’m not in the market for a new car, nor am I a car expert, the experience was electrifying, pun intended.
It was the quietest car I’ve ever driven—accentuating my slightly awkward braking and occasional “Oops!” as I grew used to the set-up. The car had regenerative brakes, which I learned is a way to recover and store the car’s potential energy as it slows down also meaning the vehicle stopped the second I lifted my foot from the pedal.
I quickly understood the appeal of an EV—smooth, energy-efficient, and eerily quiet, it felt like driving a flying car. By the time I’d adjusted to the braking, I was already imagining how much zippier a commute would be in one of these.
The City of Kingston is unsurprisingly promoting this event—after all, Kingston is largely a driving city. Nestled under Highway 401 and amongst cottage country, many Kingston residents spend a lot of time on the road. Even for students, getting to big box stores like Costco or Walmart is inconvenient using public transit. With the recent opening of the LaSalle Causeway, commutes are expected to become faster and easier, making now an ideal time for Kingston residents to consider EV options.
If you’re looking for something to do this reading break, charge up your excitement and head over to the INVISTA Centre before this opportunity drives away.
Tags
Cars, Electric vehicle, EV, Sustainability
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