Latest news with #BJBirtwell
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tesla partners with Electrify Expo to launch full-weekend EV test drives
Electrify Expo, which has spent the last five years putting on festivals across the U.S. to educate people about electric vehicles, is launching a demo experience where people can take an EV home for a weekend. The first company to partner up is Tesla, and Electrify Expo CEO BJ Birtwell says more brands will come on board in the near future. 'It's an opportunity for our attendees at Electrify Expo to have a no-pressure, non-sales-y experience with an electric vehicle on their terms, running errands and fitting this vehicle into their lives to see if it actually makes sense for them or not,' Birtwell told TechCrunch in an interview. Driving an electric vehicle for the first time can often convince people to make the jump from internal combustion engines. There's also strong demand for these kinds of experiences. Late last year, Consumer Reports found that half of all consumers in the U.S. are interested in test-driving an EV. The new 'Electrify Weekender' experience will be available to Electrify Expo attendees (who also need a driver's license and auto insurance) starting with the Los Angeles festival, which begins on June 21. Birtwell said he hopes to use the Los Angeles launch as an opportunity to iron out any problems ahead of the other festivals this year in Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, New York, and Dallas. For Tesla, the Electrify Weekender program could be a way to reach potential customers who may still be unfamiliar with or even wary of the brand — perhaps offering a boost at a time when the company's sales are flagging due to an aging lineup, increased competition, and the damage CEO Elon Musk has done to his company's image. Tesla did not respond to a request for comment about the program. Birtwell said the Electrify Weekender program is a natural extension of the kinds of EV demos his festival has been offering for years. While those demos are brief — often lasting around 8 to 10 minutes — he said they have played an important role in converting attendees into EV buyers. 'People who are buying a ticket to come to our festival are often cross-shopping a bunch of different electric cars and trucks, like they're literally coming to our event as if we are the 2.0 version of an auto mall,' he said. 'Then they're getting into all these cars and figuring out what they want to buy. So that experience alone helps people who are really loaded low in the purchase funnel to experience to convert.' Car companies have long offered similar extended test drive programs, but Birtwell said those often leave interested buyers feeling pressure from their local dealership to make a purchase. He expects Electrify Expo to act as an intermediary of sorts that can blunt that pressure, while also attracting consumers who may not have ever signed up for such a test drive to begin with. Ultimately, Birtwell said he expects thousands of people will take up Electrify Expo on the offer. 'If we're going to drive broader EV adoption beyond half the population, that means we need to appeal to everybody,' he said. That means especially targeting consumers who are 'curious and skeptical about EVs.' Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tesla To Offer Extended EV Test Drive Experiences Via Electrify Expos' Weekender Program
Electrify Weekender Launch with Tesla in Los Angeles Tesla will be the exclusive partner at Electrify Expo LA for the Electrify Weekender program with additional automakers to be announced for future cities Electrify Weekender is an extended test drive program exclusive to Electrify Expo attendees where they can take their EV of choice home and experience how it fits in their everyday life LOS ANGELES, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Electrify Expo, North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, today announced Electrify Weekender, an extended test drive program exclusively available to Electrify Expo attendees giving them the opportunity to extend their EV experiences beyond the gates of the festival and further familiarize themselves with EV technology building buyer confidence before making a purchase. The program kicks off with Tesla as the exclusive partner at Electrify Expo Los Angeles on June 21-22. 'Electrify Weekender gives people the freedom to experience EVs on their own terms,' said BJ Birtwell, founder and CEO of Electrify Expo. 'At our festivals, thousands of attendees get their first taste of EVs through hands-on demos, and that's often the spark that starts their journey. With Weekender, we're extending that experience into real life. Giving people more time behind the wheel builds confidence, and confidence drives adoption. This program is about breaking outdated myths, reaching new audiences and showing how EVs seamlessly fit into everyday life. My first EV experience was in a Tesla, so launching this with them feels like a full-circle moment. Now it's time for others to have that same 'light bulb' moment.' Tesla has been the industry leader delivering high-performance vehicles and innovative models. With Tesla's large role in shaping the industry, the collaboration with Electrify Weekender marks another milestone in the company's investment in EV accessibility and adoption. Attendees may sign up for the extended test drive program ahead of time or on-site at the festival. After selecting their preferred model, information is passed to the automaker who coordinates with local stores to schedule a two day driving experience. Participate in Electrify WeekenderInterested in a longer experience with an EV of your choice following your demos at Electrify Expo? Find more information about the test drive program and participating automakers near you at Electrify Expo's Remaining 2025 Tour Stops: June 21-22: Los Angeles, CA July 12-13: Seattle, WA August 23-24: San Francisco, CA September 13-14: Chicago, IL **new city October 17-19: New York, NY November 15-16: Dallas, TX **new city For the full 2025 schedule and to secure tickets, visit Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@ interested in exhibiting at the 2025 Electrify Expo locations can visit About Electrify ExpoElectrify Expo is North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry's leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket, and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo's nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit and follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Media ContactSkyya PRee@ An image accompanying this announcement is available at
Business Upturn
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Upturn
Tesla To Offer Extended EV Test Drive Experiences Via Electrify Expos' Weekender Program
Tesla will be the exclusive partner at Electrify Expo LA for the Electrify Weekender program with additional automakers to be announced for future cities Electrify Weekender is an extended test drive program exclusive to Electrify Expo attendees where they can take their EV of choice home and experience how it fits in their everyday life LOS ANGELES, June 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electrify Expo , North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, today announced Electrify Weekender, an extended test drive program exclusively available to Electrify Expo attendees giving them the opportunity to extend their EV experiences beyond the gates of the festival and further familiarize themselves with EV technology building buyer confidence before making a purchase. The program kicks off with Tesla as the exclusive partner at Electrify Expo Los Angeles on June 21-22. 'Electrify Weekender gives people the freedom to experience EVs on their own terms,' said BJ Birtwell, founder and CEO of Electrify Expo. 'At our festivals, thousands of attendees get their first taste of EVs through hands-on demos, and that's often the spark that starts their journey. With Weekender, we're extending that experience into real life. Giving people more time behind the wheel builds confidence, and confidence drives adoption. This program is about breaking outdated myths, reaching new audiences and showing how EVs seamlessly fit into everyday life. My first EV experience was in a Tesla, so launching this with them feels like a full-circle moment. Now it's time for others to have that same 'light bulb' moment.' Tesla has been the industry leader delivering high-performance vehicles and innovative models. With Tesla's large role in shaping the industry, the collaboration with Electrify Weekender marks another milestone in the company's investment in EV accessibility and adoption. Attendees may sign up for the extended test drive program ahead of time or on-site at the festival. After selecting their preferred model, information is passed to the automaker who coordinates with local stores to schedule a two day driving experience. Participate in Electrify Weekender Interested in a longer experience with an EV of your choice following your demos at Electrify Expo? Find more information about the test drive program and participating automakers near you at . Electrify Expo's Remaining 2025 Tour Stops: June 21-22: Los Angeles, CA July 12-13: Seattle, WA August 23-24: San Francisco, CA September 13-14: Chicago, IL **new city October 17-19: New York, NY November 15-16: Dallas, TX **new city For the full 2025 schedule and to secure tickets, visit . Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing [email protected] . Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2025 Electrify Expo locations can visit . About Electrify Expo Electrify Expo is North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry's leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket, and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo's nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit and follow on Facebook , Instagram and YouTube . Media ContactSkyya PR [email protected]
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Electrify Expo's Return to Southern California Marks Milestone Growth for the Nation's Largest EV Festival
Electrify Expo Los Angeles Electrify Expo brings in its largest exhibitor participation ever to a new venue at the Port of LA Kia, Volvo and Lexus will debut their most anticipated new vehicles alongside current models Tesla will offer the exclusive opportunity for self driving demos at the LA festival Notable new exhibitors include Karma Automotive, Drako Motors, Verge Motorcycles, ChargePoint and more The first eVOTL personal aircraft, Pivotal Helix, will join the lineup in LA Two ticket options available, with general admission starting at $20 Festival runs June 21-22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; tickets available online and in person LOS ANGELES, June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Electrify Expo, North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, is returning to Southern California with its largest lineup of exhibitors ever. The festival will take over the Port of LA for the first time, bringing over 1 million square feet of electric demos, experiences, entertainment zones and never-before-seen electric vehicles. Electrify Expo welcomes new exhibitors to join the EV festival including ChargePoint, Verge Motorcycles, Karma Automotive, Drako Motors and many others. California continues to lead the nation in EV adoption, standing out as a hub for innovation and consumer demand. As more drivers explore what going electric means, they're looking for flexible options that fit their lifestyle, whether that's fully electric vehicles, hybrids or e-bikes. According to the California New Car Dealers Association's auto outlook released in April 2025, hybrids now hold 17.9% of the automotive market share in the state. At Electrify Expo attendees will experience the full spectrum of electric offerings, making it the ideal place for first-time shoppers, long-time enthusiasts and even skeptics. 'California has long led the way in EV adoption, but we're now seeing a fresh wave of interest from consumers who have been watching from the sidelines—many of whom are now waking up to the practicality of EVs,' said BJ Birtwell, CEO and Founder of Electrify Expo. 'Today's EVs are more affordable, go farther than ever and charge faster than people think. They are the clear practical choice in California where EV infrastructure is abundant and gas prices are surging. We're ready to bring the festival back to LA with more brands, more options and more excitement than ever.' New Attractions for Los Angeles: For the first time ever, Electrify Expo will have the Pivotal Helix, an eVTOL personal aircraft, on display for attendees to experience the future of transportation with SoFly. The all-new, fully electric Volvo EX30 Cross Country is making its North American debut in Los Angeles, showcasing how big experiences can come in a small SUV. Joining it is the refreshed Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid, on public display for one of the first times, highlighting one of the Swedish automaker's best-selling SUVs designed to suit every kind of driver. Be among the first to experience the all-new 2026 Lexus ES 500e, making its public debut at Electrify Expo LA. Joining the spotlight is the enhanced 2026 Lexus RZ 350e—part of a new, extended lineup engineered for more power, greater efficiency, and an even more dynamic drive. As seen at auto shows, Kia is bringing its all-new EV9 ADVNTR CONCEPT, an all-electric SUV built for extreme yet sustainable off-road adventure based on the successful 3-row EV9. Join Ford for hot laps in the Mustang Mach-E GT with professional drivers at the Ford Thrill Zone and take the wheel yourself with test drives of the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, as well as have the chance to see a one-of-a-kind adventure-focused Mustang Mach-E Rally built by off-road racer Jim Beaver. General Motors brands including Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC will be bringing every electric offering, marking their first Electrify Expo California stop. Verge Motorcycles joins the Electrify Expo roster and will have its California Edition, homage to the Californian way of life, available for demos and on display. Former professional NBA basketball player turned Los Angeles Clippers TV analyst, Corey Maggette will have a meet and greet on Saturday, June 21 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kia booth. The Electric Freestyle Motocross Stunt Zone will feature X Games Gold Medalist Destin Cantrell and his freestyle MX team, who will jump and soar with electric dirt bikes in thrilling live performances at select times over the weekend. Electrify Race League will host its championship event with the top athletes in e-mobility from across the nation for a thrilling series of competitions. Attendees will take the driver's seat in the newest electric vehicles from top automakers, including: Ford Lexus Lucid Tesla Toyota Volvo Cadillac Chevrolet GMC Kia Rivian Drako Motors Karma Automotive Top micromobility brands invite attendees to cruise around with the hottest e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motorcycles and other electric rideables on the market, including: Verge Motorcycles P-51 Bikes ONYX Motors Can-Am GoTrax SUPER73 Jack Rabbit Monday Motorbikes E-Z-GO … and many more! Electrify Expo's gates will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22, with the full day of festivities concluding at 5 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase in person and online. For the 2025 LA festival, Electrify Expo will offer two ticket options to suit every attendee's needs: General Admission Pass ($20): All day access to the festival and demo experiences. Power Pack ($55): The best of both worlds, early entry plus priority access for the ultimate experience. Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@ Companies interested in exhibiting at the 2025 Electrify Expo locations can visit About Electrify ExpoElectrify Expo is North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry's leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket, and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo's nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit and follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Media ContactSkyya PRee@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Electrify Expo Spotlights 5 Key E-Bike Trends Driving Growth into 2025
Electrify Expo E-Bike Demos AUSTIN, Texas, April 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Electrify Expo, North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, is seeing major shifts in e-bike consumer trends as it gears up for another record-breaking year. With e-bike adoption accelerating even amidst a volatile market, the festival's position as the intersection between a demo experience and a sales transaction, Electrify Expo is in a unique position to forecast important shifts and trends that can help E-bike manufacturers, dealers and retailers adapt to changing market conditions. Garnering over 100,000 thousand e-bike demo rides in 2024, brands that exhibit at Electrify Expo experience real-time feedback and sales tractions unlike anywhere else. 'As the largest electric vehicle festival in North America, we're seeing firsthand how consumer behavior is shaping the future of e-bikes,' said BJ Birtwell, Founder and CEO of Electrify Expo. 'Each season, Electrify Expo drives thousands of e-bike sales in the U.S. because we provide consumers with an immersive, hands-on demo experience that directly influences their purchase decisions.' Fat Tire E-Bikes are Leading the ChargeFat tire e-bikes have surged in popularity, appealing to riders looking for versatility and stability. These models are particularly well-suited for all-terrain adventures, including sand, snow, gravel and rough trails. Consumers are drawn to their ability to handle diverse conditions while providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. At Electrify Expo, these bikes have consistently attracted large crowds, with many first-time buyers opting for fat tire models due to their durability and ease of use. Cargo Bikes Replacing Cars For Some Shoppers With Short CommutesMore urban commuters are making the switch from traditional vehicles to cargo e-bikes, a trend that continues to grow among Electrify Expo attendees. These bikes are becoming an essential transportation solution for families and city dwellers looking to reduce car dependency. Whether used for school drop-offs, grocery runs, or short commutes, cargo e-bikes offer a practical, eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to cars. With the rise of bike-friendly infrastructure in cities, this category is expected to see even greater adoption into 2025. Class 2 E-Bikes are in High DemandConsumers are increasingly seeking e-bikes that offer more than just pedal assist, fueling the demand for Class 2 e-bikes equipped with throttle control. These bikes provide riders with the flexibility to either pedal or engage the throttle for an effortless ride. Particularly popular among first-time buyers, Class 2 e-bikes appeal to those who want a more accessible and user-friendly option. Electrify Expo has seen a noticeable uptick in test rides and purchases of Class 2 models, demonstrating their growing market dominance. The $1,500 - $3,000 Price Sweet SpotAffordability remains a key factor in consumer purchasing decisions, and the $1,000 - $3,000 price range has become the sweet spot for first-time e-bike buyers. This segment balances cost with high-quality components, offering consumers reliability without breaking the bank. At Electrify Expo, this price range has consistently driven strong sales, as many attendees prefer to test ride multiple models before making a purchase. With ongoing advancements in battery technology and motor efficiency, brands operating in this space are expected to see continued growth into 2025. 'We started GhostCat Bikes with a simple goal: to deliver high-performance e-bikes at a best-value price point—between $2,000 and $3,000—without compromising on performance, quality or customer service,' said Kevin Michaud, founder of GhostCat. 'We're proud to open the door to a broader market, making premium e-biking accessible for more people to enjoy.' Market Consolidation in the E-Bike IndustryThe e-bike market is experiencing a wave of consolidation, with larger brands acquiring smaller competitors and increasing their market share. As the industry matures, dominant players are emerging, leading to a more streamlined market with fewer but stronger competitors. This trend is creating opportunities for well-established brands to expand their reach while making it more challenging for smaller startups to compete. Electrify Expo provides a crucial platform for both emerging and established brands to showcase their products and gain visibility in an evolving industry. Electrify Expo invites e-bike manufacturers, retailers, and industry innovators to demonstrate their latest products at upcoming events. Don't miss the chance to be part of the movement that's electrifying the future of mobility. For exhibitor opportunities and more information, visit Electrify Expo's 2025 tour schedule: March 22-23: Orlando, FL April 12-13: Phoenix, AZ June 21-22: Los Angeles, CA July 12-13: Seattle, WA August 23-24: San Francisco, CA September 13-14: Chicago, IL **new city October 17-19: New York, NY November 8-9: Dallas, TX **new city Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@ About Electrify ExpoElectrify Expo is North America's largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry's leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket, and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo's nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit and follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Media ContactSkyya PRee@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
