There's a good chance that you've been hearing more and more about electric vehicles (EVs) lately. You've probably spotted them on the road or walked past them as they charge while parked on the street.
When you consider that EVs generate no tailpipe emissions and run without fossil fuels, it's easy to see why they have become so popular as people seek out eco-friendly alternatives to gas-powered cars. There's little doubt that EVs have shaken things up for the automotive industry and drivers alike.
To help Canadians navigate these changes and provide answers to common questions, Kia has opened up the Kia EV Experience Centre. The centre is an interactive space where you can learn about EVs, the benefits they offer and the future of these types of vehicles, without the pressure of a sales environment.
If you're considering going electric for your next car, this might just be the perfect opportunity to learn more.
What You'll Find At The Kia EV Experience Centre
The first of its kind for Kia in Canada, the EV Experience Centre will teach you all you need to know about electric vehicles. For example, you might not know about the three types of EVs – hybrids (HEV), plug-in-hybrids (PHEV) and battery-electric vehicles (BEV) – or the differences between them.
You'll discover the different types of chargers, government incentives (yes, there are rebates available for folks who go green) and the many pros of switching to an electric vehicle. Kia is so committed to advancing the EV industry that it's on track to launch seven new plug-in hybrid or dedicated electric models by 2025.
During your pre-booked 90-minute visit, you'll have access to your very own "EVisor." This person will be your host, guiding you along your EV journey and answering all your electric vehicle questions.
At the EV Experience Centre, you'll get to walk through experiences like the Kia Innovation Wall, the Chargehub, and Total Cost of Ownership. The tour ends with an optional test drive of one of Kia's four green vehicles — the perfect way to experience an electric vehicle first hand. The route you'll take is optimized to showcase charging networks, carpool lane access for EVs and preferred parking for EVs.
A huge plus about this user-friendly space is it's by no means a sales environment. The EVisors are specialists in EVs, not salespeople, so you can relax and enjoy learning about this technology and these vehicles without any pressure to buy.
The Kia EV Experience Centre
Price: Free
Where: 1778 W. 8th Ave., Vancouver, BC
When: Pre-booking is essential to comply with COVID-19 safety requirements. Tours run Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why You Need To Go: Learn all you need to know about electric vehicles and the future of the automotive industry from the experts, then take one for a spin.