Green Energy on the Road: Comparing Green Vehicles
Comparing the Different Types of Green Energy Vehicles
Global warming, climate change, destruction of natural resources, and more. These are the issues caused by the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) each day. And yet, despite the environmental issues, we continue to rely on fossil fuels to power our homes and vehicles across the country.
While this crisis is unlikely to end anytime soon, you can do your part to help reduce carbon emissions and the surrounding issues by making small changes in your everyday life. One easy change would be to invest in a green vehicle—which will not only help the planet, but it will help you save money on gas as well.
Over the past couple of decades, car manufacturers and environmentalists have made strides in the green energy vehicle market. Some of the most innovative and environmentally-friendly vehicles being produced today include fuel cell electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and compressed-air vehicles. Here are a few key features of each of the three most innovative types of green vehicles.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
Better known by the acronym FCEV, fuel cell electric vehicles are powered by hydrogen, which makes them more efficient than a traditional vehicle with an internal combustion engine. Because they’re powered by hydrogen, they don’t release harmful exhaust fumes, but water vapor and warm air only. FCEVs use a combination of pure hydrogen gas and electricity to power the vehicle.
Examples of this vehicle: Hyundai Tucson FCEV, Toyota Mirai
Hybrid Electric Vehicles
A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) combines the technology of a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This combination helps the vehicle achieve a much better fuel economy (efficiency) than a traditional vehicle. One of the most innovative and efficient types of HEVs is the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The PHEV contains a rechargeable battery that can be connected to an external power source. When compared to a completely electric vehicle, PHEVs utilize the combustion engine as backup power when the battery is depleted.
Examples of this vehicle: Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Lexus CT 200h
Compressed-Air Vehicles
A compressed-air vehicle (CAV) uses compressed air stored in a tank to power an engine. Similar to HEVs, CAVs are typically combined with a traditional engine for increased efficiency. Though not widely used at this point, benefits of these vehicles include smaller engine sizes, lower manufacturing and maintenance costs, and less damage to roads due to the lighter size of the vehicle. Today, compressed-air vehicles are being created to drive no faster than 50 mph, with tanks offering a range of 80 miles.
Examples of this vehicle: AIRPod (Currently only accepting reservations)
Get More Information on Green Energy
We’re committed to helping you save money as we work together toward a cleaner, greener planet. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of green/renewable energy and provide you with money and energy savings opportunities every day. Contact us to get a quote on green energy for your home or to find out how you can join the green energy movement!
