SACRAMENTO –  In an effort to promote zero-emission vehicle technology, the California Air Resources Board (ARB) has started a vehicle loan program that gives other public agencies the opportunity to borrow electric vehicles for up to one month at no cost.

        "The Electric Vehicle Loan Program is a no-hassle way for other state and local agencies to try out non-polluting vehicles," said Michael Kenny, ARB Executive Officer.  "It's much different driving an electric car than it is admiring one parked at an auto show.  We are hopeful that this program will spur other agencies to lease electric vehicles for themselves."

         ARB currently has four Honda EV Plus', four General Motors EV1s and two Ford Ranger trucks available for loan.  Three Chevrolet S-10 trucks and five Toyota RAV4s will be in service by early next year.  The program, expected to last for three years, allows public agencies to borrow the vehicles and the necessary charging equipment for one month at no cost.  The initial focus of the program is in Sacramento and Los Angeles, with expansion to the Bay Area and San Diego to follow.

        With the help of the California Dept. of General Services, Sacramento Municipal Utility District and South Coast Air Quality Management District, vehicles and charging stations are being supplied to agencies requesting a loaner vehicle.

        As a result of one of the first completed loans under the program, the Dept. of Social Services is considering the lease of a Honda EV Plus and a Ford Ranger pickup.