Plug’n Drive is heading to northern Ontario with its Mobile EV Education Trailer (MEET), bringing a fleet of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles for “pressure-free” test drives in Sudbury and nearby First Nations.
On each Thursday to Sunday between May 22 to June 8, visitors can head to MEET Sudbury at Science North will be able to test drive up to five different plug-in vehicles.
This will be the third MEET in the Eastern portion of Plug’n Drive’s EVs are for EVeryone Cross-Canada Tour, an initiative bringing electric vehicle (EV) education and test drives to communities across the country.
“It’s more important than ever to help Canadians understand the benefits of going electric—from saving money to reducing emissions,” said Kim Ulmer, RBC regional president and event sponsor. “Supporting this EV tour is one way to make information more accessible and emphasizes RBC’s commitment to supporting the transition to a net-zero economy.”
The vehicles onsite will include the electric 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup, which is currently the longest-range electric pickup on the market, officially rated at up to 792 kilometres of range on a full charge. Range is a key concern for many drivers in the north, especially over the cold winter months.
Addressing such EV questions while organizing test drives will be EV Ambassadors from Canadian non-profit Plug’n Drive, many of whom are electric vehicle owners as well. “They can share resources about all the EVs available in Canada and how they can help save you money, as well as charging and technology tips for current EV owners or the EV curious,” said the release from Plug’n Drive
“Science North is thrilled to partner with Plug’n Drive for MEET Sudbury because we share a common commitment to advancing science education and promoting sustainable solutions,” said Kate Gavreau, Science North’s senior manager of onsite business and services development.“MEET Sudbury provides an exciting opportunity to connect our community with emerging technologies that support a cleaner, more sustainable future, while encouraging curiosity, innovation, and informed decision-making.”
You can test drive:
- 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV
- 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 EV
- 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
- 2024 Polestar 2 EV
- 2024 Volvo XC40 EV
Interested drivers are advised to book test drive times in advance with the MEET Sudbury booking tool, although walk up visitors are welcome as well. Drivers must be at least 21 years old, with a valid driver’s license. Hours for test drives at MEET Sudbury at Science North are:
- Thursday May 22 to Sunday May 25, 2025, 10:00 am-5 pm
- Thursday May 29 to Sunday June 1, 2025, 10:00 am-5 pm
- Thursday June 5 to Sunday June 8, 2025, 10:00 am-5 pm
“We hope families and visitors leave MEET Sudbury feeling empowered and excited about the possibilities of a more sustainable future,” adds Gavreau. “Through hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and conversations with experts, we hope to spark curiosity, inspire learning, and foster a sense of confidence that individuals can take meaningful steps toward a greener future.”
EV Roadshows in Northern Ontario
As part of MEET Sudbury, there will be additional EV Roadshows taking place in surrounding communities. The test drives at the EV Roadshows are available on a first come, first served basis (no pre-booking).
EV Roadshow at M’Chigeeng Community Complex on Manitoulin Island
Tuesday, May 27 @ 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Wednesday, May 28 @ 9:00 am-noon
94 Hwy 551, P.O. Box 333
M’Chigeeng, ON P0P 1G0
EV Roadshow at BEV IN-DEPTH Mines to Mobility Conference
Thursday, May 29 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cambrian College – in front of the Student Life Centre
1400 Barry Downe Rd.
Sudbury, ON P3A 3V8
As part of the EV and mining conference, Plug’n Drive President and CEO Cara Clairman will be on the panel at 10:35 am on Thursday, May 29, discussing ‘Electric Vehicles to Energy Storage, AI and Beyond – On the Precipice of the Battery Electric Economy Transition.’
Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation
Monday, June 2 @ 10:00 am-5:00 pm
37 Reserve Rd.
Naughton, ON P0M 2M0
Rocktown Automotive Kingsway
Tuesday, June 3 @ 10:00 am-5:00 pm
NAPA AUTOPRO – Rocktown Automotive Kingsway
935 Kingsway
Greater Sudbury, ON P3B 2E4