Electric Vehicle Performance Corral Debuts at Road Atlanta

Staff Report

Monday, October 19th, 2020

Commissioner Tim Echols has teamed up with Cobb EMC's Peter Heintzelman and Jackson EMC's Chip Jakins to create the first ever Electric Vehicle Fan Zone at the popular Fall event, Petit Le Mans, at Road Atlanta. 

Echols conceived of the idea and, with the help of Peter and Chip, they convinced Road Atlanta to create the first ever EV Performance Corral featuring the latest in electric-powered performance vehicles. Georgia Power stepped in and provided a large portable solar charger (BEAM ARC) for the cars and United Consulting Group offered to provide food, beverage, composting and recycling for the site. 

"EVs are becoming cooler and cheaper," said Echols. "Showcasing performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan, the Audi E-tron and the Tesla might entice sports car enthusiasts to make the switch to an electric vehicle." 

The EV Performance Corral "Fan Zone” continues through Saturday featuring special speakers and concierges to answer questions about electric vehicles.  See the race schedule at roadatlanta.com and secure press credentials via [email protected] 

Echols will be on-site with a team of volunteers the duration of the event even recording his radio show, Energy Matters, from the track. To reach him, text his cell at 706-340-0773.

Road Atlanta is a 2.54-mile road course just north of Braselton at 5300 Winder Highway. Petit Le Mans culminates in the 10-hour IMSA WeatherTech Championship showdown on Saturday.

This is Commissioner Echols’ second term on the Georgia Public Service Commission, having been re-elected statewide in November 2016. You can find his complete biography and photo on the Commission web site athttps://psc.ga.gov/about-the-psc/commissioners/tim-echols/