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The State continues to offer buy-down incentives for
electric vehicles resulting in the AQMD’s program for the
buy-down of zero-emission vehicles for fleets. Despite this
effort and the greater environmental benefits offered by
battery EVs, widespread demand and deployment have been
hampered by public concerns over cost, battery lifetime,
travel range, and charging station infrastructure. The AQMD
will continue to consider projects addressing these concerns
as well as the use of battery EVs in fleet or niche
applications.
Most of the major automobile
manufacturers are now directing their efforts toward hybrid
electric technologies in both light-duty and heavy-duty
applications as well as off-road equipment. In particular,
diesel and gasoline fueled hybrid electric vehicles, and
specialty light-duty pure electric vehicles, have entered
the commercial market. Such vehicles offer the benefits of
higher fuel economy and range, as well as lower emissions.
Hybrid electric technology is not limited to gasoline and
diesel engines, and can be coupled with natural gas engines,
microturbines, and fuel cells for further emission benefits
in the future. As mentioned for fuel cells, there is also the
potential for cross-platform hybrid development for vehicle
to grid power.
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