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Summary
On this episode we talk with Steve Gutmann and Robert Wallace about making electric vehicles practical, affordable, and appealing for rural drivers through the new EVMath program. Drawing from their work on agricultural electrification and hands-on experience with EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Rivian, and Ford F-150 Lightning, Steve and Robert share how low rural electricity rates, high gas prices, and at-home charging can make EV ownership cheaper than running a diesel pickup—often with fuel savings exceeding the monthly payment. They discuss the eFarms program’s real-world testing of electric farm equipment, the surprising utility and range of EVs in remote areas, and the potential of vehicle-to-home power for resilience during outages. With EVMath’s online calculator, case studies, and resources, rural residents can see exactly how switching to electric can save money, increase convenience, and keep more energy dollars in their communities.
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Takeaways
1. Rural EV Ownership Can Slash Driving Costs by 80% or More
Robert Wallace’s switch from a diesel pickup to a used Tesla Model 3 dropped his fuel cost from over 20¢ per mile to just 2–3¢ per mile—proving EVs can dramatically reduce transportation expenses in rural communities.
2. EVs Offer Surprising Utility for Country Living
From hauling livestock feed and farm tools to loading up 50-pound bags of dog food, EVs like the Tesla Model 3 have unexpected cargo space and functionality that rival or exceed many gas-powered vehicles.
3. Electric Farm Equipment Brings Big Advantages Beyond Zero Emissions
Programs like eFarms are putting electric tractors, trucks, and side-by-sides into the hands of farmers—offering quiet operation, instant torque, and even mobile power for running irrigation pumps in remote fields.
4. Destination Charging Can Be More Useful Than DC Fast Charging
For many rural drivers, Level 2 chargers at hotels, workplaces, or meeting locations are more than enough to recharge during the day—reducing the need for constant DC fast charger access.
5. EVs Improve Reliability in Remote Areas
In rural Oregon, fuel stations can be 40 miles away and have limited hours. Home charging ensures a “full tank” every morning, eliminating the risk of being stranded or delayed due to fuel access.
6. Vehicle-to-Home Power Could Be a Game-Changer for Rural Resilience
Pickup EVs with large battery packs can power essential farm equipment, well pumps, and refrigeration during outages—an especially valuable feature during wildfire season or severe weather events.
7. Used EVs and Federal Tax Credits Make Electrification Affordable
Robert purchased his 2018 Tesla Model 3 for just $21,000 after applying the federal used EV tax credit—showing that the used EV market is opening doors for budget-conscious rural drivers.
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
Industry experts Matt Teske (Chargeway), Loren McDonald (Paren), and John McElroy (Autoline Network) join host Chase to tackle the most pressing myths and realities in EV charging. They break down the surprising growth in U.S. charging infrastructure, challenge the mainstream narrative that EV adoption is stalling, and highlight why better communication—not just better technology—is critical for the next wave of EV buyers. From fast-charging expansion and policy headwinds to automaker struggles and the impact of leasing and used EVs, this episode is packed with insight for anyone navigating the future of clean transportation.
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Links from this Episode
Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
Dawn Neville, PSE&G's Manager of Electric Transportation, shares how New Jersey’s largest utility is scaling EV infrastructure through innovative programs, strategic grid investments, and a focus on equity. From supporting multi-unit dwelling charging to enabling fleet electrification, Dawn breaks down how PSE&G is preparing the grid for mass EV adoption while ensuring access for all communities. Whether you're in policy, utilities, or EV deployment, this episode delivers actionable insights into the future of clean transportation.
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Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
We sit down with David Tyler, Co-Founder and Managing Director of North America at Artemis Technologies, to explore how electric hydrofoil vessels are revolutionizing maritime transit. Spun out of the America’s Cup, Artemis is applying cutting-edge racing tech to build fast, zero-emission ferries that drastically cut energy use, eliminate diesel fumes, and make commuting by water quieter, smoother, and more efficient. We dive into vessel design, charging infrastructure, and the role of ferries in sustainable urban mobility, with real-world examples from San Francisco, New York, and beyond.
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Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
We sit down with Gabe Klein, Chair of the Advisory Board at Paren and former Executive Director of the U.S. Joint Office of Energy & Transportation, alongside Paren CEO Florent Breton and Chief Analyst Loren McDonald. The conversation explores how Paren is bringing much-needed transparency, standardization, and real-time data to the EV charging ecosystem—tracking over 140 million charging events this year alone. The team breaks down the shift from fragmented infrastructure to a scalable, user-centered network, shares insights from automakers and charge point operators, and outlines how better data can drive better business decisions, improve reliability, and help EV adoption reach critical mass.
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Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
Aubrey Gunnels, CEO of 3V Infrastructure, joins us to explore how strategic, data-driven infrastructure is key to overcoming the "charging deserts" that currently challenge EV adoption. Aubrey highlights practical ways 3V Infrastructure leverages partnerships, advanced analytics, and scalable deployment models to accelerate charging station availability and reliability. He also discusses critical lessons learned from real-world deployments, insights into navigating policy hurdles, and the importance of community-driven solutions to foster equitable access to clean transportation. This episode offers essential perspectives for anyone interested in the intersection of electric vehicles, infrastructure innovation, and sustainable growth.
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Takeaways:
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
We kick off season 7 of Grid Connections with Tom McCalmont, CEO of Paired Power, breaks down how microgrid EV charging—powered by solar and supported by intelligent load management and battery storage—is reshaping the future of clean transportation. Tom walks us through Paired Power’s live design and monitoring platform, Periscope, showing how organizations can reduce energy costs by over 80%, overcome grid constraints, and even enable bidirectional charging. From pop-up solar canopies to large-scale fleet solutions, Tom shares how their flexible systems offer resilience, cost savings, and reliability for workplaces, remote sites, and fleet operators alike. Whether you're an EV driver, site host, or clean energy advocate, this conversation is a deep dive into the real-world benefits of solar-powered charging infrastructure.
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Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
If you care about the future of EV charging — whether you're deploying stations, investing in infrastructure, or just want a smoother road trip experience — this episode is a must-watch. Rohan Puri, CEO of Stable, breaks down why most charging sites underperform, how data-driven decisions can dramatically improve ROI, and what it takes to build a network that’s both profitable and user-friendly. From dynamic pricing strategies and rideshare trends to a vision of vehicles bidding for the best charge, this conversation reveals what’s really shaping the next wave of EV infrastructure. Don’t miss it — the insights here could change how you think about the entire charging ecosystem.
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Takeaways
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
If you want to understand where EV charging is really headed—and why the next wave of growth will be driven by data, reliability, and retail giants like Walmart—this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. Loren McDonald and Bill Ferro of Paren break down what they call “Charging 2.0”—a pivotal shift where charging infrastructure is no longer just about land grabs and incentives, but about real business models, driver experience, and uptime. From soaring urban utilization rates and rideshare demand to the J3400 transition and NEVI’s uncertain future, we explore the most important trends shaping EV infrastructure today. Whether you're in policy, fleet management, CPO operations, or just curious about the future of clean transportation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
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Takeaways
Links from Today's Episode
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
Summary
If you're curious about how electric vehicles can play a bigger role in stabilizing our power grid—and how drivers can actually get paid to charge smarter—this episode of Grid Connections is a must-listen. We sit down with Kendall Cody, Director of Marketing and Communications at WeaveGrid, to explore how their intelligent software is helping utilities and EV drivers work together to unlock cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable charging. From behind-the-scenes insights on utility partnerships to real-world examples of managed charging programs across California, Colorado, and Maryland, this episode offers a front-row seat to the future of grid-integrated EVs. Whether you're a utility professional, EV owner, policy advocate, or just passionate about clean energy innovation, you’ll leave this conversation with a clearer view of how software, data, and smart infrastructure are reshaping the electric mobility landscape.
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Takeaways
1. Why utility-backed EV incentives are more than just rebates
Kendall explains how WeaveGrid’s programs go beyond one-time perks, offering ongoing savings and rewards for EV owners who charge at optimal times.
2. The growing role of telematics in managed EV charging
Discover how direct API partnerships with automakers allow WeaveGrid to deliver seamless charging optimization—without compromising user privacy or vehicle control.
3. How AI detects EV ownership using smart meter data
WeaveGrid’s machine learning models can identify EVs at residential addresses just by analyzing electricity usage spikes—enabling smarter outreach and program design.
4. The equity challenge: Making EV programs accessible to all
Utilities are focused on ensuring managed charging doesn’t just benefit luxury EV owners. Learn how WeaveGrid helps broaden access across income levels and housing types.
5. Why multifamily housing is the next frontier in EV charging
WeaveGrid is launching new utility pilots to address the unique constraints of shared charging infrastructure in apartments and condos—unlocking untapped adoption potential.
6. How vehicle-to-home (V2H) may outpace vehicle-to-grid (V2G)
Kendall shares why using your EV to power your home during peak grid times may be more achievable (and practical) than sending energy back to the grid—at least for now.
7. What "invisible EV charging" could look like in the future
The future of managed charging may not involve apps or dashboards at all. WeaveGrid envisions fully integrated experiences directly inside automaker and utility apps—no extra logins, no new accounts, just clean charging in the background.
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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging
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