Bemidji, Minn. – Beltrami Electric Cooperative hosted its seventh annual EV Car Show and Ride & Drive on Thursday, Oct. 2, welcoming more than 125 attendees to its headquarters for an afternoon of electric-powered fun, education, and hands-on experiences.

The two-hour event, held as part of National Drive Electric Month, gave visitors the chance to test drive or ride in five featured vehicles, including the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevy Silverado, Polaris Ranger Kinetic UTV, Tesla Cybertruck, and Tesla Model 3. Nearly 50 ride-and-drive opportunities were provided, giving attendees a firsthand look at how these vehicles handle on the road.

A popular highlight was a presentation by local EV enthusiast Bob Gregg, who shared photos and stories from his Tesla Road Trip, a cross-country adventure from Bemidji to Banff in his Tesla Model 3.

Beyond passenger vehicles, the event expanded into electric equipment. Ironhide of Bemidji brought a Bobcat electric zero-turn mower, an electric mini excavator, and a compact track loader for attendees to explore and climb aboard. Ace on the Lake showcased EGO electric lawn and snow equipment, along with Milwaukee heated vests and other electric-powered yard tools. The Bemidji Community Arena added to the excitement by displaying its electric Zamboni, which quickly became a favorite among kids who got the chance to hop on and “drive” it.

This year’s show featured a record 20 electric vehicles on display. EV owners proudly shared their experiences and fielded questions, creating an energetic atmosphere that reflected the growing interest in electric transportation. Among the standout vehicles were multiple Teslas, Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, a Chevy Blazer, and the much-anticipated GMC Hummer EV, provided by Dondelinger’s GM of Bemidji, which drew steady attention from the crowd.

Beltrami Electric Cooperative and Otter Tail Power Company staff were on hand to answer questions about EV charging, rebates, and off-peak savings programs designed to make charging at home more affordable.

“Events like this bring people together to see what’s possible with electric vehicles, from cars and trucks to lawn equipment and more,” said Angela Lyseng, communications specialist with Beltrami Electric Cooperative. “It’s exciting to see the enthusiasm from both EV owners and those curious to learn more.”

Despite the unusually warm October day, with temperatures soaring into the 80s, attendance was strong and enthusiasm high.

Beltrami Electric Cooperative extends a special thank-you to sponsors Otter Tail Power Company and Minnkota Power Cooperative for helping make this annual event a success.