Okla., Colo. governors push natural gas vehicles

By The Associated Press
Saturday, February 4, 2012

OKLAHOMA CITY — The governors of Oklahoma and Colorado are leading an initiative to increase the use of natural gas vehicles in their state automobile fleets.

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin and Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper hope the multi-state effort will make natural gas vehicles more affordable for the average car buyer.

Fallin, Hickenlooper and the governors of seven other states have signed a memorandum promising to invest in natural gas vehicles when replacing older cars and trucks that burn traditional fuels. The governors say that should encourage U.S. automakers to develop original equipment, fleet natural gas vehicles that will also meet public demand.

Fallin says the initiative will create jobs, promote Oklahoma’s natural gas industry, reduce fuel emissions and will improve national security by helping to wean the U.S. off of foreign oil.