How to Compare Eco Cars

Electric vehicles, gas-electric hybrid cars and other types of eco cars are becoming increasingly available to consumers in the marketplace. Environmentally-conscious car buyers interested in minimizing their vehicles' carbon footprint in terms of emissions will pick an eco car based on a myriad of factors. Figures such as fuel efficiency and safety ratings are important variables to consider when comparing ecologically-friendly cars.

Instructions

Identifying Eco Cars

1

Make a list of the different types of eco cars that are available on the market. Car types that have the least environmental impact include compact traditional gasoline automobiles, gas-electric hybrids, flex-fuel cars, battery-powered cars and biodiesel vehicles.

2

Visit the websites of major automobile manufacturers and make a list of the types of compact and eco cars sold by these companies. Separate the cars by type when conducting your research. Make a note of each cars fuel efficiency, i.e., the measure of how many miles a car travels per gallon of gas.

3

Log onto the websites of the following companies for hybrid sedans: Toyota, Honda, Suzuki, Chevrolet, Ford, Audi, Nissan, Volkswagen, Kia, Lexus, Saab and BMW. The Toyota Prius is the number-one selling hybrid and has the best fuel efficiency, at 50 miles per gallon.

4

Compile information on coupes and luxury hybrids from companies such as: Tesla, Honda, Smart, Mini, Toyota, Dodge, Subaru, Volvo and Ford.

5

Perform online research on larger vehicles, such as trucks and vans. Manufacturers include Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Toyota, Dodge, Mazda and Volvo. Hybrid SUVs are produced by Mercury, Mazda, Toyota, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Lexus, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Cadillac, BMW and Mitsubishi.

Making Comparison Lists

6

Compile a list of standard gasoline compact cars, such as the Chevrolet Aveo, the Hyundai Accent and the Ford Fiesta. Some compact cars may have better MPG fuel efficiency than some eco cars.

7

Compare the eco cars to standard gasoline vehicles that have good MPG ratings. There are economy-sized, standard gasoline vehicles that may be more economical than some hybrids.

8

Consider the overall costs of the vehicles on your list with regard to their long-term economical benefits. Hybrid cars generally cost more than traditional cars of similar size and features. However, some buyers' concerns about environmental impact may outweigh any budget issues.

Considering Environmental Impact and Safety

9

Compare the carbon footprint of eco cars. Eco cars emit less greenhouse gas emissions than standard gasoline brands. The battery-powered Tesla emits the lowest amount of all but costs over $100,000.

10

Visit the U.S. Department of Energys website at FuelEconomy.gov for information on the annual greenhouse gas emissions of different cars.

11

Research government safety ratings. Every new car sold in the United States has a safety rating from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. These ratings are available at NRD.NHTSA.dot.gov. Make a comparison chart of the safety ratings of eco cars.

12

Check the list of recalls on the National Highway Traffic and Safety website to make sure the car you are interested in does not have a defect that needs to be addressed.