Electric vehicle owners and curious drivers gathered on Capitol Square for the annual Madison EV Expo, hosted by Madison Gas and Electric, to connect, explore available vehicles, and discuss firsthand ownership experiences.
The Bottom Line
- Public Engagement: The annual Madison EV Expo on Capitol Square gives prospective buyers a direct channel to question current owners and local dealerships about daily vehicle performance.
- Firsthand Testing: Long-term owners emphasize that direct trial drives and practical demonstrations remain the most effective tools to clarify ownership realities, such as cargo capacity and road trip comfort.
- Emissions and Mechanics: Participants highlighted vehicle torque, quiet operation, and emissions reduction as primary advantages driving their transition away from internal combustion engines.
Madison Gas and Electric Hosts Annual Showcase on Capitol Square
The annual Madison EV Expo brought together electric vehicle owners and local dealerships on Capitol Square, WKOW reported, creating a direct forum for people interested in making the transition away from gas-powered cars. Hosted by Madison Gas and Electric, the event leveraged the foot traffic of the adjacent farmers market to engage curious drivers.
Attendees used the gathering to ask specific questions about vehicle maintenance, charging infrastructure, and daily operability. Kathy Kuntz, an active participant in the energy and climate space who attended with her 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, noted that the public setting draws a receptive audience.
The farmers market draws a great crowd, and so people just stop over and ask questions about what it’s like to own and drive an EV.
Kuntz said.
Comparing Ownership Experiences Across Model Years
Kuntz, who has driven electric vehicles since purchasing a Nissan Leaf in 2017 before switching to the Volkswagen ID.4 in 2021, pointed to distinct differences between the models. She described the Leaf as a sportier option tailored for city driving, while highlighting the Volkswagen ID.4 as significantly more comfortable for extended road trips.
Beyond range and handling, Kuntz emphasized the mechanical and sensory benefits of electric driving. She noted that the vehicles deliver immediate torque alongside a quiet and clean operation.
They’re fun to drive. They have amazing torque. They’re quiet. They’re clean.
Kuntz said.
| Vehicle Model | Acquisition Year | Primary Utility Cited |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf | 2017 | Sporty city driving |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | 2021 | Long-distance road trips |
Direct Connections Address Practical Ownership Questions
Organizers structured the expo to bypass traditional dealership pressure by pairing prospective buyers directly with everyday drivers. Kuntz explained that this peer-to-peer format allows attendees to address niche, practical concerns regarding lifestyle compatibility.
Whether a driver needs to evaluate interior cargo space for large pets or understand home charging requirements, current owners provided real-world answers based on daily use. Kuntz encouraged interested motorists to prioritize firsthand testing to uncover unconsidered advantages.
If you have a big dog and you’re wondering how is that going to fit in an EV or whatever, you can talk to people who are in similar circumstances.
Kuntz said, adding: “Really, like, try out an EV. You will be surprised at how much you like it.”
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
