[House Report 111-254]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]


111th Congress                                                   Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 1st Session                                                    111-254

======================================================================



 
                ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 2009

                                _______
                                

 September 11, 2009.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on 
            the State of the Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

Mr. Gordon of Tennessee, from the Committee on Science and Technology, 
                        submitted the following

                              R E P O R T

                        [To accompany H.R. 3246]

      [Including cost estimate of the Congressional Budget Office]

    The Committee on Science and Technology, to whom was 
referred the bill (H.R. 3246) to provide for a program of 
research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application in vehicle technologies at the Department of 
Energy, having considered the same, report favorably thereon 
with an amendment and recommend that the bill as amended do 
pass.

                                CONTENTS

                                                                   Page
   I. Amendment.......................................................2
  II. Purpose of the Bill.............................................6
 III. Background and Need for the Legislation.........................6
  IV. Hearing Summary................................................10
   V. Committee Actions..............................................10
  VI. Summary of Major Provisions of the Bill, As Reported...........11
 VII. Section-by-Section Analysis (by Title and Section), As Reported14
VIII. Committee Views................................................16
  IX. Cost Estimate..................................................18
   X. Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate......................18
  XI. Compliance with Public Law 104-4...............................20
 XII. Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations...............20
XIII. Statement on General Performance Goals and Objectives..........20
 XIV. Constitutional Authority Statement.............................20
  XV. Federal Advisory Committee Statement...........................20
 XVI. Congressional Accountability Act...............................20
XVII. Earmark Identification.........................................20
XVIII.Statement on Preemption of State, Local, or Tribal Law.........20

 XIX. Committee Recommendations......................................20
  XX. Proceedings of the Subcommittee Markup.........................21
 XXI. Proceedings of the Full Committee Markup.......................50

                              I. Amendment

  The amendment is as follows:
  Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the 
following:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

  This Act may be cited as the ``Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 
2009''.

SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

  Congress finds the following:
          (1) According to the Energy Information Administration, the 
        transportation sector accounts for approximately 28 percent of 
        the United States primary energy demand and greenhouse gas 
        emissions, and 24 percent of global oil demand.
          (2) The United States transportation sector is over 95 
        percent dependent on petroleum, and over 60 percent of 
        petroleum demand is met by imported supplies.
          (3) United States heavy truck fuel consumption will increase 
        23 percent by 2030, while overall transportation energy use 
        will decline by 1 percent.
          (4) The domestic automotive and commercial vehicle 
        manufacturing sectors have increasingly limited resources for 
        research and development of advanced technologies.
          (5) Vehicle, engine, and component manufacturers are playing 
        a more important role in vehicle technology development, and 
        should be better integrated into Federal research efforts.
          (6) Priorities for the Department of Energy's vehicle 
        technologies research have shifted drastically in recent years 
        among diesel hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and plug-in 
        electric hybrids, with little continuity among them.
          (7) The integration of vehicle, communication, and 
        infrastructure technologies has great potential for efficiency 
        gains through better management of the total transportation 
        system.
          (8) The Federal Government should balance its role in 
        researching longer-term exploratory concepts and developing 
        nearer-term transformational technologies for vehicles.

SEC. 3. OBJECTIVES.

  The objectives of this Act are to--
          (1) develop technologies and practices that--
                  (A) improve the fuel efficiency and emissions of all 
                vehicles produced in the United States; and
                  (B) reduce vehicle reliance on petroleum-based fuels;
          (2) support domestic research, development, demonstration, 
        and commercial application and manufacturing of advanced 
        vehicles, engines, and components;
          (3) enable vehicles to move larger volumes of goods and more 
        passengers with less energy and emissions;
          (4) develop cost-effective advanced technologies for wide-
        scale utilization throughout the passenger, commercial, 
        government, and transit vehicle sectors;
          (5) allow for greater consumer choice of vehicle technologies 
        and fuels;
          (6) shorten technology development and integration cycles in 
        the vehicle industry;
          (7) ensure a proper balance and diversity of Federal 
        investment in vehicle technologies; and
          (8) strengthen partnerships between Federal and State 
        governmental agencies and the private and academic sectors.

SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS.

  For the purposes of this Act:
          (1) Department.--The term ``Department'' means the Department 
        of Energy.
          (2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of 
        Energy.

SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

  (a) In General.--The following sums are authorized to be appropriated 
to the Secretary for research, development, demonstration, and 
commercial application of vehicles and related technologies, including 
activities authorized under this Act:
          (1) $550,000,000 for fiscal year 2010.
          (2) $560,000,000 for fiscal year 2011.
          (3) $570,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.
          (4) $580,000,000 for fiscal year 2013.
          (5) $590,000,000 for fiscal year 2014.
  (b) Medium and Heavy Duty Commercial Vehicles.--From the amounts 
authorized under subsection (a), there are authorized to be 
appropriated for carrying out title II--
          (1) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
          (2) $210,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;
          (3) $220,000,000 for fiscal year 2012;
          (4) $230,000,000 for fiscal year 2013; and
          (5) $240,000,000 for fiscal year 2014.
  (c) User Facilities.--From the amounts authorized under subsection 
(a), there are authorized to be appropriated for carrying out section 
104--
          (1) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
          (2) $30,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;
          (3) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2012;
          (4) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2013; and
          (5) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2014.
  (d) Non-Road Pilot Program.--From the amounts authorized under 
subsection (a), there are authorized to be appropriated for carrying 
out section 204--
          (1) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
          (2) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2011; and
          (3) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2012.

               TITLE I--VEHICLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

SEC. 101. PROGRAM.

  (a) Activities.--The Secretary shall conduct a program of basic and 
applied research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application activities on materials, technologies, and processes with 
the potential to substantially reduce or eliminate petroleum use and 
the emissions of the Nation's passenger and commercial vehicles, 
including activities in the areas of--
          (1) hybridization or full electrification of vehicle systems;
          (2) batteries and other energy storage devices;
          (3) power electronics;
          (4) vehicle, component, and subsystem manufacturing 
        technologies and processes;
          (5) engine efficiency and combustion optimization;
          (6) waste heat recovery;
          (7) transmission and drivetrains;
          (8) hydrogen vehicle technologies, including fuel cells and 
        internal combustion engines, and hydrogen infrastructure;
          (9) aerodynamics, rolling resistance, and accessory power 
        loads of vehicles and associated equipment;
          (10) vehicle weight reduction;
          (11) friction and wear reduction;
          (12) engine and component durability;
          (13) innovative propulsion systems;
          (14) advanced boosting systems;
          (15) hydraulic hybrid technologies;
          (16) engine compatibility with and optimization for a variety 
        of transportation fuels including liquid and gaseous fuels;
          (17) predictive engineering, modeling, and simulation of 
        vehicle and transportation systems;
          (18) refueling and charging infrastructure for alternative 
        fueled and electric or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles;
          (19) gaseous fuels storage system integration and 
        optimization;
          (20) sensing, communications, and actuation technologies for 
        vehicle, electrical grid, and infrastructure;
          (21) efficient use and recycling of rare earth materials, and 
        reduction of precious metals and other high-cost materials in 
        vehicles;
          (22) aftertreatment technologies;
          (23) thermal management of battery systems;
          (24) development of common standards, specifications, and 
        architectures for both transportation and stationary battery 
        applications; and
          (25) other research areas as determined by the Secretary.
  (b) Transformational Technology.--The Secretary shall ensure that the 
Department continues to support activities and maintains competency in 
mid- to long-term transformational vehicle technologies with potential 
to achieve deep reductions in petroleum use and emissions, including 
activities in the areas of--
          (1) hydrogen vehicle technologies, including fuel cells, 
        internal combustion engines, hydrogen storage, infrastructure, 
        and activities in hydrogen technology validation and safety 
        codes and standards;
          (2) multiple battery chemistries and novel energy storage 
        devices, including electromechanical batteries and other 
        nonchemical batteries;
          (3) communication and connectivity among vehicles, 
        infrastructure, and the electrical grid; and
          (4) other innovative technologies research and development, 
        as determined by the Secretary.
  (c) Industry Participation.--To the maximum extent practicable, 
activities under this Act shall be carried out in partnership or 
collaboration with automotive manufacturers, heavy commercial and 
transit vehicle manufacturers, vehicle and engine equipment and 
component manufacturers, manufacturing equipment manufacturers, 
advanced vehicle service providers, fuel producers and energy 
suppliers, electric utilities, universities, national laboratories, and 
independent research laboratories. In carrying out this Act the 
Secretary shall--
          (1) determine whether a wide range of companies that 
        manufacture or assemble vehicles or components in the United 
        States are represented in ongoing public private partnership 
        activities, including firms that have not traditionally 
        participated in federally-sponsored research and development 
        activities, and where possible, partner with such firms that 
        conduct significant and relevant research and development 
        activities in the United States;
          (2) leverage the capabilities and resources of, and formalize 
        partnerships with, industry-led stakeholder organizations, 
        nonprofit organizations, industry consortia, and trade 
        associations with expertise in the research and development of, 
        and education and outreach activities in, advanced automotive 
        and commercial vehicle technologies;
          (3) develop more efficient processes for transferring 
        research findings and technologies to industry;
          (4) give consideration to conversion of existing or former 
        vehicle technology manufacturing facilities for the purposes of 
        this Act; and
          (5) promote efforts to ensure that technologies developed 
        under this Act are produced in the United States.
  (d) Interagency and Intraagency Coordination.--To the maximum extent 
practicable, the Secretary shall coordinate research, development, 
demonstration, and commercial application activities among--
          (1) relevant programs within the Department, including--
                  (A) the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable 
                Energy;
                  (B) the Office of Science;
                  (C) the Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy 
                Reliability;
                  (D) the Office of Fossil Energy;
                  (E) the Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy; 
                and
                  (F) other offices as determined by the Secretary; and
          (2) relevant technology research and development programs 
        within other Federal agencies, as determined by the Secretary.
  (e) Coordination and Nonduplication.--In coordinating activities the 
Secretary shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that 
activities do not duplicate those of other programs within the 
Department or other relevant research agencies.
  (f) Federal Demonstration of Technologies.--The Secretary shall make 
information available to procurement programs of Federal agencies 
regarding the potential to demonstrate technologies resulting from 
activities funded through programs under this Act.
  (g) Intergovernmental Coordination.--The Secretary shall seek 
opportunities to leverage resources and support initiatives of State 
and local governments in developing and promoting advanced vehicle 
technologies, manufacturing, and infrastructure.

SEC. 102. SENSING AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES.

  The Secretary, in coordination with the relevant research programs of 
other Federal agencies, shall conduct research, development, and 
demonstration activities on connectivity of vehicle and transportation 
systems, including on sensing, computation, communication, and 
actuation technologies that allow for reduced fuel use, optimized 
traffic flow, and vehicle electrification, including technologies for--
          (1) onboard vehicle, engine, and component sensing and 
        actuation;
          (2) vehicle-to-vehicle sensing and communication;
          (3) vehicle-to-infrastructure sensing and communication; and
          (4) vehicle integration with the electrical grid.

SEC. 103. MANUFACTURING.

  The Secretary shall carry out a research, development, demonstration, 
and commercial application program of advanced vehicle manufacturing 
technologies and practices, including innovative processes to--
          (1) increase the production rate and decrease the cost of 
        advanced battery manufacturing;
          (2) vary the capability of individual manufacturing 
        facilities to accommodate different battery chemistries and 
        configurations;
          (3) reduce waste streams, emissions, and energy-intensity of 
        vehicle, engine, and component manufacturing processes;
          (4) recycle and remanufacture used batteries and other 
        vehicle components for reuse in vehicles or stationary 
        applications;
          (5) produce cost-effective lightweight materials such as 
        advanced metal alloys, polymeric composites, and carbon fiber;
          (6) produce lightweight high pressure storage systems for 
        gaseous fuels;
          (7) design and manufacture purpose-built hydrogen and fuel 
        cell vehicles and components; and
          (8) produce permanent magnets for advanced vehicles.

SEC. 104. USER TESTING FACILITIES.

  Activities under this Act may include construction, expansion, or 
modification of new and existing vehicle, engine, and component 
research and testing facilities for--
          (1) testing or simulating interoperability of a variety of 
        vehicle components and systems;
          (2) subjecting whole or partial vehicle platforms to fully 
        representative duty cycles and operating conditions;
          (3) developing and demonstrating a range of chemistries and 
        configurations for advanced vehicle battery manufacturing; and
          (4) developing and demonstrating test cycles for new and 
        alternative fuels, and other advanced vehicle technologies.

    TITLE II--MEDIUM AND HEAVY DUTY COMMERCIAL AND TRANSIT VEHICLES

SEC. 201. PROGRAM.

  (a) In General.--The Secretary, in partnership with relevant research 
and development programs in other Federal agencies, and a range of 
appropriate industry stakeholders, shall carry out a program of 
cooperative research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application activities on advanced technologies for medium- to heavy-
duty commercial and transit vehicles, including activities in the areas 
of--
          (1) engine efficiency and combustion research;
          (2) on board storage technologies for compressed and 
        liquefied natural gas;
          (3) development and integration of engine technologies 
        designed for natural gas operation of a variety of vehicle 
        platforms;
          (4) waste heat recovery and conversion;
          (5) improved aerodynamics and tire rolling resistance;
          (6) energy and space-efficient emissions control systems;
          (7) heavy hybrid, hybrid hydraulic, plug-in hybrid, and 
        electric platforms, and energy storage technologies;
          (8) drivetrain optimization;
          (9) friction and wear reduction;
          (10) engine idle and parasitic energy loss reduction;
          (11) electrification of accessory loads;
          (12) onboard sensing and communications technologies;
          (13) advanced lightweighting materials and vehicle designs;
          (14) increasing load capacity per vehicle;
          (15) thermal management of battery systems;
          (16) recharging infrastructure;
          (17) complete vehicle modeling and simulation;
          (18) hydrogen vehicle technologies, including fuel cells and 
        internal combustion engines, and hydrogen infrastructure;
          (19) retrofitting advanced technologies onto existing truck 
        fleets; and
          (20) integration of these and other advanced systems onto a 
        single truck and trailer platform.
  (b) Leadership.--The Secretary shall appoint a full-time Director to 
coordinate research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application activities in medium- to heavy-duty commercial and transit 
vehicle technologies. Responsibilities of the Director shall be to--
          (1) improve coordination and develop consensus between 
        government agency and industry partners, and propose new 
        processes for program management and priority setting to better 
        align activities and budgets among partners;
          (2) regularly convene workshops, site visits, demonstrations, 
        conferences, investor forums, and other events in which 
        information and research findings are shared among program 
        participants and interested stakeholders;
          (3) develop a budget for the Department's activities with 
        regard to the interagency program, and provide consultation and 
        guidance on vehicle technology funding priorities across 
        agencies;
          (4) determine a process for reviewing program technical 
        goals, targets, and timetables and, where applicable, aided by 
        life-cycle impact and cost analysis, propose revisions or 
        elimination based on program progress, available funding, and 
        rate of technology adoption;
          (5) evaluate ongoing activities of the program and recommend 
        project modifications, including the termination of projects, 
        where applicable;
          (6) recruit new industry participants to the interagency 
        program, including truck, trailer, and component manufacturers 
        who have not traditionally participated in federally sponsored 
        research and technology development activities; and
          (7) other responsibilities as determined by the Secretary, in 
        consultation with interagency and industry partners.
  (c) Reporting.--At the end of each fiscal year the partnership shall 
submit to the Secretary and relevant Congressional committees of 
jurisdiction an annual report describing activities undertaken in the 
previous year, active industry participants, efforts to recruit new 
participants, progress of the program in meeting goals and timelines, 
and a strategic plan for funding of activities across agencies.

SEC. 202. CLASS 8 TRUCK AND TRAILER SYSTEMS DEMONSTRATION.

  The Secretary shall conduct a competitive grant program to 
demonstrate the integration of multiple advanced technologies on Class 
8 truck and trailer platforms with a goal of improving overall freight 
efficiency, as measured in tons and volume of freight hauled or other 
work performance-based metrics, by 50 percent, including a combination 
of technologies listed in section 201(a). Applicant teams may be 
comprised of truck and trailer manufacturers, engine and component 
manufacturers, fleet customers, university researchers, and other 
applicants as appropriate for the development and demonstration of 
integrated Class 8 truck and trailer systems.

SEC. 203. TECHNOLOGY TESTING AND METRICS.

  The Secretary, in coordination with the partners of the interagency 
research program described in section 201(a)--
          (1) shall develop standard testing procedures and 
        technologies for evaluating the performance of advanced heavy 
        vehicle technologies under a range of representative duty 
        cycles and operating conditions, including for heavy hybrid 
        propulsion systems;
          (2) shall evaluate heavy vehicle performance using work 
        performance-based metrics other than those based on miles per 
        gallon, including those based on units of volume and weight 
        transported for freight applications, and appropriate metrics 
        based on the work performed by nonroad systems; and
          (3) may construct heavy duty truck and bus testing 
        facilities.

SEC. 204. NONROAD SYSTEMS PILOT PROGRAM.

  The Secretary shall undertake a pilot program of research, 
development, demonstration, and commercial applications of technologies 
to improve total machine or system efficiency for heavy duty nonroad 
equipment, and shall seek opportunities to transfer relevant research 
findings and technologies between the nonroad and on-highway equipment 
and vehicle sectors.

                        II. Purpose of the Bill

    The purpose of H.R. 3246 is to provide for a program of 
research, development, demonstration and commercial application 
in vehicle technologies at the Department of Energy.

                III. Background and Need for Legislation

    For over two decades the Department of Energy has funded a 
wide range of research activities on passenger vehicles and 
heavy-duty trucks through its Vehicle Technologies program. The 
program's mission is to ``. . . Develop `leap frog' 
technologies that will provide Americans with greater freedom 
of mobility and energy security, while lowering costs and 
reducing impacts on the environment.'' Most recently, the 
Department of Energy has addressed these research needs through 
two public-private research programs: The 21st Century Truck 
Partnership (21CTP), which conducts research and development 
through collaborations with the heavy-duty trucking industry, 
and the FreedomCar and the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative programs, 
which engages in pre-competitive, high-risk research needed to 
develop technologies that will apply to a range of affordable 
passenger cars and light trucks.
    Over the last decade, federal research priorities have 
shifted between passenger and heavy duty vehicles, as well as 
diesel-hybrids, hydrogen-fueled, and battery-powered drive 
systems. While the various programs have had some successes in 
transferring component technologies to the marketplace, critics 
contend that previous Administrations have adopted an 
inconsistent winner-take-all approach to vehicle research where 
one technology or platform receives the large bulk of funding, 
only to have funding cut before the programs can reasonably be 
expected to develop commercially viable technologies. It is 
argued that what is needed is long-term sustained funding on a 
broad range of areas from near-commercial technologies to 
exploratory research on systems with the potential to 
revolutionize transportation in the U.S. Striking the 
appropriate research balance and strengthening the federal 
commitment in this area is especially critical at a time when 
both the automotive and commercial trucking industries have 
limited resources for increasingly expensive research and 
development.

           LIGHT DUTY VEHICLES AND THE FREEDOMCAR PARTNERSHIP

    The FreedomCar Partnership has been focused primarily on 
research and development for hydrogen-powered passenger 
vehicles. The program replaced the Clinton Administration 
initiative, the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles 
(PNGV), which was funded for 10 years with the goal of 
developing ultra-efficient diesel hybrid passenger vehicles 
with fuel mileage up to 80 miles per gallon. PNGV resulted in 
prototype vehicles that met the criteria, but was ultimately 
cancelled in 2001 ostensibly at the request of the industry 
partners represented as U.S. Council for Automotive Research 
(USCAR--Daimler Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors). The 
FreedomCar program was launched in 2003 as a collaborative 
effort between the Department of Energy, energy companies, and 
the USCAR partners, with the primary aim to help industry make 
mass-market fuel cell and hydrogen combustion vehicles 
available at an affordable cost within 10 to 15 years. While 
simultaneously pursuing their own proprietary research, the 
partners were to work together to develop hydrogen technology 
roadmaps, determine technical requirements and goals, and 
suggest research and development priorities for the federal 
program.
    FreedomCar has raised public debate over the proper role of 
the government in research and development with market 
applications, as well as the appropriate level of funding for 
such long-term research which may come at the expense of more 
immediate research needs in the vehicle sector. Critics of the 
program believe that there are too many technical and economic 
hurdles to the development of affordable, practical hydrogen 
and fuel cell technology for automobiles, and that federal 
research should focus on more realistic near-term objectives 
such as the development of battery and electric vehicle 
technologies, and other improvements to existing vehicle 
platforms. Proponents of hydrogen research contend that for 
these same reasons it is the appropriate role of government, it 
will require many years of sustained funding to realize its 
potential for revolutionizing the transportation sector, and 
withdrawing support now would amount to the squandering of 
several years and billions of dollars in government and private 
research.
    Between 2003 and 2008, the FreedomCar and hydrogen-related 
research at the Department of Energy saw a steady increase in 
funding from $184.6 million to $338.5 million. However, for 
Fiscal Year 2009, the Bush Administration's request for 
hydrogen related research dropped 30 percent below the Fiscal 
Year 2008 funding level, indicating that the program's focus 
would shift in part towards plug-in hybrid and alternative fuel 
vehicles technologies. The Obama Administration continued this 
trend in the FY 2010 request by proposing to cut hydrogen 
related research even further, to approximately $68 million (in 
addition to the total of $333 million for Vehicle 
Technologies). Recent House and Senate Appropriations bills 
indicate that funding will be restored to the range of $155 
million to $190 million. However this near-term funding issue 
is ultimately resolved, other recent legislation and industry 
and public interest clearly indicate that vehicle 
electrification--and advanced battery development, in 
particular--is becoming a major priority for federal technology 
programs.
    While hydrogen and electrification technologies are the 
most high-profile activities for DOE vehicle programs, the 
Department funds and performs R&D in a variety of other areas 
to meet industry needs. These include, but are not limited to, 
combustion research for engines and fuels, modeling and 
simulation of vehicle and transportation systems, lightweight 
vehicle materials, manufacturing technologies, and vehicle 
testing and standards development. Furthermore, with adequate 
resources DOE could expand its scope to include more research 
in areas such as vehicle connectivity, innovative propulsion 
systems such as microturbines, and innovative battery 
chemistries and other energy storage devices such as flywheels 
and supercapacitors.
    Regardless of the technology focus, there appears to be 
universal agreement that federal vehicle technology research 
and development programs will only be effective through robust 
partnerships with industry and amongst a wide range of vehicle 
technology developers and manufacturers. While the bulk of 
innovation still comes from the research labs of the original 
equipment manufacturers, the industry is increasingly reliant 
upon the resources and expertise of smaller component-level 
manufacturers in pushing the technology envelope. In this 
regard, the federal government can play an important role in 
coordinating activities and disseminating research findings 
amongst both traditional and new participants in government-
sponsored technology development activities.

  MEDIUM-TO-HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS, AND THE 21ST CENTURY TRUCK PARTNERSHIP

    Launched in 2000, the 21st Century Truck Partnership 
(21CTP) explores a range of technology improvements in 
commercial and military trucks and buses. The aim of the 
program is to support research and development in five key 
areas: engine systems, heavy-duty hybrids, parasitic losses, 
idle reduction and safety. Other federal agencies in the 21st 
Century Truck Partnership include the Department of Defense, 
Department of Transportation, and the Environmental Protection 
Agency. The goal of 21CTP is to combine federal and industry 
resources to develop a balanced portfolio of heavy-duty truck 
research activities, coordinate research activities where 
appropriate, and make effective use of the nation's research 
universities and national laboratories. In addition to funding 
specific research projects, 21CTP also serves as a forum for 
information exchange across all government and industrial 
sectors related to heavy truck research.
    Funding for the Partnership steadily increased from $45.6 
million in Fiscal Year 1999 to $86.6 million in Fiscal Year 
2002. However, despite the potential economic and environmental 
benefits of improvements in trucks and the considerable 
technical hurdles that remain, the 21st Century Truck 
Partnership started to see a decrease in funding in Fiscal Year 
2003, and hit a low of $29 million in Fiscal Year 2008. 
Stakeholders in 21CTP contend that the previous 
administration's decision to shift the focus of federal 
research to the passenger vehicle market came at the expense of 
truck-related research.
    In 2008, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), at the 
request of the Department of Energy, released a report entitled 
``Review of the 21st Century Truck Partnership.'' In this 
report, the Academies panel examined the overall adequacy and 
balance of the program and made recommendations to improve the 
likelihood of 21CTP meeting its goals. Chief among these were 
recommendations that more manufacturers be recruited as 
participants; that funding be increased considerably to meet 
the technological challenge; that a clearer goal setting 
strategy be developed; and that DOE's leadership and oversight 
of the program be strengthened.
    The power demands on trucks are as varied as the 
applications, and significant technical hurdles remain in areas 
such as hybridization. There is no one-size-fits-all solution 
for the entire sector. For example, through the course of an 
average drive cycle, the charging and discharging of a hybrid 
system on a refuse truck, with its frequent starts and stops, 
dumpster lifting, and trash compaction, will be considerably 
different than that of a utility truck which may sit idling in 
one place for several hours in order to operate the bucket 
lifting boom and other equipment. Long-haul tractor trailer 
rigs (Class 8) provide their own unique challenges, especially 
for hybridization since they seldom brake during a drive cycle, 
providing few opportunities for battery systems to recharge 
through regenerative braking.
    While the total number of heavy trucks is small compared to 
passenger vehicles, their fuel consumption and emissions 
justifies the high costs of development of hybrid models and 
other advanced truck technologies. According to figures by the 
Oshkosh Truck Corporation, there are approximately 90,000 
refuse collection trucks in the U.S., but their collective fuel 
consumption is roughly equivalent to 2.5 million passenger 
vehicles (based on 10,000 gallons/year per truck). Estimates 
done by the Eaton Corporation show that as little as 10,000 
hybrid electric trucks could reduce diesel fuel usage by 7.2 
million gallons/year (approx. 1 million barrels of oil), reduce 
NOX emissions by the amount equivalent to removing 
New York City's passenger cars for 25 days, and reduce carbon 
dioxide emissions by 83,000 tons.

                          IV. Hearing Summary

    On Tuesday, March 24, 2009, the Subcommittee on Energy and 
Environment held a hearing to examine the Department of 
Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technologies research and development 
programs. Witnesses discussed the role of federal research 
programs in light and heavy duty vehicle technology 
development, as well as future directions for FreedomCar and 
21st Century Truck Partnerships at DOE, specifically, and 
proposals for programmatic changes to meet ever-changing market 
and public needs. The following witnesses testified at the 
hearing:
           Mr. Steven Chalk--Principal Deputy Assistant 
        Secretary--Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy--U.S. 
        Department of Energy
           Dr. Kathryn Clay--Director of Research--
        Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
           Mr. Anthony Greszler--Vice President of 
        Government and Industry Relations--Volvo Powertrain 
        North America; Member--21st Century Truck Partnership 
        Executive Committee
           Dr. John H. Johnson--Presidential Professor 
        of Mechanical Engineering--Michigan Technological 
        University; Chair--National Academies Committee to 
        Review the 21st Century Truck Partnership
           Mr. Thomas C. Baloga--Vice President of 
        Engineering U.S.--BMW of North America

                          V. Committee Actions

    On March 24, 2009, the Subcommittee on Energy and 
Environment held a hearing entitled ``Examining Federal Vehicle 
Technology Research and Development Programs.''
    On July 17, 2009, Representative Gary Peters introduced 
H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.
    On July 21, 2009, The Subcommittee on Energy and 
Environment met to consider H.R. 3246. No amendments were 
offered, and H.R. 3246 was favorably reported to the Full 
Committee by Voice Vote.
    On July 29, 2009, the Full Committee on Science and 
Technology met to consider H.R. 3246. The following amendments 
were offered:
         Mr. Peters offered an Amendment in the Nature 
        of a Substitute to make several technical and 
        clarifying changes. The amendment was adopted by Voice 
        Vote.
         Ms. Johnson offered an amendment to the 
        Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute to add an 
        objective of developing cost-effective technologies for 
        wide-scale utilization throughout the vehicle sector. 
        The amendment was adopted by Voice Vote.
    Mr. Peters offered a motion to favorably report H.R. 3246 
to the House as amended. The motion was agreed to by Voice 
Vote.

        VI. Summary of Major Provisions of the Bill, as Reported

    H.R. 3246 requires the Secretary of Energy to conduct a 
program of basic and applied research, development, 
demonstration, and commercial application activities on 
materials, technologies, and processes with the potential to 
substantially reduce or eliminate petroleum use and the related 
emissions of the Nation's automotive and commercial vehicle 
sectors. The bill specifies that the areas of activities under 
this program will include: (1) hybridization or fuel 
electrification of vehicle systems; (2) batteries and other 
energy storage devices; (3) power electronics; (4) vehicle 
manufacturing technologies and processes; (5) engine efficiency 
and combustion optimization; (6) waste heat recovery; (7) 
transmission and drivetrains; (8) hydrogen fuel cells and 
hydrogen internal combustion engines, infrastructure, and 
related technologies; (9) aerodynamics, rolling resistance, and 
accessory power loads of vehicles and associated equipment; 
(10) vehicle weight reduction; (11) friction and wear 
reduction; (12) engine and component durability; (13) 
innovative propulsion systems; (14) advanced boosting systems; 
(15) hydraulic hybrid technologies; (16) engine compatibility 
with and optimization for nonpetroleum fuels; (17) predictive 
engineering, modeling and simulation of vehicle and 
transportation systems; (18) refueling and charging 
infrastructure for alternative fueled and electric or plug-in 
electric hybrid; (19) gaseous fuels storage system integration 
and optimization; (20) sensing, communications, and actuation 
technologies for vehicle, electrical grid, and infrastructure; 
(21) efficient use and recycling of rare earth materials, and 
reduction of precious metals and other high-cost materials in 
vehicles; (22) aftertreatment technologies; (23) thermal 
management of battery systems; (24) development of common 
standards, specifications, and architectures for both 
transportation and stationary battery applications; (25) other 
research areas as determined by the Secretary.
    The bill requires that the Secretary ensure that the 
Department of Energy continues to support activities and 
maintain competency in mid-to-long-term transformational 
vehicle technologies with the potential to achieve deep 
reductions in petroleum use and emissions. This includes 
activities in the areas of: (1) hydrogen fuel cells, internal 
combustion engines, storage, infrastructure, and technology 
validation, and development of hydrogen safety codes and 
standards; (2) multiple battery chemistries and novel energy 
storage devices; (3) communication and connectivity among 
vehicles, infrastructure, and the electrical grid; and (4) 
other innovative technologies research and development, as 
determined by the Secretary.
    Activities under the bill are to be carried out, to the 
maximum extent practicable, in partnership or collaboration 
with automotive manufacturers, heavy commercial and transit 
vehicle manufacturers, vehicle and engine equipment and 
component manufacturers, manufacturing equipment manufacturers, 
advanced vehicle service providers, fuel producers and energy 
suppliers, electric utilities, universities, national 
laboratories, and independent research laboratories. In 
carrying out the program, the Secretary is required to: (1) 
partner with a wide range of firms; (2) leverage the resources 
and capabilities of existing stakeholder organizations; (3) 
streamline processes for transferring technologies and research 
findings to industry and consumers; (4) give consideration to 
conversion of existing or former vehicle technology 
manufacturing facilities; and (5) make every effort to ensure 
that technologies developed under the bill are produced in the 
United States.
    Under the bill, to the maximum extent possible, the 
Secretary is required to coordinate, and not duplicate, 
research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application activities among relevant programs within the 
Department of Energy and other Federal agencies. The Secretary 
shall make information available to federal procurement 
programs regarding the demonstration of technologies funded 
under this program.
    The bill requires the Secretary, in coordination with the 
relevant research programs of other Federal agencies, to 
conduct research, development, and demonstration activities on 
connectivity of vehicle and transportation systems.
    The bill also requires the Secretary to carry out a 
research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application program of advanced vehicle manufacturing 
technologies and practices, including innovative processes to: 
(1) increase the production rate and decrease the cost of 
advanced battery manufacturing; (2) vary manufacturing facility 
capability to accommodate different battery chemistries and 
configurations; (3) reduce waste streams, emissions, and 
energy-intensity of vehicle, engine, and component 
manufacturing processes; (4) recycle and remanufacture used 
batteries and other vehicle components for reuse in vehicles or 
stationary applications; (5) produce cost-effective lightweight 
materials; (6) produce storage systems for gaseous fuels; (6) 
design and manufacture purpose-built hydrogen and fuel cell 
vehicles and components; and (7) produce permanent magnets for 
advanced vehicles.
    The Secretary is authorized to modify existing facilities, 
or construct new facilities, for research and testing of 
vehicles and components.
    Under Title II of the bill, the Secretary is required to 
carry out a program of cooperative research, development, 
demonstration, and commercial application activities on 
advanced technologies for medium-to-heavy duty commercial and 
transit vehicles. This is to include activities in the areas 
of: (1) engine efficiency and combustion research; (2) on-board 
natural gas storage; (3) natural gas engine technologies; (4) 
waste heat recovery and conversion; (5) improved aerodynamics 
and tire rolling resistance; (6) energy and space-efficient 
emissions control systems; (7) heavy hybrid, hybrid hydraulic, 
plug-in hybrid, and electric platforms, and energy storage 
technologies; (8) drivetrain optimization; (9) friction and 
wear reduction; (10) engine idle and parasitic energy loss 
reduction; (11) electrification of accessory loads; (12) 
onboard sensing and communications technologies; (13) advanced 
lightweight materials and vehicle designs; (14) increasing load 
capacity per vehicle; (15) thermal management of battery 
systems; (16) recharging infrastructure; (17) complete vehicle 
modeling and simulation; (18) hydrogen vehicle and 
infrastructure; (19) retrofitting advanced technologies onto 
existing truck fleets; and (20) integration of these and other 
advanced systems onto a single truck and trailer platform.
    The bill requires the Secretary to appoint a full-time 
Director to coordinate research, development, demonstration, 
and commercial application activities in medium-to-heavy duty 
commercial and transit vehicle technologies. Under the bill, 
the Director is responsible for: (1) improving coordination and 
developing consensus between government agency and industry 
partners, and proposing new processes for program management 
and priority setting; (2) frequent convening of workshops, site 
visits, demonstrations, conferences, investor forums, and other 
events in which information and research findings are shared; 
(3) developing a budget for the Department's activities with 
regard to the interagency program, and providing consultation 
and guidance on vehicle technology funding priorities across 
agencies; (4) determining a process for reviewing program 
technical goals, targets, and timetables and proposing 
revisions in light of program progress, available funding, and 
rate of technology adoption; (5) evaluating ongoing activities 
of the program and recommending project modifications; and (6) 
recruiting new industry participants to the interagency 
program; (7) other responsibilities as determined by the 
Secretary in consultation with the interagency and industry 
partners. The bill requires an annual report describing 
activities undertaken in the previous year, active industry 
participants, efforts to recruit new participants, progress of 
the program in meeting goals and timelines, and a strategic 
plan for funding of activities across agencies.
    H.R. 3246 requires the Secretary to conduct a competitive 
grant program to demonstrate the integration of multiple 
advanced technologies on long-haul Class 8 truck and trailer 
platforms with a goal of improving overall freight efficiency 
by 50 percent. The bill specifies that applicant teams may be 
comprised of truck and trailer manufacturers, engine and 
component manufacturers, fleet customers, university 
researchers, and other applicants as appropriate.
    The bill further requires the Secretary, in coordination 
with the partners of the interagency research program, to 
develop standard testing procedures and technologies for 
evaluating the performance of advanced heavy vehicle 
technologies under a range of representative duty cycles and 
operating conditions; to evaluate heavy vehicle performance 
using metrics other than those based on miles per gallon; and 
authorizes the Secretary to construct heavy duty truck and bus 
testing facilities.
    The bill further authorizes the Secretary to undertake a 
pilot program of research, development, demonstration, and 
commercial applications of technologies to improve total 
machine or system efficiency for heavy duty non-road equipment.
    For research, development, demonstration, and commercial 
application of vehicles and related technologies, the bill 
authorizes $550 million for Fiscal Year 2010, $560 million for 
Fiscal Year 2011, $570 million for fiscal year 2012, $580 
million for Fiscal Year 2013, and $590 million for Fiscal Year 
2014.

  VII. Section-by-Section Analysis (by Title and Section), as Reported


Section 1. Short title

    Sec. 2. Findings--States that Congress finds that: the 
transportation sector accounts for a significant portion of 
U.S. and global energy use, emissions, and oil consumption; the 
U.S. is overly dependent on foreign oil; heavy vehicle fuel 
consumption will grow; domestic vehicle manufacturers have 
increasingly limited resources for R&D engine and component 
manufacturers play an important role in technology development; 
Departmental priorities have shifted drastically in recent 
years; vehicle connectivity to other vehicles, infrastructure 
and electrical grid can improve efficiency; federal R&D 
programs should be balanced between long-term and near-term 
technology development.
    Sec. 3. Objectives--States that the objectives of the 
program are to develop technologies that improve efficiency and 
emissions of vehicles, reduce reliance on petroleum; support 
vehicle manufacturing in the U.S; develop cost-effective 
vehicle technologies for wide-scale utilization; enhance 
commercial and passenger vehicle performance; allow for greater 
consumer choice; shorten technology penetration time; ensure 
balance and diversity in federal R&D investment; and strengthen 
public-private R&D partnerships.
    Sec. 4. Definitions--Defines ``Department'' as the 
Department of Energy, and ``Secretary'' as the Secretary of 
Energy.
    Sec. 5. Authorization of appropriations--Authorizes to be 
appropriated approximately $550 million per year for all 
vehicle technology programs at the Department over 5 years, 
increasingly incrementally for inflation. Of that annual total, 
approximately $200 million will be for the Medium and Heavy 
Duty Commercial Vehicles programs, $30 million will be for User 
Facilities, and $20 million will be for a Non-Road Pilot 
Program, over 5 years.

               TITLE I--VEHICLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

Sec. 101. Program

    (a) Instructs the Secretary to conduct research, 
development, demonstration, and commercial application 
activities on advanced vehicle materials, technologies, and 
processes in the areas of: hybridization and electrification; 
batteries and energy storage devices; power electronics; 
manufacturing technologies; engine efficiency and combustion; 
waste heat recovery; transmission and drivetrains; hydrogen 
technologies; aerodynamics; rolling resistance; accessory power 
loads; weight reduction; friction and wear reduction; 
durability; innovative propulsion systems; compatibility with 
non-petroleum fuels; modeling and simulation; refueling and 
charging infrastructure; sensing and communications; rare earth 
and precious metals; aftertreatment; battery thermal 
management; common standards and specifications; and other 
areas as determined by the Secretary.
    (b) Instructs the Secretary to maintain programs in mid-to-
long term transformational vehicle technologies such as 
hydrogen, multiple battery chemistries, novel energy storage 
devices, vehicle connectivity, and other areas as determined by 
the Secretary.
    (c) Specifies that activities should be carried out in 
partnership or collaboration with a diverse set of non-
governmental, private and academic entities, including those 
which have not previously participated in government-sponsored 
R&D activities; that the Secretary shall utilize and support 
other organizations with expertise in vehicle technology 
development; that technology transfer mechanisms will be 
streamlined; that existing or former manufacturing facilities 
should be utilized; and that technologies developed by these 
programs will be produced in the U.S.
    (d) Instructs the Secretary to better coordinate activities 
between relevant Departmental programs and offices, and other 
federal agencies.
    (e) Instructs the Secretary to avoid duplication of 
activities to the maximum extent practicable.
    (f) Instructs the Secretary inform other agencies of the 
potential for demonstrating technologies funded by this Act.
    (g) Instructs the Secretary to support and utilize State 
and Local government initiatives in advanced vehicle technology 
development.
    Sec. 102. Sensing and communication technologies--Instructs 
the Secretary to coordinate with other agencies in the 
development of sensing, communications, and actuation 
technologies to better integrate onboard vehicle systems, 
vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-infrastructure, and vehicle-to-
electrical grid.
    Sec. 103. Manufacturing--Instructs the Secretary to develop 
advanced vehicle manufacturing technologies and processes that: 
increase production rates and reduce costs; accommodate 
different battery chemistries and configurations; reduce waste 
streams and improve efficiency of manufacturing; recycle and 
reuse batteries for vehicles and stationary purposes; produce 
lightweight materials; produce gaseous fuel storage systems; 
produce hydrogen vehicles and technologies; produce permanent 
magnets for electric motors.
    Sec. 104. User facilities--Allows the Secretary to 
construct, expand, or modify new or existing facilities for: 
testing and simulating the integration of various vehicle 
systems; subjecting vehicles to varying duty cycle and 
operating conditions; developing battery manufacturing 
technologies; and developing test cycles for non-petroleum 
fuels and other technologies.

          TITLE II--MEDIUM AND HEAVY DUTY COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Sec. 201. Program

    (a) Instructs the Secretary to carry out a collaborative 
commercial and transit vehicle technology development program 
in partnership with a variety of industry and federal agency 
partners, and include activities in the areas of: engine 
efficiency; combustion; waste heat recovery; aerodynamics; 
rolling resistance; hybridization and electrification; 
drivetrains; friction and wear reduction; engine idle and 
parasitic energy loss; sensing and communications; lightweight 
materials; battery thermal management; recharging 
infrastructure; modeling and simulation; retrofitting of 
existing fleets with new technologies; and integration of 
multiple technologies onto a single platform.
    (b) Instructs the Secretary to appoint a full-time director 
for medium-to-heavy duty truck technology development programs, 
and specify that responsibilities of that director will 
include: improving coordination between program partners; 
convening of events for sharing information and research 
findings; developing a DOE budget and consulting on budget 
priorities across agency partners; determining a process for 
reviewing and revising program goals, targets and timetables; 
evaluating program activities; and recruiting new industry 
participants.
    (c) Instructs the Secretary to provide a report describing 
the program activities, partners, and progress, and proposing a 
strategic plan for the interagency partnership.
    Sec. 202. Class 8 truck and trailer systems 
demonstrations--Instructs the Secretary to conduct a program to 
demonstrate the integration of multiple advanced technologies 
on truck and trailer platforms.
    Sec. 203. Technology testing and metrics--Instructs the 
Secretary, in coordination with interagency partners, to 
develop standard testing procedures and metrics that represent 
the unique task-specific operating conditions for the range of 
commercial vehicles.
    Sec. 204. Nonroad systems pilot program--Authorizes the 
Secretary to undertake a pilot program in technology 
development for non-road equipment (such as construction, 
agricultural, or industrial mobile equipment) and to transfer 
relevant research findings between non-road and on-highway 
sectors.

                         VIII. Committee Views

    Section 101(b) of the bill seeks to ensure that the 
Secretary continue to support activities and maintain a core 
competency in mid-to-long-term transformational technologies, 
and specifically lists both hydrogen technologies and battery 
and energy storage technologies as areas of focus. It is the 
Committee's view that the Department's vehicle research 
programs have been particularly susceptible to dramatic, and 
often costly, shifts in priorities through the years. As the 
Department stands prepared to reallocate resources to vehicle 
electrification technologies it should take all necessary steps 
to ensure that its very sizable multi-year investment in 
hydrogen vehicle-related technologies is not wasted, and that 
progress in this area continue. Likewise, it is the Committee's 
view that within vehicle electrification-related research the 
Department should maintain a diverse portfolio of activities to 
include a variety of battery chemistries and constructions, and 
even non-battery energy storage devices. For example, current 
lithium ion batteries represent a significant improvement over 
older technologies but are not without their limitations. 
Lithium sulfur chemistry has been shown to produce 
significantly higher energy density, while bipolar design and 
construction can allow batteries of varying chemistries to 
reduce resistance and improve power and energy performance 
dramatically. Other mechanical energy storage devices such as 
hydraulics and flywheels also show great promise for certain 
applications, but significant technical challenges remain. The 
Committee believes that the Department has a responsibility to 
maintain a comprehensive, far-reaching, and diverse research 
portfolio in short, medium and long-term vehicle technologies 
that industry is not likely to pursue alone.
    Section 101(c)(2) instructs the Secretary to leverage the 
capabilities and resources, and formalize partnerships with, 
industry-led stakeholder organizations, non-profits, and trade 
associations. A number of such organizations have formed to 
pool resources to pursue technology development goals that a 
single firm is not likely to achieve on its own. For example, 
the Hybrid Truck Users Forum includes a wide range of medium-
to-heavy duty vehicle and component manufacturers, and has 
shown considerable success in disseminating technology, 
research, and commercialization-related information throughout 
the industry. It is the Committee's view that the Department 
would be well-served in utilizing these resources to meet 
common goals.
    Section 101(e) specifies the Committee's intention that, in 
carrying out the activities under this Act, the Secretary shall 
seek to avoid duplicating activities of other programs within 
the Department or other research agencies. For example, funding 
for activities under Section 101(c)(4) and Section 103 should 
not be used for the conversion of facilities for non-research 
and development activities such as those already authorized in 
Sections 134, 135, and 136 of Title I of the Energy 
Independence and Security Act of 2007 (Public Law 110-140). 
Section 101(c)(4) is meant to encourage the Secretary to avoid 
spending limited research dollars on construction of new 
facilities where adequate and appropriate infrastructure may 
already exist, and instead convert existing or former 
manufacturing facilities for the new purpose of conducting 
basic and applied vehicle and manufacturing technology research 
and development related activities. Section 103 highlights the 
importance of manufacturing in the vehicle sector, and thus 
authorizes the Secretary to expand the research and technology 
development focus of the Department to include a range of 
manufacturing technologies and processes.
    Section 102 instructs the Secretary to coordinate with 
relevant research programs of other Federal agencies in 
conducting technology development activities on sensing, 
communication, computation, and actuation technologies that 
allow for greater connectivity of vehicles and transportation 
systems. Other agencies have traditionally done the bulk of 
work in this area, and this section in no way is intended to 
shift the federal stewardship of these activities to the 
Department of Energy from those agencies. It is the Committee's 
view that the Department's unique and varied resources, 
personnel and facilities stand to provide significant 
contributions to this field.
    The bill provides a comprehensive list of research areas 
the Committee believes would help to advance the goals of 
improving fuel efficiency and reduce reliance on petroleum-
based fuels. However, the Committee does not intend language in 
the bill such as in sections 101, 102, 201 and 203 referencing 
`` modeling and simulation of vehicle and transportation 
systems, communication and connectivity among vehicles, 
infrastructure and the electrical grid, onboard sensing and 
communications technologies, or evaluation using other than 
based on miles per gallon'' to be interpreted to authorize 
research, development or demonstration of programs that charge 
consumers of petroleum based on vehicles miles traveled.
    Title II of the bill authorizes a considerably more robust 
medium-to-heavy duty vehicle research program than currently 
exists. The Department of Energy serves as the lead 
coordinating agency for the 21st Century Truck Partnership 
(21CTP). Partners in 21CTP include the Departments of Defense 
and Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, and a 
range of manufacturers and industry stakeholders. While the 
program has shown a number of successes and is generally well-
regarded within the industry the current levels of funding and 
inadequate leadership structure are not likely to result in 
aggressive technical goals being met in the near-term. Given 
the tremendous opportunities for fuel savings in the medium-to-
heavy duty vehicle sector it is the Committee's view that this 
interagency public-private partnership merits both considerable 
increases in resources and a more robust and coordinated 
leadership structure. The National Research Council 2008 Review 
of the 21st Century Truck Partnership provides a number of 
recommendations that Department and its interagency partners 
should work to implement.

                           IX. Cost Estimate

    A cost estimate and comparison prepared by the Director of 
the Congressional Budget Office under section 402 of the 
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 has been timely submitted to 
the Committee on Science and Technology prior to the filing of 
this report and is included in Section X of this report 
pursuant to House Rule XIII, clause 3(c)(3).
    H.R. 3246 does not contain new budget authority, credit 
authority, or changes in revenues or tax expenditures. H.R. 
3246 does authorize additional discretionary spending, as 
described in the Congressional Budget Office report on the 
bill, which is contained in Section X of this report.

              X. Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate

                                                   August 25, 2009.
Hon. Bart Gordon,
Chairman, Committee on Science and Technology,
House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
    Dear Mr. Chairman: The Congressional Budget Office has 
prepared the enclosed cost estimate for H.R. 3246, the Advanced 
Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.
    If you wish further details on this estimate, we will be 
pleased to provide them. The CBO staff contact is Jeff LaFave.
            Sincerely,
                                              Douglas W. Elmendorf.
    Enclosure.

H.R. 3246--Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009

    Summary: H.R. 3246 would authorize appropriations totalling 
$2.85 billion over the 2010-2014 period for the Department of 
Energy (DOE) to support research activities to reduce the use 
of vehicle fuels that generate high emissions. Assuming 
appropriation of the authorized amounts, CBO estimates that 
implementing the legislation would cost $2.43 billion over the 
2010-2014 period and $423 million after 2014. Enacting the 
legislation would not affect direct spending or revenues.
    H.R. 3246 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector 
mandates as defined by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) 
and would impose no costs on state, local, or tribal 
governments.
    Estimated cost to the Federal Government: The estimated 
budgetary impact of H.R. 3246 is shown in the following table. 
The costs of this legislation fall within budget function 250 
(general science, space, and technology).


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                 By fiscal year, in millions of dollars--
                                                         -------------------------------------------------------
                                                            2010     2011     2012     2013     2014   2010-2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  CHANGES IN SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION

 Title I: R&D for Passenger and Commercial Vehicles:
    Authorization Level.................................      350      350      350      350      350     1,750
    Estimated Outlays...................................      161      301      336      350      350     1,498
Title II: R&D for Medium- and Heavy-duty Vehicles:
    Authorization Level.................................      200      210      220      230      240     1,100
    Estimated Outlays...................................       92      177      205      223      233       930
    Total Changes:
        Authorization Level.............................      550      560      570      580      590     2,850
        Estimated Outlays...............................      253      478      541      573      583    2,428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: R&D = Research and Development.

    Basis of estimate: For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 
3246 will be enacted near the end of fiscal year 2009 and that 
the entire amounts authorized will be appropriated for each 
fiscal year. Estimated outlays are based on historical spending 
patterns for DOE research and development programs.
    Title I would authorize the appropriation of $1.75 billion 
over the 2010-2014 period to support the development of 
technologies that would improve fuel efficiency, promote the 
use of alternative fuels, and optimize traffic flow for 
passenger and commercial vehicles. Of that amount, $115 million 
would be used to construct facilities where new technologies 
would be tested.
    Title II would authorize the appropriation of $1.1 billion 
over the 2010-2014 period to support a similar research and 
development program for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Of 
that amount, $60 million would be used to support a pilot 
program to transfer new technologies between the on-road and 
off-road vehicle sectors. Title II also would establish a grant 
program to fund research that would improve the efficiency of 
freight vehicles. Finally, Title II would require the Secretary 
of Energy to appoint a program director to oversee research and 
development activities for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
    Based on information from DOE, CBO estimates that 
implementing H.R. 3246 would cost $2.43 billion over the 2010-
2014 period and $423 million after 2014.
    Intergovernmental and private-sector impact: H.R. 3246 
contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as 
defined in UMRA and would impose no costs on state, local, or 
tribal governments.
    Estimate prepared by: Federal Costs: Jeff LaFave; Impact on 
State, Local, and Tribal Governments: Ryan Miller; Impact on 
the Private Sector: Amy Petz.
    Estimate approved by: Theresa Gullo, Deputy Assistant 
Director for Budget Analysis.

                  XI. Compliance With Public Law 104-4

    H.R. 3246 contains no unfunded mandates.

         XII. Committee Oversight Findings and Recommendations

    The oversight findings and recommendations of the Committee 
on Science and Technology are reflected in the body of this 
report.

      XIII. Statement on General Performance Goals and Objectives

    Pursuant to clause 3(c) of House Rule XIII, the goal of 
H.R. 3246 is to authorize a program of comprehensive research, 
development, demonstration and commercial application in 
vehicle technologies at the Department of Energy.

                XIV. Constitutional Authority Statement

    Article I, section 8 of the Constitution of the United 
States grants Congress the authority to enact H.R. 3246.

                XV. Federal Advisory Committee Statement

    H.R. 3246 does not establish nor authorize the 
establishment of any advisory committee.

                 XVI. Congressional Accountability Act

    The Committee finds that H.R. 3246 does not relate to the 
terms and conditions of employment or access to public services 
or accommodations within the meaning of section 102(b)(3) of 
the Congressional Accountability Act (Public Law 104-1).

                      XVII. Earmark Identification

    H.R. 3246 does not contain any congressional earmarks, 
limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined in 
clause 9 of Rule XXI.

     XVIII. Statement on Preemption of State, Local, or Tribal Law

    This bill is not intended to preempt any state, local, or 
tribal law.

                     XIX. Committee Recommendations

    On July 29, 2009, the Committee on Science and Technology 
favorably reported by voice vote the bill, H.R. 3246, as 
amended, to the House with the recommendation that the bill, as 
amended, do pass.



    XX. PROCEEDINGS OF THE MARKUP BY THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND 
 ENVIRONMENT ON H.R. 3246, THE ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 2009

                              ----------                              


                         TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2009

                  House of Representatives,
            Subcommittee on Energy and Environment,
                                      Committee on Science,
                                                    Washington, DC.

    The Subcommittee met, pursuant to call, at 2:03 p.m., in 
Room 2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Brian 
Baird [Chair of the Subcommittee] presiding.
    Chair Baird. The Subcommittee will now come to order. 
Pursuant to notice the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment 
meets to consider the following measures: H.R. 3246, the 
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, H.R. 3165, the Wind 
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009, H.R. 3029, To 
establish a research, development, and technology demonstration 
program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in 
combined cycle power generation systems, and H.R. 3247, To 
establish a social and behavioral sciences research program at 
the Department of Energy, and for other purposes.
    As I just mentioned, this afternoon our committee is 
considering those four bills. I will go into a bit more detail 
now.
    H.R. 3246 is authored by Representative Peters and co-
sponsored by Representative Biggert of our subcommittee. This 
legislation authorizes research and development on different 
classes of vehicles with the goal of reducing or eliminating 
petroleum fuel use and their associated emissions.
    H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and Development Act of 
2009, is offered by our colleague, Mr. Tonko. This legislation 
authorizes several areas of research identified in a recent 
report outlining the needs for expanding the use of wind-
powered electricity generation.
    H.R. 3029 is also offered by the now prolific Mr. Tonko. 
This bill establishes an R&D program to improve the efficiency 
of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation 
systems. Today 15 percent of electric power is produced from 
natural gas. This percentage is predicted to double over the 
next decade. The investment cost for new power plants are very 
high, and once built they operate for many decades. It is vital 
we build them to be as efficient as possible from the outset, 
and this legislation will help achieve that goal.
    Finally, we will mark up H.R. 3247, a bill I introduced to 
authorize a social and behavioral research program at the 
Department of Energy. Technology development and investment are 
only part of the solution to our energy problem. The decisions 
each of us make every day have a significant impact on energy 
production and consumption. It is important that we understand 
why some technologies are more readily embraced than others, 
and it is important that we know how to communicate effectively 
about the nature of our energy challenge and know how to 
empower individual citizens to participate in overcoming those 
challenges.
    The four bills we will consider today address important 
energy technology needs and the need for more research on the 
human factors that determine their acceptance and success. I 
look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all for your 
attendance and participation this afternoon.
    I now recognize Mr. Inglis to present opening remarks.
    [The prepared statement of Chair Baird follows:]
                Prepared Statement of Chair Brian Baird
    This afternoon the Subcommittee will consider four bills.
    H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 is authored 
by Rep. Peters and co-sponsored by Rep. Biggert of our subcommittee. 
This legislation authorizes research and development on different 
classes of vehicles with a goal of reducing or eliminating petroleum 
fuel use and their associated emissions.
    H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and Development Act of 2009 is 
authored by our colleague, Mr. Tonko. This legislation authorizes 
several areas of research identified in a recent report outlining the 
needs for expanding the use of wind powered electricity generation.
    H.R. 3029, is also authored by Rep. Tonko. This bill establishes an 
R&D program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined 
cycle power generation systems. Today, 15 percent of our electric power 
is produced from natural gas. This percentage is predicted to double 
over the next decade. The investment costs for new power plants are 
very high and, once built they operate for many decades. It is vital 
that we build them to be as efficient as possible from the outset.
    Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247. I introduced H.R. 3247 
last week to authorize a social and behavioral research program at the 
Department of Energy. Technology development and investment are only 
part of the solution to our energy problem. The decisions each of us 
make every day have a significant impact on energy production and 
consumption. It is important that we understand why some technologies 
are more readily embraced than others. And it is important that we know 
how to communicate effectively about the nature of our energy 
challenges and know how to empower individual citizens to participate 
in overcoming them.
    The four bills we will consider today address important energy 
technology needs and the need for more research on the human factors 
that determine their acceptance and success.
    I look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all for your 
attendance and participation this afternoon.

    Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I am looking 
forward to discussing and improving the four pieces of 
legislation before us today.
    The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 will authorize 
a vehicle technologies program at DOE. The bill realigns the 
program to approach a wide variety of critical transportation 
and technology research areas, with the goal of reducing 
petroleum use and the related emissions.
    A balanced and robust research program is necessary to 
expand our mobility options, increase our national security, 
and establish the United States as a world leader in auto and 
truck design, manufacture, and transportation fuel development.
    The second bill we will discuss today is the Wind Energy 
Research and Development Act. As the Department of Energy and 
the American Wind Energy Association have made clear, expanding 
our wind-power generating capacity will require a significant 
improvement in turbine technologies, forecasting capabilities, 
energy storage, and the transmission grid.
    Strengthening the research effort in wind energy will help 
us move away from polluting fossil fuel energy, while creating 
jobs in wind energy design, manufacturing, and operation.
    H.R. 3029 will implement a short-term research, 
development, and demonstration project at DOE to push gas 
turbine combine cycle generating power generation systems to 65 
percent efficiency. Natural gas is a clean-burning fuel 
produced right here in the United States and is the fastest 
growing source of new electricity capacity. Increasing turbine 
efficiency will reduce fuel usage and corresponding emissions, 
optimize our use of this limited resource, and lower 
electricity costs.
    Finally, H.R. 3247 establishes a social and behavioral 
sciences research program at the Department of Energy. This 
research is intended to help us better understand the way 
individual decisions impact energy markets and energy 
technology development.
    I am aware of the National Science Foundation's work in 
this area. I understand the Chairman's desire to see this work 
become an emphasis of DOE. I look forward to hearing how that 
cross-pollenization may work, and I will have some questions 
about how it would work.
    Thank you again for the opportunity to work with you on 
this legislation, Mr. Chairman.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

            Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

    Good morning and thank you for holding this markup, Mr. Chairman. 
I'm looking forward to discussing and improving the four pieces of 
legislation before us today.
    The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009 will reauthorize the 
Vehicle Technologies Program at DOE. The bill realigns the program to 
approach a wide variety of critical transportation technology research 
areas with the goal of reducing petroleum use and the related 
emissions. A balanced and robust research program is necessary to 
expand our mobility options, increase our national security, and 
establish the United States as a world leader in auto and truck design 
and manufacturing and transportation fuel development.
    The second bill we'll address today, is the Wind Energy Research 
and Development Act. As the Department of Energy and the American Wind 
Energy Association have made clear, expanding our wind power generating 
capacity will require significant improvement in turbine technologies, 
forecasting capabilities, energy storage, and the transmission grid. 
Strengthening the research effort in wind energy will help us move away 
from polluting fossil fuel energy while creating jobs in wind energy 
design, manufacturing, and operation.
    H.R. 3029 will implement a short-term research, development, and 
demonstration program at DOE to push gas turbine combined cycle 
generating systems to 65 percent efficiency. Natural gas is a clean 
burning fuel produced right here in the United States and is the 
fastest growing source of new electricity capacity. Increasing turbine 
efficiency will reduce fuel usage and corresponding emissions, optimize 
our use of this limited resource, and lower electricity costs.
    Finally, H.R. 3247 establishes a social and behavioral sciences 
research program at the Department of Energy. This research is intended 
to help us better understand the way individual decisions impact energy 
markets and energy technology development. I'm aware of the National 
Science Foundation's work in this area, and I understand the Chairman's 
desire to see this work become an emphasis at the DOE. I look forward 
to hearing how that cross-pollination might work.
    Thank you again for the opportunity to work with you on this 
legislation, Mr. Chairman.

    Chair Baird. Thank you, Mr. Inglis. Members may place 
statements in the record at this point.
    We will now consider H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle 
Technology Act of 2009. I will recognize myself for five 
minutes to describe the bill.
    I am pleased to bring up H.R. 3246, which was introduced by 
our colleague from Michigan, Mr. Gary Peters, and co-sponsored 
by the distinguished gentlelady from Illinois, Ms. Biggert. 
Congressman Peters does not sit on this committee, so we will 
look forward to hearing from him on his bill in the Full 
Committee markup next week.
    U.S. transportation sector accounts for over one-fourth of 
the primary energy use and greenhouse gas emissions 
domestically and almost a quarter of the total global oil 
demand. American consumers expect the freedom of mobility and 
availability of products and services that frankly are becoming 
harder to meet in light of the high economic and environmental 
costs of our addiction to oil.
    A more sustainable transportation future will require the 
development and market penetration of a wide variety of vehicle 
technologies. Congressman Peters' bill authorizes both current 
and new activities within the Department of Energy's Vehicle 
Technology Program.
    The bill highlights critical research needs in areas such 
as vehicle electrification, hydrogen technologies, 
manufacturing technologies, lightweight materials, combustion 
optimization, and vehicle sensing and communication. It also 
gives important policy guidelines in requiring the program to 
continue its focus on longer-term transformational technologies 
and to strengthen its outreach to a variety of companies and 
other government agencies.
    The authorized funding levels are increased over current 
levels to support the important activities authorized in the 
bill. Title II of the bill emphasizes the federal research 
needs in medium- to heavy-duty commercial vehicles and seeks to 
make the DOE-led interagency program more robust through better 
leadership and coordination.
    Mr. Peters and Ms. Biggert have a good bill. I encourage 
its passage, and I look forward to working with my colleagues 
as we take it to Full Committee.
    I now recognize Mr. Inglis to present any remarks on the 
bill.
    [The prepared statement of Chair Baird follows:]

                Prepared Statement of Chair Brian Baird

    I am pleased to bring up H.R. 3246, which was introduced by our 
colleague from Michigan, Mr. Gary Peters and co-sponsored by our 
colleague from Illinois, Mrs. Biggert. Congressman Peters does not sit 
on this subcommittee. So we will look forward to hearing from him on 
his bill in the Full Committee markup next week.
    The U.S. transportation sector accounts for over one-quarter of the 
primary energy use and greenhouse gas emissions domestically, and 
almost a quarter of the total global oil demand. American consumers 
expect a freedom of mobility and availability of products and services 
that, frankly, are becoming harder to meet in light of the high 
economic and environmental costs of our addiction to oil. A more 
sustainable transportation future will require the development and 
market penetration of a wide array of vehicle technologies.
    Congressman Peter's bill provides an authorization of both current 
and new activities within the Department of Energy's Vehicle Technology 
program. The bill highlights critical research needs in areas such as 
vehicle electrification, hydrogen technologies, manufacturing 
technologies, lightweight materials, combustion optimization, and 
vehicle sensing and communications.
    It also gives important policy guidance in requiring the program to 
continue its focus on longer-term transformational technologies, and to 
strengthen its outreach to a variety of companies and other 
governmental agencies. The authorized funding levels are increased over 
current levels, to support the important activities authorized in this 
bill.
    Title II of the bill emphasizes the federal research needs in 
medium- to heavy-duty commercial vehicles and seeks to make the DOE-led 
interagency program more robust through better leadership and 
coordination.
    Mr. Peters and Mrs. Biggert have a good bill. I encourage its 
passage and I look forward to working with my colleagues as we take it 
to Full Committee.
    I now recognize Mr. Inglis to present any remarks on the bill.

    Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This reauthorization 
legislation calls on DOE to develop a broad vehicle research 
portfolio and balance long-term breakthroughs with the 
immediate research needs in the transportation sector, with the 
goal of bringing new technologies and processes to the market 
that will help reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
    The bill has a broad vision focusing on activities from 
hydrogen fuel cells to lightweight materials and advanced 
vehicle designs. I am happy to lend my support to this 
legislation which will enrich our federal research efforts, 
strengthen our competitive role in the international market for 
cutting-edge vehicle technologies, and improve our national 
security.
    I yield back, Mr. Chairman.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

            Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

    This reauthorization legislation calls on DOE to develop a broad 
vehicle research portfolio and balance long-term breakthroughs with the 
immediate research needs in the transportation sector with the goal of 
bringing new technologies and processes to the market that will reduce 
our dependence on foreign oil. The bill has a broad vision, focusing on 
activities from hydrogen fuel cells to lightweight materials and 
advanced vehicle designs. I'm happy to lend my support to this 
legislation, which will enrich our federal research efforts, strengthen 
our competitive role in the international market for cutting edge 
vehicle technologies, and increase our national security.

    Chair Baird. Thank you, Mr. Inglis.
    Does anyone else wish to be recognized on the legislation?
    I am pleased to recognize the gentlelady, Ms. Biggert.
    Ms. Biggert. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this 
markup today and thank you for bringing up this bill. I join 
Representative Peters today in support of H.R. 3246, the 
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.
    Bolstering research and ultimately deployment of advanced 
vehicle technologies is an important part of a national energy 
and environmental strategy. With increased R&D and 
demonstration we can deploy technologies and practices that 
improve these fuel efficiency and emissions reductions of all 
vehicles and equipment produced and used in the United States.
    We can support and encourage domestic manufacturing of 
advanced vehicles such as Caterpillar's D7E, the first electric 
drive bulldozer, and we can move more people and goods with 
less energy and emissions, and we can enhance consumer choices 
in vehicles and fuels and most importantly cut down technology, 
development, and integration cycles in the vehicle industry.
    The medium-, heavy-duty, and non-road provisions in H.R. 
3246 are particularly important. Significant efficiency gains 
can be made in non- and off-road equipment relative to the way 
they perform on the job site.
    However, a coordinated and comprehensive investment in R&D 
is necessary to meet this goal while optimizing performance, 
safety, and operational standards.
    I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3246, and yield back.
    [The prepared statement of Ms. Biggert follows:]

           Prepared Statement of Representative Judy Biggert

    Thank you, Mr. Chairman for holding this markup today and thank you 
for bringing up this bill.
    I join Rep. Peters today in support of H.R. 3246, the Advanced 
Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.
    Bolstering research--and ultimately deployment--of advanced vehicle 
technologies is an important part of a national energy and 
environmental strategy.
    With increased R&D and demonstration, we can:

         Deploy technologies and practices that improve the fuel 
        efficiency and emissions reductions of all vehicles and 
        equipment produced and used in the United States;

         support and encourage domestic manufacturing of advanced 
        vehicles, such as Caterpillar's D7E, the first electric drive 
        bulldozer;

         move more people and goods with less energy and emissions;

         enhance consumer choice in vehicles and fuels; and

         most importantly, cut down technology development and 
        integration cycles in the vehicle industry.

    The medium-, heavy-duty and non-road provisions in H.R. 3246 are 
particularly important.
    Significant efficiency gains can be made in non- and off-road 
equipment relative to the way they perform on the job site. However, a 
coordinated and comprehensive investment in R&D is necessary to meet 
this goal while optimizing performance, safety, and operational 
standards.
    I urge my colleague's support of H.R. 3246 and yield back.

    Chair Baird. I thank the gentlelady for her leadership and 
her strong involvement with this committee. She always offers a 
thoughtful legislation, and I appreciate her involvement.
    One slight correction. My children have a tiny electric 
drive bulldozer, but it won't push very much, and so something 
with more capacity is certainly welcome.
    Ms. Biggert. If the gentleman would yield----
    Chair Baird. Sure.
    Ms. Biggert.--I might just say that I have driven a 10-ton 
front-loader, and I have gone forward, and I have gone 
backward, and the basket holds a million golf balls. I don't--I 
think that is going to be a little while before we get the 
electric involved in that size, 10 ton.
    Chair Baird. I thank the gentlelady. It is remarkable what 
is being done, and this bill will move that forward much 
faster, and I applaud her for her contribution with Mr. Peters.
    Are there any other Members who wish to speak to the 
legislation?
    I then ask unanimous consent that the bill is considered as 
read and open to amendment at any point.
    Without objection, so ordered.
    Any other Members wishing to offer amendments?
    If no, then the vote will occur on the bill H.R. 3246. All 
those in favor will say aye. All those opposed will say no. In 
the opinion of the Chair the ayes have it.
    I recognize myself to offer a motion. I move that the 
Subcommittee favorably report H.R. 3246 to the Full Committee. 
Furthermore, I move that staff be instructed to prepare the 
Subcommittee report and make necessary technical and conforming 
changes to the bill in accordance with the recommendations of 
the Subcommittee.
    The question is on the motion to report the bill favorably. 
Those in favor of the motion will signify by saying aye. 
Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the bill is favorably 
reported.
    Without objection the motion to reconsider is laid upon the 
table. Members will have two subsequent calendar days in which 
to submit supplemental Minority or additional views on the 
measure.
    I want to thank Members for their attendance, staff for all 
their good work. This concludes our Subcommittee markup.
    [Whereupon, at 2:41 p.m., the Subcommittee was adjourned.]


                               Appendix:

                              ----------                              


                 H.R. 3246, Section-by-Section Analysis




                     Section-by-Section Analysis of
         H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE

SEC. 2. FINDINGS--States that Congress finds that: the transportation 
sector accounts for a significant portion of U.S. and global energy 
use, emissions, and oil consumption; the U.S. is overly dependent on 
foreign oil; heavy vehicle fuel consumption will grow; domestic vehicle 
manufacturers have increasingly limited resources for R&D engine and 
component manufacturers play an important role in technology 
development; Departmental priorities have shifted drastically in recent 
years; vehicle connectivity to other vehicles, infrastructure and 
electrical grid can improve efficiency; federal R&D programs should be 
balanced between long-term and near-term technology development.

SEC. 3. OBJECTIVES--States that the objectives of the program are to 
develop technologies that improve efficiency and emissions of vehicles, 
reduce reliance on petroleum; support vehicle manufacturing in the 
U.S.; enhance commercial and passenger vehicle performance; allow for 
greater consumer choice; shorten technology penetration time; ensure 
balance and diversity in federal R&D investment; and strengthen public-
private R&D partnerships.

SEC. 4. DEFINITIONS--Defines ``Department'' as the Department of 
Energy, and ``Secretary'' as the Secretary of Energy.

SEC. 5. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS--Authorizes to be appropriated 
approximately $550 million per year for all vehicle technology programs 
at the Department over five years, increasingly incrementally for 
inflation. Of that annual total, approximately $200 million will be for 
the Medium- and Heavy-Duty Commercial Vehicles programs, $30 million 
will be for User Facilities, and $20 million will be for a Non-Road 
Pilot Program, over five years.

TITLE I--VEHICLE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

SEC. 101. PROGRAM.

    (a) Instructs the Secretary to conduct research, development, 
demonstration, and commercial application activities on advanced 
vehicle materials, technologies, and processes in the areas of: 
hybridization and electrification; batteries and energy storage 
devices; power electronics; engine efficiency and combustion; waste 
heat recovery; transmission and drivetrains; hydrogen fuel cells, 
internal combustion engines, and infrastructure; aerodynamics; rolling 
resistance; accessory power loads; weight reduction; friction and wear 
reduction; durability; innovative propulsion systems; compatibility 
with non-petroleum fuels; modeling and simulation; refueling and 
charging infrastructure; sensing and communications; rare Earth and 
precious metals; after-treatment; battery thermal management; common 
standards and specifications; and other areas as determined by the 
Secretary.

    (b) Instructs the Secretary to maintain programs in mid- to long-
term transformational vehicle technologies such as hydrogen, multiple 
battery chemistries, novel energy storage devices, vehicle 
connectivity, and other areas as determined by the Secretary.

    (c) Specifies that activities should be carried out in partnership 
or collaboration with a diverse set of non-governmental, private and 
academic entities, including those which have not previously 
participated in government-sponsored R&D activities; that the Secretary 
shall utilize and support other organizations with expertise in vehicle 
technology development; that technology transfer mechanisms will be 
streamlined; that existing or former manufacturing facilities should be 
utilized; and that technologies developed by these programs will be 
produced in the U.S.

    (d) Instructs the Secretary to better coordinate activities between 
relevant Departmental programs and offices, and other federal agencies.

    (e) Instructs the Secretary inform other agencies of the potential 
for demonstrating technologies funded by this Act.

    (f) Instructs the Secretary to support and utilize State and Local 
government initiatives in advanced vehicle technology development.

SEC. 102. SENSING AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES--Instructs the 
Secretary to coordinate with other agencies in the development of 
sensing, communications, and actuation technologies to better integrate 
on-board vehicle systems, vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-
infrastructure, and vehicle-to-electrical grid.

SEC. 103. MANUFACTURING--Instructs the Secretary to develop advanced 
vehicle manufacturing technologies and processes that: increase 
production rates and reduce costs; accommodate different battery 
chemistries and configurations; reduce waste streams and improve 
efficiency of manufacturing; recycle and reuse batteries for vehicles 
and stationary purposes; produce lightweight materials; produce 
hydrogen vehicles and technologies; produce permanent magnets for 
electric motors.

SEC. 104. USER FACILITIES--Allows the Secretary to construct, expand, 
or modify new or existing facilities for: testing and simulating the 
integration of various vehicle systems; subjecting vehicles to varying 
duty cycle and operating conditions; developing battery manufacturing 
technologies; and developing test cycles for non-petroleum fuels and 
other technologies.

TITLE II--MEDIUM- AND HEAVY-DUTY COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

SEC. 201. PROGRAM

    (a) Instructs the Secretary to carry out a collaborative commercial 
and transit vehicle technology development program in partnership with 
a variety of industry and federal agency partners, and include 
activities in the areas of: engine efficiency; combustion; waste heat 
recovery; aerodynamics; rolling resistance; hybridization and 
electrification; drivetrains; friction and wear reduction; engine idle 
and parasitic energy loss; sensing and communications; lightweight 
materials; battery thermal management; recharging infrastructure; 
modeling and simulation; retrofitting of existing fleets with new 
technologies; and integration of multiple technologies onto a single 
platform.

    (b) Instructs the Secretary to appoint a full-time director for 
medium- to heavy-duty truck technology development programs, and 
specify that responsibilities of that director will include: improving 
coordination between program partners; convening of events for sharing 
information and research findings; developing a DOE budget and 
consulting on budget priorities across agency partners; determining a 
process for reviewing and revising program goals, targets and 
timetables; evaluating program activities; and recruiting new industry 
participants.

    (c) Instructs the Secretary to provide a report to Congress 
describing the program activities, partners, and progress, and 
proposing a strategic plan for the interagency partnership.

SEC. 202. CLASS 8 TRUCK AND TRAILER SYSTEMS DEMONSTRATIONS--Instructs 
the Secretary to conduct a program to demonstrate the integration of 
multiple advanced technologies on truck and trailer platforms.

SEC. 203. TECHNOLOGY TESTING AND METRICS--Instructs the Secretary, in 
coordination with interagency partners, to develop standard testing 
procedures and metrics that represent the unique task-specific 
operating conditions for the range of commercial vehicles.

SEC. 204. NON-ROAD SYSTEMS PILOT PROGRAM--Authorizes the Secretary to 
undertake a pilot program in technology development for non-road 
equipment (such as construction, agricultural, or industrial mobile 
equipment) and to transfer relevant research findings between non-road 
and on-highway sectors.



    XXI. PROCEEDINGS OF THE FULL COMMITTEE MARKUP ON H.R. 3246, THE 
                ADVANCED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 2009

                              ----------                              


                        WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2009

                  House of Representatives,
                                      Committee on Science,
                                                    Washington, DC.

    The Committee met, pursuant to call, at 10:00 a.m., in Room 
2318 of the Rayburn House Office Building, Hon. Bart Gordon 
[Chair of the Committee] presiding.
    Chair Gordon. Good morning. The Committee will come to 
order.
    Pursuant to notice, the Committee on Science and Technology 
meets to consider the following measures: H.R. 3246, the 
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009; H.R. 3165, the Wind 
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009; H.R. 3029, To 
establish a research, development and technology demonstration 
program to improve the efficiency of gas turbines used in 
combined cycle power generation systems, and H.R. 3247, To 
establish a social and behavioral science research program at 
the Department of Energy, and for other purposes. We will now 
proceed with the markup.
    This morning the Committee will consider four bills. H.R. 
3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, is authored 
by our colleague, Mr. Peters, and co-sponsored by 
Representative Biggert. I think we have a Michigan theme going 
here. H.R. 3246 authorizes research and development on vehicles 
with a goal of reducing or eliminating petroleum fuel base and 
its associated emissions.
    We will also consider H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research 
and Development Act of 2009, and H.R. 3029, a bill to authorize 
R&D and to improve the efficiency of gas turbines, both of 
these bills authored by Mr. Tonko. H.R. 3165 authorizes R&D on 
wind power. The specific areas of R&D were identified in a 
recent report by the Department of Energy and the American Wind 
Energy Association describing the areas of improvements needed 
if we are to expand wind power electricity generation.
    Currently, 15 percent of our electric power is produced 
from natural gas. Over the next decade, this percentage is 
predicted to double. The research and development authorized in 
H.R. 3029 is intended to improve the efficiency of turbines 
used in these combined cycle power generation systems.
    Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247, a bill to 
establish a social and behavioral research program at the 
Department of Energy. H.R. 3247 was introduced by Dr. Baird, 
who has been a champion of these areas of research throughout 
his service on the Committee. It is important to understand why 
some technologies are more readily adopted than others, and it 
is important that we communicate to the public clearly about 
the challenges and opportunities of becoming a more energy-
efficient society. H.R. 3247 will help us to accomplish these 
important goals.
    I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his remarks.
    [The prepared statement of Chair Gordon follows:]

                Prepared Statement of Chair Bart Gordon

    This morning the Committee will consider four bills. H.R. 3246, the 
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009, is authored by our colleague, 
Mr. Peters, and co-sponsored by Representative Biggert. I think we have 
a Michigan theme going here. H.R. 3246 authorizes research and 
development on vehicles with a goal of reducing or eliminating 
petroleum fuel base and its associated emissions.
    We will also consider H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research and 
Development Act of 2009, and H.R. 3029, a bill to authorize R&D and to 
improve the efficiency of gas turbines, both of these bills authored by 
Mr. Tonko.
    H.R. 3165 authorizes R&D on wind power. The specific areas of R&D 
were identified in a recent report by the Department of Energy and the 
American Wind Energy Association describing the areas of improvements 
needed if we are to expand wind power electricity generation.
    Currently, 15 percent of our electric power is produced from 
natural gas. Over the next decade, this percentage is predicted to 
double. The research and development authorized in H.R. 3029 is 
intended to improve the efficiency of turbines used in these combined 
cycle power generation systems. It is vital that utilities build new 
plants to be as efficient as possible since the investment costs are 
high and plants operate for many decades once they are brought online.
    Finally, we will be marking up H.R. 3247, a bill to establish a 
social and behavioral research program at the Department of Energy. 
H.R. 3247 was introduced by Dr. Baird, who has been a champion of these 
areas of research throughout his service on the Committee. People 
determine the success or failure of new technologies. It is important 
to understand why some technologies are more readily adopted than 
others. And it is important that we communicate to the public clearly 
about the challenges and opportunities of becoming a more energy 
efficient society. H.R. 3247 will help us to accomplish these important 
goals.
    The four bills we have before us today target several important 
energy research needs. I congratulate the Members for their work on 
these bills, and I look forward to a productive markup. Thank you all 
for your attendance and participation this morning.
    I now recognize Mr. Hall to present his opening remarks.

    Mr. Hall. I thank you, Mr. Chairman.
    Today we do meet to mark up these bills that you set out 
there, and H.R. 3029 is to establish a research, development 
and technology demonstration program to improve the efficiency 
of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation 
systems, and H.R. 3247, to establish a social and behavioral 
sciences research program at the Department of Energy, and I 
will have some things to say about that one a little bit later, 
especially about the author who is a very good friend of mine 
and may need this bill. I don't know. These two boys from 
California every now and then I think they need it, even 
Sensenbrenner sometimes. We are going to have to really look at 
this. Josh himself does now and then--I mean Roscoe, but he is 
too old to be up here anyway. I better yield my time back right 
now.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]

           Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall

    Thank you Mr. Chairman. Today we meet to markup four bills. H.R. 
3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009; H.R. 3165, the Wind 
Energy Research and Development Act of 2009; H.R. 3029, To establish a 
research, development, and technology demonstration program to improve 
the efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation 
systems; and H.R. 3247, To establish a social and behavioral sciences 
research program at the Department of Energy, and for other purposes.
    I will not take up a lot of time talking about these bills in my 
opening statement but will instead make any necessary comments when 
each bill is brought up.
    I would like to thank the staff on both sides for their hard work 
in getting these bills and their amendments together and ready in such 
a short period of time.
    With that I yield back the balance of my time.

    Chair Gordon. Are you sure you don't want to say something 
about Mr. Neugebauer here before we proceed?
    Mr. Hall. He and Boone Pickens got the wind in their 
problem out in West Texas. Women complain about it blowing 
their hair.
    Chair Gordon. Yes, sir, so here we go. Members can place 
statements in the record at any point.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Mitchell follows:]

         Prepared Statement of Representative Harry E. Mitchell

    Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
    Today we will mark up four pieces of legislation: H.R. 3246, the 
Advanced Vehicle Technology Act, H.R. 3165, the Wind Energy Research 
and Development Act, H.R. 3029, legislation to establish a research, 
development, and technology demonstration program to improve the 
efficiency of gas turbines used in combined cycle power generation 
systems, and H.R. 3247, legislation to establish a social and 
behavioral sciences research program at the Department of Energy.
    I am especially pleased that we are considering H.R. 3165, the Wind 
Energy Research and Development Act.
    Wind energy, like solar energy, is a clean alternative energy 
source that could not only help meet our energy needs, but it could 
also be a boon to our economy.
    According to a May 2008 report from the Department of Energy, 
current U.S. land-based and offshore wind resources are sufficient to 
supply the electrical energy needs of the U.S. several times over.
    H.R. 3165 would take important steps in advancing wind energy 
research efforts. Specifically, this bill would require the DOE to 
focus research and development on improving the energy efficiency, 
reliability, and capacity of wind turbines, optimizing the design and 
adaptability of wind energy systems, and reducing the cost of wind 
energy systems. This legislation would also establish a wind 
demonstration program.
    I urge my colleagues to support this important measure, and I yield 
back.

    Chair Gordon. We will move on now to consider H.R. 3246, 
the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

            Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

    This reauthorization legislation calls on DOE to develop a broad 
vehicle research portfolio and balance long-term breakthroughs with the 
immediate research needs in the transportation sector with the goal of 
bringing new technologies and processes to the market that will reduce 
our dependence on foreign oil. The bill has a broad vision, focusing on 
activities from hydrogen fuel cells to lightweight materials and 
advanced vehicle designs. I'm happy to lend my support to this 
legislation, which will enrich our federal research efforts, strengthen 
our competitive role in the international market for cutting edge 
technologies, and increase our national security.

    Chair Gordon. I recognize the gentleman from Michigan, Mr. 
Peters, to describe his bill.
    Mr. Peters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have an amendment at 
the desk, or do you want me to describe it?
    Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
    The Clerk. Amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 
3246 offered by----
    Chair Gordon. You are recognized to discuss the bill.
    Mr. Peters. Well, thank you, Mr. Chairman.
    It is no secret that the global economic crisis has had a 
devastating impact on the automobile industry. Our automobile 
and truck manufacturers and parts suppliers around the globe 
are struggling to deal with substantially decreased demand in 
vehicle sales. At the same time, we are in the midst of a 
transformation to a more energy-independent economy which will 
require the production of new vehicle technologies that will 
increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Development of 
advanced technologies for both heavy-duty trucks and passenger 
vehicles is a vital national investment and requires a 
coordinated effort at the federal level.
    That is why I am proud to have worked with Chairman Gordon 
to introduce the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009. This 
legislation will build upon the current research efforts of the 
Department of Energy and the private sector by providing an 
increased federal investment in passenger and heavy-duty 
vehicle research and development. By directing the Department 
of Energy to partner with industry stakeholders and agencies 
across the Federal Government, the bill will ensure that our 
investment leverages the maximum amount of talent and 
innovation and leads to faster development of new technologies 
that will help us meet our energy challenges and promote 
American innovation in advanced vehicle technology fields.
    Ultimately, this legislation will support job retention and 
creation in this critical high-paying field in companies around 
the country. I represent a state and a region that has been 
particularly hard hit by this economic crisis, so I certainly 
understand very well that every job will be saved and created 
by this bill is extremely valuable. This legislation is 
supported by Chrysler, which is headquartered in my 
Congressional District, and also by General Motors, Ford Motor 
Company, the UAW, the Motor and Equipment Manufacturers 
Association, and industry trade groups representing auto parts 
suppliers as well as key suppliers in my District like 
ArvinMeritor, Magna International and Bosch.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Peters follows:]

          Prepared Statement of Representative Gary C. Peters

    Thank you Mr. Chairman.
    It is no secret that the global economic crisis has had a 
devastating impact on the automobile industry. Automobile and truck 
manufacturers and parts suppliers around the globe are struggling to 
deal with substantially decreased demand in vehicle sales.
    At the same time, we are in the midst of a transformation to a more 
energy independent economy, which will require the production of new 
vehicle technologies that will increase fuel efficiency and reduce 
emissions. Development of advanced technologies for both heavy-duty 
trucks and passenger vehicles is a vital national investment and 
requires a coordinated effort at the federal level.
    That is why I am proud to have worked with Chairman Gordon to 
introduce the Advanced Vehicles Technology Act of 2009. This 
legislation will build upon the current research efforts of DOE and the 
private sector by providing an increased federal investment in 
passenger and heavy-duty vehicle research and development.
    By directing the Department of Energy to partner with industry 
stakeholders and agencies across the Federal Government, the bill will 
ensure that our investment leverages the maximum amount of talent and 
innovation, and lead to faster development of new technologies that 
will help us meet our energy challenges and promote American innovation 
in the advanced vehicle technologies field.
    Ultimately, this legislation will support job retention and 
creation in this critical, high paying field at companies around the 
country. I represent a state and a region that has been particularly 
hard hit by this economic crisis, so I understand that each and every 
job that will be saved or created by this bill is valuable.
    This legislation is supported by Chrysler, which is headquartered 
in my Congressional District, and also by General Motors, Ford, the 
UAW, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association, which is the 
industry trade group representing auto parts suppliers, as well as by 
key suppliers in my District like ArvinMeritor, Magna International and 
Bosch.

    Mr. Peters. Mr. Chairman, I do have an amendment in the 
nature of a substitute. Would it be appropriate to discuss that 
now?
    Chair Gordon. Not at this time, but we will get to you.
    Mr. Peters. Thank you.
    Chair Gordon. Mr. Hall is recognized.
    Mr. Hall. Mr. Chairman, I am generally supportive of H.R. 
3246. The cost of the bill gives me some problems but I also 
understand the cost associated with the level, degree and scope 
of the bill. The purpose is to help reduce our dependence on 
foreign imports of oil through advanced technologies to make 
our vehicles not only more efficient but also competitive by 
using alternative fuels and technologies, and I know we need to 
do that. As well, the bill targets research for medium- to 
heavy-duty commercial and transit vehicles and aims to advance 
technologies in long-haul class A truck and trailer platforms.
    I would like to thank Mr. Peters for working with us to 
incorporate some suggestions that my folks had made and others 
on my side here had made in this substitute amendment including 
the natural gas vehicle addition. We support the bill, and I 
yield back my time. I thank you.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Hall follows:]

           Prepared Statement of Representative Ralph M. Hall

    H.R. 3246, the Advanced Vehicle Technology Act of 2009
    Mr. Chairman, I am generally supportive of H.R. 3246, the Advanced 
Vehicle Technology Act. The cost of the bill gives me pause, but I also 
understand the costs associated with the level, degree and scope of 
this bill. The purpose is to help reduce our dependence on foreign 
imports of oil through advanced technologies to make our vehicles not 
only more efficient, but also competitive while using alternative fuels 
and technologies. As well, the bill targets research for medium- to 
heavy-duty commercial and transit vehicles and aims to advance 
technologies on long-haul Class 8 truck and trailer platforms I would 
like to thank Mr. Peters for working with me to incorporate suggestions 
made by my side in his substitute amendment including the natural gas 
vehicle additions.
    With that I yield back the balance of my time.

    Chair Gordon. Ms. Biggert was a co-sponsor and helped to 
form this bill. Ms. Biggert, would you like to be recognized?
    Ms. Biggert. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I think I will wait 
until the Manager's Amendment and speak at that time.
    Chair Gordon. Does anyone else wish to be recognized? Mr. 
Neugebauer.
    Mr. Neugebauer. I thank the gentleman, and I just wanted to 
yield some time to Mr. Peters. You know, at a time when we are, 
for every dollar we spend we are having to borrow 50 cents. I 
think it is important that we make sure that we are not having 
any duplication in the process and that our research dollars 
are focused so that the American people get, you know, the best 
bang for their bucks, and so I guess the question to you would 
be, what steps in this bill are we taking to make sure that we 
are not duplicating efforts that are already underway and we 
are not, I guess, piling on and that this is coordinated. I 
will yield to the gentleman.
    Mr. Peters. Thank you. I think that is a very important 
point and this bill does coordinate that but also expands the 
scope of stakeholders or companies that can get involved in 
research and development. In the past, a lot of that R&D has 
been done primarily by the OEMs, the large companies, Chrysler, 
Ford, General Motors, others. This bill expands it to 
understand that a lot of the real creative energy, the creative 
talent that exists is in the smaller companies, the auto 
suppliers that provide equipment to those companies and so 
it'll be coordinated through that but also expand the reach of 
research and development into those smaller companies that have 
talent, that will add considerable amount of ingenuity to what 
is already being done with the OEMs.
    The other thing that is different in this bill than in the 
past is there is more of a focus on the heavy-trucks, the 
medium- and heavy-duty trucks, which has been part of efforts 
in the past but it has always been kind of a stepchild. It 
hasn't had the kind of attention that it deserves, and if you 
are looking for your best bang for your dollar, of your 
research dollar, there is a lot of low-hanging fruit when it 
comes to increased efficiency of heavy trucks. This bill now 
puts focus on that as a direct effort to make sure that we are 
coordinating those research dollars appropriately and making 
sure that truck manufacturers get research dollars that they 
didn't have before because again that is going to be an area 
where we think we can great efficiencies and lower the cost of 
transportation to the economy as a whole, so I am certainly 
very conscious as well of the cost of government being involved 
in these programs, and to me, this is kind of like seed corn. 
You want to put in those R&D dollars because you are going to 
have a great return on your investment. I know you agree with 
that as well, but we do have to make sure it is coordinated and 
going to the right companies, and that has been a major focus 
of the bill.
    Mr. Neugebauer. And I thank the gentleman, and I think he 
does make a good point about the commercial and off-road 
equipment. A lot of the technologies that are appropriate for 
the automobile industry that we have already developed are not 
technologies that transfer to that other sector of our economy, 
an important sector of our economy, and so I think it does make 
sense to make sure that we are developing technology for off-
road and heavy-equipment utilization as well. Again, I am, as I 
think others are, concerned with the deficit so we just want to 
make sure that we are targeting the money and rewarding where 
we are having success, so I thank the gentleman for his time. I 
yield back, Mr. Chairman.
    Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Neugebauer. You raise an 
excellent point. Let me also point out, this is an 
authorization so it will have to compete with other programs to 
determine whether it is worthy for those limited dollars.
    Mr. Inglis, did you wish to be recognized?
    Mr. Inglis. To speak on the substitute.
    Chair Gordon. So if no one else wishes to be recognized, 
then I ask unanimous consent that the bill is considered as 
read and open to amendment at any point and that the Members 
proceed with amendments in the order of the roster. Without 
objection, so ordered.
    The first amendment on the roster is an amendment in the 
nature of a substitute offered by the gentleman from Michigan, 
Mr. Peters. Are you ready to proceed with your amendment?
    Mr. Peters. I am, Mr. Chairman. I have the amendment at the 
desk.
    Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
    The Clerk. Amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 
3246, amendment number 016, offered by Mr. Peters of Michigan.
    Chair Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with the 
reading. Without objection, so ordered.
    I recognize the gentleman for five minutes to explain the 
amendment.
    Mr. Peters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Today I am offering an 
amendment in the nature of a substitute which makes a series of 
mostly minor and clarifying changes to the bill and is the 
product of considerable discussion with a variety of 
stakeholders. Mr. Hall, Mr. Inglis and Mrs. Biggert and 
Minority staff were particularly helpful in improving this 
legislation and provided valuable input, especially in the 
areas of natural gas vehicles and I appreciate all of your 
comments and help.
    The substitute includes the following notable changes. In 
section 101, we added to the list of research areas the 
programs should pursue hydraulic hybrid energy storage 
component and subsistence to manufacturer turbo boosting, 
predictive engineering, natural gas storage systems and non-
chemical energy storage devices. We sought to ensure that the 
Department reaches out to a broad spectrum of industry 
stakeholders with research and development capabilities in the 
United States.
    We also sought to ensure the Secretary will develop more 
efficient processes for transferring technologies to industry 
and in coordinating activities among the various DOE and 
interagency partners. The Secretary would not duplicate the 
activities of various partners to make sure that coordination 
is there, as was raised.
    In section 103, we added the production of lightweight 
composites and high-pressure natural gas storage tanks to the 
list of manufacturing R&D areas. Title II pertains to 
technology development for medium- to heavy-duty commercial and 
transit vehicles, and the amendment adds both natural gas and 
hydrogen technologies to the list of critical research areas. 
It also further recognizes the difficulty in establishing 
performance metrics with a wide range of medium and heavy truck 
platforms which operate under some very unique conditions and 
clarifies that the Secretary should consider these operating 
conditions when testing and evaluating vehicles.
    Again, I would like to thank the Chairman and his staff for 
their leadership and their hard for both this amendment and 
substitute and the underlying legislation. I would also like to 
thank in particular my Republican counterparts and especially 
Mrs. Biggert for working with me to provide for this very 
important bill, and I appreciate the Committee's consideration 
of this amendment in the nature of a substitute and encourage 
its passage as well as the passage of the underlying bill. Mr. 
Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Peters follows:]

          Prepared Statement of Representative Gary C. Peters

    Today I will be offering an Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute 
which makes a series of mostly minor and clarifying changes to the 
bill, and is the product of considerable discussions with a variety of 
stakeholders. Mr. Hall, Mr. Inglis, Mrs. Biggert and the Minority staff 
were particularly helpful in improving this legislation and provided 
valuable input, especially in the areas of natural gas vehicles.
    The substitute includes the following notable changes:

          In section 101, we added to the list of research 
        areas the program should pursue, hydraulic hybrid energy 
        storage, component and subsystem manufacturing, turbo-boosting, 
        predictive engineering, natural gas storage systems, and novel 
        non-chemical energy storage devices.

          We sought to ensure that the Department reaches out 
        to a broad spectrum of industry stakeholders with research and 
        development capabilities in the U.S.

          We also sought to ensure that the Secretary would 
        develop more efficient processes for transferring technologies 
        to industry and, in coordinating activities amongst the various 
        DOE and interagency partners, the Secretary would not duplicate 
        the activities of the various partners.

          In section 103, we added the production of 
        lightweight composites and high pressure natural gas storage 
        tanks to the list of manufacturing R&D areas.

          Title II pertains to technology Development for 
        Medium- to Heavy-Duty Commercial and Transit Vehicles, and the 
        amendment adds both natural gas and hydrogen technologies to 
        the list of critical research areas.

          It also further recognizes the difficulty in 
        establishing performance metrics for the wide range of medium- 
        and heavy-duty truck platforms which operate under very unique 
        conditions, and clarifies that the Secretary should consider 
        these operating conditions when testing and evaluating 
        vehicles.

    Again, I want to thank the Chairman and his staff for their 
leadership and hard work on both this amendment and the underlying 
legislation. I would also like to thank my Republican counterparts, and 
especially Mrs. Biggert, for working with me to improve this important 
bill. I appreciate the Committee's consideration of this amendment in 
the nature of a substitute and I encourage its passage, as well as the 
passage of the underlying bill.
    I yield back the balance of my time.

    Chair Gordon. Ms. Biggert is recognized.
    Ms. Biggert. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you, Mr. 
Peters, for your help and cooperation and assistance with the 
manager's amendment before us today. I really appreciate it. As 
the original co-sponsor of the bill, I certainly urge my 
colleagues to support the manager's amendment before us.
    This amendment includes important industry and research 
supported changes to the bill that will foster constructive 
collaboration and cooperation between the public and the 
private sectors needed to support the deployment of new 
standards and technologies for autos, trucks and heavy 
equipment. I think we can make significant strides in 
transformational areas such as hybrid electrical vehicles, 
advanced batteries, energy storage, hydrogen and fuel cells 
with coordinated and consistent research efforts.
    The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act will facilitate this 
technology transformation for vehicles, and more importantly, 
the heavy-equipment sector. As I said in last week's markup, 
the medium- and heavy-duty and non-road provisions in H.R. 3246 
are particularly important. I have had the opportunity to drive 
a 10-ton front loader and I think that that basket will carry 
one million golf balls, and I had driven it forward and 
backward but I think I will stick to on-road driving from now 
on.
    Significant efficiency gains can be made in non- and off-
road equipment relative to the way that they perform on job 
sites all the while optimizing performance, safety and 
operational standards. So with increased R&D, we will be able 
to increase manufacturing flexibility to adapt and produce new 
and different forms of equipment needed to meet future demands. 
So this will be achieved through a total systems approach to 
equipment productivity and efficiency with a focus on 
components and structures, not just the engine itself.
    So, again, I thank Representative Peters and urge my 
colleagues to support the manager's amendment and the 
underlying bill, and yield back.
    [The prepared statement of Ms. Biggert follows:]

           Prepared Statement of Representative Judy Biggert

    Thank you Mr. Chairman. And thank you Representative Peters for 
your cooperation and assistance with the manager's amendment before us 
today.
    As an original co-sponsor of H.R. 3246, I urge my colleagues to 
support the manager's amendment before us.
    The manager's amendment includes important industry and research 
supported changes to H.R. 3246 that will foster constructive 
collaboration and cooperation between the public and private sectors 
needed to support the deployment of new standards and technologies for 
autos, trucks and heavy equipment.
    We can make significant strides in transformational areas such as 
hybrid-electrical vehicles, advanced batteries, energy storage, 
hydrogen engines and fuel cells with coordinated and consistent 
research support.
    The Advanced Vehicle Technology Act will facilitate this technology 
transformation for vehicles and more importantly, the heavy equipment 
sector.
    As I said in last week's markup, the medium-, heavy-duty and non-
road provisions in H.R. 3246 are particularly important.
    Significant efficiency gains can be made in non- and off-road 
equipment relative to the way they perform on the job site, all while 
optimizing performance, safety, and operational standards.
    With increased R&D, we will be able to increase manufacturing 
flexibility to adapt and produce new and different forms of equipment 
needed to meet future demand.
    This will be achieved through a total systems approach to equipment 
productivity and efficiency with a focus on the components and 
structure, not just the engine itself.
    I urge my colleagues support for the manager's amendment and 
underlying bill and I yield back.

    Chair Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Biggert, and thank you for 
your important contributions to the bill. By the way, did you 
parallel park that big truck?
    Ms. Biggert. I didn't run over anybody.
    Chair Gordon. That is a success.
    Does anyone else wish to be recognized?
    Mr. Rohrabacher. Yes, Mr. Chairman.
    Chair Gordon. Mr. Rohrabacher.
    Mr. Rohrabacher. I am supporting this bill but I do want to 
call attention to what we are accomplishing by bills like this. 
In California, we have a major problem of trucks on the road, 
and when I say trucks, we are talking about bumper to bumper, 
and in fact, through my district, which covers about half of 
America's commerce, and I represent both the ports of Los 
Angeles and Long Beach, we have identified about 50 percent of 
all the air pollution in southern California comes from those 
trucks and that operation. We need to perfect our technology 
but we must know if we perfect the truck, we also are making it 
more competitive with other modes of transportation for 
containers, and perhaps we don't want to have a system in the 
United States any longer where containers are taken long haul 
on our freeways, which of course have a lot of weight on the 
freeways and cause the degeneration of those roads. This 
legislation, while making trucks more efficient, which is a 
good thing, has an impact on over areas, and that is, do we 
want to have more or just as many trucks on the road hauling 
containers or do we want to try to develop container movement 
systems that will not put that strain on the roads, et cetera.
    Today, by passing this, we are bolstering the argument, 
bolstering the alternative of having more truck delivery 
containers long haul in our country, so I will support this. I 
do believe moving forward in making those alternatives 
available is not necessarily a bad thing, but I myself am 
trying to find a way of developing container movement systems 
that will get those trucks off the road.
    So I thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.
    Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Rohrabacher. Mr. Hall and I 
have a suggestion on that, and that is to move some of those 
plants to Texas and Tennessee and then you would have to have 
less coming through your District, so we would welcome that.
    Does anyone--okay, Mr. Bilbray.
    Mr. Bilbray. Mr. Chairman, I guess you hear from the 
surfing caucus this morning, as always. In all fairness to my 
colleague, maybe this committee should be briefed on the 
different plans that the South Coast Air Base has for 
addressing these emission issues because there is a lot of this 
technology that is now being required to be phased in. I think 
the biggest issue that Mr. Rohrabacher is pointing out that we 
do have a technology that is very antiquated, very dirty, which 
is train locomotives. We are working off 60-, 70-year-old 
technology diesel electric, and the life expectancy of these 
vehicles are for another 100 years. So the concept of using 
natural gas, using cleaner fuel rather than diesel is absolute 
essentially but I have to remind my colleague that the off-road 
component here is very compatible to the use of natural gas 
because you have fleet operations where refueling is very 
efficient, very clean and it is just sad that that technology 
hasn't been moved forward or encouraged more. It has sort of 
been a blind side for us, and I think that as we move forward 
we need to address it.
    I would just like to bring up one of the items that we 
always need to talk about when we talk about alternative fuels, 
and a practical application of it is the creation of the 
infrastructure to provide the fuel itself. One of the things we 
have overlooked when we talk about natural gas is that the 
overwhelming majority of homes in urban areas are now plumbed 
with natural gas but we never think about more research and 
more encouragement of home dispensing, of people being able to 
fuel up while they sleep in their home, not having to create a 
whole new separate infrastructure as you do with other fuels 
but utilizing the ones in there, and that home dispensing is 
something that I think we need to be looking at more and more. 
In 1990 when I drove a natural gas vehicle, at-home dispensing 
was available but the cost of it hadn't been brought down to a 
level where a lot of people would prefer, so I just bring that 
up again. Don't look right past your own water heater when you 
are looking for alternative energies, and I yield back, Mr. 
Chairman.
    Chair Gordon. Thank you, Mr. Bilbray, and I would suggest 
that you might get with Elizabeth Chapel and Chris King and 
talk about that and see if, you know, there is some research or 
something that we want to do in that area.
    Does anyone else wish to be recognized? Mr. Inglis is 
recognized.
    Mr. Inglis. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to voice 
my support for the substitute and thank Mr. Peters for 
including language that ensures that all domestic manufacturers 
including those owned by companies based abroad can participate 
in this vehicle R&D program. It is a wonderful opportunity to 
engage all automotive manufacturers who are developing vehicle 
technology and employing people all over the United States.
    You will recall that we had testimony from a representative 
of BMW. BMW is doing fabulous work at Clemson University's 
National Center of Automotive Research in the upstate of South 
Carolina and advancing vehicle technology in a number of ways, 
working hard to bring us products like the H7, BMW's car that 
runs on both hydrogen and gasoline, the same internal 
combustion engine.
    So I want to commend Mr. Peters for his interest in 
including these partnerships in this program and thank him for 
the change in the substitute, and I yield back, Mr. Chairman.
    [The prepared statement of Mr. Inglis follows:]

            Prepared Statement of Representative Bob Inglis

    Mr. Chairman, I would like to voice my support for this amendment. 
Mr. Peters included language that ensures all domestic manufacturers 
including those owned by companies based abroad can participate in this 
vehicle R&D program. This is an opportunity to engage all automotive 
manufacturers that are developing cutting edge vehicle technology and 
employing people all over the United States. In the Upstate, BMW is 
doing great work at Clemson's ICAR campus to advance vehicle technology 
in a number of ways and they're working hard to bring us the Hydrogen 7 
sedan. I want to commend Mr. Peters for his interest in including these 
partnerships in this program.

    Chair Gordon. Does anyone else wish to be recognized? All 
right.
    The second amendment on the roster is an amendment offered 
by the gentlelady from Texas, Ms. Johnson. Are you ready to 
proceed with your amendment?
    Ms. Johnson. Yes, Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the 
desk.
    Chair Gordon. The Clerk will report the amendment.
    The Clerk. Amendment to the amendment in the nature of a 
substitute to H.R. 3246, amendment number 082, offered by Ms. 
Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas.
    Chair Gordon. I ask unanimous consent to dispense with the 
reading. Without objection, so ordered.
    I recognize the gentlelady for five minutes to explain the 
amendment.
    Ms. Johnson. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. My 
amendment adds an additional objective to the Advance Vehicle 
Technology Act of 2009. The objective is to develop cost-
effective advanced technologies for wide-scale utilization 
through the passenger, commercial, government and transit 
vehicle sectors. H.R. 3246 states that the United States 
transportation sector is over 95 percent dependent upon 
petroleum and over 60 percent of petroleum demand is met by 
imported supplies. It costs less to buy oil from Saudi Arabia 
and use it in petroleum-burning vehicles than it does to 
innovate. Right now it is cost-prohibitive to build new 
vehicles that are more fuel efficient, so we need to make that 
the technologies and the processes developed as a result of 
this bill are attractive to industry. As Subcommittee Chairman 
of Water and Transportation Committee, I do care deeply about 
how well we are innovating, especially when it comes to our 
passenger, commercial and transit vehicles. It is great to 
develop new technologies that improve fuel efficiency and fewer 
greenhouse gas emissions. However, we must ensure that 
investments in advanced vehicle technologies yield results that 
translate into broad utilization by the transportation sector.
    My amendment sharpens the focus on these points. Texas has 
more state highway miles than anywhere in the Nation. We have 
more than 79,000 miles of road with a center strip painted down 
the middle. I have four interstates that come through my 
district. Texas has much to be gained and lost by research and 
development funded by H.R. 3246 as we all do. We simply must 
reduce the amount of petroleum we use. It is my hope that this 
legislation will help spur new technologies to accomplish that 
goal.
    Thank you for considering my amendment, and I yield back 
the balance of my time.
    Chair Gordon. Thank you, Ms. Johnson, and thank you for 
sharing your knowledge from the Transportation Committee with 
us here.
    Is there further discussion on the amendment? If no, the 
vote occurs on the amendment. All in favor, say aye. Those 
opposed, no. The ayes have it and the amendment is agreed to.
    Are there any further amendments to the amendment in the 
nature of a substitute? If no, the vote occurs on the 
amendment. All in favor, say aye. Those opposed, no. The ayes 
have it. The amendment is agreed to.
    The vote is on the bill, H.R. 3246 as amended. All those in 
favor will say aye. All opposed, no. In the opinion of the 
Chair, the ayes have it.
    I now recognize Mr. Peters for a motion.
    Mr. Peters. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I move the Committee 
favorably report H.R. 3246 as amended to the House with the 
recommendation that the bill do pass. Furthermore, I move that 
staff be instructed to prepare the legislative report and make 
necessary technical and conforming changes and that the 
Chairman take all necessary steps to begin to bring the bill 
before the House for consideration.
    Chair Gordon. The question is on the motion to report the 
bill favorably. Those in favor of the motion will signify by 
saying aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it, and the bill is 
favorably reported.
    Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid upon 
the table. Members will have two subsequent calendar days in 
which to submit supplemental Minority or additional views on 
the measure.
    Thank you, Mr. Peters, Ms. Biggert and Ms. Johnson for a 
good bill.
    This concludes our Committee markup.
    [Whereupon, at 12:53 p.m., the Committee was adjourned.]
                                Appendix

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                            Amendment Roster





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