Buying a Green Car

By Bradley Berman
Published on April 12, 2012
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2011 Honda CR-Z EX in Silver
2011 Honda CR-Z EX in Silver
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The Tesla Roadster takes “battery-powered electric” to a whole new level.
The Tesla Roadster takes “battery-powered electric” to a whole new level.
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2012 Ford Escape Hybrid LIMITED in Blue
2012 Ford Escape Hybrid LIMITED in Blue
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Switching from an SUV to a crossover like the Nissan Rogue is an easy green step.
Switching from an SUV to a crossover like the Nissan Rogue is an easy green step.
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The Chevrolet Volt has the benefits of an electric car without limits on its range.
The Chevrolet Volt has the benefits of an electric car without limits on its range.
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The Ford Focus Electric recharges in three to four hours.
The Ford Focus Electric recharges in three to four hours.
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“Hybrid” no longer equals “small car,” and more models come to market every year.
“Hybrid” no longer equals “small car,” and more models come to market every year.
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The Mercedes E350 has diesel’s great torque and durability.
The Mercedes E350 has diesel’s great torque and durability.
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The Hyundai Veloster has a highway fuel economy rating of 38 mpg.
The Hyundai Veloster has a highway fuel economy rating of 38 mpg.
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Don’t underestimate minor mpg differences when comparing green vehicle options.
Don’t underestimate minor mpg differences when comparing green vehicle options.

Before you start the process of shopping for a green car?–?and enter the Byzantine world of car dealerships, option packages and price haggling?–?it’s a good idea to know what sort of buyer you are. This awareness can focus your research, narrow your options and help you choose the best green car for your needs.

What’s Your Green Profile?

Are you a deep greenie? In this camp are those who point to petroleum’s vicious environmental impacts?–?pollution and climate change?–?as well as the massive economic and military expense of oil dependency and say, “That’s enough.” For deep-green buyers, the only choice is a green vehicle that, to the greatest degree possible, removes petroleum from the transportation picture. Any sacrifices regarding consumer choice in brand, size or fueling options are considered, if at all, as minor inconveniences. The cutting edge green vehicles in this category?–?such as pure electric cars?–?don’t provide much leverage when it comes to deal-making or leapfrogging waiting lists, but for these buyers, the excitement of helping pave the way to a greener future is worth the price.

But maybe you’re a light-green buyer. Light greenies share many of the environmental and social concerns of their counterparts on the deep-green end, but they apply somewhat more flexible standards. They usually opt for the most fuel efficient vehicle?–?but one that conforms to an existing set of preferences regarding vehicle size, brand, technology or level of performance. The light-green camp starts the purchase process like any other consumer: Which automaker am I comfortable with? Which model has the most attractive styling? How many horsepower, seats or cup holders do I need? Where can I get a good deal? Folks in this category?–?whether buying a hybrid, clean diesel or high-mpg internal combustion gas car?–?go through the same process as any car buyer.

Tips for Buying a Car

Common-sense approaches apply for all shoppers: The chief strategy is to right-size your vehicle and its powertrain. While most of the headlines about green cars focus on exotic technology?–?such as lithium-ion batteries, biofuel-producing algae or hydrogen fuel cells?–?simply choosing a green car that meets, but does not exceed, your routine needs for space and power is vital. It’s much easier to find a fuel-efficient sedan or compact than a full-size SUV or pickup truck. Definitely buy what you need for transporting your family or performing the regular duties of a truck, but if you choose more passenger space, power or functionality than you really need, you’re already a big step behind on your journey to the most cost-effective ride.

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