Alternative Fuels and Advanced Technology Vehicles: Issues in Congress

Yacobucci, Brent D.

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service.

关键词: Energy;    Electric vehicles;    Alternative fuels;    Transportation;   

RP-ID  :  R40168
RP-ID  :  R40168_2012Jan19

美国|英语

来源: UNT Digital Library

【 摘 要 】

Alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles are seen by proponents as integral to improving urban air quality, decreasing dependence on foreign oil, and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. However, major barriers—especially economics—currently prevent the widespread use of these fuels and technologies. The 112th Congress has debated alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles directly and as it has addressed other key topics. On June 16, 2011 the Senate approved S.Amdt. 476 which would have eliminated the excise tax credit for blending ethanol in gasoline before its December 31, 2011 expiration date. Although the underlying legislation failed a cloture vote in the Senate, the amendment was approved 73-27. The prospects for further action increasing or extending biofuels and alternative fuels tax incentives may be limited in light of that vote.