News headlines during the past few months have declared “US Trucking Industry Will Spend $87.7 Billion on Fuel in 2005, Up 33% from 2004,” and, “Oil Could Put Corporate America on the Skids.”  Would you like to bypass a crude awakening? The Clean Cities Congress and Expo 2006: Fueling Economic Solutions is designed to give fleets and decision-makers the information they need on the alternative fuels, vehicles, and advanced technologies that will economically drive them into the future. This one-stop shopping for fleets takes place in Phoenix, Arizona, May 7-10, 2006.

The preliminary program is hot off the press and there’s a lot to take note of, including:

• Senator John McCain of Arizona kicks off the Congress with an analysis of what America must do to achieve energy independence.
• A pre-Congress tutorial answers questions about ethanol, biodiesel, propane, compressed natural gas, and liquefied natural gas. Explanations are given on how hybrids work and what has to happen for hydrogen to be used to power vehicles. Alternative Fuels 101 is a perfect primer for fleets that are just beginning to explore these options.
• There are more than 25 sessions that provide overviews of the fuels, vehicles and technologies; quantify the business case; explain fuel characteristics; offer regional assessments of fuel costs and supplies; and detail the life-cycle cost benefits of the light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles that are available for purchase today. 
• An entire general session is devoted to a clear explanation of the provisions in the energy bill that can save fleets a significant amount of money through the use of alternative fuels and vehicles.
• One day is devoted to all of the information fleets need to make good purchasing decisions. Tuesday, May 9, includes informational sessions as well as a Ride-n-Drive where you can test drive new vehicles and talk to the manufacturers; a chance to hear about the latest products and technologies straight from the vendors; a booth staffed by people who can answer your questions on the energy bill; and ongoing product previews showcasing the latest vehicles and technologies in the marketplace.
• Alternative fuel experts from around the globe share their experiences in sessions throughout the Congress.
• Fun!  Receptions, meals, and many social opportunities round out this event which attracts more than 1,200 people each year.

Crude awakening? Nah, this is your chance to be in the right place at the right time. The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute, industry partners, and Arizona Clean Cities, invite you to preview the program and register today by going to http://www.afvi.org/PhoenixCongress2006/.