Envoy is thrilled to be part of the Los Angeles Clean Tech Incubator (LACI) pilot program, launching the Rancho San Pedro location to bring electric cars to underserved communities. This affordable mobility platform aims to provide access to electric vehicles for underserved communities, particularly those in affordable housing. The program puts Envoy cars right next to the Rancho San Pedro Resident Advisory Building, bookable by the hour or day through the Envoy app. The City of Las Vegas has also approved plans for an Oregon non-profit to implement electric cars and charging stations in low-income areas through the Affordable Mobility Platform.
How it all started
In 2018, LACI formed the Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP) with the goal of reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs) and air pollution by the 2028 Olympics. TEP set big goals and is now working on pilots and policies to achieve them. “Pilots are key to LACI’s work because these technologies have to be accessible to the community, especially low-income communities,” said Jose Hernandez, LACI Community Engagement Manager.
TEP is also planning future projects to continue reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution.
Community and Accessibility
The EV pilot is a big step towards making electric vehicles (EVs) accessible to underserved communities. Collaborating with community-based organizations to engage with the local community and gather input is crucial for the success of such initiatives. Gabriel Carrillo, Community Organizer at Pacoima Beautiful said, “The EV pilot was a chance for us to do something that helps the community with transportation but is affordable and safe and aligns with our mission of social justice and sustainability.” The cars are located at the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) Rancho San Pedro property, so Rancho San Pedro residents have direct and affordable access to EVs. The pilot launched in December 2020 and was funded by a grant to LACI from the State of California.
Real-Life Benefits of an Affordable Mobility Platform
“Since we launched these pilots across LA, we have heard of many ways families have benefited from these programs,” said Hernandez. The program has also had a positive environmental impact by reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. Beatrice Mendez, a resident and HACLA Community Coach said, “I use this car to go to the doctor, to go grocery shopping, to drop my kids off at school and for work. We use them for lots of things.”
Financial and Environmental Investment
LACI has invested over a million dollars in affordable mobility solutions for disadvantaged communities across LA County. One of their big wins is the nation’s first zero-emissions delivery zone in Santa Monica. Installing EV chargers and charging stations is crucial to support this program and ensure its success. “And now, Los Angeles Clean Tech Incubator (LACI) hosted the 2nd Annual Transportation Electrification Partnership (TEP) summit in December 2021. The hybrid event was broadcast live from LADWP’s La Kretz Innovation Campus and featured 63 speakers, 6 elected officials, 2 federal agency representatives, 7 LACI startup founders and numerous other VIPs and partners. “We shared progress towards big regional and state transportation goals,” said Meg Arnold, LACI SVP Market Transformation.
Why Electric Vehicles in Underserved Communities
Electric vehicles (EVs) are key to reducing emissions and sustainable transportation. EV adoption is crucial in reducing barriers to transportation options for underserved communities, and home charging in multifamily housing plays a significant role in this effort. But access to EVs has been limited in underserved communities because of cost and lack of infrastructure. Programs like the LACI pilot is trying to fill that gap by providing affordable and accessible EVs.
How it Works
Rancho San Pedro residents can book Envoy electric cars through the Envoy app. It is easy and simple:
- Download the Envoy App: Available on iOS and Android.
- Create an Account: Fill out your info.
- Book a Car: Choose from available vehicles and book by the time or day.
- Pick Up and Drive: Get the car from the designated location and go.
Additionally, the availability of DC fast charging helps minimize revenue loss for ride hailing and delivery companies.
Big Picture and Next Steps
The Rancho San Pedro pilot is a model for other programs across the country. By proving that EVs can work for underserved communities, LACI and Envoy are laying the groundwork for more widespread adoption of sustainable transportation.
The Department of Energy (DOE) supports relevant programs for EVs and alternative fuels, including training for technicians, first responders, code, and safety officials, and building a clean mobility workforce to support decarbonization of the transportation sector.
Community Feedback and Testimonials
The resident feedback speaks for itself. The program offers many local benefits, such as convenience and affordability. Many have said they love the convenience, affordability, and environmental benefits of having access to electric vehicles. “I never thought I would be able to drive an electric car. This program has allowed me and my family to enjoy clean transportation,” said Maria Lopez, Rancho San Pedro resident.
Growing the Program
LACI and Envoy will be growing this program to more communities. A program manager will oversee and coordinate the expansion, ensuring the implementation of affordable mobility platforms and electric carshare programs in different cities. They will work with local governments, community organizations and other partners to bring sustainable transportation to more people.
Conclusion
LACI’s partnership with Envoy in the Rancho San Pedro pilot is a big step towards EVs for underserved communities. The importance of EV charging infrastructure in enabling the adoption of electric vehicles cannot be overstated. This program provides affordable transportation options and aligns with reducing greenhouse gas emissions and social justice. As the program grows it will be a model for others across the country, showing the power of sustainable transportation. For more info and to nominate your property for a shared e-mobility amenity visit the Envoy website. Join the electric movement and bring this green service to your community.
