One solution to both California's poor air quality and U.S.dependence on foreign oil is driving cars fueled by electricity, compressed natural gas, methanol and other less polluting alternatives. In the first phase of a three-year study of consumer attitudes toward alternative-fueled cars, UC Davis researchers are holding a test clinic June 12-16 at the Pasadena Rose Bowl. They have recruited more than 300 citizens from the area to inspect and test drive several alternative-fueled vehicles, preparing the participants to offer educated opinions about potential purchases. Reporters will have an opportunity to test drive the cars and interview the researchers from 9-11 a.m. on Friday, June 14. "The conventional thinking in government and industry is that only a few ecofreaks are likely to buy electric cars," says Daniel Sperling, acting director of the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis. "We think that's wrong." The purpose of this study isn't so much an evaluation of technology as it is a look at consumers' responses to technology, says UC Davis graduate student Thomas Turrentine. "None of these are going to go anywhere unless people buy them," Turrentine says. Reporters who want to judge these cars for themselves should contact Sperling at (916) 752-7434. Tip by Carol Cruzan Morton, News Service, 752-7704.