John S. Martinson is a social entrepreneur, sustainability leader, and clean transportation advocate working to accelerate Arizona’s transition to electric mobility.

As Co-Founder and President of DRIVE Electric Arizona and the Valley of the Sun Electric Vehicle Association, John leads local and statewide efforts to expand EV adoption through education, Ride & Drives, dealership engagement, strategic partnerships, and outreach to urban, rural, Native, and underserved communities. His work brings together utilities, local governments, tribal nations, dealerships, fleets, nonprofits, and educational institutions to make electric transportation more practical, affordable, and accessible.

John brings more than four decades of Arizona business, nonprofit, and civic leadership experience. He co-founded China Mist Tea Company in 1982 and helped build it into a national specialty beverage brand before its sale in 2016. He previously served as Board President of Valley Leadership and has been active in numerous civic, sustainability, arts, and community organizations across Arizona.

A longtime EV driver, John leased one of the original GM EV1s and has owned 11 electric vehicles since. He holds an Executive Master of Sustainability Leadership from Arizona State University and focuses on practical, benefits-driven solutions that strengthen communities, reduce transportation costs, improve air quality, and support Arizona’s clean energy future.