Demystifying EVs
October 20, 2026 · Green Conshy Collaborative · Great American Pub, Conshohocken, PA
A plain-English tour of electric vehicles: what they are, how they work, what they really cost, and what’s coming next, with the latest sales numbers and plenty of time for questions.
What the talk covers
- A brief history
- What is an EV?
- How EVs work
- Environmental benefits
- Cost & performance advantages
- Challenges & solutions
- Global market trends 2025–2026
- The future outlook
About the speaker
Rick Denzien has shared his knowledge as a speaker and on numerous panels as an EV and sustainable energy expert for organizations over the years. He completed Climate Reality Leadership Corps training (2020), was named a finalist in Plug In America’s 2025 Drive Electric Awards, and has lived off-grid on solar about 90% of the time since 2016.
Recent appearances include the 2026 PennEnvironment Environmental Expo in Media, PA, and the National Drive Electric Month EV show he captains in Ambler.
Good fits: environmental advisory councils, community and green groups, libraries, schools, businesses and EV clubs. Ask about adding live music: Rick is also a recording artist.
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See the shirtsEV questions, answered
These come straight from the questions people ask us most.
How do I get started about deciding to buy an EV?
Start with how you actually drive: daily miles, longest regular trip, where the car will sleep at night, and your budget. That usually narrows the field to a few models. A free first call with Rick is a good place to do exactly that.
Aren’t EV’s more expensive?
Sticker prices vary a lot, and used EVs can be very affordable. Look at the total cost: fuel, maintenance (no oil changes) and insurance as well as price. Note: the federal $7,500 clean-vehicle tax credit ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025, so plan without it.
Is driving an EV hard to learn?
No. Most people are comfortable in a day. The new parts are one-pedal driving, the screen and app, and charging habits, which is what our EV driver training covers.
How long does a battery last?
Modern EV batteries are built to last the life of the car, and automakers back them with long battery warranties (commonly 8 years / 100,000 miles; check your model).
Can batteries be recycled?
Yes. EV batteries are valuable, and recyclers recover most of the lithium, nickel, cobalt and copper for new batteries. Many old packs get a second life as stationary storage first.
Don’t EV batteries catch on fire or explode easily?
EV fires get a lot of headlines, but they are rare. Use a properly installed charger and follow the maker’s charging guidance, just as you would with any car.
Can you plug an EV in during a rain storm?
Yes. EV plugs and charge ports are designed and tested to be used in the rain. At our rainy September show we proved EVs are water tight to a very high degree.
Do you really need a home charger?
Not always. Many drivers get by on a regular 120-volt outlet, but a 240-volt (Level 2) home charger makes life much easier. What matters is your panel, where you park and how far you drive, which is what the Home Charger & Solar Plan looks at.
Can solar power effectively charge my EV or even run my entire home?
It can. Rick’s own home and business have run on solar off-grid about 90% of the time since 2016, EV included. Whether it pencils out for you depends on your roof, usage and budget.
Can my EV serve as a backup energy source during a power outage?
Some can, with the right equipment (vehicle-to-home or vehicle-to-load). It depends on the model and your home wiring, so ask before you buy.
Can I travel and take long road trips in an EV
Yes. Rick and Debra Lee have driven Philly to LA by EV more than once. Planning a few charging stops is part of the fun.
More questions Rick answers on a call or after a talk
- What about Hybrids?
- Will I need driver training to learn to drive an EV?
- Can full self-driving (FSD) technology be trusted?
- Do old EV batteries go to the dump?
- Aren’t batteries and EVs just as polluting as gas cars?
- What about mining minerals to make batteries?
- Does driving an EV in the rain affect the battery?
- What’s the best set up for a home charger?
- Can I convert my classic car to an EV?
- Do EVs truly deliver the equivalent of 150 miles per gallon?
- Does owning an EV save money over time?
- How reliable is the charging infrastructure?
Book Rick to speak
Tell us about your group and date. Rick will get back to you. Or call (215) 583-3284.