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In the past eight years, gas prices have dropped significantly but Americans are still getting excited over saving more fuel with new resourceful vehicles. Recently, the Consumer Reports Study stated that just over half of drivers in America foresee the next car they purchase will have improved gas mileage. For normal car buyers, going green can feel a little intimidating, particularly if you have never owned a fuel efficient vehicle before. Below are the most important green buying tips that can educate you and help save more money in the long run.

History of Green Vehicles

There are many differences in green vehicles today. This can make purchasing a green vehicle a little complicated for your first time. Green Vehicles are either a hybrid, or electric and you need to know the difference to make sure the vehicle you purchase is right for you. Most people would not believe that the use of electric vehicles dates back to the 1830s. Back then electric cars became high in demand and stayed that way through the 19th century. Henry Ford disrupted the green movement with his invention of the assembly line. Ford made engines that were cheaper to produce and therefore made it less expensive for the consumer to purchase. As a result electric cars became less popular and almost nonexistent.

Today, most gas stations and highway rest stops are better equipped to help those driving electric cars. The biggest concern for green drivers is the distance that can be driven on a single charge. Car manufacturers are hoping to increase the mileage driven on one charge and so far Tesla is beating other companies with the Model S 85D that can drive 270 miles on one charge. Generally electric or green cars can drive an average of about 100 miles before needing to stop. Hybrid vehicles were created in 1997 by Toyota to alleviate the gap between internal combustion engines and electric ones. Hybrid vehicles have both motors installed and allow for drivers to still keep the ability to drive many miles while still being ecofriendly.

Hybrid Vehicles

The HEV or Hybrid Electric Vehicle was the first of it’s kind and it allowed for the driver to use a gasoline engine when traveling at high speeds then switches to electric once a slower pace reached. An HEV never needs to be connected to electricity because the electric motor is able to recharge using the excess energy from the vehicle braking; this concept is referred to as regenerative braking. Hybrid Electric Vehicles come standard with both engines to make the car more resourceful. The electric vehicles that require charging are known as Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicles or PHEV. These cars vary from HEV because the electric motor, as opposed to the gas motor, is the primary energy source.

This is the main reason why PHEVs require a recharge in between trips. The PHEV will utilize the electric engine up until the charge runs out and then switch to gasoline. The gasoline motor help to recharge the electric battery while keeping your vehicle moving on the road. This is very helpful for drivers that want to go green but still are new to electric vehicle customs. Hybrid cars have come a long way, and both HEV and PHEV vehicles can help save money at the gas station but it is important to do research of the different models available on the market. Some companies may have the same distance limits to their electric engines while one may still be more fuel efficient than the other.

Charging Electric Vehicles

Electric Vehicles and PHEVs require a charging station at home or out traveling and finding an electric station is much more challenging then pulling into a gas station to fuel up.
Owners of electric vehicles take advantage of setting up a charging station at their place of residence. The vehicle is able to charge easily in a garage or even outside while it is storming, as long as there is a usable outlet. There are two types of vehicle chargers, the AC Level 1 that can restock 5 miles per charging hour, and the AC Level 2 that will replenish the battery twice as fast. It is important to consider the monetary saving when comparing the electric motors to gasoline ones. The U.S. Department of Energy stated that cost to recharge an electric battery would be the same expense as running a residential air conditioner for roughly six hours. Electric vehicle owners should always leave the house considering where or when their next charge will be. Luckily, a new website PlugShare allows members to view charging stations that are nearby to their location and also a map of public stations close to your destination. Another great feature in PlugShare is a list of available residential chargers provided by other registered users. Not all charging stations are made the same, so pay close attention to your electric vehicle requirements.

The Government Encourages Green Vehicles

Although hybrid and electric vehicles may be very expensive, and it may difficult worrying about charging stations, the IRS and some local governments have helped to increase the benefits by offering tax cuts for electrical vehicle owners.

Explained in more detail, the IRS applies a credit to all owners who bought an electric vehicle after the date of December 31st 2009. The general amount credited back to owners was about $2,500 but could be at maximum $7,500. Your vehicles battery capacity is another factor in the amount of money credited back to you so it is best to check with your vehicle manufacturer.

The credit received for purchasing your electric vehicle will be shown on your tax statement deducted from the amount of income tax you owe. If your income taxes due are less than the credit applied from the IRS then you will not have to pay any income taxes, however, there will be no reimbursements for the difference. It is important to mention that an electric vehicle must be bought new for the credit to be applied. Electric vehicles available for sale that are used or leased will not qualify for a refund. Another note to mention would be that after the vehicle manufacturer has sold 200,000 electric vehicles, the credit will no longer be valid. When buying an electric vehicle of fuel efficient car, check with your state as there are other discounts for purchasing or installing charging locations.

Other Resourceful Options

Electric Cars and Hybrid Vehicles offer great ecofriendly options for traveling. Although most people think about HEVs when they go green, there are some other options available to the consumer to help reduce waste and emissions as well.

Diesel Engines

It was once known that diesel engines produced a large volume of emissions, but today, the current diesel engines produce less pollution then the typical gasoline engine. Drivers can also travel a longer distance on a full diesel tank and the price to fuel up is usually about the same as gas. Finding a diesel gas station is not difficult as most stations have a diesel pump installed. Also, can always be an alternative choice for someone who does not want an electric vehicle.

Conscious Driving

You do not have to go buy a new vehicle to help save on fuel. There are some conscious choices the driver and passengers of the car can make to improve your cars proficiency. Techniques such as rolling down the windows instead of using the air conditioner or changing your driving route to avoid more stops can help increase your gas mileage. Drivers should avoid changing speeds when on the highway and keep the vehicle at a steady pace.

These can help save some money and wear on your car. Another way to save some fuel for your vehicle is coasting to a stoplight instead or slamming on the brakes at the last minute. Also, always remember, the faster you are driving, the more fuel you are using. These conscious driving practices may be difficult to begin, but will ultimately end up saving you money and your vehicle some years.

Caring For Your Car

Caring for your car can help lengthen its life and effectiveness as a vehicle in top condition will be most fuel efficient. Vehicle owners should make a point to read the cars manual and adhere to the recommended service schedule. Having a professional properly inflate the tires and look over the vehicle every so often will prevent future problems and increase fuel mileage. Cleaning out the items in your vehicle can save some gas too because hefty objects can weigh on the car and reduce gas mileage.

Leaving Your Vehicle At Home

Although not an option for everyone, leaving your vehicle at home and driving less is the best possible way to reduce your emissions. Mapping out the best and closest driving routes can make a big change in your gas if taking the bus is not for you. People can research on google and other map services a fuel conscious route to work or everyday stops. Alternatively, scheduling a carpool with some coworkers can help make the drive more fun and save everyone involved some money.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

There are many ways that people are able to reduce their carbon footprint and also save some money. Being conscious about the environment should not mean limiting your daily interactions, but rather change them for the better. Considering an alternative fuel vehicle can help preserve our green earth for generations to come.

 

 

 

Everyone is guilty of distracted driving at least once while others are repeat offenders, but what people don’t realize is that preoccupied driving is very dangerous. Teenagers are usually at fault for texting and driving, however experienced drivers can be seen distracted driving as well. Most people are able to operate a vehicle fine while having a phone conversation, a quick lunch, or adjusting the radio, but it only takes a second for an accident to occur. Imagine that you are driving on the highway at 60 MPH, within just a few moments you have covered the distance of a football arena; now imagine that same scenario without looking at the road. This is a good illustration to show the seriousness of driving while distracted. We should all be conscious of our actions and take this into consideration next time you get into a vehicle.

Reasons People Drive Distracted

The Official US Government Website for Distracted Driving states that there are a many repetitive actions that people can avoid to help them drive safer. They also provide many tools and stories of lives that are impacted from distracted driving, below are some of the preventative measures you can take to keep everyone safe.

No Texting

Do not text or message on your phone or any other device while driving, this ensures that your focus is on the road at all times. Most phones now have a “silent mode” that will quiet the phones messages and calls so take advantage of this setting while you are driving. If it is an emergency and you need to use your phone, pull off to a safe spot to stop the vehicle before messaging.

No Phone

Put your phone somewhere it won’t distract you. Drivers will see a notification on their phone and naturally go to look at it, removing their eyes from the road. Since this is a normal reaction, it is best to put your phone away in your bag or out of sight so you will not be unfocused.

No Eating

Eat or Drink before or after you travel in your vehicle. Accidents can happen from simple actions like trying to eat lunch on the go, which is why it is best to eat outside a moving vehicle. Drivers can easily spill a drink or drop their food resulting in the vehicle swerving, changing lanes, or causing an accident.

Passengers Can Be a Distraction

Remember to always focus on the road when having conversations with passengers. It is common for people to ride along with you to work or out with friends, but having others in the car with you can often lead to disturbances while driving.

No Grooming

Always finish getting ready before you get into the car. People don’t realize that looking in the mirror while driving is very dangerous. Sometimes you can see people applying makeup or changing into different clothes while operating a vehicle, but this is very hazardous and taking a moment to do these actions before you leave is easy and helps to keep the road safe.

No Mapping

Have your driving route planned before you begin to travel. Trying to read a map or your phone while operating a vehicle puts others at risk. If you know your destination, it is easier to look at map before you leave or program the address into your GPS. If you decide you must look at a map, pull over and stop the car before doing so.

No Videos

All media devices should be view-able to the passengers only. Sometimes parents let their kids watch movies or play games in the car and this can be a distraction to the driver. Stay mindful of the road while operating the vehicle and keep all media devices behind the driver.

Pre-Program Stations

Adjust the radio while at a complete stop. It can be hard to tune into your favorite station while driving down the road, so make sure to either pre-program your stations or wait until you come to a stoplight to adjust them.

 

Although some of these suggestions may seem like common sense, many of us do at least one of the distractions listed. Being prepared and aware while driving decreases the chance of an mishap and keeps your family and others safe.

 

 

Drivers know that when their gas light comes on it’s time to refuel and stop at the next gas station, but when there is not a gas station in sight and your light comes on, it can be very worrisome. Driving with your gas light on is stressful because no one wants to be stuck on the highway without gas. It is important to recognize your gas tanks limits to relieve stress and keep you on the road.

There are other dangers to letting your gas tank run out besides just being stuck so it is essential to know how far your vehicle can drive on empty.

Driving With the Gas Light On

Having to pull over on the road because you are out of gas is very stressful and could also place you in a treacherous position. Vehicles on the highway travel at fast speeds and sometimes are not able to make proper adjustments in time for broken down drivers, resulting in an accident. Running out of gas in a desolate area can be very dangerous as well. People have had to spend the night in their vehicle due to snow storms or waiting on help to arrive. If you are traveling long distances it’s not a bad idea to have a spare gas tank with you.

There can also be unseen damage done to your vehicle from consistently running out of gas. The catalytic converter can be harmed or ruined resulting in more time and money put into your vehicle, or perhaps it can deteriorate the fuel pump because of debris that is commonly found in gasoline. Either way, these warnings should not happen in the beginning, but if you let your fuel get low constantly it may end up costing you more money.

Miles to Empty Gauge

Many of the new car models have a gauge that will let the driver know how many miles they have left to empty. This is a nifty tool that many individuals are now using instead of their gas light. This can also be problematic because that gauge is based on a rough calculation of your average mileage and not an exact estimation of how much gas is left in your tank. The “miles to empty” gauge should be used to evaluate your best gas mileage and not the distance remaining until you run out of gas.

Driving On Empty

In order to determine how far your vehicle can drive on empty, you must take into consideration your vehicle model, the driving conditions, and your personal routine. Some car manufacturers allow for the vehicle to travel up to 90 miles with the gas light illuminated while others are only 20 miles. YourMechanic car and driver website has a chart available to help you determine how far you can drive with the gas light on based on your vehicle make and model. For cars that list “N/A” in the descriptions, the calculation is based on how many miles left to empty. Take a look and see how far your vehicle can go.

 

 

 

Drivers today get excited about purchasing a new vehicle, especially if that car gets great gas mileage, and there are many vehicles on the market now that offer eco-friendly or electric options. It is fortunate that the auto industry is moving in a green direction to reduce travel emissions and help mother earth. Everyone wants to save money and not all drivers are familiar with eco-friendly vehicles. Many of us have never driven an electric car and don’t know the first steps in determining which vehicle is right, so below are a few things to think about when buying a green car.

Green Vehicle History

There are different types of green vehicles available on the market so it might be intimidating trying to pick the right one for you. Here is a brief history of eco-friendly vehicles to provide a little more knowledge as to how they evolved and what the differences are. Electric vehicles can be dated back to the 1830s and were very common up until the 20th century. Electric motors were invented before internal combustion engines but were more costly to manufacture. When Henry Ford invented the assembly line, internal combustion motors became cheaper than their electric predecessors, thus making it impossible for them to compete in the auto industry. Nowadays car companies are trying to bring back the eco-friendly vehicles since there is a plethora of highways and rest stops across the US.

The biggest factor plaguing the electric auto industry is the distance an eco-friendly car can travel. Many electric models can only travel up to 100 miles on one charge, which is not enough for the typical consumer. Tesla has come out with the Model S 85D which is able to travel 270 miles before needing to recharge, but it is also much more expensive than the typical electric vehicle. One solution to the low mileage problem is the hybrid vehicle. A hybrid car uses both an electric motor and gas motor so the owner is able to travel a long distance without having to stop as frequently.

Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles will use the electric engine when traveling on city roads or at steady paces and then switches to the gasoline motor if more speed is needed. This type of hybrid is called an HEV or Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Since the HEV battery is recharged from harnessing the extra energy used when hitting the brakes, the electric motor rarely needs to be charged. This is a big bonus for first time HEV users. The PHEV or Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles is another type of eco-friendly car. This vehicle is similar to the HEV in that it has both an electric and gasoline motor. The electric motor is utilized primarily when traveling and is only switched to gas when the battery is low. The gasoline engine does assist in recharging the electric motor but PHEVs are required to be plugged in to fully refill the battery. It is up to the consumer to decide which type of hybrid vehicle is best for them but if you decide on a hybrid as opposed to a traditional vehicle, it will save you money on gas and trips to the gas station.

Charging Electric Vehicles

When needing to recharge your electric vehicle, it can be cumbersome trying to find a proper charging station and much more challenging then locating the typical fuel station. Drivers that own an electric vehicle are able to purchase an at home vehicle charger to set up either outdoors or in a garage. Buyers can pick between and AC Level 1 charger or the AC Lever 2 charger. An AC Level 1 charger will return 5 miles of distance per one hour charging, the AC Level 2 will do twice that. Recharging an electric vehicle can get expensive, especially if it is your primary vehicle. The U.S. Department of Energy states that the cost of completely recharging and electric vehicle will be equal to the expense or running a home A/C unit for about 6 hours. This is an expense most people prefer rather than the rising gas prices. Charging you hybrid or electric vehicle is becoming easier than ever with modern technology. PlugShare is a business that allows members to view nearby charging stations while on the go. These stations can be public or private and are viewable from PlugShares website.

Government Benefits for Green Vehicles

Buying a new car can be very expensive and those of us in the market for a hybrid vehicle expect the price to lower that a traditional car, but that is not always the case. Electric vehicles can be just as expensive to purchase as regular vehicle, so the government has issued tax benefits to help offset the cost. The IRS has issued a tax credit for electric vehicles that are required to be plugged in to recharge the battery. Depending on your battery size, the credit could range anywhere between $2500 and $7500. This credit is then applied to your income taxs, reducing the amount you owe, or paying them off. If the IRS credit exceeds your income taxes due, it will be paid but there will not be a return of the balance difference. This government benefit is only available if you bought your electric vehicle new. Leased electric or hybrid vehicles and used vehicles will not apply for any IRS benefits, but some states around the country are offering benefits for installing vehicle charging stations. Check with your local government or dealership to see if you qualify for any incentives.

Other Green Options

If you’re not ready to purchase your first electric vehicle, there are still some other options and changes you can make to help your vehicle become greener and environmentally friendly.

Diesel Engines

Although diesel engines have been around for a long time, many people believe they are toxic to the environment, but that is not true. Diesel engines have the ability to travel further with less emissions polluting the atmosphere. Diesel fuel is about the same expense as gasoline and is available at almost all gas stations.

Hypermiling

The concept of hypermiling is described as the ability to control your driving habits in order to conserve fuel. Drivers can practice this by actions such as, coasting to a stop light and keeping a steady MPH while driving on the highway. Use these movements in the future and you might notice less money spent in gas.

Care for Your Car

When was the last time you took your vehicle into an auto mechanic? Drivers normally do not do consistent maintenance on their vehicle unless they are changing the oil or something is broken. Taking your car into a professional every few months can help keep your engine is top working order, which is essential for saving money on fuel. Making sure little things like your tire pressure and inspections are up to date will help keep your car on the road for longer.

Conserve Fuel

Although many of us take a commute to work, it might be beneficial on your wallet and car to consider other forms of transportation. Taking the bus a few times a week or scheduling a carpool with other co-workers are great ways to preserve your car and gas money. Also, instead of running to the store for dinner every night, try and plan to go once during the weekend so you will not be driving as much.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Drivers are able to conserve fuel either by purchasing a new car or tuning up their old one. Hopefully some of these tips will keep you and your car in healthy working condition.