First Name | Ross |
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Last Name | Guldenbrein |
Email Address | radiocycle@pacbell.net |
Affiliation | |
Subject | PHEV are a viable link to the future! |
Comment | Hello, Although I do not fully understand the wording of the ZEV regulation, I ask that you would pass legislation to require both public and private fleets to buy efficient vehicles that save money in the long run. Like compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs), the up-front cost is higher, but greater efficiency guarantees cost savings in the long run. Push fleets to follow the cost-efficient path, and offer financial assistance in the early years, if needed, as fleet owners adjust to the new regulation. Provide state assistance (perhaps some of the AB118 funds) to partner with either consumers or automakers and remove some of the risk associated with state-of-the-art car batteries. State regulations require a 15-year or 150,000-mile warranty on hybrid batteries. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can get 100+ miles per gallon using newer lithium-ion batteries, but these batteries have not been on the market long enough to meet the current 15-year warranty, which is delaying introduction of plug-in hybrids. The state could offer an "insurance" program for batteries beyond the first 7 years of use at very little financial risk to the state, giving automakers and consumers the confidence to move forward. The program could sunset in a few years once the longevity of lithium batteries is established. Shift funding from programs to establish hydrogen fueling stations to programs incentivizing battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Hydrogen fuel-cell cars will not be commercialized for decades, if ever, and so won't be ready in time to deal with global warming, while plug-in vehicles could be commercialized today. Funds currently being spent on hydrogen are a waste in this regard, especially in a period of state budget limitations, because they weaken the state's ability to move toward more-viable plug-in vehicles. Thank you so much for the opportunity to express my views on the future of our state's energy independance and on our bid to become the number one clean air state in the nation. Ross and Jean Guldenbrein |
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Date and Time Comment Was Submitted | 2008-10-03 19:15:35 |
If you have any questions or comments please contact Clerk of the Board at (916) 322-5594.