Motorists looking to go green

A survey commissioned by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP) and the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has found that UK motorists considering a new car are now more concerned about ‘going green’ – with 50% saying that environmental friendliness has become more important to them in the last year.

In the same survey, despite the current low fuel prices, almost as many (43%) potential buyers said that running costs are also now more important than they were.

To help drivers easily identify the most efficient environmentally friendly cars available, a new car environmental label is now in use at all new car dealerships. This enables showroom visitors to instantly see which new cars have the lowest emissions, running costs and longest electric range, making it easier to compare models. 

The new car environmental label has been redesigned by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (working with the UK Department for Transport and Vehicle Certification Agency) to include additional information that’s clearer, easier to follow and actively encourages motorists to consider low or zero emissions cars.

A running costs section allows motorists to instantly see how their monthly costs can vary between vehicles, emphasising the savings possible from electric and the most fuel-efficient cars.

There is also more detail on a car’s tailpipe emissions, including being able to drive in clean air zones (which all new cars can) and if the car qualifies as an ultra low emission vehicle (ULEV). The level of CO₂ emissions is clearly shown too. The label also details the electric range for plug-in hybrids and pure electric cars.

The new car environmental label will be found next to every new car on display in car showrooms or at events. There are three versions – one for petrol and diesel cars, one for plug-in hybrids (pictured) and a third for pure electric.