Sept. 12, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by Sioux Valley Energy, Southeastern Electric Cooperative and Xcel Energy.

Electric vehicle technology will be on display at the fourth annual Sioux Falls Area EV Expo from 4 to 7 p.m. Sept. 17 at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds.

The event is being sponsored by Sioux Valley Energy, Southeastern Electric, East River Electric, Xcel Energy, the city of Sioux Falls and Drive Electric South Dakota.

“The EV Expo is a great opportunity for those interested in EVs to explore a wide variety of makes and models all in one location, with the chance to speak to owners with first-hand experience and to test-drive multiple EVs,” said Ben Pierson, energy services manager at East River Electric Power Cooperative, one of three electric co-ops that are sponsoring the event.

This year’s EV Expo will be in the parking lot east of the grandstand at the fairgrounds. As with previous events, the EV Expo will feature an EV car show and test-drive opportunities with several local dealerships.

“We’re seeing exciting signs of the transition to electric vehicles gaining momentum with a 50 percent increase in the number of EVs on the road in the states we serve in 2023 over the year before,” said Steve Kolbeck, principal manager, Xcel Energy-South Dakota. “We look forward to helping our customers reliably power their vehicles.”

Those interested in displaying their EV at the event can contact Sioux Valley Energy at 800-234-1960. Additionally, recreational vehicles such as e-bikes and electric lawn equipment will be on display. A food truck will be available for attendees to purchase food.

“Electric cooperatives and the others involved are dedicated to providing this opportunity because we want to educate on EVs and show that they are an option,” Pierson said. “While EVs may not be for everyone, this event aims to help people decide if an EV may be right for them.”