Ford given Greenest Car Manufacturer of the Year Award 2008 by  

Green-Car-Guide.com

Over the last year,one manufacturer has, according to the Green-Car-Guide, stood above the rest by giving us cars that look good,drive well,and can squeeze the extra mileage out of  one gallon of fuel. Perhaps, most importantly in the current  economic climate, this manufacturer's cars are affordable.

Ford has many low emission models to choose from anyway,but during a year that included record oil prices and concern about CO2 emissions, Ford has made a special effort to give us energy-efficient models.

Let's leave the last word to the Green-Car-Guide: "Hooray to Ford - and the Season's Greetings to all our visitors! Despite oil prices coming down, the issue of CO2 emissions will not go away in 2009. So keep on top of the latest low emission cars next year, keep visiting Green-Car-Guide.com

Vauxhall's ecoFLEX is a model low emissions option

Vauxhall claims to offer the most low emissions models , with  a range of 366 variants each producing less than 160g/km of CO2.

Across the whole Vauxhall Astra ecoFLEX (seen above) range no car emits more than 119g/km.

The Vauxhall Insignia ,and 2009 European Car of the Year unveiled at the British International Car Show held earlier this year, will also have a green option next year, with its 2.0 litre diesel engine which puts out under 140 g/km of CO2.

Worth also looking at the Corsa and Agila - also in the ecoFLEX range- for great savings for the company driver with the Corsa falling within the lowest 13 per cent diesel band (BiK),and the Agila 10 %.

It just leaves me, at this time to thank you, if you have been a regular reader, and to wish you a Very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year! Look forward to having you along next year which will be interesting and challenging in the motoring world.

A new green car for less than a grand series: No.4 Fiat 500- below £8,000

Fiat recently stunned customers and industry commentators alike when it announced the launch of an entry-level price of just £7,900 for the 1.2 litre Pop in January. The price is largely courtesy of the government reducing VAT. Prior to the VAT rate being reduced to 15%, the list price in the summer was a creditable £8,100. 

The Fiat 500 has been featured on these pages and is an award winning city car.

All other cars in the Fiat range benefit from the VAT cut: The Panda range,for example, starts at £6,859 for the 1.1 Active. You can see more details on these and other good value low emission cars at the Green Car Guide click here

Best in class for fuel consumption,low emissions,and equal best for low insurance:the new Subaru Forester Boxer Diesel

The Subaru Forester Boxer is a very good 4x4.  Subaru say three key benefits of the vehicle are:

• lowest emissions in its class
• best fuel consumption in its class
• equal best insurance in its class

For full details you should go to Green-Car-Guide now

A new green car for less than a grand series: No.3 Hyundai i20 supermini

Continuing our series of new green cars for less than a grand ,here is the Hyundau i20, a new supermini.

Meeting the demand for low-emission and high economy, the i20 range includes the entry level 1.2 litre 'kappa' petrol "Classic"which is expected to be the range's highest seller, when the 5-door version goes on sale next January. There will be a 3-door version available in April next year. Both versions will cost less than £10,000. This competes well with other mainstream rivals on price, and trades on  exceptional levels of space ,quality and safety.

This little Hyundai "Classic" is equipped with air-conditioning,six airbags,active head restraints,remote locking,electric front windows, and an aux-in socket. There will also be the mid-range "Comfort" (also sub £10k but with the 3-door starting at £8,995, £800 dearer than the "Classic") with the added spec of 15-inch alloy wheels,body colour,rear electric windows,full i-pod integration,steering wheel mounted audio controls,a trip computer and a six-speaker system. . All the cars come with a very re-assuring Five Year Unlimited mileage warranty.

The 1.2 litre petrol i20 has a CO2 rating of 124g/km, less than many of its rivals, and will give you 54.3 mpg on the combined cycle. There is a 1.4 litre petrol "Comfort", 133g/km and 50.4 mpg on the combined cycle.

There are other models in the i20 range, both petrol and diesel, and two  larger engines at 1.4 litre size. The diesels rate at exceptionally low emissions levels 116g/km (64.2 mpg) and 118g/km (62.8 mpg)for the 75PS and 90PS CRDi engines respectively. These will set you back a little over a grand, though, at list price.  

All cars come with a re-assuring Five-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty. This range is worth checking out, but do confirm details of the vehicles on offer with your car dealer. Remember,too,that Hyundai expect to deliver for sale the 5-door versions from January next,the 3-door are expected from next April.

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 archive in right hand column at "October 2006"

 

A new green car for less than a grand series : 2. Citroen C1 1.0i Vibe 3-dr

Here we are with the second in a series of green cars you can buy for less than a grand. The Citroen C1 1.0i 3-dr a nippy urban traveller with top class fuel performance.

This car was selling earlier this month for £6,176 a saving of £1,423 on the list price. Now,note  before you buy, worthy of serious consideration though it is, do watch out to check the model you are choosing- Citroen did announce this month that a new model with revised styling will be in showrooms early next year. The above picture is of that new model. The interior has been refreshed ,with other changes made to conform with the latest Citroen house style. 

I expect the new model will easily come in under our £10k bar. It will have slightly improved CO2 emissions at 106g/km over the current model level at 109g/km, and combined cycle consumption of 62.8 mpg from its 68 hp 1.0 litre petrol engine (an improvement in consumption of 2%). 

Check out the choice availability with your dealer. You may get a really good deal on the current model, or the new one.

Reducing CO2 emissions: That's Smart that micro hybrid drive

The Green Car Guide reports :

 "Smart is launching a new model with micro hybrid drive(mhd) technology. From now, 61hp and 71 hp versions of the smart fortwo will feature micro hybrid drive as standard,which is an automatic start/stop function helping to provide significant savings in terms of both fuel economy and emissions."

For a fuller report click here at Green-Car-Guide

A New Green Car for Less than a Grand Series: 1. Mazda 2

You may remember my recent post when, during the MPG Marathon 2008, the Mazda 2 1.4 5dr TS2 Diesel distinguished itself by scoring a superb 65.7 mpg performance on the combined cycle, fully exploiting the supermini's light weight and smooth aerodynamics. The CO2 rating was an amazing 114g/km qualifying for the £35 road fund licence band.

If you look around, Which? reckon  you can pick-up  a Mazda 2 1.4D TS(AC) 3-dr for around £9,000, saving you a possible £550.

Ten Grand Low Emission Cars

When chill economic winds blow,it is good to know that helping the environment can also help you. The Which? Guide to Greener Driving will help you grind out the credit crunch by bringing you the low-down on great value cars at less than a grand - yes,in some cases,far less than £10,000.

If you could find savings of more than £2,000 on a brand new car would you be interested?And pay less than £10k? Which? have found the following opportunities to cut fuel bills -they average between 51 and 65 mpg- and tax as for the lowest CO2 models:

1. Fiat Panda 1.3 Multijet Dynamic 5-dr - (list price £8990) now around £6,471 (as at 11.1108) - saving circa.£2,519 
2. Citroen C2 1.4 HDi Vibe 3-dr (list price £10,190) now £8,082,saving £2106
3. Skoda  Fabia 1.4 TDi 70 5-dr (list price £9,925) now£8,333,saving £1,592
4. Citroen C1 1.0 i Vibe 3-dr (list price £7,540) now £6,117,saving £1,423
5. Peugeot 107 1.0 Urban Lite 3-dr (list price £7,540) now £6,176,saving £1,364
6. Toyota Aygo 1.0 VVT-1 3-dr (list price £7,170) now £ 6,154, saving £1,016
7. Suzuki Splash 1.2 GLS 5-dr (list price £9,048) now £8,454,saving £594
8. Mazda2 1.4D TS (AS) 3-dr (list price £9,594) now £9,027, saving £567
9. SmartFour Two 1.0 71 Pure 2-dr (list price£7,445) now £6,955,saving £490
10. Hyundai i10 1.2 Comfort 5-dr (list price ££7,740) now £7,398,saving £342

These are great offers which were okay at 11.11.08. You will have to do your own deals, and follow the relevant dealer terms and conditions for business. The Which? Complete Guide to Greener Motoring is available in selected WH Smith stores, Borders,Sainsbury's, Tesco and Asda. Cost £6.99.

Remember you can also buy the Green-Car-Guide online for £4.95 at the website of Green Car Guide

This will also provide you with reviews on green cars available to buy in the UK. Click here for the Green Car Guide

The even greener VW BlueMotion2

Building on the gains in fuel efficiency achieved with the existing Passat BlueMotion,Volkswagen have introduced the new BlueMotion2 with a 2.0 litre TDI 110 PS common rail diesel engine, replacing the outgoing 1.9 litre TDI 105 PS unit injector powerplant.

The new Passat BlueMotion2 has a stop/start system giving 57.6 mpg for the saloon and estate models, with CO2 emissions coming in at 128 g/km and 129 g/km respectively.

Ford to Focus on green car big brother Mondeo?

The Ford Focus has been acclaimed by the Green Car Guide as an excellent green car- it's affordable and good to drive. The Guide goes on to say that ,presumably, the Mondeo Econetic,will receive similar praise. Or will it? Is there a shock horror conclusion to this road test...? To find out the full story click here 

The Future of Green Cars- electric,hybrid,hydrogen...

Last week, arguably, the future for green low carbon cars was on show, and all in one place, on one day.

As well as bringing together a display of exciting green cars, the event was used as a platform to announce a #10million project inviting motor manufacturers to run electric car and ultra low carbon vehicle demonstration projects. 100 electric cars will be made available in UK towns and cities so that drivers in families can provide the sort of feedback required to bring greener motoring to daily life.

In an interview with Green-Car-Guide.com ,Lord Drayson confirmed that future cars need to be significantly more efficient, but they must be great to drive. This gives hope that the UK motorists will soon be able to get their hands on exciting green cars.

Well qualified to speak as Minister of State for Science and Technology,Lord Drayson has the credentials to lead the drive towards lower carbon vehicles. He is known for motor racing, particularly  in a (sustainably) biofuelled Aston Martin.

Go to the Green-Car-Guide.com website, for further report on the interview with the Minister on his vision for the future of green cars and, also, the revival of the British motor industry and its placement at the centre of the low carbon economy. There you will also see the green cars that were on show at this event organised by Cenex,the UK's first national centre of excellence for low carbon and fuel cell rechnologies, and the Technology Strategy Board. The cars include the following (some photos of which will be will be posted here over the next few days):

• the iMIEV from Mitsubishi (shown above)
• the Smart ED
• the Dynasty 'iT'
• Land Rover Freelander hybrid
• Honda Civic 
• the Genetta
• Tesla Roadster
• Lotus Exige Tri-Fuel

These are covered at the Green-Car-Guide site where you can click here now to visit.

All-new Ford Ka -low price, low CO2 emissions

Following my earlier post on 13th October, I can report that Ford have announced prices for its all-new Ka ,when the acclaimed cheeky and fun-to-drive range of cars is launched for sale in the UK in January 2009. Key bullet points are:

• All-new Ford Ka priced from £7,995
• Improved economy and sub-120g/km CO2
• Affordable personalisation options from £300
• Diesel engine now available
• 55.4 mpg on the combined cycle

Ford says its expects ,though, that the Ka Zetec will take more than 40% of Ka sales. This model will cost from £9,495 (£10,195 for the 1.3 litre TDCi). It offers many additional features over the more basic Studio model (which is itself well equipped), and the Style and Style+ (from £8,495 and £8,995 respectively)...remote central locking,15 in alloys,upgraded instruments and trip computer,and theatre dimming interior lights. 

Ford are seeking to promote the Ka as the UK's best selling super-mini.

Zero emissions MINI Electric

The iconic MINI may some time soon be seen on our roads in its latest development - the all-electric Mini. It's history is well known, so too its selling power as a highly sought after and efficient performer. Now, BMW  are taking the electrically powered MINI E to the Los Angeles Auto Show to be held on 19/20th  November this year. The plan is then to ship 500 MINI Es to California,New York and New jersey for testing with private and corporate customers.

The 'E' top speeds at 95 mph, accelerates from stand still to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds. With a range of 150 miles and powered by a lithium-ion battery,the vehicle takes a full recharge in just two- and-a-half hours from a special ampere boosting wall mounted electric box socket.

Although,the MINI E won't be around here for a while, it is worth watching the results of the road testing - which we'll do. For more information  on this exciting new take on a bestselling motor -and on new economical and amazing value green production cars  in the showrooms now-click here for the Green Car Guide

Fiat Panda's to your pocket with another cost crunching low CO2 car

It's been a busy summer for Fiat with the launch of several new low fuel consumption cars, including the Panda Active ECO and the Dynamic ECO. Both cars have CO2 emission levels of 119 g/km.

An impressive  56.5 mpg on the combined cycle from the Active ( with a 1.1 litre petrol engine) and the Dynamo (powered by a 1.2 litre petrol engine) is partly achieved using low rolling resistance tyres, and a low viscosity engine oil. 

Standard equipment includes : immobiliser,driver and passenger airbag, ABS anti-lock braking,electric power steering, Follow Me Home headlights and electric front windows. The Dynamic also has remote control central locking, colour-coded bumpers and a CD/MP3 player.

Manufacturer prices on the road are given from £7,105 for the Active ECO, £7,705 for the Dynamic ECO.

Notes on low emission cars available now, or soon

Following the recent Paris Motor Show, I have been reviewing a short list of eco-friendly new cars actually out there in the market now, or soon to be on sale. In no particular order are six or seven you can consider :

First-up is the all-new MkII Ford Ka (featured here earlier this month) a sub-120g/km emitter of CO2. You will have a choice of two engines: the 1.2-litre petrol, or the 1.3-litre diesel. The journalists' view in Paris was that this was a stylish replacement for the outgoing model. 

 

In the Spring of 2009, Peugeot are unleashing  the 308CC with a list price from around £18,000. At 109 g/km emissions of CO2, this is a hybrid to compete with the Nissan Qashqai. 

Peugeot already has highly economical motors in the 107(mini), and 207 (hatch) ranges,and other 308s.

And, next summer, SEAT launch a new version of the best selling Ibiza , the MKII Ecomotive version with a 1.4-litre diesel engine chucking-out a mere 99g/km of CO2 emissions.

The Smart has to have a place in the line-up. The Coupe is listed at a price from £6,775. A city run-about, the Smart ForTwo is zippy and relatively easy to park. At an economical 60mpg ,and only 113g/km of CO2 emissions, this is a star eco-friendly performer.

Suzuki triumph with the Swift, a 1.3-litre diesel to rival the Mini. It also performs as well as the ForTwo in the 'green' department, with a parsimonious 60.1 mpg (and 119 g/km CO2 emissions). At a list price of from £8,260, the Swift is not expensive.

A special limited edition of the Swift called the Suzuki Attitude is shown above.

Hyundai are also in there with the i20 which had its debut at the Paris Show and is scheduled to be launched early in 2009.

Toyota come in with the iQ in January (top left) This mighty mini sports 1.0 litre VVT-i engined car ,with manual transmission , is set to deliver 65.7 mpg , and a provisional 99 g/km,making it likely exempt from road tax.

Almost finally, a short list of 61.4 mpg performers with 109 g/km of CO2 ratings:

Citroen C1 (middle top)

Peugeot 107

Toyota Aygo

Honda Civic

 Click on the Green Car Guide website for more information on these, and many other green cars.

All the cars featured above have to varying degrees cost savings over their larger and less fuel efficient cousins, whether this be in fuel costs,insurance premiums,parking charges,congestion charge, or road tax. Green Car Guide

Greener driving leading to lower CO2 emissions is down to both man and machine

Yes,amazing technology has produced more efficient production cars over recent years. At the MPG Marathon reported last time, a Toyota Yaris was driven to achieve a staggering 84.66 mpg. This competition proved ,however, that skilful driving can also further dramatically reduce the cost of motoring ,and cut the amount of CO2 emissions produced by Britain's 30 million motorists.

It was reported that  40 teams took part in the 2008 MPG Marathon, and they achieved an average improvement of 23 per cent over the manufacturers' official combined figures.If this performance was replicated by all of Britains's private and commercial motorists,it would result in a £8.2 billion per annum saving in fuel costs.

Normally, in a competition, no one remembers who came second. Deserving to be an exception to the rule are Sue and Joanne Cooke who,driving a 5-door Mazda2 1.4 diesel, came close to winning the MPG Marathon challenge with a creditable 84.58 mpg. After two days of competitive 'economy' driving, they scored a 19 per cent improvement ,while averaging 40 mph, on the official combined cycle figure (65.7mpg) of this popular Mazda (shown above). The Maxda2 has a CO2 rating of just 114 g/km qualifying it for the £35 VED band for road tax.

So just what does 'eco-driving' entail. Mazda's  9 'Smarter 'Motoring Tips are as follows:

• Change-up 'early' through the gears,just before 'peak torque'rpm
• Ease your speed . Driving at 70 mph uses around 15 per cent  more fuel than at 50 mph
• Anticipate to avoid unnecessary braking and stopping
• Use the air-conditioning sparingly as it increases fuel consumption
• Switch-off the engine  whenever it is safe to do so
• Check tyre pressures regularly
• Remove unnecessary weight from your car
• Reduce aerodynamic drag whenever possible e.g. removing roof racks when not in use
• Following the recommended servicing schedule

And there you have it. It does pay to have a low emission car, but you can help yourself, also.

'til next time.

Toyota Yaris achieves highest overall fuel economy

Driving a Toyota Yaris 1.4 D-4D, Andrew Anders and Gary Luton managed to squeeze-out 84.66 miles to the gallon, and the stiff competition, in the 2008 ALD Fleet World MPG Marathon. The two winning drivers took routes across Britain, over many different types of road and driving conditions, during the 400 mile challenge.

The winners for the last two years, in a Toyota Aygo, James Sutherland and Richard Hill, improved their previous performance in the same 1.0-litre petrol engined car from 78.39 mpg to 82.39 mpg. 

This  is the thing: when you drive a highly economical vehicle like the Yaris, how you drive it will significantly improve (perhaps by up to as much as one hundred percent) its performance by achieving reduced fuel consumption and, therefore, lower CO2 emissions over each journey.

In troubled times Ford seeks a quantum of solace in its new Ka offering at the Paris Motor Show

The second generation Ford Ka range includes for the first time a 1.3-litre 75bhp Duratorq diesel engine, to add to a 1.2-litre 69bhp Duratec petrol unit. Both engines give CO2 emissions of under 120g/km.

Ka is the second small car range to be launched by Ford this year. The first was the Fiesta ECOnetic range (see 7.10.08) As I  reported last time, Ford are banking on having two small cars out there to help ride the current down wave of UK car sales.Global car sales for September have been described by manufacturers as 'terrible'.

Well received in Paris,the Ka's cheeky looks and youthful appeal has already inspired a number of 'specials'. There is a 

special gold-painted version,the Bond Ka, to tie-in with the car's appearance in the soon-to-be-released James Bond film 'Quantum of Solace'. New Bond girl, actress Olga Kurylenko, helped launch the new Ka at a party on the eve of the Paris Motor Show.

Though you wouldn't know it to look at its exterior lines, Ka shares its platform with that of the retro mini car,Fiat 500.

Worth a look.Back soon.

Car manufacturers bank on smaller cars with green credentials to bring back the good times

Beat the credit crunch. Save the Planet. Buy a smaller car with low CO2 emissions. 

This seemed to be the message from large parts of the Paris Motor Show.

The list of manufacturers was impressive: Nissan,Toyota,Vauxhall,Volvo,Peugeot,Fiat, and so on. Ford are also heavily following this trend towards  smaller and greener cars. The Green Car Guide asks: Which best selling five-seat small family car can travel 65 on one gallon,can handle corners in an enjoyable way,yet costs less than #17,000? That'll be the the Ford Focus ECOnetic then.

You can't argue with one of the UK's bestselling cars. Especially in its low emission ECOnetic form. All the characteristics of the Ford Focus (it was first launched in 1998 ) are still there, and you get emissions of just 115g/km. The Model/Engine size: 1.6 16v TDCi 108 bhp ECOnetic, a diesel,offers fuel economy on the combined cycle of 65.7 mpg.

You can see a fuller report on the Focus at the Green Car Guide

The New Volvo Range to DRIVe its low emission cars below 120g/km

Volvo have come-in with its emblem,DRIVe, to signal the uprated properties for the new economical sub-120g/km variants of the C30 Sports Coupe,S40 saloon,and V50 Sportswagon (shown above). The new range will be shown at the Paris Motor Show which opens later this week,on 4th October.

All three models are in the 1.6D range, and are equipped with efficiency enhancing features.

On performance, the impressive fuel consumption figures from Volvo are for the C30 64.2 mpg, and for the S40 and V50 ,62.8mpg. Vehicle Excise Duty will be at Band B with CO2 emissions of 115 g/km for the C30, and 118g/km for the S40 and V50.

More details on specifications to come later. Volvo say on the road prices will be from £15,410(C30), £17,260 (S40), and £18,660 (V50). All three models will be available in S,SE,and SE Lux specifications. The first deliveries of this new car range will be received in the UK next January.

 

MyCar is electric vehicle of the year ,that's NICE

Now from the sublime to the ...well, let's say more practical considerations for most of us on the road ,who though wowed by the excitement of the racing circuit, nevertheless need some more modest form of transportation in their daily life. What better than the recently acclaimed electric city car of the year produced by the people at the NICE Car Company, the Italian-styled two seater MyCar. Starting from £8,995 the environmentally-friendly and very economical Mycar comes with batteries included.

NICE stands for No Internal Combustion Engine . This means that the MyCar when running produces no CO2 or other emissions, and at 2p per mile, no road tax,and no congestion charge in London it is light on motoring costs.

First launched at the London Motor Show in July, MyCar was last week given the electric vehicle of the year award by GreenFleet. The car was chosen by GreenFleet for its stylish and functional design,low running costs and its perceived contribution to increasing the appeal of electric cars to city drivers. It will be in the UK next month. 

For further details go to the NICE website where you will also see the rest of the company's range of all-electric cars,vans and motorcyles which are on sale in the UK today. Click here.

The Fab  908 HDi FAP hybrid racer from Peugeot

Last weekend saw the outing at Silverstone of Peugeot Sport's impressive 908 low emission racing car. As hybrid cars go this is a truly beautiful looking vehicle - but then I can't resist posting about a racing car every now and again, when I can.

The 908 HY's technology features a kinetic energy recovery system in its hybrid power plant, which enables a significant amount of the kinetic energy generated while braking to be either recovered or stored. This energy, otherwise lost in a non-hybrid car, is used to reduce fuel consumption of  3-5 per cent without loss of performance.

The Peugeot 908 is a racing demonstrator which can operate in either electric mode or with internal combustion engine only, or a combination of both. During the course of a race saved energy can be used to deliver extra power, or to reduce fuel consumption. This is achieved from a system comprising a 60kW gear-driven electric motor-generator (in place of the conventional starter motor), 10 battery packs housing 600 lithium-ion cells, and an electronic power converter to control the flow of energy from batteries to motor-generator.

Peugeot hope to use the 908 as part of an endurance racing programme (including such as the Le Mans series, the final round of which was held at Silverstone last weekend) both for serious competition and as a research and development tool benefiting its brand of production cars. Whether Peugeot will be allowed to use its groundbreaking technology in 2009 will depend on new regulations to be published by the Automobile Club de l'Quest. Let's hope this exciting car, and others like it, will be racing and helping boost the  future motor production of low emission cars.

 

Buy soon  into the concept of sub-100g/km CO2 emissions with the Golf BlueMotion

Around mid-2009,the new concept Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion will go on sale. With a 1.6 litre TDi common rail diesel engine, this Golf will be spare on fuel at a combined 74.3 mpg ,while only emitting 99g/km of CO2. Its performance and economy matches the Polo BlueMotion which is one of the most fuel efficient cars on sale today.

Even in standard non-BlueMotion form, the new Golf with a 2.0-litre TDi 110 PS common rail engine will achieve a combined cycle 62.mpg and emissions of only 119 g/km of CO2. This model will be available from next January.

These models obtain their efficiency gains from energy-saving changes to drivetrain and aerodynamics. Low rolling resistance tyres and revised ratios in the five speed gearbox also help to reduce the loading on the engine.

It is good to see that as with every other diesel in the new Golf range the BlueMotion concept is fitted with a  particulate filter.

Proton applies ecoLogic with new LPG/petrol dual fuel car range

The Proton GEN-2 range just got bigger with two new additions to the family - two dual models able to run on either liquefied  petroleum gas (LPG) or petrol.

The new ecoLogic GEN-2 is priced the same as the petrol-only equivalent. So in effect you can begin saving money immediately without the extra cost of converting (between £1,500-£2,000) to LPG running.  Autogas say there is an immediate saving in fuel costs of upto 40% using LPG. Fleet News supports this, based on an average mileage of 10,000 miles and prices of £1.12 and 58p of petrol and LPG respectively.

So is this a tried and tested alternative fuel for a car? Well,there are over 140,000 vehicles in the UK currently using LPG, and 11 million vehicles worldwide. Although the UK number seems in low proportion to the total of all vehicles running on LPG, the infrastructure for re-fuelling has had to develop from a low base. Now,it is becoming much easier to fill-up on LPG. There are currently some 1,400 re-fuelling outlets in the UK,mainly at motorway service stations and supermarkets.

As well as being cheaper to run the Proton ecoLogic GEN-2 offers a more eco-friendly alternative to petrol and diesel. As an alternative,the makers say it produces 15-20% lower emissions of CO2,and also it emits fewer particulates and less nitrous oxide. LPG is a by-product of the crude oil refining process, and so should be in plentiful supply.

As well as providing these cost saving and environmentally-friendly benefits, Proton are marketing a 1.6-litre saloon and a hatchback version to a high specification, including as standard, reverse distance sensors,electric front and rear windows,automatic central locking,air conditioning and pollen filter, and alloy wheels.

The dual operation is not complicated. From ignition ,the engine runs on petrol switching to LPG when it is most efficient to do so, usually after about 20 seconds. Faced with the need to keep costs down, you could do well to look at the Proton GEN-2 ecoLogic range of cars.In the showrooms from this month,the hatchback is priced at £10,995,the saloon £10,795.

Next up, soon, the Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion which is likely to make a stir.

 

With the all-new lower emissions Ford Fiestas come better insurance rates and residual values

Ford have announced that the high-tech all-new Fiesta will go on sale next month with insurance groups the same or lower than the outgoing model. Data provider CAP is also said to have set the new Fiesta's residual value with an average rise of 7.9 per cent.

These are bonus savings in addition to an already impressive increase in power,lower emissions and a range of big-car features. The Fiesta,priced at from just £8,696, will be £155 cheaper than its equivalent previous generation entry model. A typical residual value increase is expected of £1,000. Across the range the savings could be from £700 for the Zetec 1.4 litre TDCi to £1,175 for the Titanium 1.6-litre petrol model. Insurance savings could be around £40 with three models having the same insurance group and all the others a lower one. The 1.6 litre Zetec drops from 6E to 4E, say Ford.

I made an earlier post on the all-new Fiesta on August 9th if you wish to refer back (the picture above is of the ECOnetic model of the Fiesta).You can also click on at the Green-Car-Guide web site.

Lower CO2 emissions from conventional internal consumption engines is  Vauxhall's commitment

The new Astra 1.7 CDTi ecoFLEX has not sacrificed driver involvement to go green. Vauxhall's engineers have achieved extra efficiency (and a top speed of 117 mph) with increased power from the Astra's drivetrain , by fitting a taller axle ratio, optimising the engine management system and reducing the engine's idle speed.In addition, kerbweight has been improved by lowering the suspension,modifying the front air intakes and fitting a drag-reducing lower engine compartment panel. 15-inch fitted tyres combine to reduce rolling  resistance.

CO2 emissions of just 119g/km and fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg can be achieved on the combined cycle,Vauxhall claim. This means the lowest tax band for company car drivers. While private car owners can benefit from a VED (Band B) of just £35 per year.

The new Astra is part of Vauxhall's avowed strategy to continue to introduce cleverfuel efficient  technological onnovations at prices affordable to as many customers as possible. Amen to that.

With the new Astra, you can go for the Hatch,Sport Hatch, or the estate model. The 5-door Hatch  retails at around £16,340. At time of writing the prices for the Sport Hatch and estate versions are yet to announced.

In 2009,Vauxhall promise the ecoFLEX model Corsa 1.3 CDTi with a combined mpg of nearly 69 mpg... and another. So do  keep watching this space for more breaking news.

The low emission retrostyle Fiat 500 continues to impress

Continuing to impress, the Fiat 500 has scooped yet another top industry award: the Supermini and City car category in the evecars.com Car of the Year Awards 2008. This honour is added to the trophy cabinet already bulging under the weight of: Car of the Year 2008,CAR Magazine Car of the Year,Fifth Gear Small Car of the Year,and Auto Express Best City Car 2008.

So what's all the fuss about? Green Car Guide offers the following features and statistics:

The  500 is sold with a choice of three powerplants;the latest 75 bhp 1.3 litre 16 valve Multijet turbodiesel ,and two FIRE petrol engines- a 1.2 litre 8-valve 69 bhp unit,and a 100 bhp version of the 1.4 litre 16-valve powerplant.

Both the 1.2 and the 1.3 litre turbodiesel come with 5-speed manual gearboxes, the 1.4 litre has a 6-speed transmission.

The 1.3 16v Multijet Turbodiesel offers the best combined economy of 67.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 111g/km.

In terms of Fiat's wider environmental impact,the company is already amongst the 'greenest' car manufacturers in the world,and its cars boast some of the lowest CO2 figures available. Fiat is also introducing Euro 5 engines for the majority of its range by the end of 2009.

The Fiat 500 clearly has proven 'green' credentials. It is also proving itself a winner all round.

For further details on this,and other cars in the supermini category, click here for the Green Car Guide.

The improved Ka looking to be a greener car in its class

For 12 years a top selling model,the current version of the Ford Ka will soon give way to re-emerge as a new re-styled and, with"new driving dynamics", a more efficient car in its class. That the current Ka has been immensely popular is evident from the over 480,000 units that have been sold into the UK market. Ford expect the new package to be at least as popular,bringing a fresh styling both inside and out,with the Ka's fans and new prospective owners.

To be unveiled at the Paris Show in October (the promised 80 mpg plus ECOnetic models will be available next year),Ka's full details will be divulged nearer the date  about the  1.2 and 1.4 litre petrol and 1.3 litre diesel engines that will be available, together with the models' performance  ratings. 

One sure thing is new Ka's star quality. It will make a key cameo appearance soon in the next Bond film , "Quantum of Solace",thus following the billing of its bigger sister, the Mondeo, in "Casino Royale". The Ford Ka will be in the showrooms from January next year. In the meantime ,the name's "Ka. Ford Ka".    Ah!   Ha!

Copyright (c) 2006-2008.CFM(Services)Limited. All Rights Reserved.

Peugeot want you to look-out for the little Blue Lion on its greenest cars

Following the current trend in car manufacturers' branding,Peugeot have distinctively labeled its greenest models with the BLue Lion.

So,well,what's in a name? Customers can readily pick-out the preferred greenest Peugeot model in the range. The benefits are:

• enhanced combined fuel consumption of between 56 and 64 mpg
• low CO2 emissions of between 109 g/km and 130g/km
• a choice of car in a range of Blue Lion Cars
• opportunity to save money, depending on choice, on vehicle excise duty -VED range £35 to £120- as well as fuel costs, and company car tax liability

You can pick the super-mini 107, or the hatchback 207 (even the spacious 207 SW). Perhaps you want to go for the 308,where there is the Coupe Cabriolet, and the 308 SW. The choice is yours. Click here for further details and car images at the Peugeot site

All-new Ford Fiesta with improved fuel consumption and lower emissions

The all-new Ford Fiesta is set to eclipse even its current, but outgoing, best selling equivalent model. Boasting the lowest CO2 emissions of any family car, the new Fiesta will be on sale from this October.

Headlining the range is the Fiesta ECOnetic. A 1.6 -litre Durotorq TDCi produces 10 per cent less CO2 than the already impressive mainstream TDCi is matched to a special aerodynamic profile resulting in just 98g/km CO2 (qualifying for exemption from road tax) and a combined performance of 76.3 mpg.

In a range offering an extensive choice of specification and trims, Ford are providing luxury in the Titanium, sportiness with the Zetec, and affordability of the Studio and Style models. The Zetec Ford reckon will be the most popular in the range and claim about 35 per cent of Fiesta sales. At from £10,995, the Zetec is also in the mid-price of the range.

The ECOnetic badged Fiesta will cost from £11,845.

For further details on many other green cars currently available in the UK yo can click here for the Green Car Guide.

Easy does it technology with ECO pedal saves car fuel by increasing driving efficiency

As you know, smarter greener driving saves money. But how about an ingenious piece of new technology from Nissan that could help you reduce CO2 emissions by becoming upto 10% (Nissan's claim) more efficient on the road? Welcome to the Nissan Eco pedal due to become commercialised by 2009.

Technology and improved driving behaviour combine to produce greater fuel-efficiency. The ECO pedal system helps counter excessive pressure on the accelerator by the application of a control mechanism which when activated informs the driver by way of an indicator on the dashboard that an easing of the foot would improve consumption.THe indicator will show a 'green' for driving within the optimal fuel consumption range. This changes to 'amber' when the driver's behaviour needs to change.

The ECO pedal system can be switched on or off. It is one of a number of products resulting from Nissan's Green Program 2010 to develop a range of eco-friendly technologies,products and services designed to make a real difference in the reduction of vehicle CO2 reductions.

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sidebar.

Zero-emission car technology seeks Royal Approval

His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent took the new Tesla Roadster, the electric sports car, out for a spin at Kensington Palace. A long time keen follower of specialist motor car technology, he was particularly interested in the development of zero-emission cars. He had shown his personal interest on a visit last week to the British Motor Show, and had been given a 'tour' by representatives at the Greener Motoring Pavilion where the Tesla was being exhibited.

The Tesla is the first electric sports car to go on sale in Europe. There are some Limited Edition models for sale.Could set you back 99,000 euros (plus VAT) ,though. Customers able to reserve one can expect delivery early in 2009. Production has also commenced in Norfolk. Details available from www.teslamotors.com

Low emissions and impressive economy from new i-VTEC engines

Available this Autumn, the all-new Jazz from Honda provides a stylish new option to help combat the rising fuel price blues.

Building on the success of the current Jazz ,Honda says its engineers' have taken the innovative design and versatility of the current car to the next stage'. This they have done with a slightly larger body style yielding better visibility, and more interior space offering greater flexibility of use. More economical petrol engines offer a lively alternative to comparable diesel cars.

The 90PS 1.2 -litre engine, the manufacturer says, achieves 55.4 mpg on the combined cycle,with CO2 emissions of just 120 g/km (VED Band B). The 100PS 1.4-litre engine is also improved with a performance at 54.3 mpg ,and CO2 emissions of 123 g/km.

In these times of rising fuel prices and financial instability you may be planning your next car purchase, perhaps looking to downsize. With the Jazz's new spaciousness,you may feel you will not have to compromise too much. Worth a good look.
For more details you can go to the Green Car Guide from here

Electric Cars are Go at the British Motor Show

Visitors to the British Motor Show are being treated to a stunning collection of the very best in motoring including some incredible electric cars. These cars include two two seater sports cars - the Electric Lightening GT (by a UK company ) and the Tesla Roadster (by a US company and familiar to these pages see to right). There is also representing the electrics the Ze-o,the first family size ,five seater MPV , from leading electrical vehicle retailer, the NICE company (see earlier post this month); as well as models from G-Wiz and the new brand Quiet Cars.

The Electric Lightening (shown above),which has a built in battery charging system ,can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds,and with power of 700+bhp can do 130 mph. Here is a top-end exciting car that defies the often held belief that electric means compromise on performance.

For a gallery of pictures of other green cars at the British Motor Show click here for the Green Car Guide website

'Green' are the eye-catching cars starring at the British Motor Show

I promised you a comprehensive look at the many stunning green cars previewed at the British Motor Show which opens tomorrow. Do go now to the Green Car Guide website for first hand information and superb images of many of the low emission cars on show which are either currently available to buy, or are soon to be available to buy, in the UK; there are a few exciting concepts,too,if you like to see what's new and developing.

Shown at the top is the green award-winning Ford Focus ECOnetic which emits a low CO2 rate at 114g/kg (depending on model e.g. the Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi Style has 119g/kg of CO2 and averages 62.7 mpg) giving it tax and running cost benefits.

So if cars excite you, or you are looking for your next car to buy, you should follow your interest and start your research here at the Green Car Guide

Where the UK's largest collection of 'greener' vehicles,low and no emission cars, and 'green' car technologies will be this week

The British Motor Show opens later this week. It's star-studded cast of motors from all around the World will include the largest collection of green cars ever assembled in the UK claims Paul Everitt,Chief Executive of The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Apart from showcasing a stunning array of low and no emission cars, the show should go a long way to informing the public about the new green technologies, and clearing a number of misconceptions held by many which, according to research released last week by the organisers of the British Motor Show, sponsored by Zurich Connect include:

Electric Cars

* Over half (58%) do not realise electric vehicles don't have exhaust pipes

Biofuels

A quarter of people (25%) think biofuel produces no CO2 at all

Hybrids

* Almost a third (30%) believe hybrid vehicles run on biofuels alone

There are things for all to learn from the Show.

Do come back to us here over the next few days for illuminating reports on the exciting low emission cars available, or soon to be available, in the UK market at the British Motor Show

Co2nfused about Vehicle Excise Duty?

If you are confused about the upcoming new and increased rates of excise vehicle duty, you are not alone. Here is a table of the proposed new rates of VED courtesy of the Green Car Guide

The family Ze-O all-electric no emissions car that's NICE

At the British Motor Show next week will be unveiled the Ze-O, an all-electric MPV from NICE Car Company.This is a family car that will be here in the UK, in the Autumn,and available to the rest of Europe in 2009.

Julian Wilford,co-founder of NICE Car Company feels the Ze-O is a practical, and "genuinely spacious and affordable [electric] car", of the type customers are looking for now. "We expect to be very busy at the motor show,"he said earlier this week.

So what do we know of the Ze-O. Well it is:

* manufactured in China
* styled in Europe
* will cost c.#14k
* capable of a top speed of 55mph (optional longer-range lithium ion batteries will be available soon)
* emissions free and has a range of upto 65 miles in the city
* claimed to cost a fraction of the cost of conventional petrol or diesel cars (exempt from road tax,no congestion charge, and boasts a few pence a mile to run)

The Ze-O is one the several all-electric, and soon to be actually available to buy cars, being exhibited at the British Motor Show when it opens on 22nd July at Excel in London.

More details will emerge at the show.

Tesla Motors boosts the high performance zero emissions all-electric road car

Many of you who have been following the low emission cars site since the early days may remember that we have been carrying the Tesla Motors banner, which provides a free link to the web site of that groundbreaking company that is producing the Tesla Roadster. The Roadster is now in production in the US (but is a while off as a production car for these shores).

During the time the Tesla banner has been' flying' so to speak here, there have been successes and setbacks for the project designed to deliver a full performance,and all-electric car.But the clear indications on the ground, in California, are that the technology and viability of the Roadster have been proved. So I am glad that we are now seeing the fruits of the endeavour which only a short while ago some commentators doubted they would see to market.

The red Roadster of the first Tesla banner has now made way (right column) for another colour (as above) 'on the road' version.

In the race to produce low emission cars, many manufacturers have opted for lower performance and/or smaller cars. Tesla Motors have always believed that you can have both super car performance - 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 3.9 seconds- and the fastest top gear acceleration of any production car tested by Car&Driver Magazine in 2007. With this extra efficiency come zero emissions.

You may say that this is of small impact - the supply and market will be small, and at the moment contained in the US- but the feasibility of producing the large volume stylish performance all-electric road car, the manufacturers claim is clear.

Hence to back up their belief, it has recently been announced that a sedan version of the Roadster will be built in California and will be produced towards the end of 2010. The company has always said it wanted to build affordable battery-electric cars, and is targeting the mid-range family use market. The Tesla accomplishment should encourage the other manufacturers who are producing or developing all-electric cars.

The Tesla Roadster is scheduled to be at the British Motor Show, as will be many electric cars from other companies,both production models and concepts.

Next up soon will be the Ze-O from the NICE car company.

Copyright (c) 2008 CFM(Services)Limited. All rights reserved.

Into water not CO2 that's hydrogen power for you

In a week when Gorden Brown called for all cars sold in 2020 to be either electric or hybrid and emitting 100 g/km of CO2 or less, a British company, ITM, announce a breakthrough in its development of a prototype home refueling station for the hydrogen car. This breakthrough reported by the BBC news maybe the very long term solution for a thirsty oil guzzling world fast running out of supply. For a report click on Red Herring.

Though, in addition to continuing concern from some university academics about the sustainability of the energy used to produce the hydrogen as a fuel-it requires electricity to generate it- there is the 'chicken and egg' twist. There is no refueling infrastructure to support a large number of hydrogen cars,and too few cars to encourage the investment in such an infrastructure. Assuming the technology is sound-the wonder material converting water into hydrogen (and oxygen) is a newly developed polymer-and the sustainability aspect is dealt with (use of renewable energy: from, wind,wave,solar etc.) then the market will develop the necessary refueling stations,and the car manufacturers are already working hard to produce the cars. Take Honda,for instance.

On November 16,last year, low emission cars reported-Honda home-in on a solution to the shortage of hydrogen- that Honda was trialling the Home Energy Staion 1v using natural gas to generate hydrogen for a hydrogen fuel-cell car and to provide power for domestic heat and light. ITM,too have seen that its refueling prototype can be a domestic appliance for driver convenience, although it does seem that the range of 25 mile per refuel is a practical limiting factor at present... something about the need to incorporate fuel-cell technology to extend range ,some scientists say.

The jury may still be out on the ITM project to provide the revolution the oil-strapped economies need, there clearly are going to be hydrogen cars in the mix in the near future. Honda is one manufacturer investing heavily in hydrogen power. Its FCX Clarity
hydrogen fuel cell car (lec archive:November ,2007) is currently being leased on a limited trial basis to drivers in the US. It seems clear there will be other exciting developments announced in this area of zero emission motoring in the coming months.

Meanwhile,if you are thinking of changing your car now for a low emission car that is currently available you should go for helpful information by clicking on at the Green Car Guide site.

Vehicle Excise Duty increases:more than 9m car owners will be worse-off, admits HM Treasury


Vehicle Excise Duty and CO2 emissions together are currently very much in the news. The above startling statistic has been admitted by the Treasury in a parliamentary answer. It has emerged that only 4.1 million motorists representing just 18% of the 21.9 million cars that will be on our roads by 2010/11 will be better-off. The Government believe over 9 million motorists will be worse off contrary to earlier official statements made at the time of the March budget.

From April 2010,the maximum VED will be £455 ( increased from £210) for the highest CO2 emitting vehicles registered between March 2001 and March 23,2006. Later registrations will also attract a higher duty.

Although the appliance of heavy VED rates to pre-2006 car registrations smacks of retrospective taxation (not good), the inescapable fact is that the Government is committed to tackling climate change(which is good) and sees raising money in this way the answer (debatable).The heavier polluting cars are, therefore,going to be subject to ever increasing taxes over the next few years. However painful,and many families are going to be seriously affected in the short run,it will eventually pay financially to keep abreast of emerging new car technology and new production models of the more environmentally-friendly cars.

In emphasising its commitment to more fuel-efficient cars and in turn reducing running costs, the Government has launched a consultation on the compulsory CO2 emission targets proposed by the European Commission.
The Government would like to see a longer term target of achieving 100g/km of CO2 by 2020.

The high iQ to deliver top class fuel economy and low emissions

The Toyota iQ is an ultra-compact which can carry up to three adults plus a child in comfort. Emphatically proving that small does not mean basic, the iQ is a completely new proposition for urban motoring that is stylish, sophisticated, technically advanced and kinder to the environment.

Further details released by Toyota reveal that, at less than three metres long, the iQ is wider and has a longer cabin than a Toyota Yaris. It achieves a breakthrough in small car packaging to deliver unprecedented interior space, thanks to a series of interlinked engineering innovations.

Furthermore, a newly developed differential allows for a more compact engine compartment and for the front wheels to be pushed out to the very corners of the car. An ingenious steering gear design enables the engine and differential to be repositioned, giving the car a shorter front overhang.

Overall length is reduced thanks to a flat under-floor fuel tank and rear-angled shock absorbers, while a significantly smaller heater/air conditioning unit takes up less cabin room, allowing the front passenger seat to be moved closer to the base of the windscreen. The result is an extra 100mm of cabin length compared to Yaris and shoulder room similar to that offered by a Toyota Auris.

Passenger space is further helped by an asymmetric dashboard design and slim, sculpted front seats that optimise leg room for those sitting in the rear. The 3+1 seating configuration provides comfortable space for three adults – plus a seat for a child or luggage space behind the driver.

iQ has a thoroughly contemporary and forward-looking design inside and out, the interior styled on a “techno-organic” theme with geometric precision and high quality materials. The dashboard is a stand-out feature, with its floating V-shaped centre console.

Production of iQ is due to start later this year with UK sales scheduled for spring 2009. Two petrol and one diesel engine will be available, which, together with the car’s light weight and aerodynamic shape, will deliver exceptional fuel economy and low emissions. Details of the powertrains and equipment specifications will be announced later.

The upcoming British International Motor Show from 22nd July at Excel will unveil several super efficient green cars in competition including the eco-friendly ECOnetic version of the Ford Fiesta,VW's Polo Bluemotion, and that other supermini the SEAT Ibiza ECOmotive with a sub-100g/km CO2 emissions.
More details coming up soon. Meanwhile, click here to look at the exciting site for the British Motor Show

High performance car tyres that will give you 20% less rolling resistance and more miles

When it come to high performance motoring that maximises the use of fuel and therefore significantly helps to reduce CO2 emissions,Michelin can show a long time collaboration with Peugeot to combine innovative and performance enhancing developments in engineering,designing and tyre technology. The result is that Peugeot have shod its latest 308 with the new Michelin Energy Saver tyres.



According to Michelin, its technological solution generates fuel savings of nearly 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined cycle driving, resulting in a reduction in CO2 emissions of nearly 4 grams per kilometre. This represents around a one tonne reduction of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere over the entire life of the vehicle. By comparison, that same amount would take 40 trees, one year to absorb.The tyre manufacturer's technological solution generates fuel savings of nearly 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined cycle driving, resulting in a reduction in CO2 emissions of nearly 4 grams per kilometre. This represents around a one tonne reduction of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere over the entire life of the vehicle. By comparison, that same amount would take 40 trees, one year to absorb.Michelin

The Peugeot 308 HDi 110 (at top) has a published fuel economy of 60.1mpg (combined), CO2 emissions of 129g/km and Peugeot’s latest Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) technology. Its Michelin all-new Energy Saver tyre,originally exclusive to Peugeot reduces tyre rolling resistance by 20% and correspondingly improves overall fuel economy and environmental efficiency. It is worth repeating that CO2 output can be reduced by up to 4g/km with these tyres, reaching a total reduction of potentially 1 tonne throughout the vehicle’s life. Michelin have now put these tyres into the replacement market and are available for a wide range of vehicles. Michelin claim lower fuel consumption,more safety, and outstanding longevity for their tyres. Details on these at Michelin