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For Your Next Car




Green Technologies 
For Your Next Car
2010-00-28 


With stricter fuel economy requirements on the way, automotive engineers are implementing an array of systems to help wring every mile out of a gallon of gas. Here are three eco-friendly car technologies to consider next time you visit a dealer showroom.

GOOD:
If a V8 car or truck is a must for you, pick one that improves efficiency by selectively shutting down engine cylinders when not needed. Available from General Motors and Chrysler, this can boost fuel economy about 10 percent. Honda also now offers this feature on smaller engines, in its V6-equipped Accord and four-cylinder Insight Hybrid.

BETTER:
Be on the lookout for new “clean diesel” vehicles from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen that combine quick acceleration with top fuel economy – as high as 34 mpg for the VW Jetta TDI – and emit about 25 percent less greenhouse gases than standard models.

BEST:
Those who want to have it all may be able to with cars that have “direct injection” (DI) technology. DI boosts an engine’s horsepower and its fuel-efficiency by five-to-15 percent, and also puts out lower emissions. Many non-hybrid cars currently use DI, including Lexus, which will be using it in
all cars by 2012. 

The greenest vehicles will be certified “super low-emissions” (SULEV) or “partial-zero emissions” (PZEV); check ratings at www.fueleconomy.gov

Look for cars with fuel efficiency meters that  help drivers cut fuel consumption—some say by up to 10 percent.

Buy a set of low-rolling-resistance tires to boost fuel economy about 3%

One Simple Thing:
New or old, give your wheels green service. Look for shops that wash down bays daily to prevent run-off; use biodegradable cleaners on spills; and recycle their oil.



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