Reported from the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition, the Detroit 3 automakers (Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors) submitted plans to the Congress which seek bridge loan funds in order to sustain business operations during a period of unprecedented decline in demand for new motor vehicles. As part of each of their business plans, the Detroit 3 restated their previous commitments to the production of 50% of their fleet as Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) by 2012. The following statements are part of the plans submitted to the Congress.

Ford Motor Company Business Plan (complete plan can be found here): Support bio-fuels such as ethanol as an important long term solution to our energy needs, especially as second generation fuels become available. Ford has committed to doubling the production of flexible fuel vehicles by 2010 and to producing 50% of our products capable of running on E85 by 2012. In addition, we are operating demonstration fleets of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles capable of running on E85.

General Motors Restructuring Plan for Long-Term Viability (complete plan can be found here): The Plan includes further increases in flex-fuel and hybrid-equipped vehicles. In 2012, over 50% of GM‘s new vehicle sales will be flex-fuel capable.

Chrysler’s Plan for Short-Term and Long-Term Viability (complete plan can be found here): The company has more than 1.7 million Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV) on the road capable of running on 85% ethanol and is on target to meet our commitment of 50% of our fleet being flex fuel capable by 2012.