Can I affect the environment through the choice of my car?

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Can I affect the environment through the choice of my car?

One disturbing truth is that many of the SUVs and larger 4WD vehicles that are becoming more common on our roads have a lower fuel economy (under 28 Mpg) that Henry Ford’s original Model T. The car you choose to drive has an enormous impact on the environment. The following tips could help you drive down your motoring costs and be more environmentally friendly.

Buying a nearly new car is potentially a good idea, but many newer vehicles are more efficient and pollute less. It is often more economic to spend on repairing a vehicle than to buy a new one. Look for reliable cars with a good history. Size is also important, and buying as small a car as possible for your daily needs is a good environmental step in the right direction. If you can share a car with family members, not only will considerable expense be spared, but the environment will be better off.

Buying a car with good fuel-economy is probably the most obvious tip. Fuel economy can vary enormously between cars. The difference between the emissions of a BMW 7 Series against a Ford Ka, for example, can vary by as much as 50 per cent.