Ford Motor Company Issues Statement on NLEV Program

17 December 1997

    WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 -- Ford Motor Company issued
the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency's
announcement of the National Low Emission Vehicle Program:

    Ford Motor Company supports the position taken by the Environmental
Protection Agency on the National Low Emission Vehicle Program.  NLEV is an
effective means to achieve improved air quality throughout the United States
as well as provide for consistent emission requirements throughout the
country.  Ford has been in favor of this type of cooperative approach between
government and industry for some time.  NLEV creates a marketplace where
environmental technology can make good business sense.
    We believe the NLEV program is one which all parties will be able to
embrace and we fully expect to become active participants.  However, at this
point it is important for state officials to review the rule to ensure that it
meets their needs without pressure from us.

SOURCE  Ford Motor Company