Colorado is EV Ready
With an increasing number of public charging stations across the state, driving an electric vehicle in Colorado is becoming more convenient than ever before. Whether you’re looking for EV road trip ideas, the latest local Ride and Drive events, or to explore the many EV-friendly communities and charging options, we’ve got you covered with the latest EV news.
COMMUNITY FEATURES
The Colorado Sun – Clean-car sales jump 10% as Coloradans lean on state, federal and utility rebates
Colorado is accelerating toward a cleaner future! With robust state, federal, and utility rebates, nearly 40% of new car registrations in the third quarter of 2024 were clean vehicles, with fully electric cars making up almost 22%—a clear sign that Coloradans are embracing EVs like never before!
Autoblog – The end of gas cars? EV adoption accelerates across America
Good news! The gap between gas-powered car sales and EV sales appears to be shrinking, with Colorado paying a key role in driving increased EV sales!
Colorado.gov – Colorado Currently Ranked 2nd in National Electric Vehicle Sales in 2024
Colorado is leading the charge in clean transportation! According to the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association, the state is now ranked as 2nd in the nation in electric vehicle (EV) sales in 2024.
Drive Clean Colorado – Ready Foods Celebrates New Workplace EV Chargers with Ribbon Cutting Event
Colorado businesses can also do their part to make the state more EV friendly. Ready Foods recently celebrated the installation of three new electric vehicle charging ports at their workplace.
Steamboat Pilot & Today – Colorado Parks and Wildlife adds two EV charging stations at Steamboat Lake
Exploring the beauty of Colorado in an EV just got even easier! Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced it has added two more Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations at Steamboat Lake State Park.
KJCT News – Delta County completes EV infrastructure project
Delta County is fully ready for EV tourists! The county has completed its EV Infrastructure Project, installing its final charging station in the North Fork Valley in Crawford.
Snow Brains – How Electric Vehicles are Transforming the American Ski Industry
Colorado is leading the way in making skiing more friendly for EV drivers. Learn which resorts offer the best EV charging options!
Electrek – US Treasury released EV charger tax credit guidance – here’s how to find out if you qualify
Figuring out which EV-related tax credits you are eligible for can be confusing. To make things easier, the US Treasury has released new guidance around who qualifies for the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit.
Transportation Today – Colorado awards $31.7M to ease transition to electric vehicles
The future for EVs in Colorado is looking bright! The Colorado Department of Transportation recently awarded $31.7 million in grants to help local governments, nonprofit organizations and service providers transition to electric vehicles.
The Tribune – Charging stations for electric vehicles now open in Palmer Lake
Calling all EV drivers to Palmer Lake! Newly installed DC Fast Chargers are now up and running.
The Colorado Sun – Colorado reseeding $6,000 cash for clunkers program with extra $9 million to boost EV purchases
Colorado is increasing access to EVs by increasing funding to the state’s popular Vehicle Exchange Colorado initiative by 60%. The program, which allows qualified Coloradans to recycle and replace their old or high-emitting vehicles with EVs, makes upgrading to an EV even more affordable.
Charged EV Fleet & Infrastructure News – Pueblo, Colorado deploys off-grid, solar-powered EV charging systems
The City of Pueblo has installed new solar-powered EV charging systems, which are available for the general public to use, in addition to the Pueblo Police Department, Parks and Recreation and the Fleet Department.
The Denver Gazette – Jefferson County libraries install EV charging stations
Jefferson County is making EV charging more accessible! The county has now installed charging stations at two of its libraries.
Environment America – America’s best places to recharge
Thanks to an increase in charging infrastructure, driving an EV no longer means missing out on some of America’s most amazing national and state parks - including in Colorado. Learn why there’s never been an easier time to explore America’s natural beauty via an EV!
Post Independent – Garfield County Clean Energy approves electric vehicle plan
Garfield County is paving the way for an EV future! To help prepare for the transition to EVs, the county approved an EV Readiness and Action Plan that focuses on EV charging infrastructure, equitable EV access and more.
CNET – Is EV Charging Cheaper Than Gasoline? Here's What the Math and Experts Say
Worried EV charging may cost more than filling up a gas-powered vehicle? According to experts, EV charging is actually less expensive based on US averages.
Powder – Frisco Unveils EV Carshare Program
Interested in driving electric, but not ready to commit yet? Get the scoop on how the city of Frisco is increasing access to EVs with its new EV carshare program.
The Aspen Times – Aspen announces first phase completion of Koch Park Revitalization Project
Aspen is more EV-friendly thanks to the Koch Park Revitalization Project! Learn about the project and new charging stations in the area!
Automotive News – EVs cost less long-term than ICE vehicles in most states
Comparing the sticker prices of EV and gas-powered cars doesn't tell the full story. According to J.D. Power, EVs cost less long-term in almost every state - including Colorado!
Fruita.org – City of Fruita Opens Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Stations
New EV charging stations are popping up all over Colorado! The city of Fruita recently opened its first fast charging stations.
CPR.org – How a Boulder resident bought a used EV for less than $700
Did you know there are EV rebates designed specifically for lower-income drivers? Learn how one Boulder resident purchased a used EV for under $700.
Denver Post – Travel: Explore Colorado’s electric byways on an EV road trip
Don't let range anxiety stop you from exploring Colorado in an EV this summer! Seventeen of the state's scenic byways now have charging stations within 100 miles.
Colorado Community Media – Arapahoe County planning for an increase in electric vehicles
EV adoption in Colorado isn't stopping anytime soon! And to better accommodate the growing demand for EVs, Arapahoe County recently adopted a new Regional Electric Vehicle Action Plan.
Fox 21 News – Pueblo installs public solar-powered EV charging stations
Heads up Pueblo! To better meet the growing needs of EV drivers, the city has installed two new publicly accessible charging stations.
AFAR – 4 Great EV Road Trips in the U.S. Chosen By Electric Car Experts
The great American road trip is evolving thanks to the rise of electric vehicles and the Colorado Rockies to Glenwood Canyon has been selected as one of the top EV road trips routes in the United States!
The Center Square – City of Denver spends $10.9M on solar carports with charging stations
To get more EV drivers on the road, increasing access to charging is critical - and now high schools are joining in the effort! The Denver City Council recently approved $10.9 million to install solar carports with EV charging stations at four local high schools.
The Travel – 7 Best States For Renting An EV For A Road Trip
Consider renting an EV for your next Colorado road trip adventure! Colorado's investment in charging stations along some of its most scenic routes make it one of the best states for eco-friendly road tripping.
Denverite – A dozen fast-charging EV stations are coming to the Denver area. Here’s where to find them
The growth of charging stations in Colorado cannot be contained! Thanks to a $21 million investment, 46 new fast charging stations will be popping up across the state - 12 of which will be in the Denver area.
USA Today – This new Google Maps feature is game changer for EV drivers
Just in time for summer driving, Google Maps is rolling out new features to make road tripping in your EV a breeze, including suggesting the best charging stations to stop at along your route.
The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel – More state-funded EV stations coming
The Grand Valley is to see two new fast-charging stations for electric vehicles thanks to a $21 million state grant to add 290 more such stations around the state. The grants are part of a $5 billion multi-year effort nationally to create an EV charging network. Over the next five years, Colorado’s portion of that is about $57 million.
Axios – How Colorado's EV charging stations stack up nationwide
Colorado is a hot spot for electric vehicles, standings as an anomaly for EV use that's largely popular in the "four corners" of the U.S. Between the lines: Boulder County had the highest EV usage among larger counties in Colorado, with 816 electric miles per 1,000 residents, according to data from mobility analytics platform Replica.
Colorado Sun – Colorado pumps $21 million into fast-charger expansion for electric vehicles
Colorado will spend $21 million to expand fast charging networks for electric vehicles throughout the state, with new grants awarded for 46 sites encompassing 290 charging ports, state officials announced Thursday. The expansion will boost Colorado’s existing public fast chargers by nearly 30%.
KOAA – Denver Auto Show returns with focus on electric vehicles
Buckle up! The Denver Auto Show is back in town with old classics, futuristic rides and an electric vehicle test track!
Smart Cities Dive – How 3 states are attacking carbon emissions from transportation
Colorado plans to cut 12.7 million tons of carbon emissions from transportation by 2030, relying on low- and zero-emission vehicles for nearly half that reduction. Other measures it’s taking include transit-oriented development, increasing residential density, reducing parking supply, and developing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.
Colorado Hometown Weekly – Boulder County receives $4.9 million to expand electric vehicle charging stations
The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded $4.9 million to Boulder County to increase public access to electric vehicle charging stations. The county plans to extend stations to areas it determines have the greatest need, such as rural areas, mobile home communities and neighborhoods heavily populated with apartments and condos.
Longmont Leader – $8.3M grant to support EV charging infrastructure in Colorado
The Colorado Department of Transportation was awarded a $8.3 million grant that will support maintenance for up to 363 electric vehicle charger ports in as many as 197 locations statewide. Colorado's 2023 EV Plan seeks to increase the number of charging ports installed to over 7500 by 2030.
POWDER – Colorado Working To Electrify Scenic Mountain Drives
The State of Colorado is in the process of designating many of the state's scenic byways—you know, those wonderful drives that link old towns via stunning landscapes—"Colorado Electric Byways."
AOL – States With the Most EV Fast Chargers – 2023 Study
Colorado ranked #7 in states with the most EV fast chargers - with 733 DC fast chargers recorded in 2022, a 25.9% increase from the year before, alongside a count of 1,788 EV charging stations.
9News – Study reveals perceptions of electric vehicles in Colorado
Coloradans are increasingly willing to consider buying electric vehicles. In a new report, EV Colorado found a significant shift in attitudes over the past three years.
ArsTechnica – Electric vehicles are better than gas-powered cars in winter—here’s why
This article walks through why a battery-electric vehicle provides a superior driving experience in cold and inclement weather to its internal combustion engine-powered counterparts.
Electrek – Historic: US EVs skyrocket past 1 million sales, up 50.7% YOY
In 2023, year-to-date US EV sales surpassed 1 million – the first time EV sales exceeded that threshold in a single sales year.
Post Independent – And just like that, electric vehicles are looking affordable
EV sales are increasing exponentially, a third of Americans say their next car will likely be electric, and the economics of buying an EV are becoming much more favorable. What’s more, new government incentives now make EVs more affordable for regular working folks.
NRDC – Colorado: A National Leader in Transportation and Climate
Colorado ranks seventh in the nation in its progress toward aligning transportation policy and spending with state and national climate goals, according to a new NRDC analysis. The Rocky Mountain state has advanced policies that prioritize investments in affordable and clean mobility choices, supported the transition to zero-emissions vehicles by rapidly deploying vehicle charging infrastructure throughout the state and adopted several impactful environmentally-conscious and equitable procurement practices.
Bloomberg – How to Boost EV Sales? Pay Drivers to Turn in Old Polluting Cars
Colorado drivers bought 9,446 electric vehicles in the most recent quarter - 45 of which were purchased through the state’s Vehicle Exchange Colorado program in September. Colorado’s VXC program, launched in late August, provides income-qualified Coloradans a rebate of $6,000 for a new EV or $4,000 for a used EV when their old or high-emitting gas or diesel vehicle is recycled.
KOAA – EVs are more affordable than ever: is now the time to buy?
Should you start plugging in? That's the question more and more drivers are considering these days, as more electric vehicles hit the streets, with generous tax credits continuing into 2024 and automakers cutting prices on some EVs.
Hispanic Business TV – Colorado is an electric vehicle hotspot
Although much of the country’s electric vehicle use is concentrated in the “four corners” of California, the Pacific Northwest, the Northeast and the Southeast, Colorado is a glaring exception, according to data shared with Axios.
Denver Gazette – With robust rebates, Colorado surges ahead of national pack on electric vehicle sales
New data show that Colorado is slightly ahead of the national average in adopting electric vehicles, which car experts attribute to robust rebates in the state.
CBS News – CDOT wants more EVs added to fleet of cars
The Colorado Department of Transportation has the future in mind as it wants to add more EVs to its fleet of cars. Whereas gas-powered vehicles are expected to last 7-10 years in fleet, the state anticipates electric vehicles will last 10-20 years because less maintenance is required.
CBS News – Students in Colorado help the global effort to make electric vehicles better
Colorado is emerging as one of the leading electric vehicle states in the U.S. and now students are helping with the global effort.
CBS News – Colorado tells automakers it wants one million electric or zero-emission vehicles on its roads by 2030
Colorado renewed and expanded its mandate for electric vehicles to take over the state new car market in coming years, passing a requirement for EVs to make up 82% of dealer lots by 2032.
Bloomberg – It's Done. The Future Is Battery-Powered Electric Cars
All of the major automakers are taking the plunge on EVs, which is driving down prices and expanding available options. Globally, this year will see more than 14 million electric cars sold, according to BloombergNEF, compared with just 700,000 in 2016.
The Colorado Sun – Federal electric vehicle tax credit change will turbocharge Colorado sales, local officials say
Starting in January, you can get $7,500 in federal tax credits off the price of an eligible electric vehicle at the time of purchase. Combined with Colorado's $5,000 state tax credit, you can save up to $12,500 when you purchase or lease a new EV, making it more affordable than ever to #driveelectric.
Yahoo! Finance – From Isolation To Electrification: Route 50's EV Evolution Sees Thousands Of New Charging Stations
Four high-speed EV chargers have been installed along Route 50 at the Lamar, Colorado welcome center, enabling fast and convenient EV travel in this rural part of the state and region.
KRDO – Colorado Springs car dealership connects EVs to keep the power on following fire
Despite having no power following a fire that ripped through the parts department earlier this week, Phil Long Kia is harnessing the power of their own electric vehicles to stay open.
Retail Customer Experience – Love’s Travel Stops installing EV charging stations in Pennsylvania, Colorado
Love's Travel Stops will install EV charging stations at eight locations in Pennsylvania and Colorado after securing $4.8 million in federal funds.
The Colorado Sun – Colorado revives “cash for clunkers,” offers $6,000 for an old car you trade for an EV
Vehicle Exchange Colorado offers $6,000 toward a qualifying new or leased electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or $4,000 off a used EV, when applicants turn in an older fossil-fuel powered car.
Government Technology – Colorado Springs, Colo., Expands Its Clean Energy Toolkit
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently unveiled a significant funding initiative, allocating up to $25 million through a Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) partnership program. Colorado Springs, Colo., was one of the cities chosen for the C2C partnerships program.
EESI – Colorado Boosts Emission Reduction Goals and Climate Tax Incentives
Through a series of laws passed by its legislature in May, Colorado ramped up its emission reduction goals. By making electric vehicles more appealing, the law will help to address emissions from Colorado’s largest source of greenhouse gases, the transportation sector.
Fox 21 – EV Expo and Guest Drive electrifies Pueblo
The Ready EV Electric Car Expo and Guest Drive event electrified the community on August 5 by featuring several electric vehicles from local partners and Drive Clean Colorado, including a Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Chevrolet Bolt and Nissan Leaf.
KOAA – New charging options available for electric vehicles in Manitou Springs
Five new electric vehicle chargers have been installed at Hiawatha Gardens. Four of the chargers are Type 2 dual-port chargers and one is a Type 3 DC fast charger, which can fully charge a vehicle in 25-30 minutes.
Colorado Public Radio – Thinking of buying an electric car in Colorado? You could soon get $26,500 in discounts
CPR’s guide to all of Colorado’s current and upcoming electric vehicle discounts, which could soon save you a head-spinning $26,500!
ACEEE – Colorado ranks third nationally for EV action, just behind CA and NY!
Electric vehicles (EVs) play a critical role in reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and public health, and achieving ambitious climate goals. Here’s how Colorado stands nationally.
KGNU – Everything You Need to Know About Colorado’s New EV Tax Credit
Here’s everything you need to know about Colorado’s new $5,000 state tax credit, additional federal rebates, the duration of state tax credits, the availability of charging stations across the state, and more.
The Colorado Sun – Colorado gearheads are turning classic cars into electric vehicles
From a spacesuit engineer to an auto electrician, Coloradans are reviving auto classics into battery-powered wonders
Colorado Public Radio – Colorado’s electric vehicle tax credit is now worth $5,000
It’s official: Colorado has the country’s most generous electric vehicle tax credit available to all residents.
Electrek – Colorado’s new EV state tax credits are fantastic
Colorado is trailblazing with a new law that ramps up impressive EV state tax credits for both purchases and leases.
Fox21 – How the new guidelines for EV tax credits work
Tax information can be complex, so it’s always a good idea to consult with your accountant to see if you qualify for tax credits. Here’s a breakdown of the new guidelines for federal tax credits on electric vehicle to give you a clearer picture.
9News – Colorado Teardrops creating EV camping trailer
Colorado Teardrops in Boulder is building campers that can charge electric vehicles and power a house in an emergency.
Westword – How the Environment Fared in Colorado's 2023 Legislature and What It Means for You
The 2023 Colorado legislative session included the passage of numerous environmental bills, with topics ranging from water to electric vehicles.
Jefferson County News Flash – Jefferson County Awarded Grant to Install EV Charging Stations
The funding will support the installation of five Level-2, dual-port EV charging stations on property owned by Jefferson County.
High Country Shopper – Delta County Receives $153K for Direct Charging Fast Electric Vehicle Stations
By the end of 2023, Delta County will have three DCFC electric vehicle charging stations installed, providing additional assurance to both Delta County locals and travelers along the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway.
Westword – Plugging Into Denver's Historic Relationship With Electric Cars
While gas-powered vehicles had a clear advantage for refueling as gas stations began opening, Denver was the only place in the early 1900s where recharging stations for electric cars were common.
9News – Colorado pushes for more electric cars on the road in new plan
The 2023 plan calls for a quarter of all new cars sold in Colorado to be electric by 2025. Market share for EVs has already increased to 10% in 2022 from 3.5% in 2019.
CBS4 – With state incentives, now may be the best time to buy an electric car in Colorado
In 2023, you can get a $2,000 state tax credit when you purchase a new electric vehicle, or $1,500 when you lease one. There's also a $7,500 federal tax credit, but requirements for that are set to change soon.
Eagle County – Eagle County offering funding support for EV station costs exceeding Charge Ahead Colorado grants
Eagle County is offering funding support in 2023 through the EV Accelerator program.
CPR – Got an old gas guzzler lying around? Colorado might pay you $6K to dump it for an EV
The state of Colorado is planning to launch a vehicle exchange program this summer that would shave thousands of dollars off the price of a new or used electric vehicle — if you’re willing to part with your current car.
KDVR – US EV trip lengths are way up, nearly equaling gasoline trips
The average length of trips done in electric vehicles has been going up, and it may equal internal-combustion vehicle trip lengths within the next 18 months.
Recurrent Auto – Winter & Cold Weather EV Range Loss in 7,000 Cars
Recurrent Auto conducted a study to determine how much range EVs lose in cold weather driving (between 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit).
ABC7 – Denver chosen for launch of 'Hertz Electrifies' investment in electric vehicles, charging stations
Hertz rental car company will be bringing up to 5,200 more EVs to the Denver metro area for customers and rideshare drivers. This could be a great way to try an EV out for a day!
KUNC – Rural Colorado and the push to electrify roadways
There’s a concerted effort among local businesses and utility companies to bring EV charging stations to the state’s more rural areas.
Denver Post – Higher gasoline prices gave electric vehicle sales a huge jolt in Colorado last year
Registrations of battery-powered electric vehicles in Colorado jumped more than 50 percent in 2022, now making up 1 of every ten new vehicles sold!
MotorTrend – You’re Being Lied To About Electric Cars
Jonny Lieberman at MotorTrends summarizes a handful of studies that confirm that EVs, even when charged with electricity from coal, are more environmentally friendly than gas-powered vehicles.
New Charging Stations on the Western Slope
Gunnison County Electric Association recently partnered with the National Parks Service and Rivian to install a DC fast charger and a level 2 charger at the Lake Fork Campground. This is the first DC fast charger on NPS land in Colorado!
Tax incentives can help Coloradans afford electric vehicles, but that help is being reduced next year
The Colorado Energy Office’s Carrie Atiyeh explains to CBS4’s Olivia Young the benefits that Coloradans can experience when they make the switch to an EV.
Colorado co-op launches EV charging pilot program for residential members
United Power, which is based in Brighton, is piloting an at-home EV charging program to help make the upfront costs of having at-home charging cheaper!
Pueblo receives grant from Colorado Energy Office for electric vehicle charging stations
The City of Pueblo was recently awarded a grant to install five Level 2 charging stations at downtown parking garages and a fast-charging station at the airport!
The best US road trips for electric cars in 2022: go on a long journey with your EV
We’re thrilled that our friend John Garry at Lonely Planet included the trip from Denver to Aspen as a part of his favorite EV road trips across America! This trip is so easy in an EV because of the ample charging station options along the route.
7 leaf peeping road trips perfect for electric vehicles
Want to see the fall foliage before it’s all gone? Check out this quick guide from 5280.com’s Nicholas Hunt on navigating charging stations, a Q&A with the Western Colorado EV Club, and different EV truck options to consider for your next vehicle.