Opportunity to learn about benefits of EVs and test drive models

Today, elected officials and business leaders in the Acadiana region attended Cleco Power’s electric vehicle (EV) ride and drive expo at the Acadiana Regional Airport to learn about the benefits of EVs and test drive various models.

“This was a unique opportunity to learn about the benefits of EVs, see the latest models and features firsthand, ask questions and then get behind the wheel,” said Jay McCalmont, Cleco director of transformation and innovation.

Cleco partnered with experts from Louisiana Clean Fuels, Drive Electric Louisiana and local car dealerships who brought different types of EVs to the expo, including models by Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Ford, Genesis, Hummer, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes, Rivian, Tesla, Volkswagen and Volvo. Cleco Power’s EVs also were on display.

“This partnership with Cleco Power is a great way for our Drive Electric chapters to educate the public on the benefits and capabilities of EVs in the market today,” said Ann Vail, executive director of Louisiana Clean Fuels. “From personal vehicles to work trucks, there are more EV models available at local dealerships than ever before.”

“The adoption of EVs is a worldwide electrification initiative that supports sustainability. Electrification cuts emissions and leads to decarbonization which is why there’s a growing focus on going all-electric in the energy industry as well as the transportation and industrial industries,” said Shane Hilton, president of Cleco Power. “When we decarbonize, we are more sustainable. Being more sustainable helps us meet current needs as well as protect the planet for future generations, which includes Louisiana families.”

“EV drivers will emit 50 percent less vehicle lifetime emissions compared to an internal combustion vehicle, all while spending 30 to 60 percent less on fuel,” said Richard Biedenharn, Cleco Power electric vehicle program manager. “EV drivers also spend less on maintenance and repairs over the EV’s lifetime because the vehicles have fewer parts.”