The 2010 Southern Electric Vehicle Expo (SEVE) is being cancelled. The majority of firms, which initially indicated a strong interest in displaying at SEVE 2010, have declined to submit their booth fees. This leaves us with a projected revenue stream well below the amount needed to stage the 29 -31 October 2010 event. We do not plan to attempt to stage SEVE in the future.

There were several economic factors, over which we had no control, which derailed SEVE. All of those companies which recently dropped out were expecting major federal grants and/or loans to aid with their R&D, manufacturing and/or marketing. However nearly all the economic stimulus funding for electric vehicles went to the Tesla Company, which staged a highly effective marketing effort in Washington, D.C. Those that failed to get the federal aid are contracting including cutting back participation in trade shows outside of the region in which they are headquartered. In addition nearly all the manufacturers of electric scooters and bikes now are negotiating contacts from the governments of the Peoples Republic of China, India, and Indonesia to produce their vehicles in those countries. The latter are justifiably concerned that with improving economic conditions, a larger percentage of their increasingly urban populations will be able to afford bikes and scooters. If the majority of those are powered by internal combustion engines, the air pollution in their cities will exceed dangerous levels. Hence they are promoting the electrics. The manufacturers are following the money which they do not see as being generated through sales in the United States. This resulted in a loss for SEVE of 8 companies which initially wanted to reserve 14 booths. A few manufacturers will not have their new models ready for display by late October. Lastly most of the firms that produce electric carts depend on sales to golf courses for the bulk of their revenues. With that aspect of their business still in steep decline, they also are eliminating their participation this year in trade shows.

Those individuals who desire to view electric vehicles (EVs) in Asheville, NC, as well as EV manufacturers and distributors which may be interested in displaying their wares are urged to participate in the Southern Energy and Environmental Expo (SEEE) which will  be held at the Western North Carolina Agricultural Center on 20 - 22 August 2010. There will be a number of EV on display as well as conversions. In addition there will be manufacturers of solar panels and other ecologically beneficial devices on hand. Go to the website (www.SEEExpo.com) for this worthwhile event for more details.

Robert A.Sweeney, PhD
SEVE - Event Coordinator