Inaugural Clean Cruise to bring electric vehicles to Woodward Avenue

Hot rods of nearly countless makes and models will come out for the Woodward Dream Cruise in a couple of weeks, but this Saturday, electric vehicles will be the ride of choice when what's being billed as the inaugural Clean Cruise makes its debut on Woodward Avenue.

EV owners, who are also encouraged to decorate their rides, are invited to bring their vehicles for the organized cruise, which is scheduled to make two loops from Nine Mile to 14 Mile roads beginning at 3 p.m.

The event, however, kicks off at 11 a.m. on East Nine Mile between Woodward and Leland in Ferndale with a range of activities, according to an announcement. Those activities are expected to include a showcase of EVs to explore from various manufacturers, a series of relevant speakers, a vendor fair, Kidz Corner with face painting, EV-themed games and activities as well as a raffle and prizes and an EV question-and-answer booth.

Amy Rogghe, executive director of the Michigan Electric Vehicle Alliance, said in a release that her group is "thrilled to announce and host the inaugural Clean Cruise! Electric vehicles are pivotal in addressing many pressing challenges of our time. They are integral to a broader transition towards cleaner, healthier and safer communities. Maintaining Michigan's longstanding leadership in the automotive industry, both nationally and globally, is crucial for fostering a strong and prosperous state economy. This transition must happen swiftly and equitably, ensuring access to its benefits for all Michigan citizens."

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Parking is available in the Dot garage at 221 W. Troy and in various numbered lots on the west side of Woodward, according to a release. Visitors are asked not to park in the lots closest to the event, including the parking lot for the library, which would be open on Saturday.

For information or to get your EV inside the event space, go to www.michiganeva.org/clean-cruise/

Contact Eric D. Lawrence: elawrence@freepress.com. Become a subscriber. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.