FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Cole Newsome
(919) 223-8588
cnewsome@causecp.org
Virginia Beach Leaders and EV Advocates Highlight Economic, National Security, and Public Health Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Event is part of the national “Freedom to Drive” series spotlighting how EVs are powering American jobs, consumer savings, and energy independence
Virginia Beach, VA – Today, local leaders, electric vehicle (EV) advocates, business representatives, and elected officials gathered for a press conference to highlight how electric vehicles are helping power Virginia’s economy, improve public health, and strengthen American energy independence. The event is part of the national Freedom to Drive tour—a summer series spotlighting how EVs are delivering savings, innovation, and freedom of choice for American drivers.
Speakers underscored how EVs are creating good-paying jobs by driving job growth across multiple sectors, providing consumer savings, reducing pollution, and strengthening national security, and why recent rollbacks by Congress and actions by the EPA threaten to reverse this progress.
Delegate Michael B. Feggans (97th District) emphasized the national security and energy implications of EV adoption. “The transition to electric vehicles is not just a huge economic opportunity, it’s also a matter of energy security,” said Delegate Feggans. “Supporting EV policies means strengthening American independence, reducing our exposure to volatile global oil markets, and powering homegrown innovation in Virginia’s coastal communities. We’re calling on Congress to support the EV industry and preserve these gains.”
Alleyn Harned, executive director of Virginia Clean Cities, spoke on the consumer benefits of electric vehicles. “Electric vehicles deliver savings for consumers, with lower fueling and maintenance costs and more fun compared to gasoline, or diesel” said Harned. “When paired with smart policy and accessible charging infrastructure, EV adoption becomes a financial win for households and local businesses alike. Supporting clean vehicles means cleaner air and more money in Virginia drivers’ pockets.”
Judson Clements, owner of GoGreen Electric,highlighted the economic and workforce benefits tied to EV infrastructure. “Scaling up EV charging infrastructure is about cleaner transportation, but just as importantly, it is a fantastic way to build and support a local workforce,” said Clements. “With rising demand for installation and electrical services, this sector is creating skilled jobs and supporting businesses across the region. Investing in EV infrastructure means investing in Virginia workers and long-term economic strength.”
In closing, speakers urged Congress to protect and reinstate federal investments in electric vehicles, emphasizing the risks to local jobs, public health, and long-term energy security if recent progress is reversed.
A recording of the event is available upon request.
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Recording:
https://youtu.be/rmdfDiXYmyU