low emission cars

2010-12-30T16:38:00.003Z

Cut fuel usage,so saving costs,and reducing carbon emissions- the Ford econo way

Fuel efficiency leads to savings and lower emissions. The following app has got to be worth a look.

Ford Econo Check, which went on sale this year, enables Ford vehicles to be fitted with a data logger for seven days to monitor how they are driven. In response to the latest fuel price rise, its price is now £11.99 to help drivers minimise petrol and diesel use.

Ford says the The Ford Econo Check app calculates potential fuel savings for any car – based on make, model, age and annual mileage – and pick up fuel efficient driving tips on any iPhone or iPad.

Once the Econo Check chip is removed and data downloaded, a tailored report advises how modifying gear changes, anticipation, acceleration and braking will improve fuel economy. Resulting savings are also shown, which can be up to 25 per cent or £474 a year according to a study of 50,000 drivers.

Now all iPhone and iPod users can access Ford Econo Check tips and generalised data for any vehicle make. Those who are Ford drivers can locate their nearest Ford dealer to book an Econo Check for their personalised report.

May I wish you all the very best for a healthy and prosperous New Year!

2010-12-17T20:48:00.002Z

New London Congestion Charge effective 4th January 2011

The Green Car Guide has just announced its Top 10 Cars that you'll be able to drive in London free of the New London Congestion Charge which starts on 4th January 2011 - Green Car Guide

It reports that: "Boris's new emissions-based system, where cars emitting 100 g/km CO2 or less will be exempt - as long as they meet Euro 5 air quality standards - will replace the current 'technology-based' approach, meaning that hybrids will no longer necessarily be exempt from the charge - unless they comply with the criteria above.

The outcome is likely to be that lots of diesel-engined cars will replace the popularity of cars such as the previous-generation Toyota Prius, which emitted 104 g/km CO2 and which will soon have to pay to drive in central London...

...
Electric cars will be appearing from mainstream manufacturers from early 2011, and with zero tailpipe emissions they will provide a much better solution to help with clean air in central London. However they will be treated no differently in terms of Congestion Charge exemption than a diesel car emitting 99 g/km CO2... Green Car Guide

2010-11-29T15:24:00.004Z

First electric vehicle to win the prestigious award
Car and batteries to be built in Britain from 2013
UK deliveries start in March, priced at £23,990

Nissan Leaf lifts prestigious CoTY award for 2011

Since my last post yesterday, I have received the historic news that the 100% electric Nissan LEAF has been awarded 2011 European Car of the Year. This is fantastic news for Nissan and low emission cars.

The world’s first mass-marketed, affordable, zero-emission vehicle for the global market beat 40 contenders to win motoring’s most important accolade. This is the first time in the 47-year history of the annual competition that the award has gone to an electric vehicle. Nissan LEAF’s rivals included vehicles from brands such as Alfa Romeo, Citroen, Dacia, Ford, Opel/Vauxhall and Volvo. The jury included 57 leading motoring journalists from 23 European countries.

“The jury acknowledged today that the Nissan LEAF is a breakthrough for electric cars. Nissan LEAF is the first EV that can match conventional cars in many respects,” said Håkan Matson, President of the Jury, Car of the Year.

For more information go to www.twitter.com/nissanpr

2010-11-28T23:05:00.009Z

The Nissan Leaf is here!

Green-car-guide.com reports that : The Nissan LEAF, the world’s first mass-produced electric family hatchback, is now rolling off the production line, and Green-Car-Guide has carried out its most extensive test of the car to date, both in the city and on the open road.  The big headline is that no-one should fear the electric car. As long as you go into a relationship with a Nissan LEAF knowing that a slightly different mindset will be required about the range limitations, then there is very little to fault the car on.  

In a full report Green Car Guide covers the road testing of the the LEAF on a variety of roads in Portugal, and says,"The car is primarily designed for the city, and it certainly makes complete sense in this environment. Driving it is easy, just move the computer mouse-like gear selector to drive, and it’s like driving a car with automatic transmission – except that you don’t get the sensation the car is struggling to find the right gear, which is a feature of many automatics."

The Guide also notes: " If you are on a renewable energy tariff then the electricity and car combination could mean zero emissions. If you get your electricity to recharge the car from the average UK energy mix, then this should mean that the CO2 [ emissions] of the LEAF is somewhere between 62-72 g/km."

For full details on the Leaf you should go to green-car-guide.com

2010-11-04T14:04:00.003Z

Why go electric? You should Think about it!

According to the Think ev people the reasons you should go electric are:

electric cars have no tailpipe at all, and no local CO2 emissions,nitrous oxide or particle emissions
driving electrical vehicles (evs) will even reduce noise pollution
evs are both clean and silent

The THINK City is on sale across Europe with production reaching the milestone of 2,500 units recently. Sales and production are also about to commence in the US. THINK has been a unique innovator in pure electric vehicles and power-train technology for nearly twenty years, positioning the company as a world leader in producing cars on a dedicated and highway safe platform. The THINK City can maintain speeds of 70 miles per hour and travel up to 100 miles on a single charge. In total THINK has now sold approaching 10,000 EV’s accumulating 35 million zero-emissions road miles to date.

Check out the full range at thinkev.com now.

2010-07-20T23:01:00.004+01:00

The 9-5 set to resurrect the Saab brand with its green credentials

The Green Car Guide reports the following data for the 9-5 a 2.0 litre diesel:

Fuel economy extra urban: 64.1 mpg
Fuel economy urban: 40.9 mpg
CO2 emissions: 139 g/km
Green rating: VED band E - first year £110
Weight: 1725 Kg
Company car tax liability (2010/11): 19%
Price: £26,495 (From £26,495 - £37,795)
Insurance group: 24E
Power: 160 bhp
Max speed: 134 mph
0-62 mph: 9.4 seconds
DPF: Yes

For the full details of the Saab 9-5 Saloon 2.0 TiD review, Saab 9-5 Saloon 2.0 TiD road test go to the Green Car Guide site

Also featured is the Vauxhall Insignia now with higher mpg and lower CO2 emissions. You can check it out at Green car Guide

2010-06-14T16:04:00.004+01:00

Toyota hybrid engine first for Deeside

According to the The Liverpool Post - 'Toyota's £700m plant in North Wales has become the first factory outside Japan to manufacture a hybrid engine... the Deeside operation which opened in 1992 is to build the 1.8-litre VVT-1 petrol engine for the new Auris Hybrid model.'

Richard Kenworthy, TMUK's General Manager Engine Manufacturing, is reported to have said:"This is the first time a Toyota hybrid engine has been manufactured outside Japan and we take great pride in having that opportunity."

For more information about the new Auris and its low emission credentials check out the report at Green-Car-Guide.com

2010-05-12T14:20:00.003+01:00

New cars in Europe making a difference with lower CO2 emissions

According to the world’s leading provider of automotive intelligence, JATO Dynamics,average European new car CO₂ emissions are falling at a faster rate than ever before and are on course to meet 2015 EU targets

Volume-weighted, average European new car CO₂ emissions have fallen by almost 20g/km since 2003 – now 145.9 g/km

2009 experienced greatest single-year reduction in CO₂emissions

New technologies, taxation, recession, high fuel prices and scrappage all driving CO₂ downward

Current rate of reduction puts 2015 EU targets within reach, says JATO

Last year saw the greatest single-year decline in average CO₂, as the urge to put cleaner cars on the road was accelerated by the rich mix of customer demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles, the introduction of CO₂ based taxes in some markets and national scrappage schemes across Europe favouring smaller, cleaner cars.

The volume-weighted European new car average is now 145.9 g/km, almost 20 g/km less than 2003, when JATO began collating European CO₂ emissions data. Furthermore, half of all new cars sold in the 21 countries analysed had official CO₂ emissions of 140g/km or less, compared to only 23% in 2003.

Said David Di Girolamo, Head of JATO Consult: “The pace of improvement is remarkable and shows just how rapidly the industry has reacted to environmental demands. In 2003, only 24% of the market achieved an average of 130g/km. This was 40% by 2007, 51% in 2008 and 69% last year, already ahead of the 2012 EU target*. This achievement is even greater when set in the context of new cars becoming larger, safer and better equipped, as consumer demands reach ever higher.”

  According to JATO, the progress in CO₂ emissions is due to three key factors:

#1. Vehicle developments

#2. Taxation

#3. Scrappage schemes

You can see the full data compiled in the JATO Consult CO2 Report 2009 at www.jato.com

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2010-04-28T14:49:00.001+01:00

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2010-03-18T14:32:00.003Z

The zero emission all-electric Nissan Leaf car to be made in Sunderland UK

Today’s news that UK is to become the third global manufacturing location for Nissan electric vehicles is great news for Sunderland in the UK. Nissan’s decision also sees the UK as a leader in the development and commercial production of low and zero emission cars.

The first in a range of Nissan electric vehicles is the Nissan LEAF announced by Nissan as the world’s first affordable, mass produced zero emission car. Production is to begin in early 2013.

Initial annual production capacity in Sunderland will be about 50,000 units. Together with Sunderland battery plant production, this represents more than a 420 million GBP (468.2 million euro) investment in zero emission mobility.

Nissan also said that construction of its advanced lithium-ion battery plant, announced last year, is to begin this April. The Sunderland facility will have a production capacity of 60,000 units a year and will start manufacturing batteries in 2012 for both Nissan and its Alliance partner Renault.

Andy Palmer, senior vice president at Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and responsible for the company's global EV strategy, said: “The world is at the dawn of a new era in automotive transport. Nissan LEAF, which will go on sale later this year, is a five-seater hatchback that offers the same space, practicality and performance of a similar car in its class – minus the tailpipe emissions."

Production of Nissan LEAF will begin in Oppama, Japan later this year followed by Smyrna, Tennessee, USA in 2012. Sunderland will come on-line in early 2013 with an initial annual production capacity of about 50,000 units.

The three production sites will support the sales launch of the model, which begins in late 2010 in Japan, the United States and selected European markets, ahead of global mass marketing from 2012.

Nissan and its Alliance partner Renault are the only automakers committed to mass marketing pure electric vehicles on a global scale and together have announced production capacity of 500,000 units per year.

Last December, Nissan and Regional Development Agency One North East signed a definitive agreement on zero emission mobility. The agreement includes the development of a regional network of charging points, supply of Nissan LEAF to the region from early 2011 and a range of incentives for early adopters of EVs, such as a period of free charging and use of dedicated EV lanes.

Although zero-emission vehicles are the centerpiece of Nissan’s product strategy, the company is also investing in a portfolio of low-emission technologies (called PureDrive) such as clean diesels, efficient internal-combustion engines and hybrids.
The speed of success of the electric car in UK will very much depend on the building of a supporting infrastructure of charging points, and the sweeping away of the vestiges of consumer resistance to EVs and their perceived shortcomings compared to conventional engined cars.

NISSAN LEAF at a glance:

- World’s first affordable, mass produced zero emission car

- Five-seater C-segment hatchback

- Powered by an 80kW electric motor

- Charges to 80% of capacity in under 30 minutes (rapid charging)

- Real-world range: 160 km (100 miles - US-LA 4 mode)

- Top speed of more than 140 km/h (90 mph)

- Produced on all-new dedicated EV platform

- Try the Green-Car-Guide for more information of Leaf and electric cars

2010-03-10T19:32:00.002Z

Fiat Group post Europe's lowest CO2 car emissions

Fiat's achievements with such iconic cars as the Fiat 500, a retro car with today's attitude for helping reduce the motor industry's carbon footprint, have been reported here down the years.

So it is no surprise to have the following report from Fiat.

Fiat Automobiles report a CO2 average of just 127.8 g/km, compared with 133.7 g/km in 2009’s results. This puts it ahead of Toyota(130.1 g/km), Peugeot (133.6 g/km), Renault (137.5 g/km), Citroen (137.9 g/km), Ford (140.0 g/km), Opel/Vauxhall (148.9 g/km), Volkswagen (150.4 g/km), Audi (160.9 g/km) and Mercedes (176.4 g/km).

Fiat has again set new standards in cutting carbon dioxide emissions, after both the Fiat brand and Fiat Group posted Europe’s lowest volume weighted CO2 emissions, according to JATO, the world leader in automotive advisory and research services.

Fiat also ranked first among the motor groups (131.0 g/km), ahead of Toyota, PSA, Renault and Hyundai.

The statistics show the average emissions figure for every vehicle Fiat sold in Europe in 2009, and also means that Fiat has beaten the European average target of 130 g/km five years ahead of its 2015 implementation.

This eco-friendly achievement is the result of a long-term Fiat strategy based on a two-pronged approach: implementing technological solutions aimed at containing consumption and emissions, and raising the awareness of motorists to spur a more responsible, eco-compatible use of their cars.

Unique engines, such as the new 900cc, 95 g/km Twin-Air two-cylinder and second-generation 1.3 MultiJet engines delivering power of up to 95hp, are part of that strategy. Raising awareness is the second part of the policy – implemented by Fiat’s eco:Drive the in-car software which analyses driver behaviour and suggests ways to improve it.

“These are important figures as they show not just the environmental impact of one or two of our cars, but the whole range,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. "That means that every vehicle we sell is making its own contribution to emissions cutting and is playing its part in making Europe a cleaner place in which to live.”

2010-03-01T16:41:00.004Z

Nissan and Hertz Both Taking a Leaf to reduce carbon emissions

The Nissan Leaf is claimed by its manufacturer to be the world's first affordable zero emission car. The medium-size hatchback is specifically designed for a lithium-ion chassis and is said to provide an eco-mobility in line with rising consumer demand across Europe.It seats five , has a tested range of about 100 miles, or 160km and will go on sale in the US ,Japan,and Europe later this year. There will be a further boost for the car, following an agreement with Hertz,when the Leaf will be available for hire in Europe in 2011. Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mark P Frossora, says that the commitment to green-car rentals is one his company to extend on a global scale.
You can read more about the plans for the Nissan Leaf here

“The partnership with Nissan seals Hertz’s commitment to green-car rentals and firmly demonstrates our mission to advancing zero-emission mobility on a global scale,” said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “With unique solutions like the Hertz Green Collection already available to our customers, we believe in continuously providing innovative mobility solutions to sustain the growing demand for eco-travel,” he added.

2010-02-27T16:01:00.003Z

Electric,hybrid and hydrogen cars to attract Government's new 'plug-in grant' for motorists

From January 2011, a grant will be available at the point of purchase on cars delivered directly from dealership or manufacturer which meet the technical requirements of the Government scheme and for which approval of state aid from the European Commission is given. In short, the cost of eligible electric,plug-in hybrid and hydrogen cars will be reduced by 25% up to a maximum of £5,000. The grant will apply to both private and business consumers. The benefit will be given on purchase, there and then, with no requirement to make a claim.

Details of the cars eligible for the scheme will be published by the government in due course, and on manufacturers' websites. Eligibility will depend on an expert panel ruling that certain performance criteria have been met.

The scheme has largely been welcomed by the motor industry. For more details of the announcement: Department for Transport

also the Green-Car-Guide.com

2010-02-25T16:51:00.006Z

Tesla in Town! Exciting new electric sports car in the UK! No carbon emissions.

In December of 2006, I reported on 'the ultimate green dream car.' That car was the Tesla Roadster, and I have carried at the top of this page an image of a Tesla Roadster, and a link to Tesla Motors. At that time of writing the concept of motoring in such style and speed in anything other than a high-powered, high-end priced, conventional engined motor car was still considered by most as an eccentric whim, an impossible dream. The widespread belief was that electric cars of this nature, produced commercially in volume were never likely to be made. In any case who would want them?

Well, many people, prospective owners of the Roadster, took a leap of faith and put deposits down for one and prepared to wait. The Roadster was initially produced for the US market which it hit in 2007. It is truly satisfying to see a true green car which was once a mere concept car, and risked being a project failure meeting expectations.

This month the first right-hand-drive Roadster was delivered for the highways of the UK.

Tesla claim the benefits from buying a Roadster are significant. That car costs about 1.5 pence per mile compared to 32 pence per mile for the conventional petrol-powered sports cars. Add to this the forthcoming tax savings to encourage the purchase of low emission cars- petrol engined sports cars carry a 'show-room' tax of £950- and the waiving of the London Congestion Charge for alternative fuel vehicles and the Roadster owner's costs are considerably reduced .

It takes less than 10 seconds to plug-in the Tesla each evening. As the electric car market grows the infrastructure will be put in place to make it easier for recharging when away from home. Oh, and the car maker says that the owner will never need to pay for oil changes.

Worth a look. But it will set you back the best part of £90,000. Innovation and Style still does not come cheap. The exciting thing is that the technology works and should help drive the developments being carried-out by carmakers to produce volume production cars to meet all our pockets. Technology research company, Pike Research, predicts a 17-fold market increase in electric cars on our roads in the next five years.

Tesla Motors

2010-02-18T11:19:00.005Z

Citroen claims new Anti Retro movement with the DS3

The DS3 has been launched with a massive advertising campaign under the slogan -"Never Look Back." Said to be a new Anti retro movement, always looking forward not back. But the best of its time is never to be sniffed at, in my view. The best of today always tends to build on the best from yesterday. So it is with the DS3, I believe.

With a body shape resonant of an evolved early mini , the DS3 is a stylish usurper.

Its green credentials are certainly of today, though. Sporting bang up to date hi-tech kit,USB connections and Hi-Fi with Bluetooth , the 1.6 HDi version is rated at a mere 99g/km of CO2 emissions. On top of this you can choose from 38 combinations of body and roof colour- now that's not quite psychedelic, but colourful looking forward.

For more information on the Citroen DS3 you can go to www.citroen.co.uk

2010-02-15T11:28:00.002Z

The new VW Hybrid Touareg unveiled

This all-new Touareg is unveiled by VW as cleaner,sharper and lighter than its predecessor. 200g lighter and using 20 per cent less fuel it only manages 34 mpg on the combined cycle. But the real story is about new styling and other aspects of performance and features across four model versions of which the hybrid is but one.
Clean new styling which draws inspiration from the design direction established by the Golf Mk VI, the new Polo and the New Compact Coupé concept lends the new Touareg greater presence and a lower drag coefficient without sacrificing the functional requirements of short front and rear overhangs for off-roading.
Standard examples of the new Touareg will feature an eight-speed transmission as well as, on the majority of models, Start/Stop technology, touchscreen satellite navigation and leather upholstery. In addition, a choice of advanced new options can be specified including High Beam Assist that automatically dips the headlights when it senses oncoming traffic, Side Assist to warn of vehicles occupying blind spots, adaptive roll compensation air suspension and air conditioned, massaging seats.
At the heart of the new Touareg is a range of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines and, for the first time, a Hybrid
Production of the new Touareg for the UK market starts in June before first deliveries commence in August. Prices and specifications will be announced nearer this time.
More information on this at the Green Car Guide

2010-02-08T15:44:00.005Z

A new clean, fuel efficient and sparky new mini car: the Spark from Chevrolet

Available in the Spring, in the UK, is the new Chevrolet Spark which replaces the Matiz. This is a sporty and roomy new mini, with 5-door and 5-speed manual gears. Reports are that it is likely to have greater appeal for younger drivers than its predecessor. The choice of engines is a 1.0 litre or 1.2 litre petrol engine giving on the combined cycle 55.4 mph, and CO2 emissions at a creditable 119 g/km. This is one to watch and it may only set you back about £7k with the standard package. There is a versatile 170 litres of luggage space which , with rear seats folded down ,becomes 568 litres. The interior design provides excellent leg room for both driver and passengers.

Worth looking out for in the near future. To find a local retailer you can visit www.chevrolet.co.uk

2010-02-02T14:45:00.003Z

BMW's Vision for fuel efficient cars

It is a little while since we last looked at a concept low emission super car. Nothing could be more topical today than the work going on at BMW Efficient Dynamics for tomorrow. At BMW they are particularly excited about their concept sports car (as well as the electric ActivE pictured above).

BMW says,"The BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics is the most dynamic expression of the future, which marries the fuel efficiency of a hatchback with the power of a high-performance sports car. This concept car combines both diesel and electric engines to deliver 356 hp whilst only consuming 75.1 mpg at 99g/km CO2." To follow to an image of this car, and for more of this story of breathtaking performance and ground-breaking fuel efficiency, you should go to www.bmw.co.uk/vision

As I mentioned above, BMW also have the ActivE under development. This is a purely electrical concept car and a representation is given above. BMW is truly going for the fuel efficient and no or low emission cars.

2010-01-24T23:06:00.004Z

Happy Second Anniversary to the Fiat 500

Can you believe it? It is almost two years to the day since the UK launch of the 500 city car, when it was exhibited in one of the viewing capsules of the London Eye. That launch of this low CO2 emitting car with the iconic design was reported here at low emission cars.co.uk on 25th January 2008 ( you can go to the right sidebar here and click on January 2008 for the archived report).

Fiat Marylebone, the flagship motor dealer has marked this special occasion with a 'gallery' viewing of a unique collection of special edition Fiat 500 models from around the world.

“Artists, architects, designers, musicians and painters have all felt moved to put their distinctive stamp on the Fiat 500,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “And the resulting works of art shown at these second anniversary celebrations were the products of their talent, inspiration and relationship with a great car."

He reports that more than 40,000 500s have been sold in the UK since the launch two years ago. Fiat are delighted with the sales success.

Eight uniquely designed Fiat 500s were displayed in the gallery, including the 500 Capri by Castagna, the 500 Valentino Rossi, 500 by Andy, 500 Diabolika, 500 Ron Arad and the new Fiat 500 Pink, which went on sale exclusively on-line this week. Examples of the Fiat 500byDiesel and a racing Abarth 500 were also shown.

Each of the special cars will be displayed in the Wigmore Street flagship’s showroom window, one at a time, until the end of February.

2010-01-23T20:50:00.005Z

So you think you know all about low emission cars? Try the Green Car Game.

I thought I knew about low emission cars. Well, perhaps I do, but, hey, we can all learn something more. Try this out. An unusual new game devised and recently issued by the team at the Green Car Guide . I could tell you all about it, but what would be the fun in that for you? Do have a look yourself. Access is free. If you are interested in fuel efficient cars the information is for you.

Coinciding with the launch of the Green Car Game was the announcement on 21st January that Green-Car-Guide.com ,the UK's original green car news website has become part of RSK Group, the UK's largest independent multidisciplinary environmental consultancy. RSK is one of the fastest growing companies of its kind in Europe.

Green-Car-Guide.com team's already impressive environmental credentials will be enhanced further by access to RSK's 850-strong consultant knowledge base, which includes experts in such relevant fields as transport infrastructure and carbon management.

With the resources that RSK can provide, the Green-Car-Guide should continue to grow to become one of the very first points of contact for motorists, raising their awareness and helping them choose cars with lower environmental impact.

So, go on. Have a go. Play the Green Car Game here.

2010-01-13T23:00:00.004Z

For the second time in three years BMW scoops the Award for the Greenest Car Manufacturer

Could a premium car manufacturer possibly have what it takes to drive to the front and take the laurels as greenest car manufacturer in 2009?

Well ,Green-Car-Guide.com is delighted to announce the winner of the Greenest Manufacturer of the Year Award. This goes to the manufacturer who in its opinion has made the biggest impact in bringing lower emission cars to British car buyers, throughout the course of 2009. Yes, that is BMW, and you can catch a full report at www.green-car-guide.com

Green-Car-Guide.com can also provide you with a vast amount amount of information on the latest green cars on the road.

There are data and reports of test drives to help you when you come to choose your new car.

2010-01-09T15:47:00.004Z

CO2 'capture' project takes root with carmaker Audi's support

Hello!

Let's start with a positive piece of 'green' news in the fight to mitigate the effects of CO2 emissions. Audi has funded the planting of 36,000 oak trees in Germany to replace a forest wiped out in 2007 by an beetle infestation, The new forest will help as a carbon 'trap', and also provide an environment to encourage bio-diversity.

Audi reports that it will continue to introduce efficiency technologies in its drive to produce low emission cars.It says it already offers 33 car models worldwide with an average CO2 value below 140 g/km, and claims the brand is in the leading position among premium car manufacturers. By 2012 it expects to cut fleet CO2 emissions by a further 20%,

Audi further announces that the A3 1.6 TDI, already said to be the 'cleanest' in the premium sector with CO2 emissions of just 109 g/km, has just become available in a new version which cracks the 100g/km mark throwing-out CO2 emissions of only 99 g/km, corresponding to a fuel consumption of 74.3 mpg. These efficiencies look impressive.

Here's wishing you all a Very Happy and Safe New Year!

2009-12-31T20:50:00.003Z

CO2 EMISSIONS TUMBLE TO 99 g/km IN NEW AUDI A3 TDI

The people at Audi tell me that aerodynamic measures and optimised TDI unit combine to deliver even more exceptional economy and emissions figures

New ultra-economical, ultra-low CO₂ version of A3 1.6 TDI significantly undercuts the original 1.9 TDIe on emissions and boosts economy thanks to advanced common rail fuel injection, start-stop and recuperation, combined with aerodynamic modifications
Available in three-door form with five-speed manual transmission only, and in Standard trim only, priced at £18,005 OTR
Turbocharged diesel features high pressure common rail injection and delivers up to 74.3mpg with CO₂ output of 99g/km (0-62mph in 11.4 seconds, top speed 121mph)
Revised final drive ratio, low rolling resistance tyres, slightly lowered ride height and modified under-body aid streamlining for optimum efficiency

A new, ultra-efficient version of the Audi A3 1.6 TDI - already the most economical premium sector car with the lowest CO₂ output - is available to order from this week, extending the compact hatchback’s lead by paring back CO₂ output even further to just 99g/km and boosting combined economy to up to 74.3mpg. This exceptional frugality is available in one specific A3 configuration – the three-door body style equipped to Standard specification – priced at £18,005 OTR. All other variations of the 1.6 TDI continue to offer the class-leading combination of 68.9mpg potential and 109g/km CO₂ output.

Small but significant alterations combine with existing A3 1.6 TDI features including engine start-stop and energy recuperation systems. The key elements responsible for the efficiency gains in the most focused 1.6 TDI to date include a modified final drive ratio for the standard five-speed manual transmission, a reduced ride height, under-body revisions to reduce aerodynamic drag and the use of slightly smaller 15-inch alloy wheels shod with low rolling resistance tyres.The start-stop system conserves fuel by cutting engine power at idle when the clutch pedal is released and the gear lever is in its neutral position, and then restarting when the clutch is depressed, while the recuperation function recycles a proportion of the wasted kinetic energy generated under normal braking and normally dissipated as heat, and stores this temporarily in the battery to reduce engine load when the car subsequently accelerates again.

Despite its remarkable combined economy figure of 74.3mpg and its road tax eliminating 99g/km CO₂ output, the A3 1.6 TDI can draw on the same 105PS power output and 250Nm torque peak as all other versions, and consequently can match them on performance, clearing 62mph from rest in 11.4 seconds and offering the option to continue to 121mph where conditions allow.

The A3 1.6 TDI with 99g output will be available exclusively in Standard specification, which in this specific case includes 15-inch 7-arm design alloy wheels (normally 16-inch 7-arm design), manual air conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows and a Chorus radio with single CD player. Versions equipped to SE, Sport and S line specification, and all Sportback models, continue to offer the class-leading 109g/km output and the potential to cover up to 68.9mpg (except the A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI S tronic with 112g/km output and 65.7mpg).

These efficiency standard bearers are far from the exception to the rule for Audi. The Vorsprung durch Technik brand offers an exceptional range of models that champion the cause, the most notable being the A4 TDIe Saloon with emissions of 120g/km and 61.4mpg capability, the A6 TDIe with 53.3mpg and 139g/km and the TT TDI quattro with 53.3mpg and 139g/km. In 2010, another highlight will be launched in the shape of the all-new A8 luxury saloon, which in 3.0-litre TDI 204PS form will deliver another class best with the potential to cover up to 47.1mpg while emitting just 159g/km of CO₂.

Picture caption
Three radical from Audi - A new, ultra-efficient version of the Audi A3 1.6 TDI is available to order from this week priced at £18,005 OTR, and offering an exceptional combination of 99g/km CO₂ output and 74.3mpg economy potential. This remarkable frugality is available exclusively in the three-door manual version equipped to Standard specification.

Audi UK report it has enjoyed an exceptionally rapid rise to prominence in the premium sector. In 2000 just over 43,000 Audi models found homes in the UK, and from that point until 2008 the brand has broken annual sales records year-on-year, successfully passing the milestone 100,000 sales mark in 2007. Despite the market turmoil of 2008, Audi ended the year with a record 4.7% market share from 100,845 sales. The brand continues to maintain a steady trajectory by extending its reach into important new segments with strong offerings such as the A3 Cabriolet, A5 Cabriolet, Q5, RS 6 and R8, and by bolstering its appeal to its existing customer base with core models like the all-new A4 and A4 Avant.

May I wish you all you wish for a Happy and Safe driving New Year! Come back soon in 2010!

2009-12-07T20:03:00.003Z

THE NEW LOW CO2 CITROËN VISIODRIVE

The new C3 is a smart, sophisticated, low CO₂ and unique 5-door supermini, designed for the modern family, and is expected to be on sale from 15^th January 2010.

It boasts contemporary and dynamic styling, a sleek profile, refined quality throughout and a massive panoramic ‘Zenith’ windscreen. Citroen believe this car sets a new benchmark in the B-segment - and is a bold reinvention of its popular predecessor, which sold more than 2 million units worldwide.

With a focus on four main areas - STYLE, QUALITY, SPACE and EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE - Citroën’s design team have created one of the most appealing and rewarding models to own in its class.

Just one of the stand-out design features of this new car is the vast and flowing glass windscreen. The new C3 also offers one of the most spacious cabin environments and a class-leading 300-litres of boot space. New C3’s intelligent architecture maximizes the use of space and provides generous amounts of room for all occupants and ensures exceptional driver and passenger comfort . On the road, new C3 combines refined performance with a smooth ride and nimble handling. The designers’ focus on the control of weight and optimising aerodynamics means the new C3 is one of Citroën’s most CO₂-efficient models. A Special Edition Airdream+ with just 99g/km of CO₂ will be available to order from launch.

To further promote money-saving greener driving, most versions feature a Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI), which alerts the driver at the optimum moment to change gear - helping them to minimise fuel consumption.

Citroen announce that The ‘on-sale’ date in the UK is 15th January 2010 and prices (including VAT @ 17.5%), start at just £10,790 for the entry-level 1.1i 8V 61hp VT petrol, rising to £16,140 for the range-topping 1.6HDi 110hp 6-speed manual Exclusive. At the heart of the range and offering an excellent balance of value and equipment, VTR+ models start at £12,690 for the petrol versions and £13,790 for the HDi-powered equivalent. For further news follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/citroen

2009-12-06T13:51:00.002Z

The Green Car Guide's 10 top websites relating to green cars

I am pleased to bring you a fund of websites courtesy of green-car-guide.com that will interest and inform you:

1 Car CO2 emissions data
Find CO2 emissions and mpg data by Vehicle Make or Model for new or used cars at VCACarFuelData.org.uk, the official UK source for Car Fuel Consumption and Exhaust Emissions Figures.
www.vcacarfueldata.org.uk
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd search facility also provides CO2 data for all cars registered since January 1997.
www.smmtco2.co.uk/co2search2.asp

2 Road tax rates

Road tax rates keep changing - it's difficult to keep up with it all. Road tax is also getting more expensive, so it's pretty important to make sure you know the rates for your car. See road tax rates at:

www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/HowToTaxYourVehicle/DG_10012524

And remember you can tax your car quickly online at http://www.taxdisc.direct.gov.uk/EvlPortalApp/ - saving all the pain of queuing at the local post office (if you can find one) - taxing your car online is surely one of the most useful things the government has introduced!

3 Compare emissions between different modes of travel

Travelfootprint compares the lifecycle environmental impacts of the main methods of passenger travel in the UK. It also allows a detailed emissions comparison of cars available since 2001.

http://www.travelfootprint.org

4 London Congestion Charge and LEZ

All about the London Congestion Charge, where the area is, and how much it costs, as well as other features such as a Journey Planner:

www.tfl.gov.uk

And Congestion Charge exemptions:

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/congestioncharging/6713.aspx

5 Electric car recharging points

Electric recharging points in London including a map showing all the public-access recharge points in the capital.

www.newride.org.uk

6 LPG

All about LPG, how to convert your vehicle, and the official list of refuelling stations around the UK

http://www.boostlpg.co.uk

7 Biodiesel Filing Stations

Places in the UK where people can fill their diesel vehicle with biodiesel

http://www.biodieselfillingstations.co.uk

8 Car Clubs

Pay-as-you-go-cars

http://www.carclubs.org.uk

9 Car share

Find someone to car share with

https://www.liftshare.com/uk

10 Climate change: the facts

Facts and official information on climate change, what you can do, what government is doing, what business is doing

www.direct.gov.uk/actonco2

And three other sites you may find interesting...

Organic Home

Organic products

http://www.theorganichome.co.uk

Driving School Directory

The UK's First Driving School Directory & Comparison Site

www.search2drive.com

Ashton Hayes Going Carbon Neutral

Aiming to become England's first carbon neutral village

http://www.goingcarbonneutral.co.uk

You can obtain more information about green cars at www.green-car-guide.com

2009-11-13T13:23:00.003Z

For Your Low CO2 Emissions Options Look At The Electric Car Guide

I know. You would love to buy a low emitting but stylish and well equipped car next time. But for years we seem to have had little more than concept and speculation about production models that will not burn fossil fuels or our wallets. Well, there is a generation of such cars now being produced. Yes ,there is still a number of eagerly awaited cars that are scheduled for this year and next. And,yes, there are cars available now that warrant more than a second look.

Let the Green Car Guide tell you about one such car, and others:

'The C1 ev'ie is based on a mainstream four-seater hatchback production car and you can buy it now. ECC (the Electric Car Company) takes a brand new Citroen C1, removes the engine, and replaces it with an electric motor and batteries. All the crash test credentials remain, along with the Citroen interior.

The top speed is a good 60 mph; the range is more of an issue at 60-70 miles. The batteries are expected to last around 7 years in normal usage and take about 6-7 hours to charge from a standard socket from empty to full. It's good to drive but expensive at £18,550. See our C1 ev'ie road test.'

There is much more information in the Green Car Guide Electric Car Guide

If electric cars are still not your thing, there are many other low emission cars to choose from why not download, today free of charge, the Green Car Guide

You are but two clicks away from great fr.ee car information. Try it now. Green car Guide

2009-11-05T20:36:00.005Z

IMPROVED MPG & LOWER CO2 FOR CITROËN’S C3 PICASSO

Citroen claims this to be the the biggest small car on the road. Citroën’s award-winning C3 Picasso, is now even more functional and economical with the availability of a new optional Bluetooth® upgrade and a recent engine improvement that sees the funky MPV deliver sub-120g/km CO2 emissions for just £35 a year road tax.

And there's much more - more connectivity...

further improving C3 Picasso’s already impressive environmental credentials, Citroen says the 1.6HDi 16V 90hp diesel engine has been re-homologated and, in VTR+ & Exclusive trim, now emits just 119g/km of CO2 (down from 125g). Consequently, both of these C3 Picasso models are now classified in VED band C - meaning an annual road tax reduction from £120 to just £35. Even more significantly, these models now deliver an extra 2.7mpg on the combined cycle, bringing the new figure to 62.8mpg.

Also on VTR+ and Exclusive - as part of a new option pack - an integrated Bluetooth® hands-free system has been introduced, so drivers can safely and easily keep in touch when they are on the move. This new option also includes a built-in USB Box and socket, which allows users to connect a portable MP3 player directly to the car’s audio system. Menu navigation and music selection is managed via the steering-mounted and dashboard radio controls, with song titles displayed on the radio screen.

You can follow what goes on in the Citroen camp by going to www.twitter.com/citroenuk

or if you want to research even more widely for your next environmentally friendly car you should go to www.green-car-guide.com

2009-10-31T21:59:00.006Z

NEW SUB-99g CORSA MODEL IS A WORTHY LOW EMISSION CAR

The most economical Vauxhall model ever will be available to order from January 2010 when the new Corsa ecoFLEX hits the UK market, boasting CO₂ emissions of just 98g/km and a miserly combined fuel consumption of 76.3mpg.

The New 3-door Corsa ecoFLEX will be available with 98g/km

Power increased by 20PS over existing 105g/km Corsa ecoFLEX

Even 5-door version achieves sub-100g/km emissions

Even in five-door trim, the Corsa ecoFLEX achieves 99g/km and, like the three-door, is equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) as standard, which dramatically reduces the most harmful emissions. As a result, Corsa ecoFLEX drivers will benefit from not only the lowest 13 per cent BIK diesel band, but full exemption from VED (Vehicle Excise Duty).

Vauxhall say that to achieve this rare combination of performance and frugality, the Corsa ecoFLEX’s 1.3 CDTi now employs a variable geometry turbocharger which significantly improves both performance and efficiency. To support the higher turbo pressure, the compression ratio has also been reduced from 18.0 to 16.8:1, while the injection system’s calibration has been revised to boost low-end torque and peak power.

Yet incredibly, this parsimony has not dented this Corsa’s driveability. Despite the improvement in fuel consumption and emissions, the ecoFLEX packs 21 per cent more power from its 1.3 CDTi turbodiesel engine, its output rising from 75 to 95PS. Torque is also up by 20Nm to 190Nm available at just 1750rpm, allowing drivers the kind of flexibility normally vacant in eco-class cars.

As a result, the Corsa ecoFLEX’s performance is enhanced further, despite using taller gearing. It will now accelerate from 0-62mph in 12.3 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 110mph.

Using the chassis and aerodynamic modifications from the current Corsa 105g/km model, the new ecoFLEX also benefits from a 20mm lower ride height than standard and in Life trim gets 175/70 low-rolling resistance tyres on 14-inch steel rims (Club models get 15-inch steel rims with alloys as an option) and aero-optimised wheel trims.

The Corsa ecoFLEX is available in Life and Club trim only. Full pricing will be announced soon.

2009-10-27T21:42:00.003Z

What's New and Green at the Tokyo Car Show

For the answer to the question: What are the top ten green cars showing at the Tokyo Motor Show currently in session, you should look no further than the Green-Car-Guide. com, now in its fourth year of reporting on what is green and upcoming in the low emission cars scene. The Tokyo Motor Show is proving a wow, as you would expect, and it is showcasing much of what we will be seeing over the next three years or so in efficient, well designed, and functional ( and affordable) production cars, for you and for me. So to avoid disappointment, I suggest that you go to the Green-Car-Guide, look for yourself at what is going on. More from me soon. Green Car Guide

Although, the Tokyo has a Japanese influence- surprise, but they are worthy- you can still download for FREE.E the Green Car Guide for all current low emission, and therefore environmentally-friendly, cars available in the UK. This is a limited offer. Do take-it up.

www.green-car-guide.com

2009-10-03T14:14:00.005+01:00

low emission cars star at the Frankfurt Motor Show

At the recent motor show held in Frankfurt,while there were the high price motors as usual to drool over, the eco cars were given high billing by many car manufacturers including VW,Peugeot,Audi,Volvo and Citroen. There is an ever growing number of stunning electric cars and electric hybrids being proposed or built. Remember the old joke about the electric car being no better than a milk float. You don't hear that one too much lately. Renault for one,is pinning its future on the change to electric cars,reckoning that within 10 years 10 per cent of its sales will electric vehicles. At Frankfurt, it showed not one but four battery-powered cars for the near future: the Fluence Z.E, the Clio-sized Zoe Z.E for 2012, the Kangoo Z.E van for 2011, and the scooter-priced Twizy Z.E for 2011. Pictured above, these are not some designers' pipe dreams but the future for cars in which Renault is making a huge investment. The plan is for these cars to cost no more to run than their soon to be challenged petrol models in the family.

The much vaunted Vauxhall Ampera hybrid electric car was endorsed by the Labour at its recent Labour Party conference. This model is tipped to maintain many UK jobs in the North West. Even Mercedes showed it did not want to be left out in the race to production of a truly low emission car. Its B-Zero concept is planned for sale in 2011.

Well, that was a little of Frankfurt. Expect some more car revelations when the Tokyo Motor Show opens later this month. To keep in touch with the future in cars do come back here soon. Meanwhile, for green cars available in the UK now ,you can snatch a free copy of the Green Car Guide for a limited period here

2009-09-11T21:32:00.004+01:00

Impressively low emission car from BMW

Now when it comes to a little luxury BMW may spring to mind. But a BMW with very low CO2 emissions? Well,yes. Two new engines were introduced this month. The new BMW 118d Coupe and the 120i Coupe blend performance and economy.

The 118d engine has Coupe form. It powered the 2008 World Green Car of the Year. It has a four-cylinder diesel power plant with third generation common rail diesel technology, and achieves an impressive 119g/km CO2 emissions. With a combined fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg, this is probably the cleanest and greenest coupe currently available on the market. Prices are from £20,500 OTR for the ES model, and £23,375 OTR for the M sport variant.

The 120i though not as green, is powered by a Hams Hall built 1,995 cc engine achieving 42.8mpg on the combined cycle and a recorded 153g/km of CO2 emissions.

A combination of style,performance and economy is offered by BMW in these two packages.

For details of these and other low CO2 rated cars go to the green car guide Get your absolutely no obligation FREE copy from the green car guide

2009-09-02T22:47:00.005+01:00

Free Fuel Vouchers from Michelin Tyres

Excuse me but how is this an environmentally-friendly thing to do for car drivers? Well, the point is that you probably have to use your car anyway.So, Michelin are encouraging you with a generous offer for a limited time of free fuel if you make a purchase from its range of tyres, including its energy efficient products. In this way, you help to reduce CO2 emissions.

Over to our colleagues at cartravelcare.com to explain :

As petrol prices in the UK go higher , a little help to the beleaguered motorist is offered by Michelin. For the period 1 September to 30th November, certain participating dealers will be offering free fuel vouchers with Michelin tyres. Always a large part of the cost of running a car, fuel is starting to edge-up in price again so Michelin is offering £40 fuel vouchers to buyers buying a set of tyres for car,van or 4X4.

The offer is available through various tyre retailers. For information on participating dealers please see: www.michelin.co.uk

As the world leader in the development of low rolling resistance tyres, this offer will make Michelin tyres even more attractive. Whether you need the low rolling resistance of the Energy Saver or Primacy HP car tyres, the damage resistance and durability of the Agilis van tyre or the comfort of the Latitude Tour HP 4×4 tyre, one thing you can be sure of is that you will be getting some of the longest lasting and greenest tyres on the market.

Note also that the vouchers are redeemable in any Sainsbury’s store, the vouchers can be used to purchase fuel or even the weekly grocery shop.

In the Republic of Ireland the promotion runs from 1 to 30 September and the €40 vouchers are redeemable in Maxol service stations.

2009-08-10T23:06:00.007+01:00

NISSAN'S NEW “LEAF” – THE WORLD’S
FIRST ELECTRIC CAR DESIGNED FOR AFFORDABILITY
AND REAL-WORLD REQUIREMENTS

Last week, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:
1) Zero-emission power train and platform
2) Affordable pricing
3) Distinctive design
4) Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)
5) Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

Scheduled for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, the Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility – the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan’s radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

“Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY
Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.
Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF’s power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF’s regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)
Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world’s consumers who drive cars.
And, Nissan’s approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours – ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.
REAL-WORLD CAR

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM
Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data centre, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.
The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF’s remaining power – or “reachable area” – in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.
Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions – even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.
“The IT system is a critical advantage,” says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. “We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible.”

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN
Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.
Nissan LEAF’s frontal styling is characterised by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, “This car is special”. But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume about 50 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.
Through bright trim colours inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly “blue earth” colour theme originates from the Aqua Globe body colour of Nissan LEAF’s introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION
Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognises that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers with a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.
For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet – the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.
While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions.
As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS
Zero-emission mobility programmes under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION
Nissan LEAF is the first in the company’s forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realisation of the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan’s EVs will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

For more information, please visit the Nissan Zero-Emission website:
http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com

2009-07-23T08:35:00.005+01:00

Nissan Go Route One to Electric Cars

Not for them the hybrid, or the low-emission variants of its production cars, Nissan is going straight for the electric car market.
And it could be a serious player in 2011.So what backs this confidence in electric?

Nissan has taken an interesting approach to green cars, says the Green Car Guide The casual observer could be forgiven for thinking that the company is not making any effort to turn its cars green. Nissan does not have any hybrids, or even any super-low emission model variants on the market in the UK at the moment. The company has instead chosen to miss out the intermediate stage of low emission internal combustion engine models, and has gone straight for an all-out electric vehicle.

Green Car Guide has test driven the Evo-02 . For a full report click here now.

2009-07-03T09:53:00.004+01:00

In-car green technology can help drivers reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions

Occasionally,through these pages we report on products,though not cars, non-the-less help drivers to drive more efficiently.The eco:Drive is one such product. Last reported here on March 27th 2008

Launched in 2008 by Fiat in conjunction with digital agency AKQA, eco:Drive is a free to use tool that helps motorists to understand the impact of their driving style on fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Using a USB memory stick plugged into the car’s Blue&Me port, eco:Drive records information about the vehicle and how it has been driven, which can be regularly uploaded on to a computer. Using this information, the system gives a detailed analysis of the driver’s performance, along with suggestions on how to improve efficiency even further by changing driving habits.

We are delighted to report that eco:Drive, a truly interactive tool and not just an advertising gimmic for Fiat, is doing well, and was recently awarded a top award at the Cannes Lions Awards . For more information on eco:drive click here

2009-07-03T09:13:00.006+01:00

GM's progress towards ultra-low emission vehicles

GM’s HydroGen4,reportsthe Green-Car-Guide, represents one of the next steps after the Ampera in GM’s progress towards ultra-low emission vehicles. More than 100 HydroGen4 vehicles are now under test, and Green-Car-Guide has driven one, as the European part of the world’s largest fuel cell vehicle fleet starts operation. For a fascinating and full report on this hydrogen-powered but essentially electric vehicle you can go from here to the Green-Car-Guide website

2009-06-25T13:31:00.002+01:00

BMW launch its most fuel efficient car yet:the 316d ES saloon

We don't always associate the luxury saloon market with low CO2 emissions. This month,however, sees the launch of the most fuel efficient and the cleanest 3 Series BMW has ever produced. The 316d saloon's performance is made possible by the incorporation of the award-winning EfficientDynamics technologies.

With just £35 Vehicle Excise Duty to pay and 13 per cent benefit-in-kind ranking,the BMW 316d is powered by a 1,995cc four-cylinder diesel engine that records 62.8mpg on the combined cycle. This class-leading economy figure is enough to give the car a possible range in excess of 800 miles between fill-ups. Factor in its CO2 emissions of just 118g/km and the vehicle becomes the most fuel efficient and cleanest BMW 3 Series ever.

However, every BMW still has to acquit itself in the performance stakes to meet customer expectations. A 116hp output figure and torque of 260Nm from 1,750rpm delivers a zero to 62mph time of 10.9 seconds. When combined with a top speed of 125mph and uncompromised dynamic performance this fulfils the promise of the EfficientDynamics programme. This efficiency comfortably eclipses competitor product from the likes of Audi and Mercedes. Power is transmitted to the road via a six-speed manual gearbox.

The BMW 316d ES Saloon comes as standard with the same specification as the current What Car? Green Car of the Year Executive Car category winner, the BMW 318d ES Saloon. This specification includes air-conditioning, multi-function leather steering wheel, front and rear ISOFIX child seat attachments, front foglights and the complete suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies as standard.

The new BMW 316d Saloon goes on sale in September priced at £23,330 OTR. Further information on this class-leading vehicle can gained at www.bmw.co.uk/bmw316d and for business buyers at www.bmwcorporate.co.uk/316d

2009-06-18T07:28:00.005+01:00

Electric cars with a dash of petrol give Vauxhall green drive

There has been a great deal of media coverage lately on an electric future for cars. The UK government is backing the drive to go electric. So ,too,Vauxhall which has been high profile with its electric/petrol car thesoon-to-be commercially produced Ampera scooping What Car's green technology award.

Behind the revolutionary Vauxhall/Opel Ampera Extended Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV), to give it its full title,is the Voltec propulsion system.The Ampera is expected to be on sale in Europe late 2011, UK early 2012.

British car magazine What Car? has honoured the Ampera with its inaugural Technology Award, thanks to its innovative and usable approach to green motoring, as well as its ability to overcome the ‘range anxiety’ suffered by users of conventional electric cars.

Unlike a plug-in electric vehicle, Ampera’s E-REV system uses an on-board petrol generator to stop the battery from discharging completely, meaning that as well as a 40-mile electric-only range, the car can be driven much further between recharges. With over 70 per cent of European car journeys being below the Ampera’s electric-only range, the majority of drivers will be able to use it with zero exhaust emissions and no petrol consumption, but with the peace of mind of knowing it is capable of undertaking much longer journeys without recharging if necessary.

For a full report Green-Car-Guide.com

2009-06-10T11:41:00.005+01:00

Chevrolet has a spring in its step with the low emissions and insurance costing Matiz

Good news all round with the Chevrolet Matiz. Apart from its low CO2 emissions(119 g/km), and low insurance premiums, this already highly affordable motor attracts the cash-for-scrap incentive.To qualify for the scrappage scheme your existing car must have been registered before 31st August 1999. Chevrolet will apply savings of at least £2,000 across its whole model range.

Chevrolet announce that the entry-level Matiz 0.8 S ( with a fuel performance of 54.3 mpg) comes in at £4,295 on the road, provided your car qualifies for the scrappage allowance. It you would not normally buy a new car,the price and economy of the Matiz may change your mind. For more information, you can click here for the Chevrolet website.
Chevrolet Scrappage Scheme

2009-06-08T15:26:00.004+01:00

Reduce CO2 emissions and save money,with Michelin energy-saving tyres

We have been banging-on about the significant benefits to you of fitting energy saving tyres to your car. The following tells of a report prepared by Michelin on savings generated by its most recent car and truck tyre ranges since their launch in 2008.

Green Car Guide : Michelin says tyres consume one tank of fuel out of five for cars and one out of three for trucks. The company says its goal is to design tyres that help to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining the same high performance in the areas of safety and tread life.

These tyres have reduced overall fuel consumption by 65.6 million litres, the equivalent of 1.3 million full tanks of fuel (based on reductions in fuel consumption of 0.2 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 4 grams per km). As a result, they have helped to reduce CO2 emissions by 131,000 tonnes, equal to the amount that would have been produced by 73,000 cars in one year.

The company claims that overall fuel consumption has been reduced by more than 66.7 million litres and CO2 emissions by more than 134,000 tonnes thanks to its latest car and truck tyres, which have been on the market for just a year and a half.
The most recent car tyre developed using this technology is the Michelin Energy Saver, of which 23 million units have been sold since its European launch in early 2008.

Car manufacturers recognised the performance of the Michelin Energy Saver in three areas – fuel savings, safety and longevity. As a result, the tyre has been homologated for use on more than 100 vehicles produced by leading car manufacturers in just over one and a half years on the market. Tyres are generally only certified for use on 20 to 40 vehicles over that period of time.
In May 2008, the Michelin truck division brought out the new Michelin X Energy SaverGreen in a single size – 315/70 R 22.5. Since then, the tyre has reduced overall fuel consumption by 1.1 million litres and CO2 emissions by 3,000 tonnes. The tyre alone can help reduce fuel consumption by 500 litres a year per truck. In addition to fuel savings, the Michelin X Energy SaverGreen was also designed to deliver superior performance in two other areas, exceptional longevity and increased safety.
Since 1992, Michelin has developed four generations of fuel-efficient tyres for cars and three for trucks. They have reduced fuel consumption by more than 11 billion litres and CO2 emissions by more than 28 million tonnes worldwide.

Green Car Guide

2009-05-31T23:08:00.002+01:00

Two Weeks of the UK Scrappage Scheme lead to 35,000 orders for new cars

The Green Car Guide reports that:

Figures released last week show that more than 35,000 orders for new cars have been taken since the announcement of the£2000 scrappage subsidy two weeks ago. For a fuller report you can click here

2009-05-26T16:07:00.003+01:00

But available now!... the all-new Mazda3:CO2 emissions down 19 per cent

-Great value all-new Mazda3 on sale from 18 May, priced from £13,500 (OTR)
-New MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel engines with 150ps and 185ps outputs
-Fuel economy improved by up to 16 percent, CO2 emissions reduced by 19 percent
-Lower RFL tax bands and reduced BIK liability for company car drivers

Typical 0%, 3.9% and 5.9% APR finance packages available with variable deposits. Details from www.mazda.co.uk

2009-05-26T15:41:00.002+01:00

New generation Golf Estate comes even greener,smarter and safer

Orders will be taken this October with delivery early next for the new generation Golf Estate recently unveiled featuring a fresh look, revised engines and the latest comfort and safety technologies. A BlueMotion version of the Golf Estate will also be offered giving additional economy and environmental benefits.

The new Golf Estate will be the fourth generation of the model. The original Golf Estate was launched in 1993 – since then over 1.2 million examples have been produced worldwide.

VW also announce that,drawing on the design language established by the Scirocco, new Golf and fifth generation Polo, the new Golf Estate features redesigned headlamps and front and rear bumpers to lend the car a clean and cohesive look. The use of horizontal lines on the nose helps to create the impression that the Golf Estate is both lower and wider than it really is. Further back, new wheel designs join revised rear lights to lend the car a fresh new look.

The changes continue inside the vehicle with dashboard improvements adopted from the Golf Mk VI, upgraded trim materials and a new range of upholstery.

Like the existing model the new Golf Estate will be available in S, SE and Sportline trims, each boasting a high level of standard specification including air conditioning, a CD player, multi-function computer, electric windows and mirrors, and body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles.

Of course, as you would expect from any car in the Golf family, the Golf Estate will also have a comprehensive array of safety features including ABS, ESP, driver and front passenger’s whiplash-optimised head restraints and six airbags including a deactivation switch for front passenger airbag.

Petrol engines will include a 1.4-litre 122 PS model, giving excellent performance and economy thanks to Volkswagen’s TSI technology which uses turbocharging in combination with a small capacity engine. A new 1.6-litre TDI common rail unit producing 105 PS is set to be a popular diesel choice, while a 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS tops the engine range.

Full pricing and specification details will be announced in due course.

2009-05-22T11:05:00.005+01:00

CAP records more low emission cars than ever to choose from in the UK

According to CAP ,data provider experts mainly to the motor retail and hire industry, the rush to make greener 'cleaner' cars continues to hot-up, with a record 653 new car variants brought to market in April. This was the highest number ever reported by CAP for a single month. During the first four months of 2009, a record 1,487 new cars have been added.

David Saville, NVD Quality Control Supervisor, said: “This is the highest volume of new variants ever added in a month. At the core of all these new variants appears to be the race to reduce CO2 as manufacturers seek to benefit from new tax rules in the company car market and attract private customers who wish to avoid punitively high VED rates." It seems the drive to provide stronger value for money, and the introduction of more stop/start technology particularly by Volvo and Audi,is responsible for the unprecedented increase in new car variants.

Taking the automotive industry as whole,to include vans,trucks,and motorcycles, new variants came in at 5,482 for the first four months of the year.By comparison,in 2003,just 5,096 new variants were recorded for the whole of that year.

This has got to be a great time to go out there and buy a low emission car that suits both your style and pocket.

CAP describes itself as the premier supplier of independent benchmark data to the automotive industry.
For further detail on the work of CAP click here

2009-05-18T20:03:00.004+01:00

Lowest of the low CO2 emissions so far from Vauxhall

Vauxhall has launched its most economical car yet. The company claims a staggering 105g/km of CO2 emissions shaves an amazing 14g/km off the performance of the model it replaces. The latest Corsa ecoFlex 1.3 litre 3-door with CDTi powertrain is also said to deliver a 13 per cent improvement in fuel consumption with 85.6 mpg on the Government's extra urban fuel cycle underlining Vauxhall's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions still further.

The new Corsa ecoFlex offers many benefits over the outgoing model, including:

-a fourth and fifth gear ratio which generates lower engine revs and improved economy
-a shorter second gear ratio improves driving around town
-highly competitive 13% in Benefit in Kind and VED at £35 pa thanks to low emissions
-low-rolling resistance tyres and wheel changes help improve aerodynamics and save weight, so too,a lower ride height optimised airflow through its front air intakes

Did I say cheap as chips? At under £12k, you can do even better if you qualify for the Government's £2,000 'scrappage' incentive scheme. Worth a look. Further report at Green Car Guide

2009-05-15T21:50:00.002+01:00

How to test drive the most efficient no CO2 emissions high performance production sports car on the planet

At the 2009 London Motorexpo to run from 8th to 14th June, Tesla Motors will give potential UK customers free public opportunities to drive its groundbreaking high performance sports car. An interactive display will be located within the superb marble lobby of the Canary Wharf's One Canada Square, for the duration of the 14th Annual London Motorexpo.

Commenting on their attendance Don Cochrane of Tesla Motors said; “We are extremely excited to be bringing the Roadster to Canary Wharf and we greatly look forward to letting people finally experience how good electric cars can really be."

This site has followed the progress of the Tesla Roadster into commercial production over three years. You can click onto the Tesla Motors site at the sidebar to the right of this post.

Attendance at the 14th Annual London Motorexpo is free. For further details click here for the Motorexpo site

2009-05-09T11:51:00.002+01:00

Peugeot 407 ducks under 130g/km of CO2 with a revised 1.6 litre HDi engine

The Green Car Guide reports:

Following on from minor revisions last July which included the addition of the 2.0-litre HDi FAP Euro 5 specification engine which is capable of 50.4mpg - 150g/km of CO2, Peugeot have now added a revised 1.6 litre HDi engine which enables the 407 to duck under 130g/km for the first time thanks to a Combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg with CO2 emissions of 129g/km.

For the full report click here for the Green Car Guide

2009-05-07T21:06:00.003+01:00

Scrooge-like ultra-frugality gives record breaking fuel economy from the SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive

The new generation SEAT Ibiza Ecomotive has has proved to be one of the most environmentally-sensitive cars in its market after covering a staggering 970 miles (1,562 km) on a single tank of fuel. An amazing average consumption figure of 97.4 mpg was achieved. This incredible world record breaking feat was recently undertaken by Austrian Gerhard Plattner, an internationally renowned economy-driving champion, who crossed Spain and France to Germany on a single tank of 45.53 litres of fuel. This despite heavy rain causing difficult driving conditions throughout the officially monitored road test.

Optimised streamlining, weight reduction and modifications to the 80 PS 1.4 TDI engine’s electronic management have given rise to one of the cleanest cars on the market today.Its low fuel consumption figure of only 76.3 mpg (combined cycle) and CO2 emissions of 98 g/km makes it the Spanish brand's most environmentally-friendly car. In addition, it is the only model equipped with air conditioning and a five-door body option with such a low CO2 emissions.

Keep in touch with all the tweats at SEAT at www.twitter.com/SEATUK

2009-05-07T20:56:00.002+01:00

Money saving tips from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM)

As more Brits are preparing to spend their holidays in the UK this year, and therefore intending to go for the open road, the IAM offer us these money savings tips:

-Sticking to 70mph, instead of 80mph, can save around four pence per mile; or £20 for the round trip
-A smooth driving style rather than aggressive has been estimated to save 15 per cent fuel consumption
-Top boxes can increase fuel consumption by 20 per cent – if it’s not needed, don’t take it
-Correct tyre pressures reduce wear and helps fuel economy. Under-inflated tyres need replacing more often (itself an environmental problem), can increase fuel consumption by five per cent and can be dangerous. Check the pressure is right and they are tare free
Remember to switch off the air con and heated windows when they aren’t needed. Used together these can increase fuel consumption by 15 per cent

Drive safely.

2009-04-28T14:10:00.007+01:00

Would you Adam and ev'ie? Here's a 4 seater all electric car you can buy today

The Citroen C1 'ev'ie' electric car is today launched by the Electric Car Corporation (ECC). As the UK's first 4 seater all electric production car, the ev'ie is being marketed by the ECC as providing the driver with the comfort,performance and standard safety features expected of a petrol engined car. It is clearly a car for city motoring,having a range of 60-70 miles from one 6-7 hour charge delivered via a 13 amp socket at a cost of around 90p. The top speed is handy at around 60 mph.

The launch of Citroen ev'ie is timely with the Government's recently announced policies giving encouragement and financial incentives for all cars 'electric'. The roll-out of a network of 25,000 'juice points in the city, essential for the uptake and viability of the ev has been confirmed by the London's Mayor,Boris Johnson.

The ECC assembles the ev'ie in the UK from donor cars, and 50% of the value of each car comes from the UK assembly which provides employment and technology benefits.

The ambition of Government is to make the UK 'a world leader' in producing and selling electric cars. Being available to buy today directly from the ECC,the C1 ev'ie is expected to show it is leading other electric cars for functionality,performance and style. At £16,850 the price is perhaps not cheap, but affordable taking into account its low running costs.

2009-04-21T23:04:00.002+01:00

Insignia ecoFLEX owners will be better off

The ecoFLEX’s reduced combined CO2 figure means that business drivers will pay just 18 per cent Benefit in Kind tax – the second lowest band for a diesel car – down from 21 per cent for the already competitive 2.0 CDTi models. The lower CO2 also mean that all Insignia ecoFLEX owners will be better off by £25 per year due to its lower VED band.

And with all drivers keeping a keen eye on the fuel gauge these days, the Insignia ecoFLEX rewards with an official combined figure of 54.7mpg - a 10 per cent improvement on the 2.0 CDTi model - which puts it among the best in class. It also means that the Insignia ecoFLEX now has a potential range of over 842 miles.

2009-04-16T13:36:00.005+01:00

Low carbon car future shines brighter

The Government today continues to reinforce its pledge to support the development of a national network of charging points for electric vehicles. This is seen as critical to the credibility of electric cars being a mass-produced reality in the near future on UK roads.

The commercial production of electric is becoming a reality, and now the feasibility of providing such a network of charging points seems justified with the recent announcement that Elektromotive will have completed the installation of its 100th Elektrobay charging station in London by the end of next month.

There are already 80 Elektrobays in operation in the Capital, with another 40 installed in various locations across the UK. Round-the-clock usage has led to increased demand for electric vehicle charging stations, resulting in additional roadside Elektrobays being introduced across London. Elektromotive has significantly and consistently added to its network since the first unit was installed in Westminster in 2006. The company is currently in advanced talks with cities in the North East and Midlands to expand its infrastructure even further.

Calvey Taylor-Haw, Managing Director for Elektromotive says, “Access to charging stations across the UK will be crucial to the successful shift towards zero-emissions motoring. The Elektrobay is a proven and practical solution to building a network of charging stations, not just in the UK, but around the World. Our aim is to have Elektrobays on every street and in all car parks around the UK, so we are delighted to hear the Prime Minister’s commitment to establishing charging points throughout the country.”

For more information click here for the Elektromotive website

2009-04-12T00:00:00.003+01:00

Top green car manufacturer status

Toyota has retained its position as greenest vehicle manufacturer according to a study conducted by Business Car magazine.

A recent Auto Trader survey also put Toyota top of the environmental table in a survey of almost 2,000 UK motorists.

The car maker says it is on target to achieve its goal of whole-fleet CO2 emissions of 140g/km this year. The introduction of Toyota Optimal Drive, a range of powertrain design and engineering features that increase output, while significantly improving emissions performance and fuel efficiency, gives almost every Toyota model a green edge over its rivals.

Toyota has achieved its leading green status thanks to industry leading hybrid applications – most famously the Prius – and also environmentally considerate manufacturing and recycling.

2009-04-08T19:46:00.003+01:00

When it comes to low emission cars Honda has the Insight

Honda is marketing the new Insight as the ‘affordable’ family hybrid. Whether Honda likes it or not, the Insight will always be compared to the Prius; a new Prius will be here soon, and Toyota’s focus is on even lower emissions than last time, rather than price. So which is the best approach? Check it out here at the Green Car Guide

2009-04-03T13:53:00.003+01:00

Scrap to the Future: Lower CO2 emissions and car manufacturing could depend on it

This is a petition I am happy to support and bring to your attention in these difficult economic times. The Scrappage initiative
flagged below could help achieve two key objectives: Firstly, it could speed up the process of removing the older and more inefficient gas guzzling cars from our roads. And,secondly, it could also safeguard our vital car manufacturing capabilities, by reducing the lay-off periods and redundancies at car plants, and retaining the skills required for a vibrant modern and, yes, greener motor industry.

So I give you below the unabridged press release :

An open letter to the Government

From: The editors of Britain’s major motoring magazines

Help Britain’s new car buyers – NOW!

Today, in an unprecedented move, the editors and publishers of Britain’s biggest car magazines and websites have joined forces to urge the Government to support demands to stimulate new car sales in the UK.

Haymarket Media Group (publishers of Autocar, What Car?, Evecars.com and PistonHeads) and Dennis Publishing Ltd (publishers of Auto Express, evo and iMotor) are calling on the Government to urgently implement a Scrappage Incentive Scheme, similar to those already successfully employed in European countries, including France and Germany.

Under the proposed scheme, the Government will pay owners of cars over nine years old £2000 towards the cost of buying a new car if they agree to scrap their old vehicle.

Dennis Publishing Ltd and Haymarket Media Group believe the scheme, proposed by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and supported by the vast majority of the leading motor manufacturers, will deliver real and major help in the current recession to the consumer, as well as to ‘UK plc’ and its workforce.

It is a fact that older cars are more polluting, more expensive to maintain and less safe than newer, cleaner, more reliable vehicles. Under the Scrappage Incentive Scheme, owners of older cars will be given a huge incentive and opportunity to change to a safer, cleaner, more economical, hi-tech vehicle.

Scrappage Incentive Schemes are already in place in many countries in Europe and have seen consumer confidence begin to return to the car buying market. In Germany in February, a Scrappage Incentive Scheme delivered an increase in new car sales of 21 per cent. Sales figures have been equally impressive in France.

Haymarket Media Group and Dennis Publishing urge every reader to join our campaign for a better deal for the car buyer.

Register your support for the introduction of a Scrappage Incentive Scheme in the UK at: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/scrappagescheme

Signed: Chas Hallett Autocar, Steve Fowler What Car?, Chris Rosamond PistonHeads, Alex Jenner-Fust Evecars.com ,David Johns Auto Express, Harry Metcalfe evo, Mat Watson iMotor .

...and now supported by Mike Ryan, low emission cars

2009-03-27T10:15:00.004Z

No CARbon emissions from this all electric family car

Why am I excited? Well, just a few moments ago, Tesla Motors took the wraps off the Model S, an all electric family car that carries seven people and travels 300 miles on one charge (pictured above alongside the Roadster)

Why the excitement? Apart from the fact that it will likely be the world's first mass-produced EV for the open road?

From the time of the first publication of low-emission-cars.co.ukin 2006,I have followed off-page,as it were, the reported highs and the lows of the historic journey from prototype ( as occasional subject of mirth from certain sections of the automotive industry) to the real prospect of a feasible and stylish production EV which people will want to buy. Yes, there have been great development difficulties along the way. This you would expect ,given the complexities of developing such a groundbreaking product - remember GM ditched its first plans for an EV. Perhaps we can go more into these fascinating histories, another time

In the here and now,the Model S carries its charger onboard, and can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

"Model S doesn't compromise on performance, efficiency or utility -- it's truly the only car you need," said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. "Tesla is relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicle technology, and this is just the first of many mainstream cars we're developing."

Tesla expects to start Model S production in late 2011. The company believes it is close to receiving $350 million in federal loans to build the Model S assembly plant in California from the Dept of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program.

Building on Proven Technology

Tesla Motors say it is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the waiting list.

The Model S has been described as having unparalleled luggage space and versatility, more than any other sedan on the market, and more than most SUVs.

The anticipated base price of the Model S in the US is $49,900, after a federal tax credit of $7,500. This price is said to compare well (after taking into account running costs) with a similar conventionally-engined car costing around $35,000.

Showrooms are to be opened in the UK later this year. For further information check out the Tesla blog site here

2009-03-16T20:02:00.003Z

ECOFLEX Zafira now rates with best on low CO2 emissions

Vauxhall’s latest addition to the Zafira line-up has all the right credentials to become the first ecoFLEX model in the range.
Using a new-to-range 1.7-litre advanced diesel engine emitting combined emissions of just 139g/km means that it’s one of the greenest and most fuel efficient seven-seat compact MPVs on the market.

Why so? Well, the motor industry SMMT report that CO2 emissions from new cars fell by their biggest ever margin in 2008 with the average model now emitting just 158.0g/km - 4.2% less than the 2007 figure and 16.8% down on the 189.8g/km base level in 1997.

With its lower emissions, the ecoFLEX is also the first Zafira to enter Band C for Vehicle Excise Duty – costing just £120 per year – while its BIK tax for company car drivers drops four levels to 18 per cent, the lowest taxation class for a seven-seater car in the UK.

The ecoFLEX also gains a significant improvement in fuel consumption compared with other models in the range. With a combined figure of 53.3mpg (47.1mpg for the 1.9 CDTi), this Zafira now has a theoretical range of 680 miles, meaning fewer trips to the pumps and less damage to drivers’ wallets.

But as with Vauxhall’s other ecoFLEX models, turning greener hasn’t impacted on its performance. The 1.7 CDTi engine – which can also be found in the recent Astra ecoFLEX – produces 110PS and 260Nm of torque, giving acceleration of 0-60mph in 12.6 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. A different final drive ratio also raises the gearing, improving both fuel economy and offering a more relaxed cruising gait.

Vauxhall also says, that with a starting price of £17,310 for the Zafira Exclusiv ecoFLEX, buyers will pay a mere £100 premium over the equivalent 1.9 CDTi 120PS model. But since all Zafiras are available with Vauxhall’s ‘You Pay, We Pay’ deal, buyers benefit from zero per cent interest from two to four years (with no deposit to pay on the two year package) while also collecting a cheque equivalent to five per cent of the amount financed.

As well as Vauxhall’s clever Flex7 seating, allowing the ecoFLEX to be transformed from a capacious load-lugger to seven-seat people carrier in a matter of seconds, six full-size airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and radio/CD player are standard on all of its five trim levels.

2009-03-10T12:39:00.003Z

Lowest CO2 emissions family five seater in UK

The Ford Fiesta ECOnetic

Model/Engine size: ECOnetic 1.6 TDCi
Fuel: Diesel
Fuel economy combined: 76.3 mpg

The Ford Fiesta ECOnetic is officially the lowest emission five seat family car available in the UK, with just 98g/km of CO2. So does that mean it’s dreadful to drive?

Find out more. For a full road test report on the Ford Fiesta ECOnetic click here now for the Green-Car-Guide

2009-03-03T09:56:00.003Z

Even Better Greener Volkswagen Polo

Styled by a team led by Walter de Silva (Head of Design, Volkswagen Group) the fifth generation Polo, Volkswagen’s evergreen supermini,has been unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, 34 years after the original went on sale in the UK. It’s sharper, lighter, safer and more cutting edge than ever before ,and is set to establish new standards in the small car class. Not only does the new Polo weigh 7.5 per cent less than the vehicle it replaces – despite being marginally wider and longer – but it’s also stronger, promises greater refinement and efficiency and features new packaging to make it the most versatile model yet.

The stylish Polo sports a new look as well as highly efficient TSI and common rail TDI engines to set new benchmarks in efficiency – bettering even the high standards set by the outgoing car. In addition, advanced safety systems and an all-new construction allow it to meet the criteria for the recently introduced five-star EuroNCAP standard.

Continuing the programme of efficiency improvements established by Volkswagen, the new Polo is powered by a mix of advanced naturally aspirated 1.2- and 1.4-litre engines as well as a new turbocharged 1.2-litre TSI petrol unit joining another all-new 1.6-litre TDI common rail diesel engine. All are equipped with either five- or six-speed manual gearboxes as standard and, for the first time on the Polo, selected variants can be specified with Volkswagen’s advanced and lightweight seven-speed DSG gearbox.

A Polo BlueMotion model will also join the range shortly after launch. Powered by a highly efficient 1.6-litre 90 PS TDI common rail diesel engine and linked to a five-speed gearbox with lengthened ratios in third, fourth and fifth, the new BlueMotion achieves 74 mpg while emitting just 96 g/km of CO2 – bettering the outgoing Polo BlueMotion model which is itself one of the most fuel efficient vehicles currently on sale.

The new Polo features a comprehensive roster of standard safety equipment including for the first time on all models four airbags, anti-lock brakes, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and ISOFIX anchor points all fitted as standard.

Production of the new Polo for the UK market starts this summer with first deliveries due in October. Prices will be announced nearer this time.

For the latest on a range of green cars click here

2009-02-22T16:32:00.003Z

BMW's Efficient Dynamics delivers greenest premium manufacturer award

According to independent research,BMW has the lowest average CO2 emissions of any premium car manufacturer. BMW records a UK fleet average of 159 g/km based on all BMWs sold in 2008.

Last month, What Car? magazine awarded BMW's 3 series, its most popular model range, the title of 'Best Compact Executive' for the fourth year running. Towards the end of last year, the 3 series also polled top slot in a very large survey to find the most reliable models.

BMW first made available EfficientDynamics-equipped cars in 2007. Models were delivered with Auto/Stop,Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres , electric power steering,optimum gearshift indicator features and on-demand ancillary systems. These benefits added to existing lightweight engineering and direct engine technology make for the award winning performance.

Glad to be able to report an improving environmental performance in the premium 'big' car area.

For more details you can go to the BMW site where you can use the online vehicle comparator giving independent data for BMW models and their rivals.

2009-02-19T23:06:00.006Z

Volvo introduces two new and greener car diesel engines to drive down CO2 emissions

In spite of the lower current fuel costs ,Volvo recognise that the need to develop more efficient engines is as pressing as ever, and announces:

* New and improved D5 and 2.4D diesel engines available from spring 2009 in the Volvo S80, V70, XC60 and XC70
* New 2.4D brings CO2 emissions down below the all-important 160 g/km Writing Down Allowance threshold for company cars due for introduction on 1 April 2009

Volvo has sharpened its diesel range with the introduction of two new five-cylinder, 2.4-litre turbo diesels, the 2.4D and D5. The new engines have resulted in a significant reduction in CO2 emissions whilst also offering a power boost.

Both engines carry the familiar 2.4D and D5 engine names and will be available in the Volvo S80 executive saloon, Volvo XC60 crossover and Volvo V70 and XC70 premium estates from late spring 2009. The new D5 engine offers a 20 PS performance boost to give 205 PS and 420 Nm of torque. The 2.4D single turbo features 175 PS, an improvement of 12 PS, and 420 Nm of torque. The new technology has allowed CO2 emissions to drop as follows:

CO2 figures
Model

Previous 2.4D engine New 2.4D engine Previous D5 engine New D5 engine

Volvo S80 169 g/km 154 g/km preliminary 169 g/km 164 g/km preliminary

Volvo V70 178 g/km 157 g/km preliminary 178 g/km 169 g/km preliminary

Volvo XC60 199 g/km 159 g/km preliminary 199 g/km 185 g/km preliminary

Volvo XC70 199 g/km 159 g/km preliminary 199 g/km 185 g/km preliminary

"This is yet another step in our determination to reduce the combustion engine's environmental impact, at the same time as we give customers even more refined and sophisticated engines with excellent performance," says Derek Crabb, Vice President, Powertrain Engineering at Volvo Cars.

New high-performance D5 engine

2009-02-11T19:14:00.003Z

The lowest co2 emissions 5-door family car in the UK

The Green Car Guide reports:

"With its three-cylinder 67 bhp 1.0-litre engine, the Alto costs just £6,795 and will join three other models in the Suzuki range with emissions of less than 120 g/km, including the newly-introduced 1.0-litre Splash GLS variant.

Combined fuel consumption is 64.2 mpg and annual road tax (VED Band B) is just £35."

This car goes on sale from 1st March next.

For the full report click here

2009-02-09T08:36:00.004Z

Even lower CO2 emissions from the new Fiat 500 Stop & Go

Called Fiat 500 Start&Stop, new technology based on the most successful Fiat 500 version – the 1.2 Lounge – brings together benefits from the combined expertise of automotive parts specialist Bosch and Fiat Powertrain Technologies.

The Start&Stop system stops the engine automatically (without the driver turning an ignition key) whenever traffic conditions bring the car to a complete halt, and restarts it when the driver wants to move off again.

This is a newly introduced option on the Fiat 500, which will give the popular city car even better fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures.

According to Fiat, the 500 Start&Stop becomes available at £9,500 OTR, and is the most ecological version in the Fiat 500 petrol range. With Start&Stop, CO2 emissions on the 1.2 engine are just 113 g/km, while fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 12 per cent (urban fuel economy figures).

For the Fiat website click here

The Fiat 500 Start&Stop fuel consumption figures are:

START&STOP
1.2 69 bhp

LOUNGE
1.2 69 bhp
Fuel Consumption
urban cycle mpg (l/100km)
49.6 (5.7)

44.1 (6.4)
extra-urban cycle mpg (l/100km)
65.7 (4.3)

65.7 (4.3)
combined cycle mpg (l/100km)
58.9 (4.8)

55.4 (5.1)
CO2 Emissions (g/km)
113

119

Fiat’s Blue&Me hands-free telecommunications and entertainment system is standard on 500 Start&Stop, which means the car also benefits from eco:Drive, the system that allows customers to monitor and improve on their CO2 emissions and fuel consumption figures.

“We have been promising new ideas and features on our award-winning Fiat 500 since it was launched last year, and here is yet another example,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK. “This is an important development for the 500 as it will help to make what is already a fuel-efficient, value-for-money car an even greater consideration for town and city drivers.”

The Fiat 500 range starts at £8,100 for the 1.2 Pop, rising to £10,900 for 1.3 MultiJet or 1.4-litre Lounge or Sport versions.

Further information:

Start&Stop is based on a starting procedure (battery and cranking system) able to perform a fast engine restart and deal with a far higher number of starts than a standard system.

Several sensors and control strategies are employed to manage stop and restart operations, to guarantee safety, driveability and energy balance of the car with a minimum impact on heating and other services in the car.

Engine stop is only allowed once a speed of 6 mph has been achieved after pulling away. To restart the engine the clutch pedal must be depressed. The Start&Stop system can be manually activated or deactivated using a button switch.

Start&Stop will not activate in certain cases, including engine still cold, battery in low charge state, heated rear window active, front wiper at maximum speed or reverse gear engaged (in a parking manoeuvre).

If the engine has been stopped and the clutch pedal has not been depressed for more than three minutes, the engine can only be restarted using the ignition key. Similarly, if the engine has been stopped and the driver’s seat belt has been unfastened, or a door has been opened, engine restart will only be achieved with the key.

2009-01-31T18:36:00.004Z

Success for the car industry in future would rest on being cleaner and greener

This was a key message from Business Secretary Lord Mandelson when he unwrapped the Government's £2.5 billion support package for the UK car industry.The package will comprise loans from several sources and for a number of projects. About £1bn could find its way into the development of green cars and a no carbon future for the motor industry. For more information on this news click here for the Green Car Guide website

2009-01-07T19:29:00.003Z

Ten Top Green Cars

Happy New Year!

The Green-Car-Guide.com has posted its top ten green cars. And the top green car was...? No it wasn't the Toyota Prius. Close, but rated second. It's stats ,though ,are impressive:

fuel economy extra urban: 67.3 mpg
fuel economy urban :56.5 mpg
CO2 emissions :104g/km
green rating: VED band B- £15
weight : 1325 kg
company car tax liability (2008/09) : 10%
price £18,255 (from £18,255 to £21,155)
insurance group 7
safety: NCAP 5 star
max speed: 102 mph
0-62 mph in 11.5 seconds

The five-door Prius hatchback uses battery power to back-up a 1.5-litre petrol engine and it emits just 104 g/km of CO2, which is amongst the lowest of any production car on sale.

The Prius is silently propelled at urban speeds, the battery being recharged during braking and coasting. The car seamlessly switches petrol and electric power as driving circumstances require.

The Prius hybrid is universally regarded as the most environmentally-friendly production car.

For details of the Green-Car-Guide.com Top Ten Green Cars click here

2008-12-29T12:30:00.004Z

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

2008-12-24T13:01:00.002Z

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.

2008-12-18T21:32:00.001Z

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

2008-12-06T15:23:00.003Z

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

2008-12-05T14:29:00.006Z

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.

Please note for Legal terms and conditions for use of this site please click here at

archive in right hand column at "October 2006"

2008-11-25T14:43:00.003Z

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.

2008-11-21T07:48:00.003Z

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

2008-11-20T16:47:00.004Z

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.

2008-11-16T13:18:00.007Z

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:

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

2008-11-07T16:03:00.003Z

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.

2008-11-05T08:18:00.003Z

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

2008-11-01T10:20:00.004Z

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.

2008-10-30T22:25:00.005Z

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.

2008-10-25T12:25:00.002+01:00

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

2008-10-24T11:20:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-10-20T12:29:00.013+01:00

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

2008-10-16T15:51:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-10-14T16:41:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-10-13T10:02:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-10-07T22:54:00.009+01:00

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

2008-10-01T16:56:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-09-30T22:21:00.007+01:00

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.

2008-09-16T10:56:00.001+01:00

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.

2008-09-12T11:10:00.001+01:00

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.

2008-09-08T22:21:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-09-05T16:02:00.002+01:00

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.

2008-08-29T22:17:00.004+01:00

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.

2008-08-27T20:36:00.006+01:00

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.

2008-08-19T16:48:00.003+01:00

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!

2008-08-14T14:32:00.002+01:00

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

2008-08-09T15:58:00.003+01:00

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.

2008-08-07T12:19:00.006+01:00

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.

For Terms and Conditions of Use of this site please click-on October 2006 archive in

sidebar.

2008-08-04T20:38:00.003+01:00

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

2008-07-31T09:34:00.003+01:00

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

2008-07-25T16:12:00.008+01:00

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