• Posted: February 8, 2022
• electric vehicle chargers, electric vehicles, ev, ev chargers

For more than a century, the Chicago Auto Show has showcased countless innovations that push the limits of transportation and energy solutions — and in 2022, Powering Chicago has committed to being its premier sponsor. In addition to being the largest and longest-running automotive convention in the nation, this year’s show will include the debut of Powering Chicago’s mobile field trip truck, the first-ever indoor electric vehicle (EV) test-drive track and more. 

With roots stretching back to some of the very first automobiles in existence — including gas, electric and even steam-powered models — the Chicago Auto Show has always prided itself on exploring the full spectrum of energy possibilities. Now, Powering Chicago is working to expand those possibilities with its support of EV technology.

The new mobile field trip truck 

Powering Chicago’s new 73’ mobile field trip truck is making its debut at the auto show. Built to educate consumers about the capabilities of union electricians and signatory contractors who install Chicagoland’s EV infrastructure. Visitors will also be given information on how to have EV technology incorporated into their own homes. This includes details on the components required to install and maintain an at-home EV charging station — an innovation that will help millions of Americans move toward cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions. 

Once the show concludes, the truck will be a resource to Chicago school children on STEM activities and careers within electrical construction, allowing students to learn about a career in the industry.

A new horizon for EVs: the indoor demo track 

In addition to the mobile field trip truck, Powering Chicago is sponsoring the show’s first-ever indoor EV demo track, where visitors will receive up-close demonstrations of some of the newest EV models on the market. Some of the cutting-edge EVs to be introduced at the show include the BMW i4 M50, the Kia EV6 and others. 

Deciding whether or not to invest in an EV can be a difficult choice for many Americans, who may not be familiar with the operation and use of EV technology. Powering Chicago aims to change that by educating visitors on the components. The EV test track is one of a total of six indoor tracks. In order to give attendees the full EV experience, visitors will be able to take a test drive or ride on a total of six indoor tracks — the most test tracks ever offered at the show. 

A commitment to electrical education 

Keeping consumers educated on the importance of new energy solutions is a key part of Powering Chicago’s role at the Chicago Automotive Show. To further that goal, a new e-book titled The Time is Now: Considerations for EV Charging Infrastructure, is launching at the Auto Show. This new guide, which includes the knowledge of Powering Chicago’s top authorities on EV like Bob Hattier, master trainer and curriculum developer for the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program and Business Representative at IBEW Local 134, gives private and public facilities managers clarity about how to effectively transition to EV technology. 

Taken together, Powering Chicago’s premier sponsorship of America’s longest-running and largest automotive show will help further a broader understanding of the role the unionized electrical industry plays in advancing new technologies. That, in turn, leads to a more vibrant Chicago landscape — one that reflects Powering Chicago’s commitment to better construction, better careers and better communities.