From Our CEO - AAA's Role in the EV Landscape
Many people hear the term disruptive technology and panic begins to set in. But reflecting on the most impactful technological advances of the 20th century, the automobile revolutionized transportation. It’s hard to imagine since vehicles are such an integral part of our lives, but back in 1902 there was only a small fraction of cars on the road compared to the tried-and-true horses that were depended upon for transportation. Most of our roads were customized for horse-drawn buggies which made traveling by car frustrating and even dangerous. Additionally, not everyone embraced the car in its early days. As Henry Ford stated, “if I had asked them what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.”
Fast forward to today and a similar shift is occurring with the electric vehicle. We have all heard the objections, from range anxiety to a fear of a lack of charging stations. Change is never easy -- at least not at first. The bottom line is electric vehicles are here and will continue to grow. Their technology will only evolve, and a child born today will very likely only know the electric vehicle as the norm.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are not new to AAA. Over the past decade, we have committed to researching and servicing EVs as their popularity has grown. We offer a variety of benefits specifically for those interested in EVs, including discounts at charging stations, support from our Roadside Assistance teams, and AAA’s travel planning tools to make planning road trips easier. Whether you are already driving an EV or considering making the switch, AAA is here to assist!
Either way, AAA has you covered with this pre-shopping checklist: basic background of EVs, driving range and charging, used EV ownership cost comparisons (battery vs. gas powered), repair and maintenance costs, and supplemental AAA car buying resources.
The AAA TripTik Travel Planner can help you plan your road trips and find EV charging stations along the way. Currently displayed under fuel, sort charging stations by levels, distance from route, address information, and more. Plus, it’s easy to identify electric charging station details with unique iconography. With the AAA TripTik travel planner, planning your next road trip just got a whole lot easier. Make sure to hit the road with confidence and let us help with charging station info. Visit our website for more information.
Earn while you charge! AAA is proud to offer an extraordinary credit card designed to reward consumers for everyday living — whether at home or away. The AAA Travel Advantage card offers 5% cash back for every $1 spent at electric vehicle charging stations. Visit your local AAA location or AAA.com/creditcard to learn more.
AAA has been the trusted voice of the motorist since 1902 and as technology advances with the automobile, we remain committed to you, our members, to meet your needs today, tomorrow, and beyond.
David A. Antrilli
President, Chief Executive Officer
