Fritz Hasler's family is living proof that the electric future isn't coming. It's already here, and it's more affordable and joyful than ever before.

Three years ago, Fritz and his family owned three Tesla electric vehicles. Today, that number has grown to four, with the most exciting addition being his son's gorgeous blue 2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance, purchased for just over $10,000 including subsidies. For Fritz, an 85-year-old on a fixed income, seeing such advanced technology become this accessible feels miraculous. "It's hard to believe that you can buy such an amazing car for such a low price," he marvels.

Thanks to his nine-year-old rooftop solar system that's still working beautifully, Fritz and his son drive mostly on sunshine. No gas stations, no fuel costs, just clean energy powering their daily adventures. His brother recently upgraded to a 2024 Tesla Model Y, while Fritz's daughter continues enjoying her 2018 Model X. The family has become a rolling testament to how reliable and practical electric vehicles have become.

But the electric transformation extends far beyond their driveways. Two years ago, they switched to an Ego electric lawn mower, and Fritz's grandson has fallen in love with mowing the lawn. The quiet, emission-free experience has turned a chore into quality time together. They recently added their first leaf blower, naturally choosing an electric model, and Fritz's granddaughter has taken to yard work with equal enthusiasm.

Fritz's workshop tells another inspiring story. All his power tools now run on batteries, eliminating the hassle of finding outlets and dragging extension cords. He recently took a chance on a $39 battery-powered tire inflator from Costco, initially skeptical it could handle big truck and trailer tires. To his delight, it worked perfectly, taking its place in his Tesla's frunk as a spare-tire replacement. His wife received a powerful battery-powered hand vacuum for Christmas that finally does the job right.

Even recreation has gone electric. Fritz operates a small drone for overhead video footage, piloted by his grandson. The family enjoys electric RC cars and boats, with his grandson recently unwrapping a tiny new micro drone weighing just a few ounces.

The Ripple Effect

Fritz's story reflects a broader transformation happening worldwide. Countries like Norway, Sweden, and China are rapidly replacing their gas vehicle fleets with electric alternatives. What seemed futuristic just a decade ago when Tesla put thousands of cell phone batteries into its first Roadster has become accessible to everyday families.

The variety of electric vehicles has exploded too. Three years ago, EVs were mostly sedans. Now electric pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian, plus full-size SUVs including the electric Cadillac Escalade, offer options for every lifestyle. About 50 different EV models are now available in the US, and virtually all non-Tesla EVs can access Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.

Looking ahead, Fritz acknowledges his 30-year-old gas furnace will eventually need replacing, presenting an opportunity to switch to heat pump heating. Though budget constraints as a retiree give him pause, he remains optimistic about the technology's promise.

For this Utah grandfather, the electric revolution has brought his family together, reduced their environmental impact, and proven that clean technology can be both practical and affordable. The future is bright, quiet, and increasingly powered by sunshine.