Introduced by United States Senators Byron Dorgan (D-ND) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), the legislation aims to launch a major long-term research and development effort to transform the transportation sector with hydrogen and fuel cells.

Washington, DC—March 21, 2005—The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) applauds the introduction of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Act of 2005. Introduced by United States Senators Byron Dorgan (D-ND) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), the legislation aims to launch a major long-term research and development effort to transform the transportation sector with hydrogen and fuel cells.

S. 665, The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Act of 2005, authorizes a 10-year, $7.9 billion program, in partnership with industry, universities and national labs, for the development, demonstration and commercialization of hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

"This bill would help jump-start the industry and lead us to a day when we can drive our cars without being hostage to the international oil cartel," Senator Dorgan said. "This bill will create the 'Apollo Project' our nation needs to make hydrogen technology a real part of our energy picture for future generations and realize true energy independence."

EDTA President Brian Wynne says, "S. 665 recognizes that the swift development of fuel cell electric drive technologies is critical to achieving energy security. EDTA looks forward to working with Senators Dorgan and Graham to realize our shared vision for the future of transportation."

EDTA is the preeminent U.S. industry association dedicated to the promotion of electric drive as the best means to achieve the highly efficient and clean use of secure energy in the transportation sector. As a unified voice for the electric drive industry, EDTA's membership includes a diverse representation of vehicle and equipment manufacturers, energy providers, component suppliers and end users. EDTA supports the sustainable commercialization of all electric drive transportation technologies by providing in-depth information, education, industry networking, public policy advocacy and international conferences and exhibitions. For more information on EDTA, visit www.electricdrive.org.