From Gas to Electric: Denise Sanchez's Journey with EVgo and Her Kia Niro
Sometimes the best way to understand the EV transition is through real experiences. Meet Denise Sanchez, a Hawthorne resident and mother of five who switched to electric driving in May 2021.
After thorough research using resources like Electric for All to calculate incentives and rebates, Denise chose a Kia Niro EV. Her decision was driven by rising gas prices and health concerns, as fumes from her previous vehicle were causing headaches.
Driving approximately 300 miles weekly, Denise uses her Niro for:
- School runs and errands
- Regular day trips to UC Merced to visit her children
- Weekend getaways to Las Vegas and Mesa, Arizona
- Daily commuting and family activities
The Niro has exceeded expectations with:
- Smooth performance on all terrains
- Consistent speed maintenance without gear shifting
- Reduced maintenance costs (no oil changes or engine repairs)
- Significant monthly savings on fuel costs
"My family has peace of mind using EVgo because no matter where we drive, there are always enough charging stations to enjoy our rides"
Key Learning Experience: During their first month of EV ownership, the Sanchez family learned the importance of charge planning when they nearly depleted their battery during a road trip. Now, they carefully plan their charging stops using:
- The EVgo app
- PlugShare trip planner
- EVgo's network of 800+ chargers across 35 states
After nearly two years of electric driving, Denise and her family are so satisfied with their experience that they're planning to add another EV to their household.