February 26, 2004

By: Rodney Barnes
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Experts Discuss Hybrid Vehicles and Fuel Cells at L.A. Auto Show

The escalating debate surrounding the future alternative fuel of choice may become a little clearer as keynote speaker Amory Lovins and a panel of distinguished experts examine hybrid vehicles and fuel cell technology at the Automobiles and the Environment conference.

Presenting this year's keynote address will be Amory B. Lovins, vice president, CFO and director of research for the Rocky Mountain Institute. Lovins is a notable visionary in hybrid electric vehicles and is highly respected in the automotive, environmental and energy fields. He is a frequent consultant within the automobile industry and recently drew accolades worldwide from his study on high-efficiency hypercars. In its Centennial Issue, The Wall Street Journal named Lovins among 28 people worldwide who is most likely to change the course of business in the 1990s.

Following Lovins' opening address, panelists from the major automobile manufacturers are expected to go beyond what is being reported now and delve into the interesting areas that have an impact on the marketability of these two developing technologies, as well as exploring some of the more complex issues. The discussion focus will provide audience members with greater insight into what the industry and consumers will and can expect in the near future.

In keeping with the conference theme, Toyota will afford journalists an opportunity to drive the world's first production hybrid vehicle -- the Toyota Prius sedan — throughout the day on December 29. Already on sale in Japan, Toyota plans to bring the Prius into the U.S. market for consumer sale in late 2000. The stylish sedan incorporates a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor that allows it to operate on electricity at low speeds before switching automatically to the gasoline engine at higher speeds.

There is a considerable amount of attention being directed towards developing hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, comments Ron Cogan, conference director and editor and publisher of Green Car Journal, a leading industry publication. Mr. Lovins' insight and subsequent panel discussion affords journalists, scientists, engineers and industry executives with an insiders perspective to what could possibly become the most important automotive environmental advancement ever -- one with far-reaching implications.

About The Author:

Rodney Barnes is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.