Schenectady, New York Celebrates Nation’s Largest Drive Electric Week Event

On Sunday, October 1 2023, Schenectady, NY—popularly known as the electric city—once again earned the honor of hosting the country’s largest Drive Electric Week event, the NY Capital District Drive Electric Week & Sustainability Fair. This marks the second consecutive year that Schenectady has held this prestigious event, the largest in the country for the second year in a row, showcasing its commitment to promoting sustainable transportation. The fair was one of 215 events in 202 cities nationwide, all dedicated to advancing the cause of electric mobility. National sponsors, including the Electric Vehicle Association, Plug In America, EVHybridNoire, Sierra Club, and Drive Electric USA, supported this week-long initiative.

Schenectady’s pre-show registrations for the event exceeded 700 attendees, reflecting a high level of anticipation and interest among the locals. As the day unfolded, the attendance soared even higher, with crowds from the nearby Schenectady Greenmarket and the Schenectady Library book sale adding to the numbers. In recognition of this significant event, Mayor Gary R. McCarthy declared the day “Electric Vehicle Day” in the City of Schenectady. He extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the promotion of the event, including Schuyler Poukish, CEO of Livingston Energy Group, one of the co-hosts for the day.

Over 100 privately owned electric vehicles (EVs), encompassing over 40 different models, were displayed. The owners showcased their EVs and shared their experiences enthusiastically with all attendees. Further adding to the excitement, there were opportunities for test drives facilitated by Tesla, Albany Auto Group, and McGovern Volvo Cars Albany.

“Schenectady was honored to be named EV City of the Year by the Electric Vehicle Association thanks to our efforts adding electric vehicles to our municipal fleet, installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the city, and holding the largest event in the country last year, and again this year, as part of National Drive Electric Week,” Mayor Gary McCarthy said. “The Electric City has a proud and rich history of innovation, and we are committed to continuing to invest and promote clean energy and sustainability to help combat climate change.”

Noteable community organizations, state agencies, and EV driver groups participated

The array of participants and vendors at the show was impressive. The list included notable state agencies, community organizations, and dedicated EV driver groups, all sharing the same vision of a sustainable future. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the Capital District Transportation Authority were in attendance, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to green transportation initiatives. Hudson Valley Community College also made its presence felt, underscoring the role of educational institutions in shaping a greener future at EV events. WEQX 102.7 FM broadcasted the event live.

Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA said, “We are proud of our partnership with the City of Schenectady under our Clean Energy Communities program, and as a municipal leader they have taken tangible steps to show that driving clean and energy efficiency are at the heart of a vibrant city. National Drive Electric Week is the ideal opportunity to highlight their actions on adopting clean fleets, installing EV chargers, and reducing energy use to lower climate emissions and create a greener future in the Capital Region.”

Well-known companies showcased sustainable solutions

Prominent businesses such as Nautilus Solar Energy, LLC, and National Grid were also there, showcasing their latest eco-friendly solutions and innovations. Sunrise Management, a company known for its sustainable energy projects, also participated, sharing insights about their initiatives.

Eric LaMora, Executive Director of Community Solar for Nautilus Solar Energy said, “Nautilus Solar Energy is excited to sponsor the National Electric Vehicle Association because we believe in a future where the sun not only powers our homes but also our journeys. Together, we are ensuring New Yorkers can easily access clean energy, driving a sustainable world forward.”

Mach-E Vlog EV influencers Liv Leigh and Patrick Anderson spoke with attendees

A special event highlight was the presence of Liv Leigh and Patrick Anderson, well-known EV influencers who run a Mach-E Vlog on YouTube with over a million views, as of October 2023. Their attendance further elevated the event’s status, adding an element of celebrity and attracting more visitors. Their experiences and insights were invaluable, making the entire event more engaging and informative. Visit EVexplored.com for more information.

Livingston Energy Group, a leading nationwide electric vehicle (EV) charging station provider, supported the event

Livingston Energy Group co-hosted the NY Capital District Drive Electric Week & Sustainability Fair. Livingston has been a leading solution provider since 2016, offering a comprehensive suite of turnkey services and equipment for the installation and management of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across North America. The company helps fleet operators and facility managers of agencies, utilities, municipalities, and commercial properties establish private and public charging solutions. The company equips clients with an array of Level 2 and DCFC (L3) charging equipment, along with custom software solutions, and is well-positioned to meet the needs of rapidly growing electric fleets around the nation. Livingston’s overriding aim is to promote the adoption of increasingly efficient technologies, reduce overall energy consumption, and minimize upfront investments, thereby generating substantial savings in operating expenses for its clients.

Schuyler Poukish, CEO of Livingston Energy Group/Lynkwell said, “Livingston Energy Group and Lynkwell were founded on the principles of collaboration and engagement. Co- hosting this event offers our employees, customers, and partners a unique opportunity to share real-life experiences with our products and services. We’re also creating excitement and momentum around EVs, advancing our mission to drive large-scale adoption.”

Kate Kruk, President of the NY Capital District EVA and Event City Captain said, “Volunteers with the NY Capital District’s Electric Vehicle Association have been working year- round to bring together EV drivers, enthusiasts, and advocates to share their passion for E- mobility and sustainability. Collaborating with the City, the Greenmarket and Livingston Energy Group/Lynkwell enables our group to amplify our education and outreach efforts. We are proud to be showcasing the power and influence of the NY Capital Region as we lead the transition to sustainable transportation.”

Livingston Energy Group delivers a range of services encompassing project design, management, and financing. The company also provide funding assistance where necessary to minimize out-of-pocket investments and ongoing operating costs for its clients. Beyond its well-established charging station solutions, the company is actively engaged in hardware and software development targeted at enhancing user experiences for both station owners and drivers. As the company strives to build a robust EV charging network to benefit station owners, drivers, and all stakeholders, Livingston Energy Group is committed to pioneering the future of sustainable and cost-effective EV charging infrastructure across municipalities, workplaces, residential multi-unit dwellings, and other public areas. Request a review with a no-obligation application.