Under Governor Jeb Bush, the state employs a variety of electric vehicles in parks, fleets, and communities.

September 29, 2004—Washington, DC—The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) has recognized the state of Florida as an 'E-Visionary' for its use of electric drive technologies by state agencies. Under Governor Jeb Bush, the state employs a variety of electric vehicles in parks, fleets, and communities. Alan Bedwell, Deputy Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, accepted the award on September 22 at the EDTA Conference & Exposition in Orlando, Florida.

Edward B. Cohen, Vice President of Government and Industry Relations for American Honda and Co-Chairman of EDTA, presented the award to Mr. Bedwell. "Florida's use of clean, efficient and sustainable modes of transportation, such as battery and hybrid electric vehicles, makes it an ideal recipient of the EDTA E-Visionary award," says Cohen. "Florida has demonstrated long-term thought and concern by choosing electric drive as a means to achieve better air quality, and to ensure that its operations thrive while leaving a much lighter 'footprint' on the environment."

Governor Bush says, "Florida is leading by example by purchasing hybrid and clean fuel vehicles. As the largest consumer in the state, government's commitment sets a precedent for both Florida residents and the nation to invest in clean energy and protect the environment."

"We are pleased to recognize Florida's commitment to clean, efficient and renewable transportation," says EDTA President Brian Wynne "The dedication of DEP and other agencies to purchase these vehicles is making electric drive a reality for Floridians."

The E-Visionary award was presented during the opening plenary session of the 2004 EDTA Conference & Exposition, which is the largest electric drive event held in the U.S. The agenda included automotive and industrial vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, technology developers, academia and government officials. The event also featured an auto-caliber exposition floor, and a Ride 'n' Drive of current and future battery, hybrid and fuel cell vehicles.

Past recipients of the EDTA "E-Visionary" award include:

· Honorable Brian Williams, Deputy Mayor of Los Angeles, California, USA

· Honorable Hiroshi Nakada, Mayor of Yokohama, Japan

· Honorable Antonella Spaggiari, Mayor of Reggio Emilia, Italy

· Sheriff Robert L Crowder, Martin County, Florida, USA

EDTA is an international association representing the development, production and use of battery, hybrid and fuel cell electric drive technologies and supporting infrastructure. EDTA serves as the central source of information on all of the technical, market and policy issues surrounding the emergence of electric drive, and serves as the representative of the Americas to the World Electric Vehicle Association (WEVA). For more information about EDTA, visit www.electricdrive.org or call 202.408.0774.