Global Automakers Names Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi "California Legislator of the Year"

SACRAMENTO, Calif., May 21, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Association of Global Automakers (Global Automakers) is proud to name Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi as its 2014 "California Legislator of the Year," for his support of the industry's efforts to produce a new generation of alternative fuel technologies. The award was presented at the Global Automakers annual Sacramento Dinner, on May 19, 2014. 

"Assemblyman Muratsuchi has been a champion for automakers since taking office, providing essential leadership on issues vital to our industry," said John Bozzella, Global Automakers' President and CEO. "He has been an active voice for the development of alternative fuel vehicle technologies, and the members of Global Automakers truly appreciate his efforts."

Muratsuchi represents the 66th Assembly District in California, which includes the cities of Torrance, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Lomita, and the Los Angeles communities of Harbor City and Harbor Gateway, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, and the unincorporated communities of El Camino Village and West Carson.

The Assemblymember is noted for authoring AB 2013 (2014), legislation that would incentivize the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles by increasing the cap on "High Occupancy Vehicle" (HOV) stickers in California. The DMV sticker program was created to promote the sales of plug-in hybrid vehicles, by allowing owners with the stickers to use HOV lanes regardless of vehicle occupancy. Muratsuchi was also an instrumental vote in passing AB 8 (2013), a measure that extended California's clean air and clean vehicle incentive programs.

Members of Global Automakers actively pursue new approaches to reduce vehicle CO2 emissions by investing in petroleum alternatives. In 16 Research and Development facilities across California, member companies are exploring innovative ways to power vehicles by hydrogen fuel cells, clean diesel, electricity, sustainable biofuels, and natural gas.

Each year, Global Automakers and its member companies gather in Sacramento to meet with lawmakers, highlight member companies' environmental goals, and showcase the latest in advanced technology vehicles.

The Association of Global Automakers represents international motor vehicle manufacturers, original equipment suppliers, and other automotive-related trade associations.  We work with industry leaders, legislators, and regulators to create the kind of public policy that improves vehicle safety, encourages technological innovation, and protects our planet. Our goal is to foster a competitive environment in which more vehicles are designed and built to enhance Americans' quality of life. For more information, visit www.globalautomakers.org.

Contact: Annemarie Pender
202.650.5548 | [email protected]

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SOURCE Global Automakers