One of the biggest buzz words in Washington right now – and across the U.S., for that matter – is foreign oil. Americans have finally come to the epiphany that we’re addicted to the stuff and that it’s time to rid ourselves of that dependence. However, in the process of developing cleaner means of transportation, could we be setting ourselves up for another bout of addiction?
According to Chrysler co-president Jim Press, that’s exactly the path we’re headed down. “We’re worried about dependence on foreign oil now,” Press told Automotive News. “If you fast forward 15 years, are we going to trade dependence on foreign oil to dependence” on foreign battery suppliers?
Although Press’ theory could come to fruition if things remain the same, there is still time to ensure alternative powertain development remains on our shores. However, as Press points out, a proposed $50 billion government loan package would be paramount to the U.S.’ development of such technologies.
The package – which Press insists is not a “free bailout” – was proposed along with the new CAFE late last year. The loans would available to automakers and suppliers, but all funds would have to be used for the development of green tech. With the cost of new technology development so high and the current state of the U.S. automakers, the Federal loans could be the only life raft available to the Big Three.
Chrysler is already in the process of developing alternative powertrain vehicles and has even shown a trio of such concepts vehicles to its dealers. Press also revealed that Chrysler is planning to show a fourth such vehicle at January’s Detroit Auto Show, but failed to give any further details. However, it remains possible that the vehicle could be Chrysler’s talked about rival for the Chevrolet Volt — which is slated to debut at the Detroit show.
