EDTA Promotes Action Plan to 'Fast Track' Electric Drive Future

Plan details keys to achieving the energy security and sustainability benefits of electrified transportation --

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25, 2010; The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) today outlined an action plan for Congress and the Obama Administration to build on their historic commitment to electric vehicle technology and accelerate the growth of hybrid, plug-in, battery and fuel cell vehicles in the U.S.

In its 2010 Electric Drive Action Plan for Energy Security, EDTA details a comprehensive strategy for achieving a national fleet of electric vehicles. The Action Plan explains how key government policies will speed the growth of the electric drive market and achieve the many benefits of electric drive transportation.

"EDTA is calling upon Congress and the Administration to 'push the pedal' to keep the U.S. on the electric drive fast track," said EDTA President Brian Wynne. "Targeted government policies can build the U.S. electric drive industry and get more vehicles on the road that will reduce our dependence on oil, establish sustainable transportation options and build the green jobs economy. "

To drive wider deployment of hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery and fuel cell vehicles, EDTA is recommending policies that will grow the vehicle and infrastructure market, including purchase and investment incentives for electric vehicles. For example, EDTA is advocating for the extension and expansion of federal tax incentives for medium and heavy duty electric drive vehicles, which can transform federal and private fleets.

"Hybrid-electric delivery trucks can provide up to 50 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions," Wynne said. "Local, regional and national efforts are necessary to ensure that government and industry work together to keep the public, businesses and first responders informed about industry developments."

EDTA has also detailed the policies that will help to grow U.S. electric drive manufacturing, including vehicle components, infrastructure and equipment. These industries are the foundation of a green jobs economy and are key to increasing U.S. leadership in advanced technology. In this area, EDTA has recommended expanding public/private partnerships to advance manufacturing breakthroughs, as well as establish more manufacturing facilities.

Another essential set of actions is required to ready the infrastructure for electric drive. The plan notes that expanding recharging options and establishing coherent standards for integrated infrastructure will be needed to ensure that grid-connected vehicles fully penetrate the national fleet.

"We need to maximize the advantages that smart grid will provide for grid-connected transportation," Wynne said. "Electric drive infrastructure means integrating the charging options with the smart grid technologies that will enable the most efficient and sustainable use of electric fuel."

For more details and to view the complete 2010 Electric Drive Action Plan for Energy Security, please visit www.electricdrive.org.

About EDTA: The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) is the trade association representing battery, plug-in, hybrid and fuel cell electric drive technologies and infrastructure. EDTA conducts public policy advocacy, education, industry networking and international conferences. EDTA's membership includes automotive and other equipment manufacturers, energy companies, technology developers, component suppliers and government agencies. For more information about EDTA and its members, visit www.electricdrive.org.