Long-Term Savings Tips

Drive an Energy Efficient Vehicle
Drive an Energy Efficient Vehicle
You can save money and help the environment by driving a highly energy-efficient vehicle. Check out other options such as public transportation and riding your bike to work.

Choose vehicles according to your need. For example, if you mostly drive in cities, a smaller hybrid might be right for you because they get better mileage in city driving and are easier to park.

If you need a vehicle for towing or heavy use, consider a clean diesel vehicle. Diesel engines are quieter, more powerful, and 30%-35% more efficient than similar-sized gasoline engines. The new generation of clean diesel vehicles must meet the same emissions standards as gasoline vehicles.

Many vehicles produced by U.S. auto manufacturers are flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs), which can run on E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) and other ethanol- gasoline blends. Check your owner's manual to find out if your vehicle is an FFV.

Consider buying a highly fuel-efficient vehicle. A fuel-efficient, plug-in electric (PHEV), hybrid, or alternative fuel vehicle could cut your fuel costs and help the environment. See the Fuel Economy Guide at fueleconomy.gov for more information on buying a new fuel-efficient car or truck.

Also, if you have a plug-in hybrid electric or an all-electric vehicle, charging stations for electric vehicles are increasingly available throughout the country. Similarly, you can find alternative fuel stations-such as those that offer E85-and charging sites by visiting the Alternative Fueling Station Locator online at afdc.energy. gov/afdc/locator/stations.