coppertalk

By Bob Weed, CDA Vice President OEM

During my tenure at the Copper Development Association, it’s been fascinating to watch the evolution of electric vehicle technology.  In May, I blogged about the use of copper in electric vehicles and the key actions that cities can take to support the growing use of EVs and plug-in hybrids.  The latest news on the subject comes from the Motor City, about the partnership between Detroit-based energy company DTE Energy and General Motors to provide EV drivers with more and more charging locations, including four plug-in stations in the parking structures at Detroit’s Metro Airport.

WCAA Board Vice-Chair Sam Nouhan charging-up a Chevy Volt at Detroit Metro Airport’s Big Blue Deck.

DTE Energy spokesman Scott Simons says that the new technology will be available within the next two or three weeks.  “You’ll just park like you would in any normal parking spot.  Then you plug in and take off on your trip.  When you come back, your vehicle will be fully charged.”  He adds that the four stations will become more numerous as more people begin driving electric vehicles.  The charge-up is free, as the airport will be absorbing the cost, says Simons.

These developments are further proof of the rapid rise in the adoption of vehicle electrification.  But often, when I talk to people about electric vehicles, I still hear this question: “How would I charge it on the road?”  Every day, that question is being answered in more places all over the country.  The U.S. Department of Energy provides a comprehensive list of charging stations, complete with addresses, maps and phone numbers.  One day soon, they’ll be as common as gas stations.  But more convenient, with charging available at work, shopping areas and parking structures. Making electric propulsion cheaper, cleaner and greener!

Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, Marketing & Renewables, speaking at the media launch for Detroit Metro Airport’s new Plug-In Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, with WCAA Interim CEO Genelle M. Allen, WCAA Board Vice-Chair Sam Nouhan and WCAA Director of Facilities and Infrastructure Ali Dib.