§13251 Mandate for alternative fuel providers

Summary

Create rules by January 1, 1994 that make certain companies buy more new light-duty vehicles that run on alternative fuels. The rule sets these targets: 30% of new vehicles in model year 1996, 50% in 1997, 70% in 1998, and 90% in 1999 and after. The rule covers three kinds of businesses: companies mainly making, moving, or selling non-electric alternative fuels; companies whose main business is selling or moving electricity; and very large petroleum producers that also make alternative fuels. Only parts of a company that are mainly in the alternative fuels business must follow the rule. Parts of a business that turn alternative fuels into non‑alternative products or use them as a raw material are not covered. The vehicles must run only on alternative fuels unless the right fuel is not available where they operate. The Secretary must allow a quick, simple exemption if suitable alternative vehicles or fuels are not reasonably available for the company’s normal needs. For model years 1997 and later, the Secretary may lower the targets but never below 20% and may delay the schedule by up to 2 model years. The Secretary must also, within one year after October 24, 1992, make rules saying electricity companies do not have to meet the rule for electric vehicles until after December 31, 1997; any such company planning to buy electric vehicles must tell the Secretary before January 1, 1996. The Secretary must report to Congress before January 1, 1998 on what was done, progress made, and problems found.