Curious about electric vehicles? In this class co-taught by DFS photovoltaics instructor, Jon Passi, and Vernon County Energy District President, Al Bus, we'll tackle questions most drivers have: how EVs stack up against gas cars, how they handle long trips, and what to expect in winter conditions. You’ll get a brief history of electric vehicles and a practical overview of today’s hybrid and all-electric models, including pricing.
We’ll take a closer look under the hood (and beneath the floor), exploring how EVs are built, how their systems work, and what to know about battery lifespan and replacement. You’ll also gain insight into everyday EV ownership, from charging at home to finding stations on the road. Plus, see an electric vehicle up close during a live demonstration.
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Ages: Adults only
Location: Viroqua, WI
Instructions: We will start indoors, but we'll be outside for the later part of the class, so please dress appropriately.
Sliding Scale Course Fee Guidelines
Supporter Level Ticket: $75
If you move through the world with financial ease and the means to fulfill many of your wants as well as your needs – you are able to eat out when you want, abundantly meet your needs through employment or can comfortably not work, have access to family wealth, own property, etc. – consider paying at this level, which will help us ensure the long term sustainability of our programs while keeping our offerings accessible to those with access to fewer resources.
Sustainer Level Ticket: $60
If you are able to meet your needs with relative ease while budgeting your educational and entertainment spending – for instance, you are able to take classes and eat out occasionally as long as you are mindful – consider paying at this level, which will help sustain the work of the Folk School at a modest level.
Supported Level Ticket: $45
If you struggle to fund your basic needs and have limited access to resources in your family and community, or if you would not be able to access this offering without a discounted payment option, consider paying at this level. We value your presence and contributions to our community and do not want any economic circumstances to be a barrier to attendance!
Instructor Bios —
Jon Passi
Jon Passi is an educator and advocate for alternative energy and sustainable technologies. With over 30 years construction experience, he moved to Viroqua in 2006 in order to build an alternative energy, well- insulated, off-grid home. He utilized photovoltaics and batteries for power, an efficient wood stove, and passive solar for heat, solar for water, and radiant floor heat, and a windmill to pump water. Now that the house is done, he cuts wood, designs and installs PV systems, creates poems and music, and tries to live light on the land.
Al Buss
Al Buss is an outside the box thinker who likes to connect the dots. He is a founding member of the Vernon County Energy District who believes in the power of alternative energies (pun intended), the power of community, and the innovative and economic power of tinkering and DIY. Al and his wife Laura live in a 170 year old log home in the Town of Kickapoo.