Launceston Pastor Jeff McKinnon is hoping some of his flock will go electric this weekend, when Tasmania's Good Car Company brings its electric vehicle bulk-buy to the Tramsheds.
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Displaying both new and second-hand electric vehicles for purchase, the Tasmania-based automotive retailer puts on the event each year to demystify electric vehicles and allow the public to get hands-on with the latest in transport technology.
As part of the push Pastor McKinnon - a recent EV convert himself - was eager to expound to potential buyers the benefits of considering an EV as their next car.
"It took me a couple of years to get my head around the idea, but when they started putting in more charging stations that increased my confidence to think about it a bit more seriously," he said.
Ultimately though, it was his concern for the environment that pushed him over the line.
"I've got grandkids and I care about their future. So that's my single biggest motivating factor," he said.
"I think we all have a responsibility to the environment to do what we can. I'm also at a stage in life where I've got the money. I'm not young and trying to pay off a house or something like that," he added.
That passion for sustainability is also benefiting the pastor's wallet, with a new set of solar panels at his house providing much of the new vehicle's power.
"It's like getting your petrol for free."
Attendees at the event this weekend will be able to talk to EV owners like Mr McKinnon and test drive the latest EVs, including new models from big names like Nissan and Hyundai.
According to Good Car Company co-founder Anton Vikstrom, the event is based around a "no-showrooms and no salespersons" ethos, believing that everyday EV owners make the best advocates.
In an effort to boost the number of people switching over to an electric vehicle both the state and federal government have committed to expand charging station availability.
For those still skeptical about the merits of an EV, Pastor McKinnon was quick to put some widespread myths to rest.
"Most people tend to think I've bought a little European car, but when they see it they say, 'Oh, that's bigger than I thought.'
Beyond the car's immediate utility. Mr McKinnon also sees it as a worthwhile investment in the long term.
"I'm working on the theory that I might never replace it. I might just replace the battery. So I think the car might last my lifetime. I'm gonna find out," he said.
Good Car Company's "EV Show and Shine Event" is on this Saturday, November 20, between 1pm and 4pm at the Launceston Tramsheds. Attendees can RSVP at goodcar.co/tasmania
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