# Electric EV Energy and the THINK City Revolution - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/01/electric-ev-energy-and-the-think-city-revolution/ - Published: 2011-01-13T15:58:46-05:00 - Author: greenlivingguy ## Utilities and Automakers Unite to Launch THINK City Electric EV Energy Vehicles in the U.S. In an exciting step for clean transportation, electric utilities and THINK North America teamed up to introduce the first THINK City electric cars to U.S. streets. This strategic partnership most definitely marks a major milestone in the country’s shift toward a sustainable, all-electric future. ### Clean Cars Meet Smart Infrastructure The THINK City isn’t just any electric vehicle. It’s a zero-emission, urban-friendly EV built for daily commutes and city life. With a range of 100 miles per charge and a top speed of 70 mph, it offers practical performance without gasoline. Moreover, its compact size makes it perfect for navigating crowded streets. ![A silver think city electric car charges at a sidewalk ev station in an urban environment](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/E3A3DC6B- 7EFC-4C5A-AEFD-1F3BE12F5B23.png?resize=780%2C520&quality=50&ssl=1 "E3A3DC6B-7EFC- 4C5A-AEFD-1F3BE12F5B23 - The Green Living Guy") The [THINK City electric](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/06/thnk-city-lithium-battery-and-range-improvements/) vehicle charges at a downtown street station representing one of the first urban EV rollouts supported by utilities and government programs in the US To ensure a smooth rollout, electric utilities across the country played a key role. They worked to establish charging infrastructure, support pilot programs, and provide incentives. As a result, early adopters had access to the tools and power they needed to keep their new EVs on the road. ## Public-Private Partnerships Drive EV Adoption THINK’s U.S. production was made possible thanks to a powerful alliance between the public and private sectors. The company’s plant in [Elkhart, Indiana](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/03/think-indiana-electric-vehicle-rollout-in-the-midwest/) opened with help from the U.S. Department of Energy and local economic development leaders. In fact, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) also helped fund the expansion of EV manufacturing capacity nationwide. Utility companies—like [Duke Energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/03/fan-pivot-big-ass-fans-brings/), Portland General Electric, and Progress Energy—also supported THINK’s deployment. They also committed to purchasing THINK vehicles for their fleets and helped shape early market demand. ### Electric EV Energy : Leading the Charge Toward a Greener Grid Utilities didn’t just buy the cars. They also explored how electric vehicles could support a smarter, more efficient grid. By managing vehicle charging during off- peak hours, utilities could also stabilize demand and reduce strain on the power supply. This concept, known as vehicle-to-grid integration ([V2G](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/04/vehicle-to-grid-v2g-power-storage-why-electric-vehicles-matter/)), most commonly turns electric cars into a tool for grid optimization. Because of their involvement, utilities also helped push the [electric vehicle movement](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/12/think-city-ev-going-22-in-europe-for-starters/) beyond just drivers—they made it part of the energy transition. Utilities weren’t just investing in technology—they were investing in transformation. By adopting electric vehicles like the THINK City early, they helped normalize EV use and build public trust. In turn, these actions laid the groundwork for future innovations, such as time-of-use charging and vehicle-to-grid integration. As a result, clean energy and transportation didn’t evolve in silos—they progressed together, forming a unified vision for a sustainable future. ### A Vision for American Innovation The THINK City rollout clearly demonstrated how coordinated leadership, green technology, and strong policy support can accelerate market transformation. Although THINK North America didn’t become a household name, the project still paved the way for today’s EV leaders. More importantly, it proved that public-private partnerships remain essential for scaling clean energy solutions nationwide. Finally, the THINK City more notably marked a true turning point in electric vehicle history. Thanks to its lightweight frame and zero-emission powertrain, it also became ideal for eco-conscious city drivers. Backed by utilities and local governments, it helped pilot charging infrastructure and test smart grid solutions. While the company eventually ceased operations, its influence on EV policy, charging standards, and public acceptance still resonates. Today, its legacy most definitely lives on through the growing presence of clean, [intelligent transportation](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/08/intelligent-transportation-revolutionizing-the-way-we-move/) options across America. Sources: * U.S. Department of Energy – Electric Vehicles * Portland General Electric – EV Programs * Duke Energy – EV Charging Solutions ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow. [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [ ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)