EVs in Florida Hurricane Evacuations
As Florida prepares to receive $198 million from the Biden administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for EV charging infrastructure over the next five years, state senator Jonathan Martin, a Republican who represents Fort Myers, has raised concerns about the potential for EVs to run out of charge and block traffic during hurricane evacuations.
During a meeting with the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) executive director of transportation technologies, Trey Tillander, Martin expressed his worries about the lack of EV infrastructure in the state. He noted that if multiple EVs were to run out of charge during an evacuation, it could cause traffic to back up and turn a two-hour trip into an eight-hour one.
In response, Tillander suggested that the FDOT could look into portable EV chargers and providing the same level of service to electric vehicles as they do to gas cars with their Road Rangers and emergency assistance vehicles. He also mentioned that Oakland-based FreeWire makes battery-integrated EV power stations that could be used in an emergency.
Martin’s comments have sparked a debate about the role of EVs in hurricane evacuations. While some argue that EVs should be banned during evacuations, others point out that gas cars also need electricity to operate and that battery-integrated bidirectional charging technology can push power back to gas stations and other commercial buildings in an emergency.
Ultimately, it is important for state leaders to invest in resilient technology to build out Florida’s EV charging infrastructure network. This will ensure that all drivers, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive, can evacuate safely and efficiently during a natural disaster.
FAQ
Q1. When will electric cars be available in the UK?
A1. Electric cars are already available in the UK and can be purchased from a variety of dealerships.
Q2. Where can I find electric car charging stations near me?
A2. You can find electric car charging stations near you by using online maps or apps such as PlugShare or ChargePoint.
Q3. Which electric car is the best?
A3. The best electric car depends on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular models include the Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and Chevrolet Bolt EV.
