Avista and Zero Emissions Northwest Launch “Go Drive ZEN” Fleet EV Pilot Program
A guided “try before you buy” program helping commercial fleets test electric work vehicles in real operating conditions, backed by real-time fleet data and coordinated support.
5/4/20262 min read
March 4, 2026 | SPOKANE, WA - As fleet operators face rising fuel costs and increasing pressure to modernize, Avista Utilities and Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN) are partnering to launch the Go Drive ZEN EV Pilot Program — a fleet-focused initiative designed to help commercial and business fleets evaluate electric vehicles in real-world work conditions.
Built for practical decision-making, the program gives fleets the opportunity to test drive an EV on their actual routes, in local weather conditions, and under typical workloads. Participants then receive clear, data-informed insights to help determine whether EV options may work for their vehicles and duty cycles. The goal is to replace guesswork with hands-on experience and clear next steps, without any obligation to purchase.
“Fleets deserve a way to explore electrification that’s grounded in operational reality, not hype or misinformation,” said David Funk of Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN). “This pilot program gives businesses the chance to put an EV to work in their real routes and conditions, then walk away with clear insights and next steps that fit their fleet. The savings we’re seeing can be in the thousands per year.”
"This partnership gives fleet managers a practical, low-pressure way to learn whether EVs make sense for their operations," said Skip Hires, product manager of Clean Energy Solutions at Avista. "We're focused on helping customers understand their options, charging needs and next steps —while continuing to plan for reliable service as EV use grows."
Throughout each pilot, participants receive coordinated support to make evaluation straightforward and useful.
At the conclusion of the pilot, fleets receive a summary of results and recommendations to support next-step planning. This may include guidance on where electrification could fit first, how charging and site infrastructure might work, and what practical steps to consider if EVs are a good match.
The program is intended for commercial and business fleets operating multiple light-duty vehicles such as pickups, vans, and SUVs. Priority segments include contractors and service fleets (roofing, electrical/HVAC, plumbing, maintenance), medical and home health fleets, agricultural service fleets and distributors, and other fleets in Avista’s service territory.
Learn More
To learn more about the Go Drive ZEN EV Pilot Program, visit www.GoDriveZEN.com and sign up via the waitlist.
Media Contacts
Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN): Elise Azara,
elise.azara@zeroemissionsnorthwest.com
Avista Utilities: Kim Vollan,
kimberly.vollan@avistacorp.com
About Zero Emissions Northwest (ZEN)
Zero Emissions Northwest is a Spokane-based energy consulting firm dedicated to creating a sustainable future through practical energy solutions for rural communities in the Inland Northwest. By educating, collaborating, and supporting individuals, rural businesses, and organizations, ZEN inspires action towards a zero-emissions future.
About Avista Utilities
Avista Utilities is involved in the production, transmission and distribution of energy. We provide energy services and electricity to 429,000 customers and natural gas to 386,000 customers in a service territory that covers 34,000 square miles in eastern Washington, northern Idaho and parts of southern and eastern Oregon, with a population of 1.5 million. Avista Utilities is an operating division of Avista Corp. (NYSE: AVA).
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