The CALSTART 2009 Hybrid Truck Users Forum (HTUF) is scheduled for Oct. 27-29 in Atlanta, GA. It brings together truck manufacturers, suppliers and fleets focused on producing and using medium- and heavy-duty hybrid-electric, hybrid-hydraulic, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles for commercial and military use. In recognition of the growing importance of hybrid vehicles, Gov. Sonny Perdue has proclaimed the week of the conference "Hybrid Truck Week" in Georgia.
This year’s primary host is Southern Company, an energy company serving the Southeast that declares itself “an enthusiastic supporter of hybrid/electric vehicles.” The company is also hosting a 36-month plug-in hybrid electric vehicle demonstration in a partnership with Ford, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the U.S. Dept. of Energy and 10 other utilities to help develop a pre-production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
"We are excited that HTUF is being held this year in our home town, and we look forward to showcase to the world the current benefits and future potential of these vehicles," said Tom Fanning, COO for Southern Company.
One of the annual highlights of the national conference is a ride-and-drive event. This year, 30 medium- and heavy-duty hybrid and high-efficiency vehicles will be available for HTUF attendees and media, including some brand new to the market. The demonstration takes place in the Green and Gold parking lots across from Turner Field on October 29, beginning at 8:45 a.m.
