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Electric Nation
Electric Nation is a Tribal-led initiative bringing clean, affordable transportation to Tribal communities in the Upper Midwest and Western Great Lakes. The program supports community-driven planning, Tribal fleet deployment, and EV charging infrastructure that directly serves local priorities.
Electric Nation created the first inter-Tribal EV charging network in the Upper Midwest. The program places EVs and chargers into everyday use for elder transportation, food delivery, child welfare, and land stewardship. By integrating clean transportation into daily operations, communities are strengthening self-determination, improving mobility, and advancing energy equity.
On Red Lake Nation, electric trucks support food distribution, bison herd management, and elder services. Red Lake Fisheries operates Ford F-150 Lightning trucks that haul boats and make delivery runs up to 100 miles. Red Lake Family and Children Services uses Volkswagen ID.4 vehicles to transport relatives to healthcare and reunite families.
Electric ATVs are used in food sovereignty programs. These vehicles are meeting real needs and expanding community access to essential services.
Access to clean transportation means access to healthcare, jobs, and family.
Upper Midwest inter tribal EV Charging Community Network
Launched in 2021 with support from the U.S. Department of Energy, the Upper Midwest Inter-Tribal EV Charging Community Network is a three-year initiative focused on Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The project equips Tribal fleets with electric vehicles and builds EV infrastructure in underserved areas.
Key accomplishments to date:
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Installed 59 DC fast chargers on reservations and Tribal routes
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Installed 63 Level 2 chargers at housing, community centers, colleges, and essential facilities
Deployed 16 electric vehicles, two school buses, one shuttle, and one enclosed Polaris side-by-side -
Delivered 11 Ford EVs and 4 VW ID.4s to Red Lake and Standing Rock
Developed EVSE workforce training programs at Standing Rock and Red Lake -
Ordered four Ford Magellan electric buses for delivery in late 2024
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Installed public charging at the Red Lake Trading Post, Redby Community Center, Sitting Bull College, and Grand River Casino
The network also connects Tribal Nations along the Native American National and State Scenic Byway, expanding access to healthcare, education, retail, and cultural sites while reducing transportation emissions.
