EV Enthusiast of the Month: John Fleckenstein

Each month, we share a testimonial from a local EV owner. In June, we’re pleased to feature John Fleckenstein.

Why did you first decide to purchase an EV?

I thought I would start out by telling you how my interest for electric cars got started. I saw my first electric car in the 70s. It was called the CitiCar and it carried its batteries in the front and back bumper. I remained interested and even thought about building one, but I really didn’t have the necessary tools or the time. Fast forward to the 90s and I saw the Corbin Sparrow. It was a neat three-wheeled car. There were production problems so I was never able to get one. Some years later I saw the movie “Who Killed the Electric Car” and after that, I knew I had to have one.

What EV(s) do you own and what do you like most about driving them?
In 2015, I bought a BMW i3. I like it because it is quiet and smooth, and the delivery of power is instant. I really wanted to reduce my carbon footprint and not be dependent on fossil fuel. I have even changed my household’s electric power to renewable energy. The other reason I bought the car is that much of the interior and other components are made out of recycled plastic and the plastic outer panels will never rust.

What do you like about volunteering with ROC EV?
I like to volunteer with ROC EV to get the word out about the viability of EVs and clear up some of the misconceptions. I have tested every EV available in Rochester.

Anything else you’d like to add about EVs or your experience with ROC EV.
I enjoy the monthly EV Enthusiast meetings. I have met a number of folks who share the same interest in EVs and also in saving our precious environment.

Thank you, John! Are you interested in attending one of our monthly EV Enthusiast meetings? They’re held on the fourth Thursday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30 PM at I-Square in Irondequoit. Click here to learn more.