President Bush is promoting a part of his energy plan that includes money to research more efficient fuel cells for hybrid fuel-electric autos - and tax breaks for those who use the cars.

The president made his comments Monday during a White House event on the South Lawn.

Mr. Bush said that as part of the plan, more than $3 million in tax credits would be given to consumers who use hybrid and fuel cell vehicles over the next 11 years.

He also mentioned a $150 million program - called FreedomCAR - which focuses on development of fuel cell technologies that run on hydrogen. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham announced the plan in January.

The White House event included cars - powered by a combination of gasoline engines and electric motors - that are to be built by three U.S. companies. The Washington Post reported today that Japanese carmakers - which already manufacture hybrid fuel-electric cars - were angry that they were not included in the presentation.

A White House spokesman said the event was set up in connection with the U.S. car manufacturers.

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