GREENFIELD, MA - The Tour de Sol, America's high-tech, high-touch green "car show" and competition is holding an all New York State event this May. And it is offering new opportunities for hybrid and biodiesel vehicle owners and students to get involved.

"We have created an all-new Monte Carlo-style Rally for people who own advanced vehicles that reduce oil use and greenhouse gas emissions and are fun to drive," says Nancy Hazard, event director from the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association. "Dozens of hybrid, biodiesel, and electric cars from around the northeast will converge at the Tour de Sol at Saratoga's Spring Auto Show, and compete for special prizes"

From the drawing board...to the show room...to the customer's garage

Now in its 17th year, the Tour de Sol challenges auto companies, students, entrepreneurs, fuel suppliers, and government to work together, and design, build, and market vehicles that can meet our transportation needs without compromising our future.

From May 13-16, 2006, the general public is invited to see what Yankee ingenuity has created. In addition to talking with advanced vehicle owners participating it the Monte Carlo-style Rally, and students who have built vehicles to compete in the Tour de Sol Championship, attendees will have an opportunity to see three new hybrid SUV's, Honda and Toyota's hybrid sedans, electric bikes and scooters, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

On Saturday, May 14, The Tour de Sol will be featured at Saratoga's Spring Auto Show in Saratoga Springs, NY, which is organized by the Saratoga Auto Museum. On Monday, May 16, there will be a free Tour de Sol display of over 50 vehicles on Albany's Empire State Plaza.

The Tour de Sol is organized by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA), the nation's leading regional education and advocacy association that aims to accelerate the deployment and use of renewable energy, green buildings, and energy efficiency in everyday life. NESEA produces major sustainable energy events that inspire and motivate large numbers of people to get involved and make a difference. For more information on the event and early registration deadlines, go to www.TourdeSol.org or call 413-774-6051.