The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $6 million for 11 projects to help accelerate the alternative fuel vehicle market.
The DOE says five projects will enable consumers and fleets to drive alternative fuel vehicles for extended periods of time to help them better understand how these vehicles can meet their everyday needs. For example, a Tallahassee, Fla., project will allow thousands of visitors in Orlando to rent and receive information on plug-in electric vehicles.
Furthermore, the DOE says five projects will focus on training for first responders, public safety officials, tow-truck operators, and collision repair specialists and teach these service providers how to safely handle alternative fuel vehicles. For example, one project in Morgantown, W.Va., will not only develop new curriculum, but also provide it for free online and train educators that can present it in person.
The DOE also says incorporating alternative fuel vehicles into emergency strategies will help state and local governments adopt these vehicles and understand how they can use them effectively during emergencies. An Arlington, Va., project will incorporate alternative fuel and advanced vehicles into multiple emergency preparedness plans that address varied geographies and potential incidents.
The full list of awardees and projects is available here.
