When it comes to green cars, Toyota has set the benchmark for the industry. Its ultra successful Prius model has taken the world by storm and in the USA Toyota manufactured 82 per cent of the hybrid vehicles sold during April. Now however, several other car manufacturers are fighting back with green ideas of their own.
Though the Toyota Prius dominates the hybrid car market, its cars from BMW, Honda and Chevy that could turn heads going forward – here are some of the vehicles to look forward to:
- Honda – 68mpg vehicle
Honda is arguably Toyota’s biggest rival in the green car sector and its latest vehicle, the FCX Clarity, may be its most significant offering yet.
The vehicle uses a compact electric motor powered by hydrogen and a lithium-ion battery. The V-flow cell combines hydrogen stored in a fuel tank with oxygen to create electricity, which in turn propels the vehicle. Though at the moment there are few hydrogen refuelling stations, Honda believes that if it builds hydrogen cars, the refuelling stations won’t be far behind. The FCX Clarity can achieve an incredible 68mpg.
- BMW – Hydrogen combines with luxury
A 12-cylinder, 260 horsepower internal combustion engine capable of running on liquid hydrogen with a petrol component for back-up, is the latest concept from German manufacturer BMW.
The Hydrogen 7-Series is already available in the USA on a limited basis and the company is also working with NASA to test additional forms of liquid hydrogen.
- Chevy – Electric concept
You’ve probably heard of the Chevy Volt already – an electric car that is said to have acceleration powers that go far beyond those of previous concepts.
The Volt uses no petroleum and instead plugs into a standard 100-volt household power outlet. It is scheduled to hit the market within two years and is well-suited to those who drive fewer than 40 miles a day.
