A new bill proposed by Representative Gary Peters, Democrat from Michigan, could potentially provide an additional $216 million for new automotive technologies. The legislation is set for review by the full U.S. House of Representatives later this month, and would increase the $334 million already proposed by the Obama administration for research and development of new vehicles to a total of $550 million. The funding would be made available during the 2010 fiscal year. The original $334 million request for funding has already passed committee review in the House of Representatives.

The proposed legislation would provide financial support for experimental vehicle research, including new types of hybrids, hydrogen cells and other batteries, and new environmentally friendly engine systems. The U.S. Department of Energy would administer the funds. The major auto manufacturers and the United Auto Workers union have voiced support for this bill, which would provide a further boost to the rebounding auto industry after the success of the CARS program.

Peters, accompanied by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland, announced the proposal on September 3 in Troy, Michigan. The legislation is seen as a boon for Michigan’s economy, which heavily depends on the auto industry; it will also please environmentalists who praise its emphasis on alternative fuel sources rather than reliance on fossil fuels. If the bill is passed, funding might be available to auto manufacturers by the end of this year.

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