The eco-friendly car movement in the automobile industry has seen a shift toward the use of more environmentally sustainable fuels, such as electricity and gas. Cars such as Toyota’s Hybrid, that has a mixed fuel engine using both petrol and electricity, have been a huge success, with people wanting to make environmentally smarter decisions when it comes to buying a new car.

Model S, Prius and Spyder

Eco-friendly cars have gained another win with American car manufacturers; Tesla’s Model S is being awarded Motor Trend’s 2013 Car of the Year. The Model S is the first car with no internal combustion engine to win this coveted award, marking a significant moment in the push for environmentally friendly cars. The Model S is ready to reserve in Australia and deliveries will begin mid 2013 with a $6000 reserve payment.

For those looking for something sporty, in 2014 BMW will be releasing its i8 Spyder with a dual electric/petrol engine with prices expected to be high.

Despite the green progress, there are still significant issues reducing the number of consumers wanting to move into the eco car market. Toyota recently recalled over 2.7 million of its second generation Priuses due to issues with the water pump and steering. This follows previous Toyota recalls due to other manufacturing defaults. Toyota share prices plummeted because of the recall.

Eco-Friendly Choices

For drivers who are currently unable to invest in the hybrid or electric car market, it is still possible to lower the impact you and your car are having on the environment by following some simple guidelines:

• Service your car. Keep your car in good condition – check the tyre pressure, replace spark plugs and clean the oil and water. Not only will this help your car last longer, a vehicle in good condition is often cheaper to get comprehensive car insurance.
• Drive sensibly. Excessive acceleration and hard braking burn fuel at a much higher rate than driving at a consistent speed. Sticking to the speed limit and going easy on the accelerator and brake will lower your carbon emissions and help you save money on petrol.
• Stay light. Avoid carrying excess weight in your car as the heavier your car the more fuel is needed to get it moving.
• Open your windows. Avoid using your air conditioner as this requires additional engine power and will use up more petrol.
• Plan your trip. Avoiding taking lots of short journeys, as it is at the start of your trip that your car uses the most petrol. Plan where you are going and avoid areas where you are likely to get stuck in traffic jams.

By following these simple guidelines you will significantly reduce the environmental impact that you are having on our planet and save money at the same time.