How EVs Are Powering Rural America: Lower Costs, Farm-Ready Utility, and Real Stories from the Road

Grid Connections

Summary
On this episode we talk with Steve Gutmann and Robert Wallace about making electric vehicles practical, affordable, and appealing for rural drivers through the new EVMath program. Drawing from their work on agricultural electrification and hands-on experience with EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Rivian, and Ford F-150 Lightning, Steve and Robert share how low rural electricity rates, high gas prices, and at-home charging can make EV ownership cheaper than running a diesel pickup—often with fuel savings exceeding the monthly payment. They discuss the eFarms program’s real-world testing of electric farm equipment, the surprising utility and range of EVs in remote areas, and the potential of vehicle-to-home power for resilience during outages. With EVMath’s online calculator, case studies, and resources, rural residents can see exactly how switching to electric can save money, increase convenience, and keep more energy dollars in their communities.
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Takeaways
1. Rural EV Ownership Can Slash Driving Costs by 80% or More
Robert Wallace’s switch from a diesel pickup to a used Tesla Model 3 dropped his fuel cost from over 20¢ per mile to just 2–3¢ per mile—proving EVs can dramatically reduce transportation expenses in rural communities.
2. EVs Offer Surprising Utility for Country Living
From hauling livestock feed and farm tools to loading up 50-pound bags of dog food, EVs like the Tesla Model 3 have unexpected cargo space and functionality that rival or exceed many gas-powered vehicles.
3. Electric Farm Equipment Brings Big Advantages Beyond Zero Emissions
Programs like eFarms are putting electric tractors, trucks, and side-by-sides into the hands of farmers—offering quiet operation, instant torque, and even mobile power for running irrigation pumps in remote fields.
4. Destination Charging Can Be More Useful Than DC Fast Charging
For many rural drivers, Level 2 chargers at hotels, workplaces, or meeting locations are more than enough to recharge during the day—reducing the need for constant DC fast charger access.
5. EVs Improve Reliability in Remote Areas
In rural Oregon, fuel stations can be 40 miles away and have limited hours. Home charging ensures a “full tank” every morning, eliminating the risk of being stranded or delayed due to fuel access.
6. Vehicle-to-Home Power Could Be a Game-Changer for Rural Resilience
Pickup EVs with large battery packs can power essential farm equipment, well pumps, and refrigeration during outages—an especially valuable feature during wildfire season or severe weather events.
7. Used EVs and Federal Tax Credits Make Electrification Affordable
Robert purchased his 2018 Tesla Model 3 for just $21,000 after applying the federal used EV tax credit—showing that the used EV market is opening doors for budget-conscious rural drivers.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rural charging, electric vehicles, multifamily, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging