Former Vancouver Canucks captain Trevor Linden did something a little out of the ordinary, this past Thursday. Linden agreed to promote BCAA’s electric vehicle initiative by actually giving people free rides around the Vancouver area, just like a taxi!
We, however, we’re fortunate enough to actually be downtown yesterday and have Linden give us a brief 8 minute drive!
As I was trying to get all my stuff in the vehicle, I wasn’t really paying attention to who was driving and I proceeded to tell the driver where I would like to go. About a minute later, when I was sure I had all my stuff, we were already on our way.
I was looking up towards the drivers rear view mirror from the backseat, just curious as to who my driver was. I had already heard of Linden giving rides to unsuspecting people that day, and thought from what I can see, this guy resembles Linden a lot!
After a minute of debating and contemplating whether or not it was him, I was like “Trevor Linden?”
He smiled and looked back at me, nodded and laughed.
Though by the time I realized it was him, we were close to my destination, so our conversation was a bit on the short side. I basically asked him a few questions about his experience driving Vancouverites around the 604.
Me: So how’s this driving gig been treating you?
Linden: Not too bad, actually! I think I have a pretty good sense of direction.. I’ve barely had to use the GPS.
Me: Haha, I can’t believe you’re my driver. You totally made my day, and I’m sure tons of other people as well.
Linden: Haha, yeah definitely. Did you know, this is an electric vehicle we’re riding in?
Me: “Oh, what? No, I had no idea, it feels just like a normal vehicle!”
Linden: “Yeah, that’s the thing, so many people believe that electric vehicles have a different driving experience to them, but they’re basically the same. Plus, when you start the engine, it’s silent, pretty neat!”
Linden also told me that these vehicles can travel up to 150 km per charge, and cost only a toonie to charge up! Very impressive. Linden also mentioned that an electric vehicle may be in his future after today’s experience! Vancouver will also be adding 450 new charging stations all over the city by March 2013.
Linden later travelled to Granville street to host a autograph session with Ryan Kesler at the Bay.
Nonetheless, what an exciting day yesterday was, we wish Canucks players would do this every week!
