FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 28, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112 

Hybrid Car Rally Highlights Energy Awareness

--State officials test their driving skills, promote fuel-efficient vehicles—

TALLAHASSEE – Florida is tackling obstacles to promote fuel-efficient vehicles and reduce energy consumption. Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille today challenged colleagues to a hybrid car race, highlighting the State’s commitment to energy-efficiency. Secretaries from a host of agencies navigated an obstacle course in eco-friendly hybrid vehicles bringing Energy Awareness Month to a close.

“Selecting hybrid vehicles for the state vehicle fleet reinforces Florida's commitment to clean air and environmental protection,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Castille. “Using low-emission hybrid vehicles protects Florida’s air, reduces our reliance on gasoline and saves taxpayer dollars.”

Florida is one of only three states east of the Mississippi meeting all federal clean air standards. Burning petroleum-based fuels like gasoline, however, contributes to air pollution. Under the leadership of Governor Jeb Bush, state agencies are investing in cleaner transportation to better protect natural resources and reduce fuel costs. Running on a mix of gasoline and electricity, hybrids lower emissions and attain better gas mileage than conventional vehicles.

The State currently owns more than 900 alternative fuel vehicles. The Department of Environmental Protection alone owns 50 fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles and 250 alternative fuel vehicles, comprising 22 percent of its fleet. Last year, the nation saw a 25 percent increase in registrations for hybrid vehicles -- Florida ranked third among the states.

“Florida is truly a front-runner in adopting clean energy technologies,” said Secretary Castille. “Along with cleaner vehicles, the State is expanding energy savings for Florida’s communities through solar and weatherization efforts and developing pollution-free hydrogen technology.”

Governor Jeb Bush proclaimed October “Energy Awareness Month,” encouraging citizens and businesses to conserve energy and invest in energy efficient technologies. Secretaries from the Departments of Health, Transportation, Community Affairs, Business and Professional Regulation, Corrections and the Agency for Workforce Innovation, along with the Public Service Commission took part in today’s hybrid car rally, demonstrating the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic and Ford Escape Hybrid.