The Energy bill (H.R. 6) is on its way for signature by the President. It includes tax credits for hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, research and development for advanced technology vehicles, and EPAct fleet program modifications.

Washington, DC—July 29, 2005—The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) applauds the passage of comprehensive energy legislation that reflects growing recognition of the benefits provided by electric drive technologies in the transportation sector.

The Energy bill (H.R. 6) is on its way for signature by the President. It includes tax credits for hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, research and development for advanced technology vehicles, and EPAct fleet program modifications.

"We understand the challenges and compromises necessary to move comprehensive legislation; the bill is not perfect but it takes important steps toward a cleaner and more efficient vehicle fleet with electric drive technologies." says EDTA President Brian Wynne. "Electric drive is an innovative response to the challenges of foreign oil dependence, pollution and greenhouse gases.

Specific provisions for electric drive (battery, hybrid and fuel cell electric vehicles and supporting infrastructure) in the H.R. 6 include:

Consumer credits for hybrid and fuel cell electric vehicles; these credits are directly tied to the performance of each vehicle, specifically, the increase of fuel efficiency, and the amount of fuel the vehicle will save over its lifetime
Substantial program investment and guidance for hydrogen and fuel cell vehicle development
Grants to promote domestic production of hybrid electric vehicles
Funds for development of flexible fuel hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles
Loan guarantees for development of innovative technologies, including production facilities for hybrid vehicles
Increased flexibility in the federal fleet purchase requirements that will allow hybrid vehicles to be used to comply.

Wynne says, "This bill contains critical recognition of the value of electric drive technologies in a sustainable energy policy. Of course, more needs to be done to ensure that the full benefits of all the electric drive technologies - battery, hybrid and fuel cells - are achieved. We look forward to building on the contents of the bill to increase public and private sector commitment to advancing electric drive technologies."

About EDTA:
EDTA is the preeminent industry association dedicated to advancing electric drive as a core technology on the road to sustainable mobility. As an advocate for the adoption of electric drive technologies, EDTA serves as the unified voice for the industry and is the primary source of information and education related to electric drive. Our membership includes a diverse representation of vehicle and equipment manufacturers, energy providers, component suppliers and end users. For more information about EDTA, visit www.electricdrive.org.