Last Friday I had the pleasure of attending the ‘Sneak Preview Event’ of the Electric Electric Experience Centre, with the official opening taking place the day after on Saturday 22nd July in Milton Keynes.
The first of its kind in the UK and part of the city’s Go Ultra Low Scheme; it previewed to a relatively small audience of electric car owners & enthusiasts, with the message being to “spread the word”.
Entering the showroom it was hard not to compare the slick minimalist design to that of an Apple store. With a tree at its centre and a wall of foliage set against a cool stone-like interior, it does well to balance something as man-made and mechanical as the car in an environment that would be more expected at a spa reception. It works, and the simplicity highlights how you can now drive a car and be eco-friendly at the same time, they are no longer exclusive.
The showroom cars are displayed in a way that lets them speak for themselves, allowing visitors to explore them in detail and without the pressure of a sale.
The centre is primarily there to educate, with a small team of ‘EV Gurus’ on hand to answer questions and talk about the benefits of electric car ownership you can go along for some impartial advice and discussion and a test drive(s) if you wish.
It is hoped that the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre will support the cities Go Ultra Low Scheme, with a target of about 23% take up of new electric car sales by 2023.