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Indianapolis ready for more electric cars, charging stations

Posted at 5:32 PM, Sep 16, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-16 17:32:52-04

INDIANAPOLIS – Sales of electric vehicles have hit a milestone this week, topping 500,000 nationwide, and officials say Indianapolis is more than ready to welcome new cars.

In 2015 BlueIndy, the city’s electric ride-sharing service launched and caught national attention as a model program for other cities.

Drivers are encouraged to reserve a vehicle and grab a car in their area by following the instructions at the BlueIndy station. Cars are equipped with GPS and are available 24/7.

RELATED BlueIndy touts 1,000 members, 7,000 rides since opening

A perk for electric vehicle owners or BlueIndy drivers, are the great amount of charging stations available along streets and in business parking lots.

Drivers are also able to sign up for BlueIndy online and charge their own electric vehicles at their leisure.

PREVIOUS | What is BlueIndy? 

Paul Mitchell, CEO of Energy Systems, an Indy-based nonprofit, believes Indianapolis has more charging stations per capita than any city in the county.

“We’re at the top of the pack,” said Mitchell. “Blueindy is going to continue to grow. Their goal is to reach 1,000 stations and that’s certainly a big number, but you’re going to need more charging stations.”

RELATEDMore BlueIndy charging stations popping up around town

Mitchell said companies like Eli Lilly, IU Health and others have already begun to provide charging stations for their employees, and the number is likely to increase to more employees show up with these types of vehicles.

MOREBlue Indy expands car sharing to airport

Thinking of leaving the gas station behind?

Chevy recently announced their new electric vehicle, Bolt, will travel up to 238 miles on a single charge.