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Decisions, Decisions…

The Mini Cooper S Electric is available in March 2020. The $3K rebate from Touchstone Energy on a Nissan Leaf expires at the end of the year. I need to replace my 2005 Cooper S, so what is a guy to do?

It’s Veterans Day 2019 in America. Thank you to all the service men and women for their service to our country.

Thanks for listening. If there’s a topic on your mind or just a question, send me an email at ben@evdiaries.com or DM me on Twitter or Instagram. You can find me @evdiaries.

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Interview With Scott Drake with EKPC

In my first EV Diaries interview, I sat down with Scott Drake, Manager of Corporate Technical Services at East Kentucky Power Cooperative. Part of his job is attending meeting across the nation with other utilities, automobile manufacturers and EV focus groups. He is also the leader of the EV working group of which I am a member. In this interview, I get Scott’s opinion on EVs in small-town America, the future as he sees it and the infrastructure/adoption question.

Tell me your thoughts and ask me your questions via email, ben@evdiaries.com. DM me on Twitter and Instagram @evdiaries or by giving the show a rating on your favorite podcasting app.

Thanks so much for listening.

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What Did You Say About Taxes????

I just got out of a meeting where we were looking to put a DC fast charger (level 3) on our system. Let’s just say “sticker shock”. It is unlikely that any private entities around here (without deep pockets) will be putting in that kind of infrastructure. So what is the answer?

I hate taxes. Period… however we know that at some point EVs will be assessed a property tax to offset falling gas tax revenues. We are already seeing it in other states with larger EV bases. Would it be horrible if the federal government actually started levying an EV tax and starting building infrastructure for EVs. Or better yet, started diverting funds for such projects which would allow the EV population to grow before the taxation begins. The US Government is good at roads and military. This fits in their wheelhouse.

Bottom line is that the taxes are coming and we need a network to foster adoption. Is this the best way, worst way or just a way? What are your thoughts? Email me at ben@evdiaries.com or DM on Twitter or Instagram @evdiaries. Thanks for listening.

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Powered by Gatorade?

A retired Royal Navy officer in Great Britain has developed a new type of battery; well, fuel cell but it still may be a game changer. How does 1500 miles before refueling sound? What makes it even that much cooler is that its an electrolyte mixture that is safe to drink. Is it in you? Check out the article here.

Thanks for listening. I hope you are learning as much as I am. If there’s a topic on your mind or just a question, send me an email at ben@evdiaries.com or DM me on Twitter or Instagram. You can find me @evdiaries.

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Ricky Bobby Goes ‘Lectric

NASCAR said WHAT????

Did you hear NASCAR is considering hybridization? What will that look like? What implications does that have for the good-ol’ boy fan base. I think NASCAR may be the push that EVs need in small town ‘Merica fly-over country.

Let me know your thoughts. Email me or find me on Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for listening.

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I’m Shaking Like a Leaf.

I got a pretty sweet notification from Touchstone Energy about some additional rebates available on the Nissan Leaf. I decided I needed to look at the $7500 Federal Tax Credit available on electric vehicles and how it works. Also, if you want a Tesla or a Chevy, ACT FAST! The tax credits on these end soon. Find out more at fueleconomy.gov.

Let me know your questions and comments via email or find me on Twitter and Instagram or by giving the show a rating on your favorite podcasting app. Also, you can tell me I have an accent- it came with the territory. I’m just trying to convince people that EVs are the way to go even in small-town America. Help me spread the word. Thanks for listening.

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Charger Ramblings & Rattlings

This is what happens when I think out loud. I begin thinking about the need for infrastructure and then decide, for me, I may be putting to much emphasis on it considering my daily drive habits. There is a lot to consider about this EV thing.

So which is most important in your opinion, infrastructure or getting the EV?

Tell me your thoughts and ask me your questions via email. DM me on Twitter and Instagram or by giving the show a rating on your favorite podcasting app.

Thanks so much for listening.

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Get Your Charge On!

There are 3 levels of charging currently available in America. They are also creatively named; Level 1, Level 2, & Level 3. What’s the difference? What’s the availability? Why does it matter?

I want to hear from you. Tell me your thoughts and ask me your questions via email. DM me on Twitter and Instagram or by giving the show a rating on your favorite podcasting app.

Thanks so much for listening.

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Is Vandalizing A Tesla A Hate Crime?

Of course it depends on your definition.  I saw a video captured by a Tesla’s sentry system where a woman “keyed” a Tesla in a parking lot for no apparent reason.  What was her motivation? Is she a serial keyer? Or is she just jealous of people who own nice things? What is wrong with people these days?  To say the least, it ticked me off and has me questioning humanity.

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