A California lawmaker is trying to introduce legislation that would allow Aptera to apply for federal auto stimulus money to help with its 2e model. I hope they can get some money – they are more deserving to me than GM or Chrylser.
Rep. Brian Bilbray wants to change that. The California congressman is pushing legislation that would give Aptera and other companies making three-wheelers a shot at billions in federal loans to encourage the development of electric cars. The “Innovative Vehicle Act” would expand the loan program’s definition of a car to include vehicles with three wheels.
Bilbray’s legislation (HR 1382) would amend Section 136 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to create an “ultra efficient vehicle” classification defined as “a fully closed compartment vehicle designed to carry at least two adult passengers.” The vehicle must deliver at least 75 mpg if it’s a gasoline or diesel; and at least 100 mpg — or the equivalent — if it’s a hybrid or EV. It also would direct the Department of Energy to reconsider loan applications from manufacturers of such vehicles provided they were submitted before Jan. 1, 2009.
