2006 L.A. Auto Show: The Governator

“Think beyond gasoline.”

That was the order from California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger today during a press conference just outside the L.A. Convention Center praising the development of alternative-fuel cars.

Schwarzenegger, who recently pushed for stricter emissions standards for California, was tanned and jovial as he introduced what he called “the cars of the future.” His message: Praise for automakers like BMW and GM for building cars that cut emissions and reduce the use of gas, and a call for other car manufacturers to join in the innovations.

“It’s time for automakers to get onboard the train,” he said, in what seemed like a mixed metaphor. “The train has left.”

Five cars were showcased at the conference: The BMW Hydrogen 7 Prototype, the Chevy Tahoe E85, the Honda FCX concept, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class with a Bluetec diesel engine, and the Tesla Roadster, an electric car that reportedly gets 250 miles from a single charge.

“I’ve driven that one,” Arnold said of the Tesla. “It’s hot.”