Chicago Auto Show’s 2022 electric vehicle showcase starts this weekend: Guide

Ford F-150 Lightning
The Ford F150 Lightning is shown at the 2022 North American International Auto Show on September 14, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan. Photo credit Bill Pugliano/Getty Images

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Although the Chicago Auto Show is months away, producers of the iconic showcase are back this weekend with Chicago Drives Electric, a “drive event” featuring at least 20 new electric vehicles from nine different car manufacturers.

Chicago Drives Electric organizers said attendees over the age of 21 will be able to test drive most of the vehicles, including a Ford F-150 Lightning, a Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid EV, and more.

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Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s show, how to get there, where to stay, and more.

When is Chicago Drives Electric?

The show will begin Sept. 4 and run through Oct. 2. On Sept. 4, Chicago Drives Electric will run from 4 – 6 p.m. On Oct. 1 – 2, the show will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where is Chicago Drives Electric?

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association in Oakbrook Terrace. Chicago Drives Electric will provide free parking, organizers said, including designated parking spots right next to the event for people with disabilities.

Address: 18W200 Butterfield Rd., Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., 60181

Which cars will be at Chicago Drives Electric?

Organizers said the list is subject to change, but as of Thursday, the list includes:

-Alfa Romeo Tonale (static display)

-Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid EV

-Chevrolet Bolt EV

-Chevrolet Bolt electric utility vehicle

-Ford F-150 Lightning

-Ford Mustang Mach-E

-Ford E-transit

-Hyundai IONIQ 5 (static display)

-Hyundai Santa Fe plug-in EV (static display)

-Hyundai Tucson PHEV (static display)

-Hyundai Kona EV (static display)

-Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in EV

-Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in EV

-Kia EV6

-Volkswagen ID.4

-Volvo C40 Recharge

-Volvo XC40 Recharge

-Volvo XC60 Recharge plug-in EV

-Volvo XC90 Recharge plug-in EV

Who gets to test drive vehicles at Chicago Drives Electric?

In most cases, organizers said drivers must be over 21 years old and possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license. Drivers may be required to submit to a breathalyzer test.

How do I get there?

Chicago Drives Electric will provide free parking to attendees. If you don’t have a car, Metra’s BNSF line provides regular service from Chicago to Downers Grove, which is the closest station to the event, on Friday. On Saturday, Metra provides hourly service. On Sunday, it provides service every two hours.

How much does Chicago Drives Electric cost?

It’s free, but as of Thursday organizers were directing patrons to a waitlist for the show. There is a registration link for the waitlist here.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Bill Pugliano/Getty Images