Summary

In the last years the harmful effects and the greenhouse gases resulting from the use of conventional vehicles created many concerns on continuing in the same direction. Hybrid or electric vehicles and alternative fuels like natural gas, ethanol or hydrogen are considered an essential element in reducing urban pollution and greenhouse gases. But only a wide dissemination of „clean vehicles and fuels“ can have noticeable effects on the environment. Therefore governments, in addition to the support of research and development, more and more implement measures with the aim of promoting the market introduction of these new vehicle technologies – with different approaches and various effects.

Between 2000 and 2002 an international task force collected information on more than 100 programs run in 18 countries. Evaluations and analyses of case studies showed that some approaches are successful, but they also identified weaknesses that are often repeated. The report elaborated by the task force provides recommendations on the base of conclusions drawn by the analyses. They will help government officials responsible for administering fleets, incentives and regulations with assessing the most promising strategy for their country for the market introduction of hybrid, electric and alternative fuel vehicles.

Participants

Countries from both AMF and HEV IAs, a joint Task