Kellie Beargie

“I haven’t needed to install a home charger yet, especially when the public charging stations are convenient and free,” she said. Kellie takes her electric vehicle everywhere — on errands, to the gym, to the airport and to visit her parents in Shawnee. “I’m fortunate to be able to charge at work,” she said. “I also charge on the Clean Charge Network here and there, whenever I am out and about.” Her 2012 Ford Focus Electric is such a good fit for her needs, it’s surprising to learn she initially visited a dealership in search of a gas-powered car. “I wanted something with good gas mileage and low overall miles, so had every intention of buying a late model gas Focus,” she said. The cars she had eyed online had sold, and she test drove a few others but came away unimpressed. “Then I saw the specs on this bright blue jelly bean of a car, which boasted excellent MPG. I realized it was a fully electric car and was just blown away,” she said. “I hadn't researched electric cars at all, but I knew of Tesla. 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.” Kellie has found the transition to driving electric easy and rewarding. She’s learned to stop stomping on the accelerator and brakes to help conserve battery — and found a peaceful side effect. “I enjoy my drives now, even if I end up at my destination a few moments later,” she said. “It doesn't impact my schedule but it certainly impacts my mindset!