People in Hull and the East Riding will get the chance to test drive electric vehicles (EVs) as the region hosts its first EV experience event this weekend.
The rise of EVs has been one of the headline stories of our time as the world transitions away from fossil fuels. As well as being embraced by the established big-name players in the car industry, the EV revolution has also led to the rise of new brands such as Elon Musk’s Tesla and the Chinese manufacturer BYD which have seen sales skyrocket across Europe in recent years.
Seeking to embrace and encourage the transition across East Yorkshire, Hull City Council and East Riding Council have teamed up to organise the ‘Let’s Go Electric’ event which will take place on Saturday June 21, from 10am to 3pm.
The event has been planned to align with both councils’ electric vehicle strategies, which seeks to facilitate the wider adoption of EVs across the region and tackle some of the current barriers slowing the transition to cleaner air and more sustainable means of travel.
The free event at the Priory Park & Ride site, just off the A63, Clive Sullivan Way, between Hull and Hessle, will give visitors the chance to test drive a range of new electric cars and bikes, speak to dealers, ask questions and learn from industry experts.
Among those exhibiting at the event will be electric vehicles from both local authorities’ fleets, the blue light services, an electric bus; courtesy of Stagecoach East Midlands; eBike try-outs and cycle repairs by R-evolution and an electric truck used by local contractor The Ashcourt Group.
A range of EVs from local dealerships will also be on display, with test drives available throughout the day.
The site where the event will be held offers free car and cycle parking as well as regular bus services to and from Hull city centre (Stagecoach Service 20). The day will also include catering from a number of food and drink providers.
Cllr Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways at Hull City Council, said: “Transport, especially road transport, is now the biggest emitter of carbon in the UK. By accelerating the switch away from fossil fuels to zero-emission vehicles, we have an opportunity to tackle the climate emergency and drive improvements in air quality that will benefit the health and economy of the city.
“Making your next car an EV won’t be right for everyone but the growing range of vehicles now available at different price points as well as the advancements in battery technology are making them increasingly accessible.
“This event is a chance to highlight what’s out there and an opportunity for people to explore whether it might be right for them.
“We are delighted to be working alongside Let’s Experience Electric who share our aspiration in breaking down barriers to EV ownership.
“I would greatly encourage anyone who has thought about switching to an EV or just wants to find out more to come down and test drive the future of travel.”
Cllr Paul West, cabinet member for environment and transport at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “This event is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested to find out more about electric vehicles and all the benefits they bring.
“They are much better for our local environment, cut down on carbon emissions, promote cleaner air and offer lower running costs.
“So come along and experience the latest technological advancements for yourself.”
To register your interest in a test drive, complete the booking form for the event on Eventbrite: Let’s Go Electric Tickets, Sat 21 Jun 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite
Those taking part in test drives on the day will need to bring:
- Your valid UK photo card driving licence
- A printed copy of your Personal Driving Licence Check and your ‘GET A CODE’ reference, which you can create by visiting: www.viewdrivingrecord.service.gov.uk
- Your National Insurance Number
Test drives will be approximately 10 minutes long, with a designated route for drivers to follow, before returning to the EV pick-up area.
