The green movement is on the rise in the automotive industry. If you want an eco-friendly car, here are some features and green transportation options for when you can’t drive:
What are greener modes of transportation?
Driving everywhere you go does not only increase your carbon footprint, but it also plays a role in your physical health. Here are greener transportation options that can benefit both you and the environment:
- Flying with a modern engine. More and more flight schools are using modern engines that are more reliable and use less fuel. If you want to learn how to fly, choose a flight school that uses newer, energy-efficient engines.
- Walking. Walking is the most eco-friendly way to travel, but of course, it’s not always feasible. However, for short distances, walking is the healthiest and greenest way to go.
- Bikes and scooters. Riding a bike or scooter is a great way to exercise and has no negative impacts on the environment. Moreover, it can get you to moderately remote locations that you can’t reach by walking.
- Public transportation. When you take public transit instead of driving your car, you help reduce the number of vehicles on the road as well as the emissions in the air.
Features to look for in eco-friendly vehicles
Walking, bicycling, and taking public transportation is much more ideal, but not always possible. Hence, if you want to reduce your negative impact on the environment, switching to an eco-friendly vehicle is the best option.
Driving with an eco-friendly vehicle can significantly diminish your carbon footprint and reduce your emissions. Here are some eco-friendly features you must look for when shopping for a new car:
1. Hybrid engines
Hybrid electric vehicles shift between gas and electric modes to achieve better power and fuel economy. Most hybrid engines have useful features such as electric motor drive, regenerative braking, and automatic start/stop, all of which make the vehicle more efficient.
2. Lighter weight
The lighter the vehicle, the less gas it takes to move. Hence, lighter vehicles have better gas mileage and thus use less fuel, helping you save money and preserve the environment at the same time. Some automakers are even using recycled lightweight material and natural sources to make their vehicles weigh less than regular ones.
If buying a lighter car is not an option, you can reduce the weight of your current vehicle by removing things like rooftop carriers, bike racks, and all the unnecessary items in your trunk.
3. LED lights
LED bulbs are more energy-efficient and last much longer than halogen or incandescent bulbs. In addition, they produce a brighter light, which helps reduce the risk of accidents.
4. Lighter color
Vehicles with a lighter color are more energy-efficient since they absorb less heat. If you live in a place where it can get really hot, having a lighter-colored car means your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool the cabin.
5. Sports-tuned suspension
You might also want to consider a car with a sports-tuned suspension. This type of suspension can reduce the use of the brake and accelerator, which, in turn, can translate to fuel savings.
The eco-friendly movement applies to every aspect of our life, most notably in how we travel. If you want to do your part in protecting Mother Earth, choose greener transportation options every day, and invest in a car that is better for the environment.
