The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers has called on the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to adopt a “fair market test” to determine whether a successful, sustainable consumer market exists for battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs) at volumes required by the state’s zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate. The alliance provided CARB with details of its fair market test this week. In September, CARB voted to maintain the current mandate and directed its staff to address substantial issues related to whether there is a sustainable market for EVs. Under CARB’s ZEV mandate, at least 22,00 EVs are expected to be produced in 2003, increasing to at least 40,000 vehicles per year in subsequent years. The fair market test outlined by the alliance would be conducted through existing dealerships in one California market over a reasonable time period, such as three years, beginning in 2003. Under the fair market test, large automobile manufacturers would provide a mix of full-function electric vehicles for sale or lease. Test funding would be provided by the auto industry, and could include contributions from CARB, other governmental units, utilities, battery suppliers, environmentalists, and EV owners. The consumer market test would be run by a foundation with a governing board representing a broad range of interests, including CARB and the public. The foundation would involve an independent blue-ribbon panel of experts to assist with implementing the fair market test. Under the fair market test, the current ZEV regulation would be amended to defer its effective date while the test is conducted. As required by California law, the final decision regarding the fair market test’s success would be made by CARB.