Need a New Car?
Greentips: January 2004
If you, like many people at this time of year, are in the market for a new car, keep in mind that your choice of car or light truck is the single most important decision you can make as an environmentally conscious consumer. Cars and trucks create air and water pollution and release heat-trapping gases into the atmosphere (which contribute to global warming).
There are two major factors to consider when car shopping:
Gas mileage. Choose the most fuel-efficient car that fits your needs and budget. Gasoline-electric hybrids are currently the most fuel-efficient vehicle option, getting significantly more miles per gallon than the average vehicle. Diesel-powered vehicles get good gas mileage, but that mileage can be misleading and their higher tailpipe emissions mean that they may not be the best choice for the environment. (For more information, click on the link below to read the new report from the Union of Concerned Scientists, The Diesel Dilemma.)
Emissions. The federal government sets emissions standards for cars and trucks to limit toxic and smog-forming pollutants such as particulate matter, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. California and some states in the Northeast have more stringent emissions standards than the federal government. The following emissions categories are used for passenger vehicles (not all may be applicable in your state) but are not listed on the window sticker. Ask your auto dealer for this information, and then choose the car that is the least polluting in its class.
From worst to best:
Federal Standards
Tier 1-Tier 1 is the least stringent emissions standard but is being phased out.
Tier 2-Tier 2 standards are more stringent than Tier 1 and take effect with model year (MY) 2004 cars, though they have been optional for vehicles starting in MY 2001. Tier 2 standards will be fully phased in by MY 2009. Tier 2 comprises 10 categories, or "bins," ranging from worst (Bin 10) to best (Bin 1).
Additional Standards (CA, MA, ME, NY, and VT)
LEV-Low Emission Vehicle
ULEV-Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
SULEV-Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
PZEV-Partial Zero Emission Vehicle
ZEV-Zero Emission Vehicle
Note: Starting in MY 2004, light trucks and SUVs fall under the same set of emissions standards as cars. Standards are different for the two vehicle classes for MY 2003 and earlier.
It's also important to note that, despite advances in fuel efficiency and pollution control technology, people are driving farther and more often than ever before, leading to an overall increase in fuel consumption and making air pollution goals harder to meet. Minimize your impact when driving by planning your route so you use as little gas as possible. When possible, avoid driving altogether by walking, biking, or taking public transportation. If driving is the only option, find a friend and carpool.
