For more than 20 years, Alabama Power’s Cedric Daniels has been at the forefront of introducing Alabamians and Alabama businesses and industries to the growing options and benefits of electric transportation (ET). As he prepares to retire and hand the company’s ET reins to others, Alabama News Center sat down with Daniels for some parting words about the rapidly expanding world of electric vehicles.

Congratulations, Cedric, on your impending retirement. How long have you been in the role of managing the company’s Electric Transportation program?

“I have been an ET program project manager or manager since 1999.  I was privileged to accept the role passed down from great ET leaders before me like the late Bob Hawkins, the late Bob Bellinger and other pioneers.”

How has the ET industry evolved over those years? 

“It seems slow to the public, but ET technologies, both on-road and non-road, have been taking positive, progressive leaps every year for decades.  Of course, the public mainly sees the result when new electric vehicles (EVs) become commercially available and especially as they fit their needs, desires and pocketbooks.”

Alabama Power’s Cedric Daniels is retiring after two decades of managing the company’s Electric Transportation program. (Phil Free / Alabama News Center)

More people are now using EVs on the streets and highways every day. What do you think has sparked the significant increase, beyond the early adapters, in the last few years?

“EV technology has improved tremendously and becoming more practical to buy.  It’s not very different than the development of smart phones, laptops, gaming systems, flat screen TVs, LED lighting, etc. Better, faster, farther, cheaper! The next five to 10 years will make EVs ‘regular’ and abundant.”

EVs go way beyond street vehicles. They are used in many industrial and commercial settings. What are some of the more innovative ways electric transportation is being used today?

“Electric motors have been efficient for over 100 years, so moving anything powered by electric motors for military, construction, marine, mining, is not new.  The difference and great advancement are the ability to supply electric energy directly to these highly efficient electric motors instead of connecting them to a non-electric power supply, like gasoline, diesel, propane or compressed natural gas.  Bottom line: an electric grid or battery powered source for electric motors is and has been a great option when industrial and commercial customers are considering ‘cleaner’ transportation fuel options.”

What have been the most significant recent developments in Alabama as far as expanding EV awareness and their adaption in our state?

“Alabama state leadership is ‘all-in’ for EVs, in part because of the fantastic growth of electric vehicle manufacturing here, with automakers like Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai and the related jobs, and with workforce development initiatives now preparing Alabamians for the electric car/truck/bus technology future. For example: the Alabama Legislature is helping fund the expansion of EV charging stations through a program administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. There’s also the new Alabama Mobility and Power Center (AMP) at the University of Alabama, of which Alabama Power is a partner, which is focusing on EV life cycle research and development. The state is also supporting EV education and promotion funding, such as the Drive Electric Alabama campaign with backing from multiple organizations including the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition. A really big win took place in September with the Drive Electric Alabama Summit, a two-day event that drew hundreds of participants and during which Gov. Kay Ivey officially unveiled the Alabama Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan. And that’s only a sampling of what’s happening with EVs in Alabama.”

Teslas charging up in Birmingham. (Phil Free / Alabama News Center)

Where do you see EVs going over the next few years?  

“I see EVs becoming more abundant, getting even better, going farther, faster – both in speed and charging capabilities, becoming more automated, and even cheaper!”

What are the most important things that people should know as they consider making the switch to EVs? 

Definitely investigate the growing choices in the EV market because many more models are on the way. And take the time to learn about charging options for your home, at your workplace, and public charging station options, which are expanding fast. You might also want to consider a used EV, which can be more affordable and practical for some individuals and families. I recently purchased a used EV.

It’s also worthwhile to learn about the potential fuel cost savings in switching from gasoline to electric, based on your specific driving patterns. Alabama Power also can help, with special rate options for both residential and commercial EV operators.

Also consider the lower maintenance costs for an EV – no engine means no oil changes and fewer components that can break down. And definitely consider how much fun EVs are to drive. Go take a test-drive and you’ll be convinced!

More Alabamians are plugging in to electric vehicles as the options for consumers expand, in a wider range of prices, and charging stations proliferate. (Phil Free / Alabama News Center)

Any other thoughts you’d like to leave us with, Cedric?

Electricity and electric technologies have benefited Alabamians and Alabama communities for generations. From the early days of the state’s electrification to advancements in electric heating and air conditioning, heat pumps, water heaters, and so much more, electricity has helped to drive Alabama’s economy and improve our quality of life. Now, electricity is powering a whole new world of reliable transportation, with significant benefits for the environment. Everyone at Alabama Power should feel proud about our role in contributing to the development of this game-changing, beneficial shift in how we can all get from point A to point B.

Learn more about Alabama Power’s involvement in electric transportation here.