EDTA Applauds President Obama's Commitment to Electric Drive as Solution for a Secure Energy Future

WASHINGTON, March 30, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the Obama Administration outlined policies to establish a more secure energy future by reducing U.S. oil imports by one-third over the next ten years. The President identified electric drive vehicles as critical to this effort, along with policies to increase domestic oil supplies and boost efficiency and alternative fuel use. The President also called for federal agencies' fleet purchases to be 100 percent alternative fuel powered vehicles by 2015.

Below is a statement about the Administration's plan from Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) President Brian Wynne:

"EDTA commends the President for placing a national emphasis on energy security and recognizing that electrification is an essential part of a comprehensive U.S. energy policy that reduces dependence on foreign oil.

"We strongly support the Administration's commitment to increasing energy security through alternative fuel vehicles, in federal and private fleets, and to reaching the milestone of 1 million plug-in vehicles on U.S. roads by 2015.

"EDTA also appreciates the plan's recognition of the economic benefits – such as establishing advanced clean energy manufacturing jobs – that accompany U.S. leadership in electrifying transportation.

"Federal policies can accelerate the achievement of our energy security goals, as the President noted.  EDTA looks forward to working with the President and his Administration to advance the key public/private partnerships that will drive us toward a more secure energy future."

About EDTA: The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) is the trade association representing battery, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell electric drive technologies and infrastructure. EDTA conducts public policy advocacy, education, industry networking, and international conferences. EDTA's membership includes automotive and other equipment manufacturers, energy companies, technology developers, component suppliers, and government agencies. For more information about EDTA and its members, visit www.electricdrive.org. For information about owning and operating electric vehicles, please visit GoElectricDrive.com.

SOURCE Electric Drive Transportation Association