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Media Contact:       Kimberly Taylor

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Public Invited To Free Alternative-Fuel Vehicles Gala Celebration

Driving El Condado to Green: Fueling Affordable Alternatives April 19 at Disney Swan & Dolphin Resort

Orlando, FL—April 6, 2009-With unprecedented interest in alternative fuel vehicles, a growing number of consumers and public-sector organizations are turning their attention to them to take advantage of credits and incentives, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

To help the public gain a better understanding about this evolving marketplace,  Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute (AFVi) and Orange County invite the community Sunday, April 19, to participate in the world's largest display of alternative fuels and vehicles under one roof.  The event, to be held in conjunction with the Alternative Fuels & Vehicles National Conference + Expo, is from 12:00-4:00 p.m. 

"This is an extraordinary opportunity for residents to see vehicles and technologies that most people have never seen," said Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty.  "These innovations represent the transportation solutions that will take El Condado to Green." 

The doors to the Expo Hall open to the public where 100 plus exhibitors display products and services available for purchase and use today.  Other highlights include biodiesel and solar displays from West Side Tech; St. Johns Orange and Amber Station biodiesel exhibits; electric vehicle and charging demonstrations featuring ZENN, Global Electric Motorcars, and the Florida Solar Energía Center; and Science Fair projects from four area elementary schools.  The ethanol industry's official mascot, Edgar eMan is hosted by Growth Energy as he sets out to greet alternative fuel loving Florida Central. 

Mayor Crotty welcomes participants and kicks off the largest ever alternative fuel vehicle parade at 3:00 p.m.  The lineup includes the public debut of the 2010 Toyota Prius, almost one month before it officially launches.  The National Biodiesel Board is pleased to show a one-of-a-kind street edition of the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup race car.  Channel 6 TV's Mike Holfeld will provide colorful commentary on vehicles ranging from electric and fuel cell technologies to others fueled by ethanol and biodiesel.

 AFVi is the education provider and information link between the alternative fuels and vehicles industry and public/private fleets. The primary business of the company is to advance the interests of OEMs, fuel providers and their associated business partners through education, outreach and deployment.  AFVi is fuel and technology neutral.  Public Day is presented in partnership with LYNX, Orange County Florida, Orlando Utilities Commission, and the Space Coast Clean Cities Coalition.