Meet Christi Cabrera-Georgeson, Deputy Director for the Nevada Conservation League and a Nevada resident whose journey into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) was fueled by a combination of her career in conservation and personal experiences. Living in Reno, Nevada, she witnessed the impact of transportation-related pollution during winter inversions — when tailpipe emissions in the air become stagnant and affect air quality and public health. The environmental and health benefits of EVs, coupled with the thrill and ease of driving one played a significant role in her decision; and as an outdoor enthusiast, the promise of exploring the mountains in an all-wheel-drive EV sealed the deal for Christi.
Federal clean energy incentives are here & Christi seized this opportunity!
Navigating the federal clean energy incentives was a crucial part of Christi’s EV journey. Christi strategically capitalized on the federal tax credit for new EVs of $7,500. As a single-income household with her partner enrolled in a graduate program, the tax credit played a pivotal role in making the EV purchase financially viable. After a few test runs, and knowing she needed an all-wheel drive vehicle for snowy conditions, she made the decision to take home the Volkswagen all-electric ID.4 model.
Nevadans can seize this opportunity, too. Learn more:
Purchasing A New Electric Vehicle (Section 30D)
- Tax Credit: Up to $7,500 off
- Eligibility: Certain electric vehicles for households below specified income thresholds
- Detailed information about eligibility requirements (income, critical mineral and battery requirements, and manufacturer-suggested retail price) is available here.
Purchasing A Used Electric Vehicle (Section 25E)
- Tax Credit: Up to $4,000 off
- Eligibility: Income and vehicle price limits apply
- Detailed information about qualified vehicles, income eligibility, and more is available here.
“That was a huge factor, plus it’s American-made,” says Christi. “My EV gives us just as much as we got from my old vehicle. The difference is my EV was $7,500 cheaper because of that tax credit. So on top of all the health benefits and all the reasons I love my car, it also made economical sense because of that tax incentive.”
Christi’s decision to adopt an electric vehicle had a ripple effect within her family and community. Initially skeptical, her father-in-law quickly became a fan after test driving a Tesla. With the positive responses from friends and neighbors, it’s clear there is a growing interest and excitement for EVs.
Charging Made Easy
Thanks to growing investments in charging infrastructure, charging an electric vehicle has evolved into a more user-friendly process, debunking common misconceptions associated with “range anxiety.” Even in a region with developing infrastructure, Christi is loving the ease and affordability of charging her vehicle.
“Typically, I locate available chargers using apps like PlugShare,” says Christi. “Once parked, I connect my EV to the charging station using the appropriate plug. When I’m connected, the charging session commences. The great thing is I can monitor the progress through real-time updates on my phone or the charging station’s display. This process is not complicated at all.”
Whether utilizing fast chargers at Electrify America stations, conveniently facilitated through a user-friendly app, or opting for Level 2 charging at home, the process integrates seamlessly into daily life. With various apps like PlugShare providing real-time information on charger availability, location, and even user comments, EV owners can plan their charging sessions more easily. The simplicity of plugging in at home or exploring new areas during charging stops, as Christi attests, makes the overall experience akin to traditional refueling, but with a smaller price tag.
Cleaner Transportation for Cleaner Air
In the pursuit of a cleaner future through electric vehicles, Christi says it’s essential to consider equity and ensure that the transition includes those most affected by poor air quality and climate change-fueled events. Low-income and communities of color disproportionately bear the brunt of pollution and environmental degradation.
“The shift to electric transportation presents an opportunity to address these disparities by strategically placing charging infrastructure in underserved areas,” says Christi. “By prioritizing accessibility to EVs, especially in neighborhoods facing poor air quality, we can not only clean up our air, but also promote a just transition to clean transportation. Education of federal incentives and having more affordable EV options can play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive and environmentally conscious electric future.”
Transportation remains the largest sector of GHG emissions in Nevada and is responsible for about 28% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, Nevada’s most populated counties receive failing grades from the American Lung Association. That’s why Nevadans like Christi feel good about being an EV driver. Vehicle electrification has the potential to significantly reduce air pollutant emissions, improve air quality, improve public health, and mitigate the growing effects of climate change — especially if investments reach communities most affected.
The Road Ahead
Christi’s journey goes to show the positive impact our nation’s Clean Energy Plan is having on EV adoption — and in the long run, our planet. Christi passionately advocates for people to experience EVs firsthand, recommending ride-and-drive events and dealership test drives. You can find a local event near you here. Her belief in the “butts in seats” concept, where Nevadans become enthusiasts after driving an EV, gives us a glimpse into the benefits awaiting those willing to embrace the electric future!