On Monday, October 5, the Clean Charge Network held its virtual member's event, “Futures Panel II: Where to Next?”. Missed it? We’ve got you covered. Check out this recording of the event in its entirety.

Did you know that only about 12% to 30% of the energy from the gasoline pumped into a conventional vehicle is actually used? Compare that to an electric vehicle, which can use more than 77% of their fuel source’s potential. Let’s take a look at what makes EVs so much more efficient.

"The savings during my first month of having the Tesla Model Y were shocking to me ... I saved over $500 in fuel."

In 2020, electric vehicles have become more norm than future. Join us for “Futures Panel II: Where to Next?”, a virtual panel of regional and national experts, discussing how we take electric vehicles in the Midwest to the next level.

Burns & McDonnell is known for its employee ownership culture and industry-leading incentives. The full-service engineering company is no stranger to environmental and electrification projects, so when the opportunity to add electric vehicle charging stations to their list of benefits came along, it was a perfect fit.

When you hear about pollution, you might picture exhaust fumes, but there's another kind that you might not be aware of – noise pollution. We know electric vehicles are quieter than their combustion cousins, but what exactly does that mean in decibels?

"Taking an EV test drive was so much fun to drive that we couldn't resist buying one."

Sun’s Out, Plug-In! Summer is officially here, and you can have warm weather adventures while still staying safe and social distancing! Here are some EV friendly day trips focused around history, enjoying the outdoors, and supporting local businesses.

For the City of Manhattan, the inclusion of electric vehicle charging stations was not an afterthought — it was part of a grand sustainable plan for the revitalization of the south end of their city. The result is an attraction that maintains Manhattan’s sense of identity while energizing the downtown district and attracting out-of-town guests.

If you have already replaced your internal combustion engine (ICE) car with an electric vehicle (EV), then you might also want to consider the small engines hiding in your garden shed as well. Let’s take a look at what local EV drivers have to say about their recommended electric-powered lawn tools:

"Electric cars are so fast! I think I surprise other drivers when the traffic light turns green and I speed past everyone else."

This year has been heralded as the coming of age for electric vehicles, but until recently, buyers had been limited to a handful of electric options. Thanks to new manufacturer investments, advancements in battery technology, and diversification of sizes and price points, there are now more choices than ever. Today, the crossover segment has become the litmus test of new electric models. Let’s take a look at six new electric SUVs that could show up on your block in 2020:

While EV drivers work-from-home, homeschool-at-home, and everything-else-from-home, your electric ride is probably looking lonely sitting in your driveway or garage. With your electric vehicle parked for extended times, what's the best strategy for not damaging the battery?

KCPT has long been a guidepost for progress and education in the Kansas City community, so it’s no surprise that they were an early adopter of the Clean Charge Network’s charging stations. Five years later, our local PBS station is a shining example of how workplace charging can benefit employees.

“With battery improvements and EV cost reductions, driving electric made sense to me. The fun of electric driving and the convenience of garage charging were the frosting on the cake.”

As you were watching the Kansas City Chiefs become Super Bowl Champions via their epic comeback, you might have noticed something else that was being championed during the commercial breaks: electric vehicles.

The City of Prairie Village has long been known for its charming village-like ambiance and abundance of green space, including almost 35,000 trees and over 64 acres of parks. So, when Evergy offered to install electric vehicle charging stations in the area, it was a great fit for the community.

No, the Federal Electric Vehicle Tax Credit is not dead, but you could be forgiven for thinking so. The reality is that the credits are still available for most electric vehicles. Let’s round up the facts and take a look at the current state of electric vehicle tax credits:

"When you consider the gas and maintenance savings, electric cars are a better value in the long term."

Five years after the launch of the Clean Charge Network, we live in one of the best places to drive an EV — you might spot a plethora of pluggable vehicles when out for a drive, a charger is likely on your route, and your neighbor can name at least a couple of electric vehicle models. How did we get here?

The global auto industry is in the midst of a significant decline, with sales expected to slide by about 3.1 million by the end of 2019. One bright spot? Electric vehicles, with steady overall sales and a bright future (as in $225 billion in committed investments from automakers). We’re taking a tour around the three largest EV markets to see if 2019 really was the year of the EV.

Located in North Kansas City, Macken Park is one of the region’s most popular parks. Visitors enjoy a wide range of recreational activities such as ball fields, tennis and racquetball courts, a walking trail, playgrounds and more. The park also hosts three electric vehicle charging stations that can power six up to electric vehicles at a time.

“My number one reason for getting an electric car was to help the environment. As a young person, I’m going to be living on this world for at least another 50 or 60 years, hopefully. I felt a responsibility to take care of the planet."

A decade ago, spotting an electric vehicle in our region was a rare occasion, the only Tesla available was the $109,000 Roadster and the Nissan LEAF had just become available in the United States. Much has changed since then. As we head into 2020, we take a look at 10 quotes to examine how the perspective on electric vehicles has evolved over the past 10 years.

"I did a lot of price comparisons when I was shopping for my car, and I found an EV was the same price as the other cars I was looking at. And, when you factor in the gas savings, it’s even cheaper."

If you were predicting an EV revolution back in 2015, Kansas City is probably one of the last places you would expect to look. But Chuck Caisley, Evergy’s Chief Customer Officer, believed making EV charging stations nearly as common as gas stations could be a key to adoption.

Evergy’s Time of Use Plan is an optional rate plan that rewards customers with rate discounts when you shift energy usage away from weekday peak hours.

With new sales records set every year, the race to electric vehicles is continuing to heat up. We surveyed the headlines to see what’s next for the EV industry in 2020 and beyond.

Located near the 18th and Vine district (also near Evergy’s Connect Center), the Posty Cards facility showcases sustainability features such as 388 solar panels that produce 20 percent of the company’s energy needs and a two-acre, native plant landscaping and rain garden.

The Clean Charge Network has served the Kansas City region for four years and counting. Now, with the merger of KCP&L and Westar, the network is expanding its reach to include much of Eastern and Eastern-Central Kansas. The transition also includes a brand refresh to reflect the merged company’s new name: Evergy.

There’s nothing like getting behind the wheel to experience the benefits of driving electric. That’s why we tossed our Chevy Bolt keys to media personality Charlie Keegan from KSHB for an extended test drive so he could see (and show) what an EV has to offer.

As the electric vehicle evolution continues, we’re inching ever closer to the expiration of federal tax credits for the purchase of an EV. A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers recently introduced legislation to expand the tax credit by 400,000 vehicles per manufacturer.

"My biggest surprise is how much FUN it is. It’s a joy to drive, with great handling, braking, acceleration and the bonus of no engine noise."

"In the future, people may not have as much of an emotional connection to their cars, especially if those cars are autonomous. It will more about selecting the transportation ‘tool’ that best fits the need.”

Many drivers tell the same story — the first time they sat behind the wheel of an EV made all the difference in the decision to transition to electric driving. The opportunity to test drive an EV can overcome the unfamiliarity that remains one of the most significant barriers to adoption. That’s why, one Saturday a month this summer, we’re offering test drives at KCP&L’s Connect Center.

This benefit for the National World War I Memorial and the Kansas City Automotive Museum is a wonderful showcase for cars of all types.

The Clean Charge Network is growing! Join us as we celebrate the addition of new EV charging stations at the Towanda, Topeka and Lawrence service areas along the Kansas Turnpike.

Feed Your Curiosity Tour Think science centers and museums are just for kids? Think again! Start your day at Science City at Union Station in downtown Kansas City, which just earned kudos as the top family-friendly attraction in the city from Visit KC. In addition to the award-winning science center, Union Station is home to a…

First introduced in Japan and the United States in 2010, the LEAF was an early highway-capable electric trailblazer, earning the 2011 European Car of the Year, the 2011 World Car of the Year and the 2011–2012 Car of the Year Japan. It’s now available in 50 markets across the globe, with the U.S. as its…

Hosting a total of 19 electric vVehicle charging stations, senior landscape architect Rodney Riffle shared some insight on why Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation is a partner in encouraging EV use.

"In the future, people may not have as much of an emotional connection to their cars, especially if those cars are autonomous. It will more about selecting the transportation ‘tool’ that best fits the need.”

On June 2, bring your EV to the event and help show the crowds what makes EVs so special. It’s a great way to spread the word about driving electric — and an opportunity to spend time with fellow EV drivers. All EV models are welcome. Contact us to reserve your spot for this free…

While the internal combustion engine Ford-150 has dominated the pickup truck landscape in recent history, times are changing. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas — known for his early call of Tesla’s influence on the auto industry — says the profitable pickup truck market is the next step in the electric vehicle revolution. A host of all-electric pickup trucks are hitting the market in the near future.

Boeing’s electric flying taxi achieves a brief test drive, while NPR ruminates on the impact of EVs on a gas-powered future. Plus, Tesla becomes the first automaker to sell more than 100,000 models in a year. Electric cars are making news across the globe; catch up with these five headlines:

"I don’t like spending time in service centers, so it’s nice the only thing that’s needed during the first 150,000 miles is rotating the tires."

The EV industry in the United States hit a major milestone in October 2018: one million plug-in electric vehicles sold. Sales continue to climb — four of the five best-selling months of all time for EVs occurred in 2018. Now, more than 40 plug-in and hybrid models are available in the U.S., with more coming available every year. Here are a few of the new EVs coming online or going into production in 2019.

As the calendar flips from one year to the next, some people turn to making resolutions to better themselves. But what if you could also make a New Year’s resolution to better the world by encouraging EV adoption? Here are eight actions you can take in 2019 to advance the electric vehicle revolution.

When you are in my car and you see the technology available, how well it drives, the fuel savings and the environmental benefits? Everything is first class. Buying a gas-powered car would feel like going backward.

Hy-Vee, an employee-owned grocery store chain, offers Clean Charge Network stations at the majority of its stores in the service area. All charging is free at its Level 2 stations. Hear from John Brehm, Hy-Vee’s national Director of Site Planning, who has been engaged in electric infrastructure for a decade.

Electric vehicles and solar energy are a compelling combination, offering drivers the opportunity to achieve fully emissions-free transportation. And while a study shows as many as 40 percent of EV drivers in the United States and Europe have home solar power, installing solar panels isn’t possible for everyone. Now, there’s another option — a new solar subscription program.

The future of electric vehicle design is still very much undecided, while a new partnership might switch out charging stations for gas pumps. Plus, Google Maps’ newest features allows users to search for EV charging stations. Learn more about EV news across the globe.

"Electric cars are for everyone. I look at all the different models, the infrastructure, the longer ranges and the faster charging times. We’ve reached the tipping point where there’s a vehicle for everyone and every lifestyle."

Come raise a glass with the Clean Charge Network and get to know your fellow EV drivers. Bring a guest and join us at Boulevard Brewing Company for complimentary food and brews. All attendees will receive a personalized glass to take home. RSVP today to reserve your spot.

It’s almost National Drive Electric Week — are you ready? It’s a great time to show off your EV at driver events or talk up the idea of driving electric to those you encounter every day.

Local science teacher Valerie Hough recently completed an 18-day, 4,500-mile road trip in her EV. Her experiences show that an all-electric road trip is strikingly similar to a gas-powered journey — and in many ways, better. Learn more about the adventure in Valerie’s own words.

The idea of EV charging lampposts emerges in New York City, while Porsche gives a production name to its all-electric concept car. Plus, check out the Flintstones-inspired EV ad you might soon see on your TV screens. Learn more about EV news across the globe.

Charging station hosts are an integral part of the Clean Charge Network success story. Some of these hosts have taken the next step — offering free charging at their stations by working with KCP&L to cover the cost of electricity. “It’s just the right thing to do,” says Bill Maasen from the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, which offers free charging at seven (soon to be eight) locations.

Aug 28: Join the Clean Charge Network as we give back to those in need by volunteering at Harvesters Community Food Network. You and a guest can enjoy dinner and camaraderie with fellow EV drivers while supporting the community.

Jul 29: This benefit for the National World War I Memorial and the Kansas City Automotive Museum is a wonderful showcase for cars of all types. Bring out your electric or plug-in hybrid and we’ll cover the cost of your registration.

"What a tremendous gift the Clean Charge Network has been to the community. There are more places to charge along with more premium parking spaces than almost anywhere else in the country."

Uber is promising extra cash to drivers who go electric in a new pilot program, while a new study predicts the total number of EVs worldwide will top 125 million by 2030. Plus, will the next generation of EVs cut the cord? Learn more about EV news across the globe.

Looking for a car that gets better and cleaner the longer you own it? It sounds impossible, but thanks to software updates and increasingly greener electricity grids, it’s a reality with electric cars. It’s in stark contrast with owning a gas-powered vehicle, which over time can mean mounting maintenance costs, dated technology and decreased fuel efficiency.

“I can safely say that the Kansas City metro seems to be so far ahead in terms of available EV infrastructure that it almost becomes a selling point for people coming to our region.”

Many 20th century movies have predicted big things for 21st-century technology, some of which have proven to come to fruition. Researchers are currently figuring out how electric vehicles will play into our futures. As for flying cars? We're still waiting.

It's Party for the Planet weekend April 21-22 at the Kansas City Zoo, so what better time to celebrate EV Day at the Zoo! We'd love to invite you and your immediate family to join us for brunch.

KCP&L Clean Charge Network Member Event with the Elders February 9 Networking: 7 to 7:30 p.m. Performance: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. KCPT TV Studio 125 E. 31st Street, Kansas City, Mo Join us for drinks, appetizers and very special electric performance by Kansas City’s own, The Elders. We’ll take over Studio A at KCPT-PBS and…

"When someone goes to purchase their next vehicle, I want to them to think back to that ride and say, 'I think that could work for me.'"

We’re always up for a nice chat over a good cup of coffee. Want to join us? On two afternoons and one evening in November, we’ll have a table and an open tab for coffee at a Roasterie Café around the metro. We’d love to answer questions about the upcoming changes to the KCP&L Clean…

"No money on gas and I get to help save the environment? It just makes sense. I really think everyone should embrace new technology; it’s the future of transportation."

The KCP&L Clean Charge Network is proud to support National Drive Electric Week, celebrated nationwide from Sept. 9-17. Several events are planned to provide an opportunity to explore and test drive electric vehicles (EVs). Jewish Culture Fest Electric Avenue: Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center of Greater KC,…

"My family is savvy about energy-efficient cars. Within my extended family, five or six people drive electric vehicles."

August 6 from 9 to 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kansas City Zoo It’s EV Day at the Kansas City Zoo! We’re inviting members of the Clean Charge Network and their immediate families to join us for brunch from 9-11 AM in the Lower Lobby, then spend some time strolling around the Zoo. Admission…

"In Kansas City, it’s much easier to talk about the convenience of charging in public thanks to the excellent charging infrastructure."

"It’s amazing how peaceful it is to drive without the noise and vibration of a combustible engine. The engine doesn’t jerk or shift as you accelerate."

Kansas City, Mo. (June 7, 2017) – Kansas City metro experienced the most growth of electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the United States, for the second quarter in a row, and widened the gap between other cities like Las Vegas, LA and Denver. With a 78 percent growth from 2016 to 2017, the KC region has…

June 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kansas City’s River Market June 18 is EV Day at the River Market, as part of an ongoing summer spotlight on various automobile makes and models. Check out a few electric vehicles — or bring your own! Contact us if you’d like to participate.

Kansas City metro experienced the most growth of electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the United States, for the second quarter in a row, and widened the gap between other cities like Las Vegas, LA and Denver.

"The future holds boundless possibilities of feeding the electrical grid in sustainable ways, which is the key to energy independence."

April 29 from 9 AM to 1 PM at the City Market This FREE, family-friendly annual event promotes ecological sustainability and green lifestyle choices. Participate in the Scraps KC USED SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE to provide re-purposed school supplies to ensure students in economically challenged schools have what they need for classroom learning. Bring used-not-new school…

May 4 from 6 to 8:30 PM at the Crown Center MTH Theatre Join us for some drinks, appetizers and camaraderie — then listen to a panel of national experts discuss the future of electric vehicles, from technology and sustainability to the inevitability of the EV revolution. You won’t want to miss this intriguing look…

Kansas City experienced the most growth of electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the United States, helping transform the region into a hot spot for electric vehicles and meeting a key goal of KCP&L’s Clean Charge Network.

Prairie Village Earth Fair, April 15 at Shawnee Mission East High School Electric vehicles will be a big focus at the show, with both the KCP&L Clean Charge Network and EV drivers coming out in full force.

Kansas City Home Show, March 17-19 at Bartle Hall Learn more about driving electric — and KCP&L’s energy-saving programs — at the annual Greater Kansas City Home Show.

"My husband and I saw it as an opportunity to be early adopters of this amazing new technology. I drove it off the lot that day and haven't regretted a single moment."

"Electric vehicle drivers are the coolest people on the planet."

"I came upon a used electric car and was hooked after the first mile. It was a bonus to learn so many charging stations were being installed here in KC.”

"Last year my wife and I spent $7 on gas, and that was for our lawn mower."

"There’s very little maintenance…no oil changes, for example. Unlike internal combustion engines, you can hit the accelerator and get the full torque immediately, which makes highway driving and passing safe and easy."

"I’m saving about $1,200 a year on gas, and the free mobile app shows where the nearest charging stations are ─ and if they are in use or available."