Report finds Georgians split on alternative-fuel vehicles

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - The 14th annual Clean Energy Roadshow began on Tuesday. It’s considered Georgia’s original and longest-running new-technology vehicle showcase.

Roadshow founder and Georgia Public Service Commissioner Tim Echols has been championing alternative-fuel vehicles since 2011.

“At the roadshow, you can see and touch what people are driving, what governments and commercial fleets are utilizing, and learn how to access some of the funding and technical resources available for the supporting charging or fueling infrastructure,” Echols said. “And, you might ask, what vehicles will be in widespread production soon? Come to the roadshow and see them close up.”

Those vehicles include a hydrogen-powered golf cart, propane school bus, a biofuel boat and electric vehicles.

Alternative-fuel vehicles have been called “the way of the future,” but a new study reveals Georgians have some reservations.

A recent study from Quantrell Subaru, a Kentucky car dealership, found nearly half of Georgians remain uncertain about the practicality of switching to an electric vehicle.

For 20%, the higher upfront cost is a drawback, and another 20% express concern about the current state of charging station networks. 26% of those surveyed are concerned with the potential costs and hassles of battery replacement.

Echols said it’s a matter of making sure it works for you.

“People are creatures of habit. They’re going to want to just do the thing that’s most convenient,” Echols said. “So, I do think we’ll have gas cars forever. I mean, the ‘67 Camaro and the ‘65 Mustang will always be here, because people love classic cars, but getting an EV is going to get cheaper. The cars are dropping in price. There are great incentives for them and the cost to operate, like being able to charge your car overnight for $3 instead of filling it up for $30 or $60. So, EVs are just so cheap to drive and operate.”

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