The first-ever Canadian conference focusing on innovative plug-in, hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology is being held in Winnipeg this week, Science, Technology, Energy and Mines Minister Jim Rondeau announced today.

 

“Our government is committed to being a leader in developing and promoting alternative-energy technologies,” said Rondeau.  “This conference will bring together experts and interested people concerned with sustainable viable alternatives to traditional fossil-fuel-based vehicles and builds on a recent gathering of national environmental, community and business leaders who came together to move Manitoba’s Climate Change Action Plan forward.”

 

The conference runs Nov. 1 and 2 and will attract electric vehicle technology innovators, researchers, businesses and government agencies from across Canada.  The purpose of the conference is to look at Canadian opportunities in this emerging field, feature vehicle and battery displays, as well as offer the experience of driving a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The displays and driving experience are free and open to the public. More information on the PHEV 2007 conference is available from www.pluginhighway.ca.

 

Rondeau noted the province’s Hybrid Electric Vehicle Rebate Program as an example of the public’s interest in energy-efficient vehicles.

 

“The take-up for the program has far exceeded the government’s expectations,” said the minister. “Plug-in hybrid electric cars, which are especially well suited for commuters, represent one of a portfolio of alternative energy approaches being pursued in Manitoba to help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce emissions.” 

 

Since the $2,000 provincial rebate was introduced last November, the total number of hybrid vehicles in Manitoba has jumped by more than 50 per cent.  Manitobans who purchase an
environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicle complete a simple, one-step application at the time their vehicle is registered.