Tesla teams up with electrify expo for weekend ev test drives

Electrify Expo, a popular festival focused on electric vehicles (EVs), is introducing a new way for people to try EVs by letting them take one home for a weekend. Tesla is the first company to join this program, called the Electrify Weekender, starting at the Los Angeles event on June 21-22, 2025. More car brands will join later, according to Electrify Expo’s CEO, BJ Birtwell.

This 48-hour test drive lets festival attendees, who must have a driver’s license and insurance, experience an EV in their daily life without pressure to buy. Birtwell says this helps people see if an EV fits their lifestyle, like running errands or driving to work. The program aims to make EVs feel less intimidating, especially for those curious but unsure about switching from gas-powered cars.

The Los Angeles event is the first step, with plans to expand to other cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, New York, and Dallas in 2025. Tesla’s involvement could attract new customers, especially as the company faces challenges like increased competition and a dip in sales. Unlike typical test drives at dealerships, which can feel pushy, Electrify Expo offers a relaxed way to explore EVs. Birtwell believes thousands will try it, helping more people feel confident about going electric.