Approval of the amendment, which was coordinated by Senator Daniel K. Inouye, came as part of the Department of Defense Appropriations Bill approved by the Senate last night. Hawaii's warm climate and shorter driving distances are ideal for electric vehicles. Hawaii's success can jump start a national trend for electric vehicles. Funds in the Akaka amendment are intended to support a statewide network of high power, rapid charging stations that can recharge a vehicle in under 10 minutes. The greatest obstacle to increased EV use is the convenience and availability of recharging stations.
Electric vehicles are an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional cars.
Every EV on the road means reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased energy security. Phases two and three will site charging stations on neighbor islands. The Hawaii Electric Vehicle Demonstration Project is a program managed by the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.