Electric Vehicle Bill Draws Administration Support

Released July 6, 2010

The Obama administration is supporting legislation directed at promoting the development and use of electric vehicles. The measure, sponsored by Senator Byron Dorgan, (D-N.D.), the Promoting Electric Vehicles Act would increase incentives for electric vehicle purchases, provide money for electric vehicle infrastructure, establish a pilot program for electric vehicle infrastructure in 5 to 15 communities and increase electric vehicle research and development funding.

“Electric vehicles are the future, and that the legislation would encourage the development for vehicles with lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy use than gasoline-powered vehicles." said David Sandalow, assistant secretary for policy and international affairs during a hearing on the bill in June.

However, Republicans on the committee expressed concerns that the legislation would put too much focus on electric technology, while ignoring other potential energy alternatives. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers announced that they could not support the bill, stating that the legislation fell short of a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions in the transportation sector.

“We believe the legislation should allow manufacturers, fuel providers and communities the flexibility to invest in multiple electric drive pathways, including fuel cell electric vehicle and related hydrogen infrastructure,” according to the Alliance spokesperson.

The House Energy Committee likely will vote on the legislation in the near future and it could possibly be folded into a comprehensive energy bill in the Senate.