Dear Friends:

The first month of 2006 was filled with new and exciting developments in the alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicle field. The NAFTC beta tested its first in a series of workshops for first responders, the fire and rescue teams who arrive on the scene immediately following an accident. The firemen in attendance for the “Hybrid Safety Workshop for First Responders” gave it rave reviews, and the opportunity to help educate those who selflessly help us every day is extremely rewarding.

On a national scale, President George W. Bush proposed a solution to America’s reliance on foreign oil in his State of the Union Address, and part of his proposal includes more money directed toward cellulosic ethanol research. Ethanol is quickly becoming a popular alternative fuel, and its further development is hoped to make it more widely available and cost competitive in the future. Our eNews story, “Ethanol Availability to Rise in ’06” covers this topic in detail.

President Bush stated, “ America is addicted to oil.” Ethanol, biodiesel, and other alternative fuels can help us relieve this addiction. The NAFTC is proud to be a part of this effort.

Also making the national industry news is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement of its revised fuel economy estimate methods and stickers and the boost in hybrid car sales.

The new year is off to an exciting start, and there is much more to look forward to ahead. National AFV Day Odyssey is just around the corner on October 12, 2006. Mark your calendars and watch for additional information coming soon!

Please contact us if we can be of service to you in any way.

Sincerely,

Al Ebron
NAFTC Executive Director

The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium is a pioneer and a national leader in promoting programs and activities that will lead to energy independence and the greater use of cleaner transportation. The NAFTC is the only nationwide alternative fuel vehicle and advanced technology vehicle training organization in the U.S.!

Our mission is to provide the training infrastructure for implementing the widespread use of alternative fuels, alternative fuel vehicles and advanced technology vehicles. Our effort to increase our nation’s energy security, as well as improve our air quality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, is embodied in our motto “Because Clean Air and Energy Independence Matter.”

Founded in 1992, the NAFTC is headquartered at West Virginia University and presently consists of 25 National Training Centers (NTCs) spanning the country from New York to California. Each center provides Training with Impact through its experienced instructors and real-world shop facilities. Approximately 60 Affiliate and Associate members also support the NAFTC’s mission.

Click on the blue dots for more information.

NAFTC's National Headquarters, Morgantown, WV