Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc. (WEC) is participating in National Drive Electric Month with a new twist on its annual event: EVs & Espressos. This come-and-go gathering will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, in the back lot at WEC’s Great Bend office located at 200 10th Street. 

Members are invited to enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee and breakfast while learning more about the benefits of electric vehicles and clean energy.

National Drive Electric Month, held Sept. 12 to Oct. 12, is a nationwide initiative designed to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption and raise awareness about their environmental and economic benefits. WEC is proud to participate by offering engaging and educational experiences for its members and the chance to further explore the future of driving.

Event Highlights:

• EV Displays and Test Drives: Take a seat behind the wheel of WEC’s all-electric Hyundai Kona or Ford F-150 Lightning. Get a firsthand feel for the power, efficiency, and quiet ride that EVs offer. Whether you’re considering an EV or just curious, this is a great chance to ask questions and drive without the sales pitch.

• Special Guest Vehicles: This year’s event revs up the excitement with the Great Bend Police Department’s Special Bicycle Unit rolling in on their electric-assist bikes, alongside Great Bend City Councilman Davis Jimenez showcasing his head-turning Tesla Cybertruck. Adding extra spark to the lineup, the Great Bend High School Vocational Technology Club, sponsored by Travis Straub, will showcase their high-voltage creation — a student-built electric race car that tears up the track at Kansas ElectroRally competitions.

• Bring Your Own EV: Already driving electric? We’d love for you to bring your EV and share your experience with fellow attendees. Whether you’ve just made the switch or have been driving electric for years, your insights—and your vehicle—can help others learn firsthand what it’s really like to own and drive an EV. Parking for owner EVs will be available on-site.

• Breakfast and Coffee: Enjoy your favorite cup of Joe provided by Avast Ye Java and breakfast pizza from Flatlanders Stonefired Flatbread—our treat – while supplies last.

• Green Energy Station: Learn about WEC’s renewable energy initiatives at our on-site Green Space, featuring solar and wind generation systems, rainwater harvesting, and information about EV charging options. WEC staff will be available to provide information and answer questions about our Community Solar program.

• Door Prize Giveaway: Don’t forget to enter to win a fabulous door prize—no need to be present to win.

“We’re excited to celebrate National Drive Electric Month and offer our members a fun, hands-on way to learn more about electric vehicles,” said Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communications at Wheatland Electric. “With the rise of electric vehicles and interest in clean energy, this event is a great way to connect our community with the tools, information, and experiences they need to make smart energy decisions.”