URL: http://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/Index.do
Date: Website accessed November 2007

Notes:
At a Glance: The EPA's Green Vehicle Guide provides information about environmental performance of vehicles sold in the US. A user can search for specific vehicles and get performance ratings across a number of factors, or can do side-by-side comparisons of several vehicles. Scores are given for air pollution levels and greenhouse gas emissions. Special designations are given to cars that exceed standards set by the EPA. If public transportation, walking, biking or ride sharing are not options, picking a car with the best mileage ratings is the way to go.


Standout Features: The site has an advanced search feature to get comparisons of up to three vehicles side-by-side. There are nicely designed charts are provided for each search with easy to interpret scoring system for factors related to air pollution, fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions. For tips to improve gas mileage, there is a link to: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm. This site has similar features, but also provides an interesting look at each vehicle’s carbon footprint and energy impact score.

Keep in Mind: It is a government source and although some may distrust the government to provide truthful information about environmental issues, this resource is linked to from a number of environmental friendly sites. All users should keep in mind, however, that the mileage ratings are often not achieved in “real life” – expect performance not quite as good as the EPA ratings. Definitely should read the instructions for using the Guide to get the full value of the features. Similar ratings information may be found at: http://www.greenercars.org/highlights.htm but full information and ratings of older vehicles require the payment of a fee.

Suggested by: enbn54