Comment Log Display

To: California Air Resources Board
Re:  March 27 Hearing on Modifications to Zero Emissions Vehicle
Regulation.

I currently own a dream machine, driving a Zero Emission Electric
Vehicle that was made available by one automaker to meet the bold
California Zero Emission Vehicle Regulation.  Like many other
electric vehicle drivers, my car is powered by electricity from my
roof top solar array with no emissions at all.  Unfortunately due
to weakening of this regulation in 2003, this automotive option
has not been available to California consumer's for several years.
 

The Air Resources Board should understand that the Zero Emissions
Vehicle program can not be considered a research program.  It was
clearly defined as a production quota for automakers who wanted to
continue to do business in the state.  Technology has advanced
significantly since 1990.  The number of vehicles, as well as
their size and power have undermined reductions in tailpipe
emissions.  With greater understanding of climate changing
emissions we are moving now to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. 

California is being watched by consumers worldwide.  Our
regulations are being emulated by numerous other states
representing over half of the American population.  The
overwhelmingly positive experience of thousands of electric
vehicle drivers over the last decade proves that the technology is
mature and available.  Given a chance, many more consumers could
enjoy never having to go to the corner gas station to take a
serious bite out of their earnings.  The state would have an
easier time attaining its AB32 goals as well. 

Your staff proposal (the ISOR) unfortunately will only further
delay progress in this vital area.  I request that the board to
direct its staff to modify the proposed regulatory changes to
require the full 25,000 ZEVs which automakers had promised for
2012-2014.  Further, create a separate requirement for plug-in
hybrids that lets them replace the dirtiest vehicles in CARB's
regulations, rather than the cleanest ZEVs.

All of Californian should have the choice that I had, to drive
emission free.

Ron Freund
Chairman
Electric Auto Association
PO Box 639
Los Altos, CA 94023-0639
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