We recently told you about the Kentucky Senate side-show in which Democrats and Republicans both tried to get legislation started that would make it legal for low-speed vehicles (LSVs) to drive on some roads in the bluegrass state. Now, Governor Steve Beshear has stepped in and signed an executive order that allows LSVs on roads with speed limits of 45 mph or less. Why would he do this? To encourage ZAP! to locate a factory there, of course. While a few weeks ago ZAP! had said there were no "formal conversations" about locating a manufacturing facility there, it certainly appears differently now. First clue: ZAP CEO Steve Schneider was on hand for the signing ceremony and took the governor for a spin in a Xebra afterward. Second clue: At that same event, Beshear also announced that state officials will work "hourly and daily" with ZAP!, a local businessmen Larry Cottingham and Randall Waldman, CEO of Integrity Manufacturing of Bullitt County to develop an incentive package to secure the building of the plant in Kentucky. Hit the jump for lots more news plus bonus video.

*Update: Added video of Governor Beshear's announcement and ensuing press conference.


[Source: McClatchy / Business First / Courier-Journal / SMASHgods]