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Environmental and Health Issues and Recommendations  Air Quality:
Motor vehicles are California's leading source of air pollution. More than 95 percent of Californians live in areas that fail to meet federal or state air quality standards. [1]
- Drive less or use cleaner vehicles to achieve our health-based air quality goals.
 Global Warming / Climate Change:
In California, transportation is the source of more than half of the carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) emissions from fossil fuels. [2]
- Drive less and use fuel-efficient vehicles that emit lower levels of greenhouse gases.
 Conserves Energy:
"Roughly half of all the energy used in California is used by the transportation sector. We use more than 16.5 billion gallons of gasoline a year. That's enough to drive a car, getting 30 mpg, three round trips to the sun." [3]
- Drive less and use fuel-efficient vehicles to save energy.
 Prevents Waste:
Using rebuilt parts can reduce financial costs and conserve resources. [4]
 Less Hazardous:
Less toxic materials can be used to produce and maintain vehicles.
- During vehicle maintenance, request less hazardous replacement components, such as lead-free wheel weights.
 End-of-Life Management:
Vehicular components and maintenance products should be managed in accordance with state laws and regulations.
See the Introduction for complete descriptions of these environmental and health issues.
See also Antifreeze, Batteries, Heavy-Duty Vehicles, Motor Oil, Parts Washing, and Retreaded Tires.
NOTE: Most of this section focuses on smart transportation choices that can reduce air pollution and combat climate change. It is important to note that there are smart transportation and vehicle maintenance decisions that can also save energy and natural resources, prevent waste, and keep hazardous waste out of the environment.
BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH ISSUES
Air Quality and Climate Change
More than 95 percent of Californians live in areas that fail to meet federal or state air quality standards [5] - a rapidly increasing health hazard. And, motor vehicles alone contribute more than half of the air pollution problem in California. [6] Besides the immediate air quality impact of urban smog from motor vehicles, long-term carbon dioxide emissions contribute to climate change. While today's vehicles are cleaner than they used to be, most new vehicles are not clean enough to counteract the amount of driving Californians do. Simply put, we have to drive less or we have to drive cleaner vehicles, if we want to achieve our health-based air quality goals. (For information on how air pollution affects health, see the California Air Resources Board fact sheet titled "Air Pollution Sources, Effects and Control.")
Motor vehicles are California's leading source of air pollution. California's 34 million residents collectively own more than 25 million vehicles and drive more on average than most other Americans. [7] Controlling pollution from cars and trucks is essential to reducing smog. Through California Air Resources Board (ARB) regulations on vehicles and fuel, today's new cars pollute about 95 percent less than the cars of thirty years ago. [8] Still, more than 50 percent of the state's smog-forming emissions come from motor vehicles.
Energy Conservation
"Roughly half of all the energy used in California is used by the transportation sector. We use more than 16.5 billion gallons of gasoline a year. That's enough to drive a car, getting 30 mpg, three round trips to the sun." [9]
"The demand for transportation fuels in California is increasing. The number of light-duty vehicles is projected to grow from 25.6 million on-road vehicles in 2003 to 35.6 million by 2025.
"Unless we change our habits, petroleum will be the primary source of California's transportation fuels for the foreseeable future, and as demand continues to rise and in-state and Alaskan petroleum supplies diminish, California will rely more and more on foreign imports of crude oil.
"Nearly 100 percent of the state's transportation system is currently fueled by fossil fuels. Moving toward a more diversified range of fuels and supporting the advancement of higher efficiency vehicles are two of the goals of the state's programs." [10]
Waste Prevention
Using rebuilt parts can reduce financial costs and conserve resources. [11] "Rebuilt vehicular parts are vehicle parts that have been re-manufactured, reusing parts in their original form. Rebuilt parts undergo an extensive re-manufacturing and testing process and must meet the same industry specifications for performance as new parts
To be labeled "rebuilt" or "remanufactured," a part must be processed in accordance with the FTC's [Federal Trade Commission] "Guides for the Rebuilt, Reconditioned and Other Used Automotive Parts Industry," 16 CFR Part 20. Rebuilders must test each part for compliance with FTC specifications and correct defects as necessary." [12] The FTC Guides are available online.
Cleaner Production, Maintenance, and End-of-Life Management
Clean Car Campaign
The Clean Car Campaign is a national campaign coordinated by state, regional and national environmental organizations promoting a clean revolution in the motor vehicle industry. According to the Clean Car Campaign:
"The production of vehicles, from the extraction of raw materials to the manufacture and assembly of a finished car or truck, consumes a tremendous amount of resources and results in significant releases of pollutants that impact our environment. According to one estimate, as much as 30,000 pounds of waste is created from the production of a single vehicle. Obviously, creating a "cleaner car" involves reducing these important impacts from vehicle production.
"The Clean Car Standard encourages changes in vehicle design that focus on the use of nontoxic recyclable materials, and best-in-class manufacturing techniques that reduce the use and release of polluting substances. In particular, the standard calls for 1) best-in-class painting/coating practices, 2) the elimination of heavy metals and other substances of concern, and 3) design for recyclability and maximum use of recycled materials. The standard also supports producer responsibility policies for end-of-life vehicles as a means to increase the use of nontoxic recyclable materials and improve the environmental performance of dismantlers and shredders." [13]
Automotive-Related Materials, Substances, and Practices of Concern
- Antifreeze - Purchase recycled antifreeze; recycle used antifreeze; and manage used antifreeze in accordance with applicable hazardous waste laws.
- Batteries - Manage automotive-type lead-acid storage batteries in accordance with applicable hazardous waste regulations.
- Lead - Avoid lead and manage it in accordance with applicable hazardous substance management rules. Lead is found in lead wheel weights, solder in electronics, and lead car batteries. "Lead is a highly toxic metal" that "may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk, because their bodies are growing quickly." [14]
According to the Clean Car Campaign, "Lead wheel weights are used worldwide to balance vehicle tires. In the U.S., there is nearly 25,000 metric tons of lead in wheel weights of registered vehicles. These weights are clipped onto the edge of wheels during tire installation and frequently fall off during vehicle use. Approximately 50 percent of vehicles on the road may be missing one or more wheel weight. This accounts for over 5,000 tons of lead wheel weights deposited yearly on U.S. roadways. Once these weights are deposited onto roadways they are rapidly abraded by road traffic and turned into fine lead dust particles that contaminate ground surfaces, storm water and groundwater, and pose a health risk to humans and fish
Alternative wheel weights are commercially available and used commonly in European auto manufacturing. They include weights made from steel, tin, tungsten, and plastic, all of which are
more environmentally preferable than lead." [15]
During vehicle maintenance, request lead-free wheel weights. Contact the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) for information on handling waste that contains lead.
For more information, visit the following Web sites:
- Mercury - Avoid components with mercury and manage mercury where it does occur in accordance with applicable hazardous waste regulations. Mercury is found in switches, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, and other devices. "Mercury is a naturally occurring element that is poisonous and can accumulate in the tissues of animals and humans, causing birth defects, nervous disorders, permanent brain damage, and even death through prolonged exposure. It is a highly toxic and persistent metal." [16]
Additional information is available on the following Web sites:
- Oil - Purchase re-refined oil; recycle used oil; and manage used oil in accordance with applicable laws.
- Plastics - Consider if the types of plastics used in vehicles can be recycled or reused. Plastics are found in numerous automotive applications. According to the Clean Car Campaign, "With the use of plastics in automobiles and auto production on the rise globally, plastic waste from discarded autos will continue to flood into landfills and incinerators across the earth.
"The manufacture of plastics poses another set of environmental challenges. Made from non-renewable fossil fuels and toxic chemicals, the plastic products of today are both unsustainable and the source of toxic pollutants." [17]
For more information, visit the following Web site:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) - Seek vehicles with less PVC, which is found in several automotive applications. According to the Clean Car Campaign, PVC "is a commonly used plastic that has a number of negative environmental characteristics. As a chlorinated plastic, production and waste processes can lead to the formation of deadly toxic emissions. PVC also contains a range of toxic additives, including metals, plasticizers, and hazardous oils that can further lead to contamination and health impacts." [18] In the future, some manufacturers may use sustainable plastics in vehicles.
For more information, visit the following Web sites:
- Tires - Purchase retreaded tires and manage tires in accordance with applicable laws. Retreaded tires are safe, dependable, cost less than comparable new tires, and save a valuable natural resource -- oil.
Production, Maintenance, and End-of-Life Management
Important considerations include reduced toxicity, recycled content, and recyclability of components and maintenance products; ease of dismantling for the purposes of recycling or disposal, and take-back services to facilitate recycling.
For more information, visit the following Web sites:
- Clean Car Campaign. Clean Car Standard Web page (scroll down to "Clean Manufacturing Processes").
- "Designing for Material Separation: Lessons from Automotive Recycling" by Stewart Coulter, Bert Bras, Gerald Winslow, and Susan Yester. (PDF, 78 KB)
- European Commission Directive. "In 1997, the European Commission adopted a Proposal for a Directive which aims at making vehicle dismantling and recycling more environmentally friendly, sets clear quantified targets for reuse, recycling and recovery of vehicles and their components and pushes producers to manufacture new vehicles also with a view to their recyclability. This legislation was officially adopted
in September 2000." [19]
Identifying Cars for Cleaner Air
Vehicle emissions are the result of the combined attributes of fuel type, controls on the engine's operations and maintenance throughout the life of the vehicle. All new vehicles sold in California must be certified to ARB emissions ratings. Vehicle emissions ratings are posted on the Vehicle Emissions Control Information Label found under the hood. California has the unique ability to set emissions standards and has created the most stringent requirements in the world. The certification standards decrease in polluting order:
- LEV (Low Emission Vehicle): The least stringent emission standard for all new cars sold in California.
- ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle): 50 percent cleaner than the average new 2003 model year vehicle.
- SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle): 90 percent cleaner than the average new 2003 model year vehicle.
- PZEV (Partial Zero Emission Vehicle): Meets SULEV tailpipe standards, has a 15-year/150,000 mile emissions related warranty and enhanced evaporative requirements.
- AT PZEV (Advanced Technology PZEV): Meets the PZEV standards and includes ZEV enabling technology.
- ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle): Zero tailpipe emissions and 98 percent cleaner than the average new 2003 model year vehicle.
There are several lists showing the availability of these vehicles.
LAWS, REGULATIONS, AND POLICIES
California
Department of General Services (DGS) Vehicle Purchase and Lease Policy Management Memo (MM) 06-03 (PDF, 110 KB). References: Federal Energy Policy Act of 1992; California Vehicle Code section 25252; California Public Resources Code section 25722.5; MM 03-18 (PDF, 324 KB); supersedes MM 04-20 (PDF, 31 KB).
- Alternative Fuel Vehicles
As required by the federal Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992, 75 percent of the state's light-duty vehicle purchases must be Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV). To the maximum extent practicable, the respective alternative fuel shall be used in those vehicles.
- Gasoline and Hybrid-Electric Powered Vehicles
After having met the federal EPAct, all vehicles purchased or leased by the state must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Gasoline-powered light-duty sedans: At a minimum must be certified to the California Air Resources Board's (ARB) LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standard.
- Gasoline light-duty pickups, vans and sport utility vehicles: At a minimum be certified to the ARB's LEV I ULEV standard.
- All State offices, agencies and departments shall, when available, maximize the purchase or lease of available light duty vehicles that meet or exceed the ARB's LEV II Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standard and are hybrid-electric vehicles or "Best in Class" vehicles that are substantially more fuel efficient.
- Sport Utility and Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles
In order to discourage the purchase or lease of SUVs and four-wheel drive trucks, it must be demonstrated to the Director of the DGS that the vehicle is required to perform an essential function. If approval is granted, an alternative fuel or hybrid version shall be given priority consideration.
Department of General Services State-Owned or Leased Motor Vehicles Management Memo (MM) 04-22 (PDF, 206 KB)
A state law was established in 2003 to ensure that the state fleet meets new standards to minimize the economic and environmental costs linked with the use of petroleum-based fuels. This DGS Management Memo is the basis of the Vehicle Purchase and Lease Policy discussed above, and describes the requirements of the state law set forth in Public Resources Code section 25722.
Department of General Services, California Energy-Efficient Vehicle Group Purchase Program
Chapter 580, Statutes of 2005 (Pavley, AB 1660) created "the California Energy-Efficient Vehicle Group Purchase Program in the Department of General Services to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient vehicles, as defined, by local and state agencies through a group-purchasing program."
Governor's Executive Order W-100-94 (PDF, 178 KB)
This Executive Order sets forth the order that the DGS Office of Fleet Administration, in consultation with the California Energy Commission, must implement a vehicle purchase plan that is consistent with the federal EPAct and ARB's low emission standards.
State Agency Buy Recycled Campaign
California law requires state agencies to purchase recycled antifreeze, re-refined oil, and retreaded tires.
California Mercury Reduction Act of 2001
The California Mercury Reduction Act of 2001 states that "No person may sell or offer for sale in this state a vehicle manufactured on or after January 1, 2005, that contains a mercury-containing motor vehicle light switch, as defined in Section 25214.5 of the Health and Safety Code, mounted on the hood or trunk."
Regulation for Reducing Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from Consumer Products
This regulation (PDF, 219 KB) mentions a number of vehicle maintenance and undercoating products.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) in Vehicle Air Conditioners
Health and Safety Code section 44472(d) states that "On and after January 1, 1995, no person or business shall certify for sale, sell, or offer to sell a new 1995 or later model year motor vehicle equipped with a vehicle air conditioner utilizing" certain CFC-based products.
Limits on Some Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE)
Health and Safety Code section 108922 states that "On and after June 1, 2006, a person may not manufacture, process, or distribute in commerce a product, or a flame-retarded part of a product, containing more than one-tenth of 1 percent of pentaBDE or octaBDE, except for products containing small quantities of PBDEs that are produced or used for scientific research on the health or environmental effects of PBDEs."
Federal
Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct)
"The Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct) was passed by Congress to reduce our nation's dependence on imported petroleum by requiring certain fleets to acquire alternative fuel vehicles, which are capable of operating on nonpetroleum fuels." [20] For more information, visit the United States Department of Energy's Web site.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act requires procuring agencies to buy recycled-content products designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in the Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG). Engine coolants, rebuilt vehicular parts, re-refined oil, and retreaded tires are USEPA-designated items. "Procuring agencies include all federal agencies, and any state or local government agencies or government contractors that use appropriated federal funds to purchase the designated items. If your agency spends more than $10,000 per year on a product designated in the CPG, you are required to purchase it with the highest recycled-content level practicable." [21] This means that the recycled-content ranges recommended in the USEPA's Recovered Materials Advisory Notice (RMAN) for the item in question are met. [22] The USEPA's recommendations for purchasing vehicular products are available on-line.
Executive Order 13101 and Federal Acquisition Regulation
"Executive Order 13101 and the Federal Acquisition Regulation also call for an increase in the federal government's use of recycled-content and environmentally preferable products." [23]
Executive Order 13148
Executive Order 13148 - "Greening the Government Through Leadership in Environmental Management" - directs the USEPA to "convene and chair an Interagency Environmental Leadership Workgroup to develop a list of fifteen priority chemicals. Federal facilities are to reduce the use of these chemicals by at least 50 percent by December 31, 2006. To date, the workgroup has identified five of the fifteen priority chemicals: cadmium, lead, mercury, naphthalene, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)." [24]
Executive Order 13149
Executive Order 13149 - "Greening the Government Through Federal Fleet and Transportation Efficiency" - "aims to ensure that the Federal government demonstrates leadership in reducing petroleum consumption through improvements in fleet fuel efficiency and the use of AFVs and alternative fuels. Under E.O. 13149, any Federal agency with a fleet of 20 or more vehicles developed a compliance strategy for reducing its annual petroleum consumption by 20% by the end of FY 2005. Fuel consumption from light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles was included
To encourage the use of alternative fuels, E.O. 13149 awards additional credits to fleets that fulfill their EPAct requirements by purchasing dedicated AFVs and using biodiesel fuel." [25]
TYPES OF VEHICLES, FUELS, AND AVAILABILITY
Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) can operate on fuel other than gasoline or petroleum based diesel, such as electricity, ethanol, hydrogen, methanol, natural gas, biologically produced diesel (biodiesel), or propane. Alternative fuels are generally cleaner than gasoline, but adequate controls on the engine are necessary to ensure fewer overall emissions.
- Flex-fuel: A flexible fueled vehicle has a single fuel tank, fuel system, and engine. The vehicle is designed to run on unleaded gasoline and an alcohol fuel (usually ethanol) in any mixture. These engines have sensors to analyze the fuel mixture, and adjust the fuel injection and timing. Since fuel composition and engine controls vary widely from one car to the next, flex-fuel vehicles do not ensure fewer emissions than dedicated gas-powered vehicles.
- Bi-fuel: A bi-fuel vehicle has two separate fuel systems, one for gasoline or diesel and another for propane, natural gas, or hydrogen. Because these fuels are stored in pressurized tanks, they cannot be simply pumped into the gasoline tank. Like flex-fuel vehicles, bi-fuel vehicle emissions vary from car to car depending on engine controls and the fuel chosen - making them not necessarily cleaner than a dedicated gas vehicle.
- Dedicated: A dedicated alternative fuel vehicle has only one fuel system. Unlike flex-fuel or bi-fuel vehicles, the vehicle only uses the alternative fuel.
For a list of vehicles, visit the DGS Procurement Division's Commodity Contracts Index Listing and refer to "vehicles".
Alternative Fuels
Alternative fuels are used worldwide in a variety of vehicle applications. As defined by the Energy Policy Act of 1992, alternative fuels include ethanol, methanol, P-series fuels, natural gas, propane, hydrogen, electricity, and biodiesel. Using alternative fuels in vehicles can potentially reduce harmful pollutants and exhaust emissions. In addition, most of these fuels can be domestically produced and derived from renewable sources.
Ethanol
Ethanol is an alcohol-based alternative fuel produced by fermenting and distilling starch crops that have been converted into simple sugars. Feedstocks for this fuel include corn, barley, and wheat. Ethanol can also be produced from "cellulosic biomass" such as trees and grasses and is called bioethanol. Ethanol is most commonly used to increase octane and improve the emissions quality of gasoline.
Methanol
Methanol is an alcohol fuel made through a process using natural gas as a feedstock, and can be produced from coal or biomass. No vehicles capable of operating on methanol are currently being manufactured. However, methanol is being viewed as an excellent base fuel for fuel cell vehicles to convert hydrogen through a reformer.
P-Series Fuels
P-Series fuel is a unique blend of natural gas liquids (pentanes plus), ethanol, and the biomass-derived co-solvent methyltetrahydrofuran (MeTHF). "P-series fuels are to be used in flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) originally designed to operate on E-85 (85 percent ethanol/15 percent gasoline), gasoline, or on any blend of those two fuels." [32] P-Series fuels are designed to be used alone or freely mixed with gasoline in any proportion inside the gas tank. This fuel is not currently being produced in large quantities and is not widely used.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is a domestically produced and clean burning fuel that produces fewer harmful emissions than reformulated gasoline or diesel when used in natural gas vehicles. Commercially available medium and heavy-duty natural gas engines have demonstrated more than 90 percent reductions of carbon monoxide and 50 percent of nitrogen oxides.
Propane
Propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a popular alternative fuel choice for vehicles because there is already an infrastructure of pipelines, processing facilities, and storage for its efficient distribution.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen (H2) technologies (PDF, 187 KB) are expected to play an important role in developing sustainable transportation in the United States. Hydrogen has been used effectively in a number of internal combustion engine vehicles as pure hydrogen mixed with natural gas. It is also used in a growing number of fuel-cell vehicles. A number of important issues will need to be addressed in a move toward a hydrogen based transportation system, including a cost effective, renewable energy source for the production of the hydrogen fuel and building the infrastructure that makes the fuel readily available to consumers. [33]
Electricity
Electricity can be used as a transportation fuel to power battery electric and fuel cell vehicles. When used to power electric vehicles (EV), electricity is stored in an energy storage device such as a battery. EV batteries have a limited storage capacity. The electricity for recharging the batteries can come from the existing power grid or from distributed renewable sources such as solar or wind energy.
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a domestically produced, renewable fuel that can be manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant greases. Biodiesel is safe, biodegradable, and reduces serious air pollutants such as particulates, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and air toxics. Blends can generally be used in unmodified diesel engines, and it can also be used in its pure form. This may require certain engine modifications to avoid maintenance and performance problems and may not be suitable for wintertime use. This fuel is not currently being produced in large quantities and is not widely used. Lower-level biodiesel blends are not considered alternative fuels, but covered fleets can earn EPAct credit.
Advanced Technology Vehicles
Hybrid-electric technology -- combining an internal combustion engine with a battery and electric motor -- is here to stay, and can be used in two opposite and opposing ways depending on the market. Hybrid technology is mostly promoted as offering higher gas mileage and cleaner burning cars. This is true, but not for all hybrids. The technology can also be used to increase vehicle performance, while sacrificing better fuel economy and clean emissions in the process. A list of currently certified hybrid-electric vehicles is available on-line. Tip: to ensure a vehicle is an Advanced Technology PZEV match the engine family number under the hood with the engine family number listed on-line.
Clean Gasoline -- there are many gasoline vehicles available today with extremely low emissions that are sometimes lower than hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles. These vehicles qualify as PZEVs, and have zero evaporative emissions while passing the ARB's most stringent tailpipe emission standards. A list of currently certified PZEVs is available on-line. Tip: to ensure a vehicle is a PZEV match the engine family number under the hood with the engine family number listed on-line.
Availability
Visit the following Web sites for tips on purchasing cleaner, fuel-efficient vehicles or learning what vehicles are available on state contracts:
PERFORMANCE
General
AFVs and Advanced vehicles are equal in performance to conventional vehicles. For AFVs, some planning before trips may be needed in order to locate a fueling station.
State of California Carpool Lane Access
The cleanest alternative fuel, hybrid-electric and full-electric vehicles are eligible for single occupancy use of the carpool lane. Please note that not all hybrid-electric vehicles qualify.
COST BENEFITS
PZEV Vehicles, Warranties, and New Technologies
Gasoline vehicles with a PZEV rating are mass-produced in a variety of makes and models and are available to the public today. They have an immediate impact on air quality because they are popular models at affordable prices.
The extended warranty of AT PZEVs and PZEVs provides added security that the vehicle's emission related components will be maintained for a longer period of time. In most instances, choosing a cleaner vehicle model that comes with a better warranty adds less than $100 (sometimes the price is the same) to the price of the vehicle.
Automakers are continually making advancements in technologies that improve their vehicles. Tremendous benefits have resulted alone by industry's ability to simplify, refine, and reduce the costs of their emission control systems.
Enhanced Efficiency Factor Costing Methodology
In an attempt to reduce petroleum consumption and vehicle related emissions of criteria pollutants, the state of California has developed a purchase methodology to factor in efficiency savings for vehicles that exceed the minimums already established by the state. In addition to the purchase price of a vehicle, this methodology takes into account the cost of fuel and emissions over the useful life of the vehicle.
SPECIFICATIONS
California
The Procurement Division of the Department of General Services develops vehicle specifications.
Other
VENDORS
California
About Statewide Vehicle Contracts
The Department of General Services competitively bids and makes vehicle contracts available to California governmental entities helping to meet their vehicle fleet needs. These vehicle contracts leverage pricing based upon California government business volume enhanced by manufacturer and dealer incentive programs provided to government. They also provide a broad spectrum of vehicles at an eight to 12 percent cost savings over volume commercial fleet pricing.
Alternative Fueled/Flex Fueled Vehicles, Vans, and Trucks
Click on "Contract Information" for the current contract.
Sedans, Station Wagons, and Hybrid Vehicles Click on "Contract Information" for the current contract.
Vehicle Rental
Some car rental companies now offer AFVs or hybrids. Contact the Department of General Services to determine if AFVs or hybrids are available through state garages and commercial car rental contracts.
SUCCESS STORIES
United States Department of Energy -- Clean Cities Program
The goal of the United States Department of Energy Clean Cities Program is to advance the economic, environmental, and energy security of the United States by supporting local decisions to adopt practices contributing to the reduction of petroleum consumption in the transportation sector. Clean Cities strives to accomplish this through a network of nearly 90 community based coalitions composed of public and private entities which promote alternative fuels and vehicles, fuel blends, fuel economy, hybrid vehicles and idle reduction. Since its inception in 1993, Clean Cities has put close to one million AFVs on the road and displaced an estimated one billion gallons of gasoline. In 2004 alone, Clean Cities displaced 237 million gallons of gasoline. See success stories.
City of Vacaville, California
The City of Vacaville, California encourages the use of AFVs to improve air quality and has been a leader in promoting residential programs for compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and electric vehicles by offering incentive grants.
RESOURCES AND WEBSITES
See also the resources listed in Background and Environmental and Health Issues.
Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA)
Chantilly, VA
(703) 968-2772
The APRA is a non-profit trade association whose members rebuild/remanufacture automotive and truck related "hard" parts for passenger cars, trucks, off-road, marine, equipment and industrial uses.
California Air Resources Board (ARB)
Sacramento, CA
(800) 242-4450
The mission of the ARB is to promote and protect public health, welfare and ecological resources through the effective and efficient reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering the effects on the economy of the state. See the following on-line resources:
California Department of General Services (DGS)
Office of Fleet Administration (OFA)
Sacramento, CA
(916) 327-2086
The OFA provides transportation and commute-related services statewide, and is responsible for the establishment, implementation, and maintenance of policies and procedures governing state-owned mobile equipment. Transportation-related services provided include vehicle pools, repair facilities, vehicle inspection, employee parking, discount air fares, commercial car rentals, vehicle acquisition and disposition, and consultation regarding automotive management problems. See the Alternative Fuel Vehicles Program Web page.
California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC)
The Department's mission is to restore, protect and enhance the environment, to ensure public health, environmental quality and economic vitality, by regulating hazardous waste, conducting and overseeing cleanups, and developing and promoting pollution prevention. More than 1,000 scientists, engineers and specialized support staff work in nine locations statewide. See the following resources:
California Energy Commission
Sacramento, CA
(916) 654-4287
The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. See the Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) and High-Efficiency Vehicles Web page.
Center for a New American Dream
Takoma Park, MD
(301) 891-3683 or 877-68-DREAM
The Center for a New American Dream helps Americans consume responsibly to protect the environment, enhance quality of life, and promote social justice. See the fact sheet titled Harnessing the Power of Advanced Fleet Vehicles: A Hybrid Electric Vehicle Fact Sheet for Government Officials. (PDF, 450 KB)
Clean Car Campaign
Ann Arbor, MI
(734) 663-2400
Washington, DC
(202) 387-3500
The Clean Car Campaign is a national campaign coordinated by state, regional and national environmental organizations promoting a clean revolution in the motor vehicle industry. The Clean Car Standard was developed by the campaign as a practical, short-term performance-based standard achievable by automakers. The standard promotes increased fuel efficiency, reduced tailpipe emissions and clean production practices.
INFORM
New York, NY
(212) 361-2400
INFORM, Inc. is an independent research organization that examines the effects of business practices on the environment and on human health. See INFORM's Purchasing for Pollution Prevention: Vehicles Fact Sheet.
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency(MPCA)
St. Paul, MN
(651) 296-6300
800 657 3864
The MPCA is a nonregulatory agency that works to improve our environment through partnerships, technology transfer, technical assistance, education, research, and matching grants. See the following resources:
Northeast Waste Management Officials' Association (NEWMOA)
Boston, MA
(617) 367-8558
NEWMOA's mission is to develop and sustain an effective partnership of states to explore, develop, promote, and implement environmentally sound solutions for the reduction and management of materials and waste, and for the remediation of contaminated sites, in order to achieve a clean and healthy environment. See the automobile product category in NEWMOA's Mercury in Products Database.
United States Department of Energy
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE)
Washington, DC
(877) EERE-INF (877-337-3463)
The EERE's mission is to strengthen America's energy security, environmental quality, and economic vitality in public-private partnerships that enhance energy efficiency and productivity; bring clean, reliable and affordable energy technologies to the marketplace; and make a difference in the everyday lives of Americans by enhancing their energy choices and their quality of life. See the following on-line resources:
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
Washington, DC
(202) 272-0167
The USEPA's mission is to protect human health and the environment. See the following resources:
[1] California Air Resources Board. Almanac Emission Projection Data (2006). For information regarding Almanac Emission Projection Data, visit the following Web site: http://www.arb.ca.gov/app/emsinv/emssumcat.php.
[2] Flex Your Power. Energy Efficiency Helps Combat Climate Change Web page. Available at http://www.fypower.com/feature/climate/. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[3] California Energy Commission. Consumer Energy Center. Transportation Choices for Consumers Web page. Available at http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/transportation/index.html. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[4] Los Cerritos News Web site. Remanufacturing: The Original Recycling. Available at http://www.loscerritos-news.com/index.php?pageId=tls&action=article&itemId=2997. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[5] California Air Resources Board. Almanac Emission Projection Data (2006). For information regarding Almanac Emission Projection Data, visit the following Web site: http://www.arb.ca.gov/app/emsinv/emssumcat.php.
[6] California Air Resources Board. Almanac Emission Projection Data (2006). For information regarding Almanac Emission Projection Data, visit the following Web site: http://www.arb.ca.gov/app/emsinv/emssumcat.php.
[7] California Air Resources Board. EMFAC2002 ver2.2 (Apr03-Default Activity). For information regarding EMFAC2002, visit the following Web site: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msei/onroad/latest_version.htm.
[8] California Air Resources Board. EMFAC2002 ver2.2 (Apr03-Default Activity). For information regarding EMFAC2002, visit the following Web site: http://www.arb.ca.gov/msei/onroad/latest_version.htm.
[9] California Energy Commission. Consumer Energy Center. Transportation Choices for Consumers Web page. Available at http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/transportation/index.html. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[10] California Energy Commission. Consumer Energy Center. Why Should We Care About the Vehicles We Buy and Drive? Web page. Available at http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/transportation/why.html. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[11] Los Cerritos News Web site. Remanufacturing: The Original Recycling. Available at http://www.loscerritos-news.com/index.php?pageId=tls&action=article&itemId=2997. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[12] United States Environmental Protection Agency. Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines. Rebuilt Vehicular Parts Web page. Available at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/non-hw/procure/products/vehicle.htm. Accessed on June 6, 2006.
[13] Clean Car Campaign. Vehicle Production Web page. Available at http://www.cleancarcampaign.org/vehicleproduction.shtml. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[14] United States Environmental Protection Agency. Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil Web site. Available at http://www.epa.gov/lead/. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[15] Clean Car Campaign. Lead-Free Wheels -- Safer Substitutes for Lead Wheel Weights Web page. Available at http://www.cleancarcampaign.org/leadfreewheels.shtml. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[16] Department of Toxic Substances Control. Waste Management Options: for Mercury-Containing Switches in Vehicles and Major Appliances. June 2004. Available at the DTSC website. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[17] Clean Car Campaign. Plastics in Vehicles Web page. Available at http://www.cleancarcampaign.org/plastics.shtml. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[18] Clean Car Campaign. PVC in Vehicles Web page. Available at http://www.cleancarcampaign.org/pvc.shtml. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[19] European Commission. Environment. End of Life Vehicles Web page. Available at http://ec.europa.eu/environment/waste/elv_index.htm. Accessed on June 5, 2006.
[20] United States Department of Energy, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, FreedomCAR & Vehicle Technologies Program: Energy Policy Act (EPAct) Web page. Available at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/vehiclesandfuels/epact/. Accessed on May 17, 2006.
[21] United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2004 Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines Buy-Recycled Series Vehicular Products Fact Sheet. Available at http://www.epa.gov/cpg/factshts.htm.
[22] From California Integrated Waste Management Board staff communication with Office of the Federal Environmental Executive staff on December 12, 2005.
[23] United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2004 Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines Buy-Recycled Series Vehicular Products Fact Sheet. Available at: http://www.epa.gov/cpg/factshts.htm.
[24] United States Environmental Protection Agency. Waste Minimization and Federal Facilities Web page. Available at http://www.epa.gov/epaoswer/hazwaste/minimize/fedfac.htm. Accessed on June 8, 2006.
[25] United States Department of Energy. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. FreedomCAR & Vehicle Technologies Program. Federal Fleet Requirements. Available at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/vehiclesandfuels/epact/federal/index.html. Accessed on June 8, 2006.
[32] United States Department of Energy. Alternative Fuels Data Center. P-Series Vehicles Web page. Available at http://permanent.access.gpo.gov/lps1740/p_series.html. Accessed on May 29, 2006.
[33] State of California. California Hydrogen Highway Network. Hydrogen and Hydrogen Technologies Frequently Asked Questions. Available at http://www.hydrogenhighway.ca.gov/media/hydrogenfaqs.pdf
Special Note: Portions of the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Best Practices Manual were borrowed or adapted from the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Guide published by the Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board of Minnesota.
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