Chrysler has handed out a $150,000 grant to alternative energy incubator company NextEnergy.
This story on the Detroit News web site says the two Detroit-based companies are collaborating on several projects, including the National Biodiesel Energy Lab, which is developing standards for biodiesel used in vehicles:
“This grant is an extension of Chrysler’s commitment to being a good neighbor,” said Frank Fountain, Chrysler LLC senior vice president for external affairs and public policy. “It’s a priority for Chrysler to increase the use of alternative fuels by investing in research into biodiesel technology.”
NextEnergy’s research into biodiesel is of high interest to Chrysler. Ross Good, Chrysler senior manger for energy and substance, said the automaker aims to recommend a 20 percent blend of biodiesel for all its diesel vehicles, but can’t make that recommendation until a national standard for the fuel is established.
Chrysler was the first automaker to partner with NextEnergy several years ago, said Jim Croce, CEO of NextEnergy.
“With The Chrysler Foundation’s grant,” he said, “we have been able to complete a testing platform that helps check out the viability of new bio and synthetic fuels as they progress from concept to use in vehicles and power generators.”