If you’re in the market for a new car, then a number of considerations might be weighing on your mind. Among these might be the amount you’ll need to spend on fuel, the potential cost of maintenance, and the way that the vehicle looks and feels to drive.
For many modern motorists, environmental factors matter, too. But what is it that makes a car eco-friendly, and how can you limit the environmental impact of the decision you make?
Top Eco-Friendly Used Cars
What makes the most eco-friendly car for you will depend on exactly how much driving you’re doing. Battery-electric vehicles tend to enjoy vastly superior efficiency, but the environmental cost of the battery itself will be considerable. In other words, you’ll have to drive a considerable distance to make the trade-off worthwhile.
When it comes to electric cars, the Tesla Model 3 might be the gold standard. It offers a winning combination of features and performance, and it’s become a common sight on British public roads. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, the market has recently been flooded by cheaper Chinese-made vehicles that might appeal.
If you don’t want to go fully electric, you might look for a hybrid vehicle, like the Honda Civic or the Renault Clio, both of which offer excellent performance and reliability.
Cost Benefits of Eco-Friendly Used Cars
A vehicle that’s fuel-efficient will also tend to be less emissive. Go electric, and you’ll be paying far less per mile. The road tax system is also set up to incentivise these vehicles, and so you may end up paying less – although it’s possible that these taxes will be raised in future budgets. It’s also worth thinking about low-emission zones, especially if you live or work in a major city. You might save considerably by making the switch.
The used car market offers all of these benefits, with the crucial difference that you won’t have to worry about the environmental cost of a vehicle being built in the first place. In almost every case, this makes going second-hand the most eco-friendly choice.
Maintaining Eco-Friendly Used Cars
The longer your vehicle lasts on the road, for the most part, the more eco-friendly it will be. Keeping your vehicle in good shape will make it more fuel-efficient, and lower the cost of maintenance.
Getting the best from the vehicle usually means having it regularly serviced. This might mean an annual service, along with extra check-ups between. This is particularly advisable if you’re travelling great distances. You might also change and inflate your tyres regularly, and develop fuel-efficient driving habits.
