By Patricia Barnes*

Auburn University’s Electric Vehicle Showcase had a wonderful turn out on September 22nd, 2023. The event kicked off on a beautiful evening, showcasing 18 different electric vehicles (EVs). From the iconic Tesla to the new Ford F150 Lightning pickup truck, to motorbikes and cycle bikes, a wide variety of EVs came to the event. Each owner came with enthusiasm, looking to show what their model of car had to offer. They visited with roughly 120 members of the public, sharing the ins and outs of their vehicles, including model–specific features, what it means to drive all–electric vehicles, and answering questions that came their way. 

Unique features at the showcase included a motorcycle, an Auburn University employee shuttle van, and an Auburn University student’s EV charging station startup company. Electric motorcycles are relatively new to the EV scene, but their futuristic design and sustainable energy use have increased interest as they enter the market.  

The Auburn University employee shuttle was an impressive addition to the EV Showcase. When EVs enter the conversation, the idea usually revolves around small cars, not transportation vans. The addition of Ford e-Transit vans to the transportation services fleet is just one way Auburn is improving its carbon footprint and creating a culture of sustainability. To learn more about Auburn transportation, check the Transportation Services website. 

Additionally, Olkaris Marandu, an Auburn University business student and entrepreneur, set up his very own table at the event. His company, Glory EV Charging Solutions, LLC, supports clean energy and the EV industry with electric vehicle charging infrastructure. He was able to share more about his company and his mission at the EV showcase. Check out Olkaris or reach out to him. Reach out to Olkaris here.  

The Auburn Plainsman also made an appearance, reporting on the event and producing a story in The Auburn Plainsman. Student Stewart Massey joined in on the fun, interviewing those who put on the event and some of the EV owners. Having ridden over 1,000 electric miles on a bicycle, Massey himself is a large proponent of EVs and sustainability. Though his bike was not highlighted at the event, it was yet another example of EVs becoming a regularity.  

It was amazing to see the Auburn community entrepreneurs, EV owners, and the Auburn public come together to learn more about sustainability and electric vehicles. This Drive Electric Alabama EVent was brought to Auburn University by the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition, Auburn University Office of Sustainability, Auburn University Parking Services, Alabama Power, and the City of Auburn. If you want to connect with the electric vehicle community in Alabama, please contact Drive Electric Alabama. 

*Patricia Barnes is a Junior at Auburn University studying Biosystems Engineering with an Ecological Engineering Track. She has both a Sustainability and Business Minor. She is the Honors College Volunteer for the Auburn Office of Sustainability 

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