Solihull Council has hosted its first electric vehicle (EV) experience event, ‘Solihull Going Electric’, in its town centre last weekend.
Organised in partnership with Let’s Experience Electric, the free event aligned with the council’s EV strategy, which aims to facilitate the wider adoption of EVs across the borough, and tackle some of the current barriers slowing the transition to cleaner air and more sustainable means of travel.
Solihull Town Centre High Street was transformed into a hub for EVs, as it showcased the growing range of cars available, and allowed hundreds of residents to explore some of the benefits of EV adoption and sustainable transport.
Those in attendance had the opportunity to test drive a range of exciting new electric cars and bikes, speak to dealers and learn from industry experts about the latest advancements in EV technology.
Exhibitors for the event included BYD, Vauxhall, BMW, Citroën, Mercedez Benz, Škoda, Smart, Peugeot, Fiat, Ford and Leapmotor, showcasing a diverse fleet of electric options across a range of price points.
The event also featured the pioneering autonomous shuttle, part of the Solihull & Coventry Automated Links Evolution (SCALE) project, as well as the newly installed Qwello charging points in the council car park. This latter installation aimed to highlight the council’s dedication to improve EV infrastructure across the borough, and expand its charging network in Solihull.
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Planning, said:
“It was fantastic to see so many people interested about the benefits of EVs on Saturday. The High Street was a real sight to behold with exciting top-of-the-range electric vehicles on display.
“I’m delighted that this event showcased the options that are available and provided an opportunity for our residents to explore whether EV adoption might be right for them, as we look to establish a cleaner future for Solihull.
“It was also great to showcase some of the new electric charging points installed in the Council House car park by Qwello, which is part of our wider plan to install up to 500 new charging points within Council car parks and on-street destinations by 2026. It is crucial that we strive to have more infrastructure in place that can facilitate the switch away from fossil fuelled vehicles; which will improve air quality and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.”
Image courtesy of Solihull Council: Left to right: Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Planning, Martin Hale, Managing Director at Qwello (UK) Ltd and Druvesh Desai, Project Manager at Qwello (UK).
