Ann Wilson, senior vice president, government affairs, MEMA, will discuss the history of this U.S. federal government loan program and the role of MEMA and OESA in securing the funding.  She will communicate specific touch points that must be met to be eligible for a loan and the status of the regulations outlining the process to receive a loan.

 

Paul Haelterman, vice president, advisory services, CSM Worldwide, Inc., will discuss the impact the loan program may have on suppliers as they deal with technology trends and regulatory actions.  Specifically, Haelterman will address vehicle downsizing, lightweight technologies, powertrain options, CAFE and CO₂ reduction.  He will also share his knowledge on related OEM actions and how suppliers can plan in the current environment.

 

According to Wilson, "Suppliers can use the loans to add new facilities or convert existing facilities to more flexible operations supporting a wider range of options required under the EISA (Energy Independence and Security Act) – including lightweight materials, dual clutch transmissions, key enablers for hybrids, plug-in hybrids, electric, clean diesel, fuel cell, turbo gas and turbo diesel vehicles – and to develop components required for and compatible with the use of cellulosic and non-carbon fuel sources.”

 

The loan program originated with the passage last year of the EISA. Section 136 of EISA authorizes direct loans and other programs to provide U.S. investment in reequipping, expanding or establishing a facility for the manufacturing of new advanced technology vehicles and equipment. The program, funded in September 2008, will allow more domestic manufacturing plants to qualify for direct loans.

 

OESA members may register in the events section at http://www.oesa.org.  For registration questions, contact Felece Hickman at 248.952.6401 ext. 237 or fhickman@oesa.org.  For content information, contact John Chalifoux at 248.952.6401 ext. 233 or jchalifoux@oesa.org.

 

Registration Fees

Notes:  Refunds cannot be given after Nov. 13, 2008.  Substitutions are always welcome.  Pay at the door registrants are held to the same cancellation policy as prepaid registrants and will be invoiced if cancellation is not received by Nov.13, 2008.  Fax the completed registration form to 248.952.6404 or register online with credit card payment at http://www.oesa.org.