MTE's Plugged In

2 14

Join us as we navigate through the electric vehicle (EV) journey with Phillip Lim of MTE’s strategy team, alongside hosts Amy Byers and Brandon Wagner. In this episode, we uncover the inception, challenges, and triumphs of promoting EV adoption at MTE. From Phillip's personal immigration and career journey to the strategic shifts and innovations at MTE leading to a substantial EV adoption and support community, this episode is a deep dive into the transformative power of electric vehicles within the utility sector and beyond. Learn about the evolution of EV technology, the creation of the EV car club, employee EV engagement, and MTE's approach to being a resource and leader in the EV space.

00:46 Meet Phillip Lim: A Key Player in MTE's EV Journey

01:25 Phillip's Journey from Singapore to the EV Frontier

04:27 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles: A Personal Insight

05:55 Crafting MTE's EV Strategy: The Early Days

08:26 From EV Car Clubs to Workplace Charging: MTE's Milestones

12:43 Becoming a Trusted EV Resource: Challenges and Successes

24:10 Looking Ahead: Future EV Innovations and Strategies

27:25 Phillip's Legacy: Mentoring and Shaping the Future

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 13

EV Car Club member Tom Buckton is a retired U.S. Navy chief electronics technician and an EV enthusiast. Tom shares his experiences from a significant 2,500 mile trip in his Hyundai Ioniq 5, comparing it with his previous vehicle, the Bolt. He offers insights into planning long trips with EVs, the impact of weather on EV performance, and the advantages of electric over traditional gasoline vehicles. This episode is packed with valuable tips for EV owners and those considering making the switch, highlighting the ease of travel, charging accessibility, and dispelling common myths around EVs.

• 01:06 Introducing Tom Buckton: A Journey from Navy to EV Enthusiast
• 03:26 Tom's Transition to Electric Vehicles: From Bolt to Ioniq 5
• 07:39 Mastering EV Road Trips: Tom's Planning Process and Experience
• 10:32 Navigating Challenges and Embracing the EV Lifestyle
• 15:11 Back on the Interstate: A Journey Begins
• 15:31 Charging Challenges and Cold Weather Experiences
• 16:27 Maximizing Charge and Social Encounters at Charging Stations
• 18:40 Navigating Snow and the Benefits of Snow Mode
• 20:12 Family Encounters and Efficiency Comparisons
• 21:22 The Evolution of Charging Infrastructure
• 23:36 Unexpected Efficiency and the Heat Pump Advantage
• 27:15 Debunking Range Anxiety and Embracing EV Adventures
• 28:36 Community Engagement and the EV Car Club

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

A Better Route Planner: https://abetterrouteplanner.com/

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 12

In this episode of MTE's Plugged In Podcast, hosts Brandon Wagner and Amy Byers welcome Chris Jones, President and CEO of Middle Tennessee Electric, to discuss the evolution of MTE's services, the impactful role of broadband and EV initiatives, and the future of energy and technology in Middle Tennessee. Chris shares his journey from a communications coordinator to CEO, the company's commitment to member satisfaction, and their approach to embracing technological advancements for a better community experience. The conversation also delves into the strategic vision for MTE, the potential future of electric vehicles, and the importance of being opportunistic in the face of industry disruptions.

00:30 Special Guest Introduction: Chris Jones, President and CEO

01:42 Chris Jones: A Journey from Communications to CEO

03:42 The Evolution of MTE and Its Impact on Members

05:53 Vision and Strategy: Enhancing Member Satisfaction

07:17 Broadband Expansion: Meeting Member Needs Beyond Electricity

10:13 Embracing Industry Disruption: The EV Opportunity

13:19 Board's Role in Strategic Adaptation and Innovation

15:32 Balancing EV Opportunities and Concerns

19:57 Looking Forward: The Next Decade for MTE

23:07 Nuclear Energy Advisory: Shaping Tennessee's Future

25:34 Closing Thoughts and Resources for EV Enthusiasts

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 11

In this episode of the Plugged In Podcast, hosted by Middle Tennessee Electric, Brandon Wagner and Amy Byers welcome Quincy Lee, CEO of Electric Era. Lee discusses his journey from SpaceX to founding Electric Era, a company dedicated to building reliable, affordable, and easy-to-install EV fast charging stations. With a focus on technological innovations derived from spacecraft engineering, Lee elaborates on the features of Electric Era's charging stations, including their edge computing systems for autonomous on-site control, integration of energy storage systems to enhance grid compatibility, and proprietary software for comprehensive station management.

00:30 Special Guest Quincy Lee: The Journey from SpaceX to Electric Era

00:39 Innovating EV Fast Charging: Insights from Electric Era's CEO

01:45 From Space to EV Charging: The SpaceX Influence

04:36 The Technical Edge: How Electric Era is Revolutionizing EV Charging

17:57 The Future of Electric Vehicles: Predictions and Innovations

25:00 Electric Era's Expansion and Upcoming Projects

29:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

https://electriceratechnologies.com/

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 10

In this episode of Middle Tennessee Electric's Plugged In Podcast, host Amy Byers welcomes MTE's Denise Miller to discuss her recent experience joining the electric vehicle (EV) family with the purchase of a Nissan Ariya.

Denise shares her motivations for transitioning to an EV, her initial fears, and the impulsive decision that led to her purchase. She elaborates on the features she appreciates in her Ariya, such as its size, style, and driving experience, including the smooth ride, quietness, and technological aspects. The conversation also covers the purchasing process of an EV, advantages of leasing, and the utilization of an accompanying app for added convenience. Denise's journey highlights the joy and adjustments of adopting an EV lifestyle, aiming to inform and encourage listeners who are considering making the switch to electric vehicles.

00:00 Welcome to the Plugged In Podcast: Your Guide to Electric Vehicles

00:30 Meet Denise Miller: From EV Curiosity to Nissan Ariya Owner

00:47 The Decision to Go Electric: Overcoming Hesitations

01:52 Exploring the Nissan Aria: Features and Driving Experience

03:27 The EV Purchase Process: Local Dealers and Online Orders

04:24 Unique Ariya Features and the Joy of EV Driving

07:39 Navigating EV Ownership: Apps, Charging, and Lifestyle

08:46 Looking Ahead: EVs as a Lifestyle Fit and Future Plans

15:16 Closing Thoughts and Resources for EV Enthusiasts

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 9

This episode of Middle Tennessee Electric's Plugged In Podcast features a detailed discussion about electric vehicle (EV) tax credits with lead economist Teri Viswanath from Cobank. The conversation covers the qualifications and restrictions for claiming tax credits on new and used EVs, including maximum claim amounts, income restrictions, and the requirement for vehicles to be manufactured in North America. The hosts, Brandon Wagner and Amy Byers, explore changes to tax credits, such as the introduction of a point-of-sale rebate in 2024 and the distinction between two separate credits for raw materials and battery components. Additionally, they discuss tax credits for EV chargers and energy-efficient installations at home, and the impact of the leasing option for EVs. The episode also touches upon the current state of the EV market, inventory levels at dealerships, and the importance of reliable public charging infrastructure.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:31 Guest Introduction: Teri Viswanath

00:36 Discussion on Tax Credits for Electric Vehicles

01:50 Guidelines for Filing for 2023 EV Tax Credit

03:55 Personal Experience with EV Tax Credits

10:14 Changes in Tax Credits for 2024

12:38 Impact of New Tax Credits on Dealerships

18:27 Tax Credits for EV Charging Equipment

24:21 Future of Electric Vehicles and Tax Credits

28:06 Conclusion and Contact Information

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 8

TVA's Ryan Stanton explains how TVA is planning and preparing the electric grid for widespread EV adoption in the coming years and decades. He outlines some of the things TVA is doing to ensure grid reliability as energy consumption continues to grow.

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2  7

TVA's Ryan Stanton owns a Rivian R1T and provides some insight into driving and charging it during the cold. With nearly a decade of driving different EV vehicles, he's excited about how far they've come and looking forward to where they're going.

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 6

With recent sub-zero temperatures and a snowstorm leaving icy driving conditions, Brandon and Amy discuss the tips to handle these conditions provided by our EV Car Club Facebook group. Brandon also dives into some charging challenges that made national news and how you can avoid the pitfalls of owning an EV when temperatures get so cold.

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric

2 5

Robert recently traded in his 2021 Ford Mach E and purchased a new 2023 model. Brandon sat down with Robert to learn why he made the change after previous conversations and ride alongs to discuss his satisfaction with his first-generation Mach E. His reasoning might surprise you and give you some ideas for your next vehicle.

Here's some more information you might find helpful to topics we referenced in this episode:

• https://mte.com/DriveEV — Hub for all things electric vehicles at MTE

• https://mte.com/EVCarClub — MTE-sponsored car club for EV owners and enthusiasts interested in building a community in Middle Tennessee

• https://mte.com/EVReady — $50 incentive for MTE members or homebuilders installing level 2 chargers at their homes

Copyright 2026 Middle Tennessee Electric