Venice, Calif. – The California Air Resources Board's "Drive Clean California Campaign" and vehicle manufacturers today showcased the latest efficient, clean technology vehicles at the 24th annual Abbot Kinney Festival.

The newest battery-electric, hybrid, compressed natural gas and super-clean gasoline vehicles were on display with several available for test drive. Consumers were able to consult with experts about vehicle smog scores, global warming impact, fuel economy, and state, federal and local incentives.

"California continues to lead the nation in setting automotive emissions standards in order to protect public health and the environment from poor air quality and global warming emissions," said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. "The vehicles displayed today are examples of the state's forty year commitment to get clean vehicle technology on the road."

All vehicles on display at the festival carried a smog score of 8 or better, with a score of 10 being best. The nine makes and models showcased at the event included:

Vehicles on display:

• 2008 Tesla Roadster: battery-electric with a smog score of 10
• 2008 Lexus 400h L: hybrid-electric with a smog score of 8
• 2008 BMW Hydrogen 7: hydrogen internal combustion engine concept
• 2009 Volvo V50: clean gasoline with a smog score of 9
• 2009 Nissan Altima: hybrid-electric with a smog score of 9

Vehicles available for test drive:

• 2009 Nissan Altima (fully loaded model): hybrid-electric with a smog score of 9
• 2008 Toyota Highlander: hybrid-electric with a smog score of 8
• 2008 Volkswagen Convertible Beetle: clean gasoline with a smog score of 9
• 2008 Honda Civic GX: compressed natural gas with a smog score of 9

Beginning with the 2009 model year, all cars sold in California will be required to carry the Environmental Performance Label comparing the environmental impacts of vehicles. The label displays a smog score and global warming score on a scale of 1-10. The highest scores indicate the cleanest vehicles.

The annual Abbot Kinney Festival is one of Southern California's most popular community events. This year's theme was eco-chic with its new "Connected Green Lifestyle Area" showcasing art, music, community groups and businesses that inspire healthy living and environment-friendly activities. More information 

To learn more about clean, advanced technology vehicles available today, visit Drive Clean California.