California Air Resources Board

PALO ALTO, CALIF – The California Air Resources Board's "Drive Clean California Campaign" and vehicle manufacturers today showcased the latest efficient, clean technology vehicles at the 42nd Annual Concours d'Elegance on the Stanford University campus.

The newest battery-electric, hybrid, compressed natural gas and super-clean gasoline vehicles were on display. Consumers were able to consult with experts about vehicle smog scores, global warming impact, fuel economy, and state, federal and local incentives.

"Consumers can directly impact air quality and global warming when purchasing a new vehicle," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "Today we are able to enjoy a wide variety of clean technology vehicle makes and models in varying price ranges that are often more efficient than traditional cars and trucks."

All vehicles on display at the Concours carry a smog score of 8 or better, with a score of 10 being best. The four makes and models showcased at the event included:

• 2008 Tesla Roadster: battery electric with a smog score of 10;
• 2008 Lexus 600h L: hybrid-electric with a smog score of 8;
• 2008 Mercedes-Benz E350: clean gasoline with a smog score of 9; and,
• 2008 Honda Civic GX: compressed natural gas with a smog score of 9.

Beginning with the 2009 model year, all cars sold in California will be required to carry a sticker comparing the environmental impacts of vehicles. The label displays a smog score and global warming score on a scale of 1-10. The highest scores indicate the cleanest vehicles.

"California continues to lead the nation in setting automotive emissions standards in order to protect public health and the environment from poor air quality and global warming emissions," added Nichols. "The vehicles displayed today are examples of the state's commitment to pushing clean vehicle technology for the past forty years."

The 42nd Annual Palo Alto Concours d'Elegance, the third oldest concours event in the nation, assembles sports, racing, vintage and classic cars, supplemented by a variety of special-interest auto displays. All proceeds from the Concours support more than two dozen local charities and organizations. For information about the event, please visit the Concours d'Elegance website.

To learn more about clean, advanced technology vehicles available today, visit the Drive Clean.