A few years ago, the Sierra Club conducted a study that offered a number of illuminating insights into how American car dealerships treated EVs. Now, the organization is ready to launch a bigger, nationwide study, and it’s looking for volunteers.
The Sierra Club’s first study revealed mixed results — and a lot of dealer issues — when it came to shopping for electric vehicles. It found Tesla a clear #1 in terms of overall experience.
That study included 13 automakers and 10 states with zero emission mandates. This time around, the Sierra Club is looking to get information on EV shopping experiences in all 50 states, calling the effort Rev Up Electric Vehicles 2.0.
The Sierra Club is now accepting RSVPs for volunteers looking to visit car dealers. A Sierra Club spokesperson told Electrek the RSVPs are a way to keep track of volunteers, and to help with questions and the next steps in the process. Acting as a “secret shopper” isn’t necessary for this study, either:
Whether you’re in the market for an EV, you’re just curious for the future, or you just want to help, your participation will go a long way. And it’s not a “secret shopper” effort. You can either share with the salespeople that you’re inquiring about EVs in partnership with Sierra Club – or not – up to you.
After the dealership visits, volunteers will fill out a survey that will ask questions similar to these:
- Were EVs available (if so, how many, and were both new and used cars available)?
- Were EVs displayed in a prominent location?
- How knowledgeable were salespersons about EV options? State rebates & federal tax credits? Charging?
- Did you test drive an EV (if so, was it sufficiently charged)?
The Sierra Club has posted an FAQ for those who may be interested in volunteering.
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