King County has endorsed a new report promoting the growth of plug-in electric hybrid vehicles on the Eastside by providing a wider network of charging stations.

“This report shows that by advancing the availability of plug-in hybrid technology we can greatly reduce our carbon footprint and spur our economy,” said Councilmember Jane Hague, co-sponsor of the motion calling for the report. “Now is the time to act to make this technology widely available so that King County will continue to be a leader as we move towards a cleaner, electric future.”

Hagues’ district includes Bellevue.

The council endorsed the King County Electric Vehicle Report as the guiding document for implementing actions to accommodate the next generation of hybrids called Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The council requested the study last year to find ways to reduce the county’s carbon footprint and assist in a new wave of transportation options.

The county’s Plug & Ride program already provides three outlets at the Eastgate Park and Ride lot. The county also has created a Web site where plug-in owners can find locations at county Park and Rides where charging stations are available and can be reserved for use.

Unlike existing gas-electric hybrids like the Toyota Prius, PHEVs have a much larger electric storage capacity that enables the cars to run much longer using less fuel. The power for BEVs is supplied by batteries that need regular recharging.

While manufacturers are starting to consider the technology as mainstream, the report suggests there are still challenges in regard to the standards that will be used for the equipment that charges the vehicles. As part of the PHEV stakeholder advisory group, a regional cooperative that includes King County along with local cities, agencies and electric utilities throughout Puget Sound, the report encourages the county and its partners to work to provide a wider network of charging locations to help extend the driving range of these vehicles. The report also identifies issues relating to development by the industry of a standardized charging system, such as the use of the standard 3-prong grounded plug that is used on most home appliances.