AAA Western and Central New York is helping lead the way on the path to a clean energy future!

The Club's new all-electric Chevy Bolt made its debut at this year's Electrify Buffalo 2.0.

The event was held Saturday, September 24 at the BNMC Innovation Center Parking lot on Ellicott Street in Buffalo.

AAA WCNY ERS Training Specialist Kevin Fortner and AAA WCNY Assistant Manager for Fleet Operations James Cross represented the Club.

Electrify Buffalo 2.0 featured 36 vehicles and 19 different models - including the AAA Chevy Bolt EV with its brand-new wrap that reads, "Greener Roads Ahead with AAA."

Attendees had the opportunity to experience all aspects of electric transportation from EV charging stations to e-scooters, e-bikes, and even e-backhoes!

New data supports a greener trend.

In New York State as of September 1, 2022, there are 65,512 battery EVs (battery only - not hybrid) on the road. Registrations are up over 1% from August 1.

It's estimated by 2030 that 20 percent of U.S. drivers will own electric vehicles.

Here are the Top 10 Battery EV Registrations in New York State:

  1. Tesla Model 3 (19,520)
  2. Tesla Model Y (15,656)
  3. Tesla Model S (5,296)
  4. Tesla Model X (4,226)
  5. Chevrolet Bolt (3,610)
  6. Ford Mustang Mach-E (2,616)
  7. Nissan Leaf (2,437)
  8. Hyundai Kona (2,104)
  9. Kia Niro (1,383)
10. Hyundai Ioniq (987)

Charging these EVs is getting easier. Across New York there are currently 7,561 Level 2 Charging ports (source: NYSERDA) including 1,041 DC Fast Charging ports - NYPA EVolve, Electrify America, EVgo, Tesla Superchargers, etc.

With 19 charging networks New York is second in the nation for charging infrastructure.

The average range for a new Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is 268 miles. These green miles are helping to reduce air pollution.

AAA’s latest consumer survey reveals that one-quarter of Americans say they would be likely to buy an electric vehicle (powered exclusively by electricity, i.e., not a hybrid) for their next auto purchase, with Millennials leading the way (30%). Of those who want to buy electric, the common factor is a strong desire to save on fuel costs, with 77% citing this as a top reason for interest.

As America continues to lean into the idea of electric vehicles, AAA did find some hesitation when it comes to purchasing them, with top objections like range anxiety, cost and accessibility holding consumers back, including:

•    Higher purchase price – 60% 
•    Concern there are not enough places to charge – 60%
•    Concern about running out of charge when driving – 58%
•    Unsuitable for long-distance travel – 55%
•    High cost of battery repair or replacement – 55%
•    Unable to install a charging station where they live – 31%

AAA believes simply improving the range of electric vehicles will not be enough to calm consumer anxiety and encourage them to give these vehicles a chance. However, with continuous education on the benefits of electric vehicle ownership coupled with more consumers seeing their neighbors convert, the popularity surrounding electric vehicles will grow. For those interested in learning more or who need help with selecting their first or even next electric vehicle, check out the AAA Car Guide. 

The new AAA Chevy Bolt on display at Electrify Buffalo 2.0 will be used for driving instruction. The Club also has the SparkCharge Roadie portable charging service in its roadside assistance plan. The DC units deliver up to one mile per minute of charge in emergency situations when the vehicle is unable to reach a charging station. The Club is also installing EV charging stations at the Amherst headquarters.

Learn more about AAA’s automotive services or request roadside assistance.

AAA Automotive