The He Ala Pono EV and Sustainability Fair was held on October 19 this year. The 10 AM—2 PM event featured the Nissan Arriya, Kia Niro PHEV, Kia EV9, and Chevy Blazer EV. Dealer representatives answered questions about the vehicles, charging, and pricing. Many local organizations hosted tables across the Plaza, where they shared their missions, activities, information, and programs. A local radio station (KWXX) DJ (Kat) broadcasted live at the event.

EV Ambassadors from Big Island EV (a chapter of Hawaii EV) fielded many questions about electric cars, charging, and ownership. Thanks to the Electric Vehicle Association and National Drive Electric Week organizers, we had brochures depicting the latest vehicles, information about EVs and charging, and Ariya sling backpacks to hand out to guests.

Many guests stayed through the end of the event to participate in a giveaway that included a 2-day EV rental courtesy of Aiona Rental Cars, an EGO Power blower and trimmer package, and a foldable electric bike.

Participating organizations and companies in this Fair included Aloha Kia, American Red Cross, Big Island EV, Tesla Hawaii Club, Citizens Climate Lobby, County of Hawaii, De Luz Chevy, Hawaii Community College, Hawaii Energy, Hawaii Island Realtors, Hawaiian Electric, Kamaaina Nissan, Kokua Harvest, League of Women Voters, NexTech Hawaii, Pacific Biodiesel, Project Kanu, Solar Saint, Sustainable Energy Hawaii, and Think BIG.

This event was possible through sponsors: County of Hawaii, Hawaiian Electric, De Luz Chevy, Kamaaina Nissan, Aloha Kia, Solar Saint, Aiona U-Rent A Car, Sustainable Energy Hawaii, and Hawaii EV.

Here are scenes from the October 19 event in Hilo. Photos courtesy of Hawaiian Electric, Gary Miller, and Noel Morin.