Hundreds of people gathered in New London on September 11 to see how electric vehicles – from Teslas to motorized bicycles – are starting to transform how we all get around.

The New London Electric Vehicle Expo, organized by the New London Energy Committee and the Andover Energy Group, brought together vehicle owners, dealers, and people curious to kick the tires on all-electric vehicles. Owners gave rides in electric vehicles from BMW, Chevrolet, Nissan, and Tesla, as well as China’s BYD.

Many people experienced how electric bicycles can give a boost to tired riders. Representatives from solar companies showed how electric-vehicle owners can power their ride using the sun.

The event drew more than 350 people to the New London Historical Society, a 10-acre village of 19th-century buildings. From the Andover Energy Group, Nancy Teach managed the informal food court, Pecco Beaufays showed his BMW i3 (pictured in the September Beacon) and helped secure the support of a Nashua BMW dealer, Susan Chase helped manage visitor flow, and Larry Chase helped with publicity and photography.

“This was a fun and fascinating look at the future of transportation, from cars to bicycles,” said David Harris of the New London Energy Committee.

The expo was part of National Drive Electric Week. More than 100 events across the country were promoting electric vehicle use.

The New London Energy Committee and the Andover Energy Group are grateful to the New London Historical Society for allowing the expo to occur at the picturesque New London Historical Village.