Join Ames Mayor John Haila and the Ames City Council as they cut the ribbon on Ames’ first direct current fast charger (DCFC) for electric vehicles located at Kum and Go, 2108 Isaac Newton Drive (off South Dayton Avenue). The event includes an EV car display featuring Tesla models, a Chevy Bolt, a Ford Mustang Mach-E, and others.

The EV open house will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, with the ribbon-cutting at 4 p.m.

EVs are increasing in popularity and may seem like new technology, but EVs have been around for more than a century. They are quieter than a traditional gas-powered engine and have a significantly smaller carbon footprint for operation. As battery technology has improved, EVs are becoming a more population option.

In addition to the EV display, participants can go on a ride along with some of the models or take a test drive. Ames Electric Services will have information available about EV rebates, refreshments will be provided by El Azteca, and the Ames Water and Pollution Control Department will provide cold, refreshing Ames water. For more information about EV chargers or rebates, contact Lain at kayley.lain@cityofames.org or by telephone at 515.239.5177.