University News
Electric Vehicle Forum May 10 at WIU-QC Riverfront Campus
May 3, 2013
MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – The Western Illinois University-Quad Cities Riverfront Campus is the next stop for the Electric Vehicle (EV) Forum. Slated to run 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday, May 10, at 3300 River Drive, Moline, the forum will feature discussion about opportunities and obstacles surrounding electric vehicles in Illinois and will include displays of electric vehicles and EV technology. Organized by the American Lung Association in Illinois, the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at WIU and WIU-Quad Cities, the event is open free to the public.
Fred Iutzi, energy program manager for the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, said industry representatives will be available to share updates and answer questions.
"Western is pleased to host this event discussing the potential for utilizing electric vehicles in Illinois," he noted. "Local governments, businesses, fleet managers, electric service companies, car dealers, car rental companies, vehicle technicians and mechanics and the general public should all find the discussion useful and informative."
According to Abby Hahne, environmental programs manager for the American Lung Association in Illinois, the WIU Riverfront Campus event is the latest in a series of meetings conducted by her organization.
"The Electric Vehicle Forum is designed to directly provide the best available information to local residents and leaders so they can effectively harness this promising technology for their regions," Hahne added.
The panel discussion will cover background information including the basic electric vehicle terminology and offer perspectives from the automotive manufacturers and utility companies. Charging options, consumer behaviors, safety considerations and electric rate options for EV owners will also be discussed, as well as rebates, tax breaks and other incentives aimed toward purchasing electric vehicles and development of charging station infrastructure. Lessons learned from local pilot projects, including current electric vehicle projects, and comments from electric vehicle owners will also be shared.
"The efficiencies involved in electric vehicles can produce a positive impact on individual pocketbooks and contribute to economic and environmental sustainability across the state," Iutzi said. "I encourage interested drivers and businesses to come and learn about the issues so they can decide for themselves whether an EV is a good fit for their situation."
Attendance is limited to the first 60 registrants, who will be provided a complimentary continental breakfast and lunch. Register for the Electric Vehicle Forum at www.DriveElectricIllinois.org. Registration will also be available at the door beginning at 8:30 a.m. for any remaining seats.
For more information about the EV Forum, contact the American Lung Association in Illinois at (217) 787-5864 or via email at illinoisev@lungil.org.
For more information about energy outreach programs at WIU, contact Iutzi at (309) 298-1453, toll free at (800) 526-9943 or via email at F-Iutzi@wiu.edu.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
Connect with us: