A three-part Congressional luncheon series of seminars focusing on making U.S. transportation and goods movement more fuel efficient and environmentally-friendly will be hosted by the Diesel Technology Forum in May, June and July.


The three-part Capitol Hill luncheon series will examine how commercial availability of renewable diesel fuel and further fuel economy enhancements make diesel technology a smart, high-value, low-cost investment for reducing America's dependence on petroleum.

Fueling the Future in a Green Economy

The first seminar, Fueling the Future in a Green Economy, will be held on Friday, May 13, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in room 122 Cannon House Office Building.

Over the last several years, petroleum diesel fuel has become increasingly cleaner as sulfur levels were reduced, similar to taking the lead out of gasoline. It is also becoming more expensive, making the switch to renewable fuels one which will provide both environmental and economic benefits.

The May 13 seminar will examine:
* Diesel fuel demand and prices
* The growing use of biodiesel along the I-75 corridor running from Michigan to Florida
* The development of next generation, commercially available, drop-in renewable diesel fuel

Speakers include: Allen Schaeffer, executive director, Diesel Technology Forum, Terrence Higgins, executive director, Refining & Special Studies, Hart Energy Consulting, Charise Stephens, executive director, Middle Georgia Clean Cities Coalition, and Joel Velasco, senior vice president, Amyris.

Reducing Petroleum Use on the Road and at the Jobsite

The second seminar will be held June 17 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in room B-338 of the Rayburn House Office Building.

Today's heavy-duty trucks are 98 percent cleaner than those made 10 years ago and this same technology is being phased in across all diesel applications - and more is being done. Industry is working with the Department of Energy's Supertruck program to increase heavy-duty vehicle efficiency through improved aerodynamics and a suite of engine technology improvements.

High fuel economy gains are driving demand for diesel hybrid buses, making them the technology of choice for many of the country's top transit districts. Even many work trucks found in communities across the country are integrating hybrid technologies to reduce fuel consumption. The speakers will explain how today's R&D investments are bringing even greater efficiencies to reduce fuel use.

Driving Home the Point: Reducing Consumer Petroleum Use With Diesel Vehicles

The final seminar will be held July 18 from noon to 1:30 p. m. in room B-338 of the Rayburn House Office Building.

Monthly diesel car sales doubled in 2010. Growth in diesel car sales are expected to continue in the years ahead as consumers look for ways to cut down on fuel use without sacrificing performance or convenience. As the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration establish new fuel economy standards for passenger cars in 2017-2025, a greater number of diesel vehicles are expected to become available to meet the challenge.

This session will examine the prospects for greater diesel penetration in the U.S. and how growing use of renewable diesel fuel can bring fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions on a par with other advanced technology vehicles.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided at all three seminars.