Nappanee Reveals its First Municipal-Owned Electric Vehicle
Danielle Hayes, Communications & Marketing Coordinator
July 15, 2024
Taking a major stride toward sustainability and innovation, the City of Nappanee has unveiled its first municipally-owned electric vehicle (EV), the brand-new-to-market Chevrolet Silverado EV. This initiative marks a milestone in the city’s commitment to embracing the future of advanced technology and promoting environmental responsibility. From reducing their annual maintenance costs to minimizing their fuel use, Nappanee is excited about this new, clean energy endeavor.
The unveiling ceremony and ribbon cutting was held Thursday, July 11 at McCormick Motors in Nappanee. The event opened with welcome remarks from General Motors (GM), McCormick Motors, the City of Nappanee, and the Michiana Area Council of Governments (MACOG). Guests were given an opportunity to get behind the EV wheel themselves and take this electric work truck out on a test course. By providing a tangible demonstration, the true capabilities and advantages of EVs were experienced by municipal and fleet drivers firsthand. Attendees also drove the Chevy Blazer EV, an all-electric SUV available in a pursuit vehicle configuration for law enforcement.
This unveiling was not just about showcasing new technology, but was a celebration of community and collaboration. MACOG and Drive Clean Indiana (DCI) assisted the City of Nappanee in writing a grant for two zero-emission electric vehicles through the one-time Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant from the Indiana Office of Energy Development. Nappanee was awarded $127,225 to cover the cost of the EVs, and will pursue the federal Clean Commercial Vehicle tax credit. Through this program, local governments in the MACOG region collectively received over $578,000 in funding for 8 electric vehicles. Awardees include Marshall County, Plymouth, Nappanee, Goshen, and Walkerton. The city of Goshen also will receive $153,075 for an energy efficiency project.
Being Nappanee’s first municipal EV, it was made clear that the city is ready to lead by example. This is only the beginning of its sustainability efforts. The city is excited to experience new technology with hopes of expanding its fleet’s electrification.
