HUNTINGTON BEACH : Alternative-Fuel Vehicles Acquired

The city has purchased 13 variable-fuel vehicles as part of a State Energy Commission pilot program that seeks to promote the use of alternative fuels.

The vehicles--eight sedans and five vans--are powered by a combination of 85% methanol and unleaded gasoline. They were purchased with state grant money and city funds.

The vehicles are used by a number of city departments. Officials said they also plan to use the vans as part of the city’s employee car-pooling program.

“This is a step in the right direction,” said Brian Smith, employee transportation coordinator. “We are trying to send a message to the community that there are alternate forms of transportation and alternate fuel sources.”