Statement

U.S. House Passes Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009

Research and Development to Spur Innovation, Increase Energy Efficiency through Plastic and Composite Materials

ARLINGTON, VA (September 16, 2009) – Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.  American Chemistry Council President and CEO Cal Dooley issued the following statement:

"The American Chemistry Council (ACC) praises the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.  This important legislation will create a comprehensive research and development program to spur innovation in the design of fuel efficient vehicles and components.”

"Consumers are continuing to seek new ways to reduce their energy consumption, in particular, through more energy efficient vehicles.  ACC member companies are working with their automotive manufacturing partners to create innovative vehicle components that reduce weight, lower emissions and increase fuel efficiency without compromising passenger safety.”

The chemical industry is a significant supplier to the automotive industry, providing the products that make possible valued features like state of the art air bags, strong polycarbonate bumpers, and comfortable polyurethane seat cushions.  New innovations in plastic and composite materials are making vehicles lighter and reducing energy consumption while maintaining passenger safety.  The versatile characteristics of plastics and composites – including strength to weight ratio, energy absorption and flexible design – make these materials ideal for use in automobile design.  The Department of Energy will have an opportunity to collaborate with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), which has been examining the safety aspects of lightweight plastic and composite intensive vehicles over the last four years.

"We applaud the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Gary Peters (MI) and Judy Biggert (IL) and the House Science and Technology Committee on this legislation.  We look forward to working with the Senate to ensure this legislation is considered in a timely fashion.

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