Hybrid auto bill awaits governor's OK The state Assembly sent the governor a celebrity-backed measure Thursday that would allow drivers of the most fuel-efficient cars to use freeway carpool lanes. The carpool legislation, AB 2628, attracted a glittery list of supporters, including Schwarzenegger, "Seinfeld" mastermind Larry David and state Treasurer Phil Angelides, who favor allowing the state to issue 75,000 permits that would allow ultrafuel-efficient hybrid vehicle owners to drive in lanes designated for carpoolers. The measure sparked a flood of criticism from some lawmakers and from Ford Motor Co. Chairman Bill Ford because it would apply only to hybrid vehicles that average 45 miles per gallon or more, a standard that would exclude Ford's new 35-mpg Escape hybrid SUV. In a letter to Schwarzenegger and state lawmakers, Ford called the plan a "buy Japanese" bill and a "special-interest measure ... intended for almost exclusive use by Toyota Prius drivers." The Japanese-made Toyota Prius and Honda Insight and Civic are the only vehicles that would meet the legislation's requirement. "By setting the (45 mpg) standards, this bill excludes a number of hybrids that are planned to come on the market," said Assemblyman John Campbell, R-Irvine. "We shouldn't be discriminating on the type of vehicle this is to get in the hybrid lane." The bill's sponsor, Assemblywoman Fran Pavley, D-Agoura Hills, said the measure, which is subject to approval from the federal government, would encourage more automakers to embrace fuel-efficiency technology. But Assemblyman John Dutra, D-Fremont, called it unfair to U.S. automobile manufacturers, including the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. in his district. "The standards are so high that... no hybrid vehicle made in the United States will comply or can comply," he said. Other critics said they worry the bill would clog the special lanes and dissuade drivers from carpooling. Backers said the 75,000 permits that would be issued signify a tiny fraction of the state's drivers. They also said the measure should lead to the creation of more U.S.-produced hybrids. "There is a demand out there for fuel-efficient cars," said Assemblyman Joe Nation, D-San Rafael. "Maybe at some point, U.S. manufacturers will get the message." Schwarzenegger has said he will sign the measure. "We continue to believe that it provides consumers incentive to purchase a low-emission vehicle ... which then will help improve California's air quality," said spokeswoman Terri Carbaugh. Read entire article by clicking this link. Jeff
