San José Residents Drive into the Future at The EV Ride & Drive + EcoHome Expo
Driving an EV or electrifying your home isn’t just good for our community—it can help you save money too. EVs cost less to fuel and maintain, and events like the EV Ride & Drive + EcoHome Expo help people explore meaningful changes—like switching to an electric vehicle or making their homes more efficient—and see how those choices can lead to a healthier, cleaner future.
In celebration of Earth Month back in April, SJCE hosted the EV Ride & Drive + EcoHome Expo, bringing clean energy to life with hands-on demos and expert guidance. The event combined informative exhibits with entertainment, food, and a special appearance by San Jose Earthquakes player Hernán López—making sustainability both educational and fun.
Check out highlights from the event!
Assembly member Ash Kalra also attended the event and showed support to the community throughout the day. Kalra represents California’s 25th Assembly District, which encompasses the majority of San José, including downtown and large open space areas in southeast Santa Clara County.
More than 15 community-based organizations were there to share tools and tips for going green. Groups like ChargePoint, Acterra, and Santa Clara County Public Health were on hand to talk about clean transportation, energy-efficient homes, and how to make everyday choices that are better for the planet.
Check out some photos of the Climate Smart Electric Home trailer, showcasing a heat pump water heater, induction stove top, smart thermostat, and much more.
Over 250 people came out to test drive EVs—and over half of them were trying them for the first time! Test drives included popular models like the new Hyundai Ioniq 6, Cadillac Lyriq, GMC Sierra, and many more. Attendees got to experience how fun EVs are to drive while learning how they help save money on gas and reduce pollution.
“Everything was at your fingertips, so it was very different. I’m very used to a traditional car. It was a very smooth transition. It’s something that we’re really considering.” – Attendees, Patrick & Amanda.
While some still had questions about EV prices and how far they could drive, this event address barriers and showed that going electric is easier than many people think.
- 127 people said it was the first time they drove an EV
- 88% of attendees said they were more likely to buy an EV after test-driving a vehicle
- More than half said EVs drove better than gas-powered cars
Are you interested in an EV? Explore different EVs and take advantage of incentives while they are still available.
Did You Miss It?
Don’t worry—this won’t be the last time! We’re already looking forward to doing it again next year. Stay up to date for more chances to test drive an EV, talk to clean energy experts, and join your community in building a greener future.
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