Mote Marine gets energized about electric cars

Tesla fans could be seen outside of Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, salivating over other local residents' models. 

Mote hosted the 2015 Electrify the Island, a local kick-off for National Drive Electric Week. Individuals and car dealerships drove in their electric and hybrid car models for visitors to examine and test-drive. Different alternative energy companies and organizations from the area set up booths to answer questions about solar and electric power. 

"It's fascinating to see how rapidly things are changing," said Colin Derek, a Manatee County resident who came to the event. He doesn't own an electric vehicle now, but said he would consider it in the future. 

James Reno brought in his Tesla Model S to show off and answer questions. He's driven his vehicle to Dallas and back — the built-in touch screen tablet on the console tells him where to find a charging station on his route. 

"I find it to be more relaxing," Reno said. "With gas cars, people buckle down and drive for six hours. We have a dog, and my wife likes to get out and walk around while it's charging up."