Rep. Richard Geist (R-Blair), chair of the House Transportation Committee, this week hosted an Alternative Fuel Vehicle Showcase behind the Capitol Building in Harrisburg.

As part of their "Discover the Alternatives Campaign" the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers joined with state legislators, the Pennsylvania Automotive Association and the Pennsylvania AAA Federation to tout their commitment to bringing more alternative fuel automobiles to market and provide an opportunity for legislators to drive these exciting vehicles.

In Pennsylvania now, there are approximately 270,000 alternative fuel vehicles on the road. Auto manufactures currently have more than 46 advanced technology vehicles on sale in dealer showrooms and more than 30 in development.

"Alternative fuel autos of all kinds are a reality today. Whether it's achieving greater fuel economy or reducing America's reliance on oil as a primary fuel source, automakers remain committed to populating America's roadways with innovative vehicle technologies," said Fred Webber, President and CEO of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers.

"Vehicle dealers are thrilled to be able to offer such a broad variety of automobiles and trucks to the consumer public," offered Mark Stine, Vice President of Legislative and Public Affairs of the Pennsylvania Automotive Association which represents the franchised new vehicle dealers in the state. "There is no doubt that buyers are showing increasing interest in alternatively-fueled vehicles and the industry is responding to those emerging preferences. Such a development is a fine example of the consumer-driven free market allowing for the expression of 'buyer preference' and the sales industry being able to respond to the choices they make. We've always believed that the customer, as opposed to the government, should be the one to decide what type of vehicles they want."

Sales of alternative fuel autos have steadily increased. Automakers are building more than 1 million alternative fuel autos for sale this year, and hope to sell more than 2 million by 2008. Automakers are advertising these vehicles to encourage consumers to consider purchasing them.

"I am looking forward to showing my colleagues in the House and Senate that there are many clean car options available to Pennsylvanians right now," said Rep. Geist. "Many of these economical and low green house gas vehicles will be illegal to sell here if the Governor and the misguided self-appointed environmental watchdogs get their way by locking us into California regulations."

"Consumers want choices that will lessen the operating expense and environmental impact of the vehicles they drive," said Ted Leonard, Executive Director, Pennsylvania AAA Federation. "The AAA clubs of Pennsylvania suggest motorists use opportunities such as the 'Discover the Alternatives' tour to become more familiar with the various new energy-saving technologies now being offered by the automobile industry."

Of the 270,000 alternative fuel vehicles on the road in Pennsylvania today, there are currently 101,480 diesels, 159,552 flex fuels and 8,412 hybrids.

For more information, visit the "Discover the Alternatives Campaign" website.

6/16/2006