(2/17/99)
If you're shopping for some new wheels and gas mileage or exhaust emissions matter to you, there's a new book you should see before you buy. Charles Sherrill tells us about it in this report from our Washington bureau.
With gasoline lines only an ancient curiosity and
the relative price of fuel at an all time low
gas guzzler sales are soaring.
Martin Thomas, the co-author of "Green Guide" says, "We willnot turn back rising oil consumption and global warming pollution without stronger fuel economy standards."
A green guide released today rates every car, van and light truck sold in the United States for fuel efficiency and air pollution.
"The Car Book" author, Jack Gillis, says, "The cars that we are buying today in record numbers are not the cars that are best for our environment."
Hot selling sport utilities finish dead last. Thomas says, "These vehicles rank among the worst for the environment because they are subject to weaker emissions standards and guzzle so much gas."
Electrics, hybrids and alternative fuel cars did best.
"Green Guide" co-author, John DeCicco, says, "If I had to single out a company for leadership technologically, I think at this point it would have to be Honda."
And Ford gets credit for voluntarily adopting more stringent emission standards for its minivans and SUVs. Thomas says, "On the other hand, Ford is still leading the push for more large sport utility vehicles."
Dozens of small and mid-size cars earned good scores for both gas mileage and air pollution.
Decicco advice is, "Think of what your needs really are and make the greenest choice."
Authors of the "Green Guide" estimate it would cost manufacturers $600 to $900 a vehicle to improve fuel efficiency by 40 to 60 percent. They say it won't happen unless consumers demand or government requires it.
You can get more information about the Green Guide to 1999 Cars and Trucks on the internet at www.aceee.org
Or you can call (202) 429-0063 to order a copy.
