EV caravan rolls through South Texas to promote alternative energy

McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) -- A convoy of electric vehicles, including a school bus, is rolling through South Texas this week to promote alternative energy sources.

The fleet of five to seven electric vehicles will travel nearly 800 miles with stops in Corpus Christi and the Texas border towns of Brownsville and Laredo.

According to organizers, the five-city tour aims to inform South Texas leaders and stakeholders about electric transportation resources and encourage applications for available grants and incentives.

"Bringing the EV roadshow to these cities follows two successful EV road trips in West and East Texas and is a pivotal move for our electric transportation future," said Buzz Smith, of the Texas Electric Transportation Resource Alliance. "We're showcasing a diverse array of electric vehicles, including an electric school bus, and providing a comprehensive guide for electrifying Texas. Our goal is to invigorate local economies, collaborate with community stakeholders, and amplify the benefits of electric transportation, sparking progress in South Texas communities.”

"The yellow school bus symbolizes the American dream, a symbol of opportunity and hope,” said Jessica Keithan, TESBP co-founder. “We have a unique opportunity to use this vibrant symbol to drive progress and bring opportunity to communities across Texas as we strive to electrify our school bus fleets.”

“This is a great opportunity for our community to learn about the significant sums of dollars that are now available for school districts for EV initiatives,” said Edgar Villaseñor, Rio Grande International Study Center advocacy campaign manager.

The nonprofit is based in Laredo and Villaseñor said EV aligns with their goals.

“RGISC is working on sustainable programs like electrification to create a future for Laredo that is cleaner, greener, and prosperous," he said.

The organization, which also studies the Rio Grande, invited school district officials from seven school districts, including Webb Consolidated Independent School District, and Zapata County ISD.