Electric car advocates court LGTB customers

Advocates for electric vehicles are hosting a promotional event Thursday, by invitation only, tailored to leaders of San Diego's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

As major automakers expand electric-car options, California authorities are trying to put 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025 to help meet the state's aggressive goals for reducing pollution and greenhouse gases.

Electric utilities, automakers and local business groups put together the event titled "Drive Your Values" to raise awareness about the health and economic benefits adopting electric-vehicle technologies.

"We have a very intelligent marketplace in the LGBT community and that's why they're coming to us," said Kathleen Connell, vice chairman of the Equality Professionals Network, one of the host groups. "We're delighted they are here with a product that has social values built in. We understand social values because we struggle for our own equality on a daily basis."

Those invited can rub elbows with local politicians inside the San Diego Gas & Electric Energy Innovation Center and test drive a long list of plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, according to a description of the event from the California Electric Transportation Coalition. San Diego Gay Men's Choir will perform a selection of car-themed songs.

All electric consumer vehicles typically sell for $35,000 or more but make good economic sense for many people after factoring in state and federal incentives and reduced operating costs, and depending on driving habits.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration on Tuesday outlined expectations for vehicle efficiency improvements and pricing trends over the coming decade.

By 2025, fuel economy for midsize, gasoline-only cars is projected to increase from 35 miles per gallon to 53 miles per gallon. Improved plug-in hybrids are projected by then to provide annual fuel and electricity savings of $207 a year.

State Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins and San Diego City Council President Todd Gloria will attend the event to accept leadership awards.