Do Eco Cars Save Money?

Lower emittors

Most cars on the road will fall into this category. They utilise technological advances that have produced relatively clean combustion engines, and are available with petrol and diesel, or both.

Petrol hybrids

Hybrids use a fuel-efficient petrol engine as the primary source of drive. The big difference is that the main power is also supplemented by an electric engine. 

Typically the electric engine will be active up to speeds of 35mph, at which stage the engine will take over while re-charging the batteries.

Hybrids offer a driving experience similar to traditional cars, and filling one up is no more inconvenient than a normal car -justt less frequently. 

The Toyota Prius is the most well-known hybrid, but other models include the Honda Insight and Lexus CT.

Electric vehicles

Electric vehicles have been around for several years, and are growing in popularity due to cost and performanc. Cars classed as 'pure electrics' have battery-powered electric motors, and are charged using a mains power supply, either overnight, or in an hour on a fast charge mode.

Plug-in hybrids

These are still driven by electric motors, but also have a range-extending option of an efficient petrol or diesel engine. These can be used to go further and recharge the batteries while on the move. The cost of all electric vehicles is now offset by a £5,000 grant offered by the government..

Alternative fuel

Liquefied petroleum gas is a natural fuel and, while it produces CO2, cars running on it emit a lot less than those with conventional engines. There are around 1,400 garages selling LPG in the UK.  LPG conversions typically cost around £1,200-£1,500.

Oil companies have increased the amount of biofuel (cleaner crop-based oil) at the pumps. Hydrogen cell vehicles are still being developed - it is not expected that these will be a viable alternative over the next 10 to 20 years.  

The latest government family spending statistics show that 15% of average household expenditure goes on vehicle fuel. Little wonder most people would welcome savings