As we prepare for our upcoming Clean Air Vehicle Ride & Drive on Saturday, March 14th, we asked our local co-hosts to share what excites them most and why these events matter for clean air in Santa Barbara County.
What are you most excited about the community to experience at this upcoming Clean Air Vehicle Ride & Drive event?
We’re most excited for people to get real, hands-on experience with electric vehicles and real incentive support at the same time. Test driving an EV is powerful on its own but pairing that with free Driving Clean Assistance Program application help, incentive guidance, and one-on-one conversations removes a lot of the guesswork. People leave not just excited, but informed and empowered to take the next step.
What do you think will surprise people most when they attend?
Many people are surprised by how affordable EVs can actually be once incentives are applied, and how simple they are to drive and maintain. Between the incentives, free application assistance, and the driving experience itself, people often walk away realizing an EV is much more within reach than they thought.
Why are events like this important for expanding access to clean transportation?
Because access isn’t just about technology, it’s about information, trust, and 1:1 support. Ride & Drives break down barriers by offering real-world experience, clear guidance on incentives, and human connection. For many people, this is the first time clean transportation feels approachable, affordable, and designed with them in mind.