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Advanced Vehicle Technology Act Of 2009

Floor Speech

By: Al Green
By: Al Green
Date: Sept. 16, 2009
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Technology and Communication Transportation

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Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Chair, I wish to express my strong support for H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.

The global competition for producing the cars and trucks of the future is happening now. There is no question that in the years ahead, people will be driving hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles, and cars and trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The question is whether these technologies will be imported from abroad, or produced right here in the United States by a sustainable, cutting-edge American automobile industry.

The global economic downturn and credit crisis have limited the resources that automakers and vehicle manufacturers can draw on to support their research and development activities. As American automakers struggle to become globally competitive and we race to make the best and most fuel-efficient vehicles, we have a chance to accelerate their development through the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.

The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act will reauthorize the Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Program, through which the Department partners with industry to provide research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of advanced vehicle technologies in the U.S. These programs have led to numerous successes, including a dual-mode hybrid transmission system used in transit buses and trucks manufactured in the U.S.

Through supporting advanced vehicle technologies, this legislation also reaffirms our commitment to reducing energy use to combat global warming and increase America's energy independence by reducing the need for imported oil.

Recognizing the importance of this legislation, H.R. 3246 has been endorsed by General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler, the UAW, Nissan, the Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association, Daimler, Magna International Delphi, ArvinMeritor, Robert Bosch LLC, Caterpillar, Dueco Odyne, Achates Power, and the Engine Manufacturers Association.

Let us invest in American energy independence, American jobs, a cleaner environment and cleaner communities by voting in favor of the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3246.

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