; (14) assessment of automated and connected vehicle technologies; (15) energy use strategies, including charging patterns that minimize impacts on the distribution grid and optimize the use of clean, low-cost generation resources; and (16) integration of advanced systems onto a single truck and trailer platform or bus. (b) Medium- and heavy-Duty systems research, development, and demonstration (1) In general The Secretary shall award financial assistance for the research, development, and demonstration of the integration of multiple advanced energy technologies and advanced operational efficiency for medium- and heavy-duty platforms and trailers, including the integration of technologies specified in subsection (a). (2) Applicant Applicants applying for assistance under paragraph (1) may be comprised of truck and trailer manufacturers, engine and component manufacturers, hydrogen fuel cell and component manufacturers, public and private fleet owners and customers, university researchers, and other applicants determined by the Secretary. 9. Technical assistance to State, local, and Tribal governments (a) In general In carrying out this Act, the Secretary may provide technical assistance to State, local, and Tribal governments or to a public-private partnership described in subsection (b) to assist with the commercial application of alternative fuels and alternative fuels vehicle technologies and infrastructure. (b) Public-Private partnership described A public-private partnership described in this subsection is a public-private partnership comprised of State, local, or Tribal governments and nongovernmental entities, including industry partners. (c) Assistance Technical assistance under this section may include— (1) coordination in the selection, location, and timing of alternative fuel recharging and refueling equipment and distribution infrastructure, including the identification of transportation corridors and specific alternative fuels that may be made available