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If you’ve decided on going green but aren’t sure how you can finance your car purchase, you have options.
Green cars are more expensive than gas vehicles. An electric hatchback may sell for $40,000, and mid-size sedan hybrids go for around $30,000. Comparable gas models for both might cost as low as $20,000. Here are a few top fully electric and hybrid models.
| Model | Hybrid/Electric | Starting price | MPGe |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW i3 | Electric | $44,450 | 118 MPGe |
| A3 Sportback e-tron | Hybrid | 39,500 | 83 MPGe |
| Kia Soul EV | Electric | $33,950 | 111 MPGe |
| Ford Focus Electric | Electric | $29,120 | 118 MPGe |
| Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid | Hybrid | $39,995 | 84 MPGe |
| Chevrolet Volt | Hybrid | $34,095 | 106 MPGe |
| Ford C-MAX | Hybrid | $24,120 | 38 MPGe |
A green car is a car that that gets more miles to the gallon and emits less pollutants than a conventional gas or diesel vehicle, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Many states and counties in the US have minimum emissions requirements, but green cars exceed the minimum threshold or cut exhaust emissions entirely. To do this, they either use electric or hybrid systems.
Eco-friendly vehicles have a range of benefits for both the owner and the community. Here are some reasons to drive a green car:
If you’re buying a fully electric car, then your vehicle won’t produce any emissions. The benefits with hybrids may not be as clear if the manufacturer reports fuel economy that’s unattainable in your situation.
Research prospective cars before you commit to buying one by looking at user reviews and and other independent, unbiased articles about emissions and fuel economy on most new vehicles.
Here are some of the most eco-friendly cars found on the road across the states:
Compare 20+ electric vehicles on the market
The Hyundai Ioniq Electric is the most fuel-efficient car out there in 2019, According to the US Department of Energy. It earns the equivalent of 136 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe), making it one of the best cars for the environment. Runners-up include the Tesla Model 3 series and the Hyundai Kona Electric.
The least efficient car out there? The Bugatti Citron. This car only gets you 11 miles to the gallon.
Even if you can’t afford to buy a new car right now, you can substantially reduce your vehicle’s emissions just by changing your behavior. Here are some handy green driving tips:
If you can’t afford an electric car, consider these other choices for reducing how much you pollute when getting around:
Green cars are becoming increasingly viable for those living in cities. If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s carbon emissions and its effect on the environment, then consider an eco-friendly alternative. Be aware of the additional upfront cost and limitations before you commit, and compare your financing options when you’re ready to buy.
Picture: Shutterstock
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