Binghamton residents are doing their part to help protect the environment. The city is participating in its first National Drive Electric Week, promoting hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles. Our Brittani Moncrease spoke with organizers and volunteers about the importance of energy efficient vehicles.
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- Whether it's the silence of starting the engine, not having to gas up, or a smooth ride, these folks are celebrating hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles.
"They're really fun to drive and I feel a little bit better about getting around," said Erik Leonard, Binghamton Drive Electric Week captain.
Binghamton is getting involved in its first National Drive Electric Week, bringing awareness to hybrid and electric plug-in vehicles, which organizers said has many benefits.
"There's instant torque so they're really fun to drive. You can fuel anywhere there's an outlet. Then there's the environmental aspect. Even depending on if you get your electricity from oil or coal, it's still less of an environmental impact to drive an electrical vehicle," said Leonard.
It is a goal for many of the people here.
"I'm already interested in renewable energy and being stewartly and using energy. Since my house is now very efficient in using solar energy, I'm looking at what can I do for my car now," said Terry Woodnorth, Endicott Resident.
City officials said this event is particularly special for the city of Binghamton.
It helps in moving the area toward the future.
"It's great in the community, the technology community and manufacturing community together. It's also for the northside of Binghamton in that there is life here. It's not only interesting in that there's life, but it's the future," said Robert Murphy, Binghamton Economic Development Director.
"Binghamton has a culture that is the heart of innovation. Having the electric vehicles and the technology behind them showcased in Binghatmon really brings a lot to the community. It shows the community things that are developed here, things that started here as well as things that are happening around the world," said Eric Adler, Triple-Cities Makerspace President.