Bill Gray Volvo

Volvo understands that life is better lived together. And getting together often means getting out on the road.

When buying a new vehicle there are many considerations, usually based on our different lifestyles. It is important to remember that internal combustion engines are one source of emissions that contribute to global warming. Fortunately, there are many ways in which you can reduce the amount of pollution that your vehicle generates–and save money at the same time!

Buying SmartWay Certified

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a new and improved Green Vehicle Guide that makes it easy to search for EPA certified SmartWay^SM vehicles. When researching your next vehicle purchase, use the Green Vehicle Guide to identify the cleanest, most fuel-efficient vehicles available. No matter what size car, SUV or pickup you need, you may have greener options, just look for the SmartWay certification mark to find the superior environmental performers.

What are SmartWay Certified Vehicles?

Each vehicle listed in the Green Vehicle Guide receives an Air Pollution Score and a Greenhouse Gas Score, on a scale of 1-10. For the SmartWay designation, a vehicle must receive a 6 or better on both scores, and have a total score of at least 13. Vehicles that receive the SmartWay designation are very good environmental performers relative to other vehicles.

How can I purchase a SmartWay Certified Vehicle?

SmartWay certified vehicles are all clearly identified in EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide. Simply click on the SmartWay box to view the current list of certified vehicles.

Driving Smart

On the road
• Be aware of your speed - obeying highway speed limits can save fuel, as well as prevent pollution.
• Avoid rapid accelerations and braking, which burn more fuel.
• Use cruise control and overdrive gears.
• When you aren't in traffic, turn off the engine rather than idle for more than 30 seconds.
• Remove excess weight from your trunk, and if you have a removable roof rack and aren't using it, take it off.

Take care of your vehicle
• Your vehicle is designed to perform best when maintained according to the instructions found in the owner's manual. A poorly maintained vehicle can pollute more and be less fuel-efficient than one that's well maintained. If the "Service Engine Soon" light comes on, you may have an emissions problem, so have your vehicle checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
• Keep your tires properly inflated - Low tire pressure means lower fuel economy.
• Replace your air filter regularly. A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy significantly.

Use your vehicle less
• Whenever possible, combine activities and errands into one trip.
• Take advantage of public transportation and carpooling.
• Bicycling or even walking can be suitable (and healthy) transportation alternatives.

Take care when filling up
• Gas fumes are harmful to you and the environment. Topping off your tank beyond the automatic shutoff point will cause fuel spills as well as emit more toxic fumes into the air.
• In very hot weather, try to refuel early in the morning or late in the evening when less fumes evaporate. And if you live in an area that has Ozone Action Days, try to avoid filling up on those days.

SmartWay certified vehicles are all clearly identified in EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide. Simply click on the SmartWay box to view the current list of certified vehicles.