Drive EV Oklahoma
Empowering Oklahomans to embrace electric vehicles to enhance energy independence and security for a stronger economic future.
Why Drive Electric?
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) is a smart choice for your wallet, the economy, and the environment. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping to reduce air pollution, lower operating costs, including reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. This means you can save money in the long run. Embrace the future of transportation and enjoy a quieter, smoother ride. Electrify your ride today and drive on American power!
Find an EV Dealership
Locate your nearest electric vehicle dealer easily and explore a wide range of models, expert advice, and personalized service to find your perfect EV.
EV Myths & Facts
Discover the truth about electric vehicles: they’re efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective, debunking common myths about performance and charging.
Join the Cause
Join the electric vehicle movement! Collaborate with industry leaders and communities to promote sustainable transportation future.
Our Vision
To inspire, support, and facilitate electric vehicle education and adoption of electric vehicles.
Empowering Oklahoma Communities:
The RECHARGE-OK Initiative
The Hudson College of Public Health at the University of Oklahoma, in collaboration with OG&E and Shawnee Public Schools, has embarked on a transformative project known as RECHARGE-OK. This initiative, backed by the National Science Foundation’s CIVIC Program, aims to bolster energy resilience and public health across Oklahoma.
Integrating Electric School Buses for Community Resilience
RECHARGE-OK focuses on the deployment of electric school buses (ESBs) equipped with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. This innovation allows the buses to serve dual purposes: transporting students and acting as mobile energy sources during power outages. By feeding electricity back into the grid, these buses can support critical infrastructure, such as schools and healthcare facilities, especially during extreme weather events.
Community-Centric Approach
The initiative places a strong emphasis on community engagement. By directly involving local stakeholders, RECHARGE-OK ensures that the solutions developed are tailored to the specific needs of Oklahoma communities. The project not only addresses immediate energy and health concerns but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience against climate-related challenges.
A Model for Sustainable Innovation
RECHARGE-OK exemplifies how cross-sector collaboration can lead to sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and public health. By leveraging technology, research, and community involvement, the project sets a precedent for similar initiatives nationwide.
For more information on RECHARGE-OK and its impact, visit the Hudson College of Public Health’s official announcement.
Collaborative Efforts Driving the Project
Leading the research are Dr. Hongwan Li, Dr. Changjie Cai, and Dr. Dan Li from the Hudson College of Public Health. Their expertise in community health and climate resilience is pivotal in assessing how ESBs can mitigate health risks during emergencies, improve air quality, and ensure that public health objectives are met through enhanced energy strategies.
OG&E contributes its energy management proficiency, ensuring the seamless integration and operation of V2G technology. Shawnee Public Schools plays a crucial role by providing the electric buses and facilitating their use in real-world scenarios.
Electric School Buses Save Schools Money
Shawnee Public School District has integrated eight electric IC school buses, manufactured in Tulsa, into its fleet and reports that:
- $10,000 in monthly fuel savings by using electric buses.
- $4,600 saved per month per bus compared to diesel buses.
- Elimination of $600 oil changes required every 4-6 weeks for diesel buses.
- Reduced brake maintenance cycles, with EV buses needing brake pad rebuild every 3-4 years compared to diesel buses every 12-14 months.
These cost reductions allow districts to redirect taxpayer dollars toward education and student programs, demonstrating the clear value of EV school buses for Oklahoma.
Our Mission
The Oklahoma Electric Vehicle Coalition is a working group of partners advancing the adoption and deployment of electric vehicles in the state. Our partners encompass a diverse range of stakeholders, including dealerships, educational institutions, career technology programs, electric vehicle clubs, nonprofit organizations, state and local government agencies, utility companies, vehicle and equipment manufacturers, and various other entities.The coalition is administered by the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) and the Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG) in support of the work of the state’s two U.S. Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalitions.
Our mission is to be an active and cohesive group of diverse EV stakeholders who share the common interest in facilitating the adoption and awareness of EVs in Oklahoma. Areas of focus include education and outreach events, infrastructure development, legislation, policy, and regulations.
