County plugs into next-generation hybrid vehicles

Council approves study to explore charging stations at Metro Park and Rides

The Metropolitan King County Council today explored a future where Park and Rides may become “Plug and Rides,” by calling for a study of the potential installation of charging stations for a new generation of electric hybrid vehicles.

“We have the opportunity to help create the new generation of vehicles coming to American consumers,”  said Councilmember Jane Hague, prime sponsor of the motion. “These electric vehicles can help lower our regional carbon footprint and eventually aid in reducing our dependence on foreign oil.”

In a move to reduce the county’s carbon footprint and assist in a new wave of transportation options, the Council requested a study on ways King County can provide charging stations for the next generation of hybrids called Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). Unlike existing gas-electric hybrids like the Toyota Prius, PHEVs have much larger electric storage capacity to allow the cars to run much longer using less fuel. The power for BEVs is supplied by batteries that need regular recharging. 

“I have been driving a plug-in hybrid from the County’s vehicle fleet as part of our Green Fleet initiative and can say first hand that plug-ins are the way of the future,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “The plug-in car is extremely quiet and extremely fuel efficient. Spreading the word about the technology and providing access to charging stations are the next steps for making plug-in technology mainstream.”

“Plug-In Hybrids and All-Electric vehicles pollute even less than regular hybrids. We should do everything we can to encourage their use in conjunction with public transit,” said Council Vice Chair Dow Constantine. “This pilot program could be a model for the private sector as facilities across the region are upgraded to meet the new realities of expensive fuel and climate change.”

Nationwide, many commuters are still driving alone to work, regardless of fuel prices. The prototype PHEVs and those to be released in 2009-10 by major car manufacturers are able to drive up to 100 miles on battery power alone.

The legislation adopted by the Council directs the County Executive to create a plan that:

• Encourages citizens to use PHEVs and BEVs, and should specifically address ways for drivers to recharge their PHEV and BEV batteries when parked at Metro Transit Park and Ride facilities,

• Works with state and local governments to incorporate PHEV and BEV incentives into their commute trip reduction and transportation demand management programs,

• Puts King County in the lead to promote a regional demonstration project to encourage PHEV and BEV use, and work with utility providers to achieve the most efficient use of the power system and help assure and accelerate the optimal integration and acceptance of these new technologies, and

• Creates a stakeholder advisory group to:

     o Study the impacts of PHEVs and BEVs on the energy grid and look for ways to partner with our energy suppliers to perform  these studies,

     o Advise King County on its participation in the regional demonstration project, and

     o Recommend incentives to encourage commuter use of PHEVs and BEVs.

The Executive would submit the plan to the Council by September 15, 2008.

Read more about this legislation on the King County Council’s LEGISEARCH system. Type in “2008-0222”