On Saturday, October 3, 2026, DRIVE Electric Arizona celebrated National Drive Electric Month with the Phoenix EV Ride & Drive at Luke Elementary School in Glendale. Held in conjunction with the 56th EMS 2nd Annual Auto Show, the event brought together electric vehicle owners, classic car enthusiasts, families, and community members for a day of hands-on experiences and electric vehicle education.
Bringing Electric Vehicles to the Community
The event gave visitors an opportunity to explore electric vehicles, speak directly with experienced EV owners, and learn more about the benefits and practical considerations of driving electric.
From charging and driving range to maintenance, operating costs, and vehicle performance, attendees could get answers to their questions from people who experience electric vehicle ownership every day.
Free test-drive opportunities helped participants discover firsthand the smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and responsive handling that distinguish electric vehicles from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
From Test Drive to First-Time EV Owner — In Just One Day!
Sometimes, the impact of a Ride & Drive event goes well beyond a few minutes behind the wheel.
At the Phoenix EV Ride & Drive, Grace took a Volvo EX30 for a test drive, courtesy of Arrowhead Volvo. The experience made quite an impression! Later that same day, she visited Arrowhead Volvo and purchased the very same EX30 she had driven at the event, taking it home as a proud, first-time electric vehicle owner!
It's a remarkable example of why we host these events. Giving people the opportunity to experience electric vehicles firsthand, ask questions, and discover what driving electric is really like can turn curiosity into confidence — and sometimes, into a new EV in the driveway that very same day!
Congratulations to one of Arizona's newest EV owners, and a special thank you to Arrowhead Volvo for making this success story possible!
Where Classic Cars Meet Electric Innovation
One of the highlights of this year's event was the opportunity to bring electric vehicles together with classic cars and automotive enthusiasts at the 56th EMS 2nd Annual Auto Show.
The combination created a unique environment where visitors could appreciate automotive history while exploring the latest developments in electric transportation. From beautifully preserved classics to modern electric vehicles, the event celebrated the shared enthusiasm for cars that brings people together across generations.
Whether visitors were already considering an EV or simply curious about the technology, the event provided a welcoming, no-pressure environment to explore their options.
Powered by Volunteers and Community Partners
The success of DRIVE Electric Arizona's outreach efforts depends on the generosity of EV owners, volunteers, and community partners who contribute their vehicles, time, and firsthand knowledge.
A Very Special Thank You to Zach Morris
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Zach Morris, who invited DRIVE Electric Arizona to hold our Phoenix EV Ride & Drive alongside his classic car show.
His hospitality and willingness to bring the classic car and electric vehicle communities together helped make this event possible. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to participate and introduce electric vehicles to a broader audience of automotive enthusiasts.
Thank You to Arrowhead Volvo and Tesla
A special thank you to Arrowhead Volvo and Tesla for supporting the event with vehicles and staff.
Their participation expanded the opportunities for attendees to explore electric vehicles, experience the technology firsthand, and learn directly from knowledgeable representatives.
Arrowhead Volvo's participation also helped create one of the day's most memorable success stories, with Grace purchasing the very Volvo EX30 she had test-driven at the event.
And, of course, our sincere appreciation goes to the individual EV owners and volunteers who generously shared their personal vehicles, experiences, and enthusiasm with the community.
Events like this demonstrate what can happen when automotive enthusiasts, local businesses, and dedicated volunteers come together around a shared passion for vehicles and innovation.
Event Photo Gallery
A look back at the National Drive Electric Month Phoenix EV Ride & Drive. Select any photo to view it full-size.
Photography by Rachel Culin and Peter Culin.
Explore Electric.
The Phoenix EV Ride & Drive was part of DRIVE Electric Arizona's continuing effort to make electric vehicle education accessible throughout the state.
Through Ride & Drive events, educational programs, EV rallies, and community gatherings, our volunteers help Arizona drivers make informed decisions about their transportation choices.
Explore Upcoming Events