RI'ers revved up about alternative cars

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) - The future of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles were showcased in Rhode Island Friday.

From small electric vehicles to biodiesel beasts, the Ocean State Clean Cities Coalition brought in the best in alternative fuel vehicles for the event.

Dozens came to Cranston to check out the latest in electric-, propane- and gas-powered cars.

"It's interesting stuff. We are definitely into alternative fuels. It's exciting," said Rich Blott of Newport.

"Clean, you know, you don't have to worry about sticking in all the oil and water and things like that. So, hopefully, it's coming," said Al Blott of Coventry.

There were even a few unexpected alternative fuel cars.

Dave Sherman spent $1,000 converting his Camaro from gas- to propane-fueled.

"The propane is less than half the amount coming out of the exhaust pipe," Sherman said.

Other companies at the showcase were trying to get the word out about biodiesel.

"I think a tried and true, 75-year-old company making that step toward biodiesel is a good way to get that buzz going," said Jim Malloy of T.H. Malloy and Sons.

Despite disappointing recent sales of electric and alternative fuel vehicles, leaders seemed optimistic for the future.

"I think in the long term, we are going to transition toward electric vehicles in a wide spread deployment strategy," said Wendy Lucht, Ocean State Clean Cities coordinator.

The coalition has been promoting alternative fuels since it first formed after the Energy Policy Act was signed into law in 1992.