Zero Emission Vehicles Here to Stay, Says CARB
From American Lung Association of California
September 8, 2000
SACRAMENTO, CA — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contacts:
Roland Hwang, Union of Concerned Scientists, 510-334-0804
Bonnie Holmes-Gen, American Lung Association of Ca., 916-492-1639
Andrew Weisser, American Lung Association of Ca., 818-757-1440
Sandy Spelliscy. Planning and Conservation League, 530-758-7862
Cece Martin, CalETC, 916-600-8437
The California Zero Emission Vehicle Alliance applauds the California Air Resources Board for its strong vote of confidence for the state’s ZEV program.
"Today’s unanimous vote puts us back in gear and on the road to a zero pollution transportation future," said Cecile Martin, Deputy Director of the California Electric Transportation Coalition.In reaffirming the vision for clean air established in 1990 the board has said the ZEV program is here to stay and is part of our long-term vision.
The decision followed a day and a half of testimony from approximately 75 people representing environmental, health and public interest groups, state agencies, local governments, electric vehicle drivers and the auto industry. All but the automakers supported the ZEV program. Board members peered over a mountain of letters, which staff noted were overwhelmingly in favor of preserving the ZEV program.
"The ZEV program is a down payment on a pollution-free transportation future," said Bonnie Holmes-Gen, Assistant Vice President of Government Relations, with the American Lung Association of California.
The board acknowledged the lack of available electric vehicles, the need for a range of EV models, environmental impacts of gasoline, and a need for fuel diversity. The board also stressed the need to build a public/private partnership to bring California the clean air future it deserves. The board expressed the desire to take a leadership role in a team effort with automakers in building the market for ZEVs, and to ensure ongoing success of the program.
"Today’s vote will have positive national and global repercussions," stated Sandra Spelliscy, General Counsel, Planning and Conservation League."It ensures that the ZEV program will continue to deliver the clean car technology that we’ve only just begun to enjoy," said Roland Hwang, Transportation Programs Co-Director, Union of Concerned Scientists.