Cars and the Environment

Drive smart

Your choice of vehicle and how you use it has a direct impact on the environment. We all need to take responsibility and commit to healthier driving habits for a greener tomorrow.

The following vehicle factors and driving habits reflect how your individual actions can impact the planet:

• Vehicle selection - When you buy your next car, choose one with excellent fuel economy and low emissions. A hybrid model is a great choice. Better mileage means more money in your pocket and better air quality. If you can't afford a hybrid, then choose the smallest vehicle that will meet your needs for safety, utility and comfort. Smaller cars are more efficient and create less pollution.

• Vehicle use - Many people use their vehicles strictly for recreational purposes, such as taking a Sunday afternoon drive in a classic car. While this is fine periodically, try to limit your amount of driving. Combine your errands so that you make one trip to the store instead of five. Clean out your car and avoid hauling items on the roof. Every additional 100 pounds decreases gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.
• Vehicle maintenance - Proper maintenance will improve the efficiency of your vehicle. Be sure to get regular oil changes and frequently check the fuel and air filters. A dirty air filter can reduce your gas mileage as much as 10 percent. Keeping your tires properly inflated will improve gas mileage by 3 percent and increase the life of your tires.
• Vehicle fuel - Avoid topping off your gas tank. Overfilling can cause spills or can cause the fuel to flow back into the pump so that you end up paying for gas you didn't get. Replace the gas cap if it's damaged to ensure a tight fit. Park in the shade because the sun can cause fuel to evaporate.
• Driving habits - Avoid accelerating and braking rapidly, because this uses more gas, not to mention it causes more wear and tear to the vehicle. Aggressive driving lowers your mileage as much as 33 percent. Also, for every 5 m.p.h. you drive over 60, you'll use 7 percent more gas. Don't idle - turn off your engine even if you're waiting just a few minutes. Furthermore, try to limit your air conditioning use to highway driving, because driving around with the windows down would increase drag and use more fuel.
• Driving alternatives - When possible, take public transportation or carpool. People who carpool are often eligible for rewards programs. If you live close to work, consider walking or biking. Another alternative is to try different work schedules - see if you can work at home for some of the time. When running errands, take the bus or walk - you'll help save the environment or get some exercise.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

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