November 18th, 2007

Amazing Green Cars Coming in 2008

Posted by Jessica Jensen

Folks 2008 is going to be an unbelievably exciting year on the eco-friendly vehicle front.  With gas prices busting through the clouds and our emissions quickening the pace of global warming, these auto options cannot come soon enough. Brace yourselves for a wild, green ride!

I just learned yesterday at the Opportunity Green conference at UCLA about the Aptera.  Check out this funky space-aged car pictured at right. Even more cool than its Star Trek styling is the fact that it gets 230 Miles Per Gallon. Yes, that’s right. This two-seat, three-wheeled vehicle is incredibly aerodynamic, and its plug-in hybrid technology allows it to attain truly incredible mileage. 

Here is the vehicle description from the manufacturer: The Aptera has a 2 plus 1 seating configuration. The two front seats are arranged as standard side by side seating. There is also a center infant seat behind the driver and passenger. The side doors open to the front and upward completely inside the front wheel track so you never have to worry about hitting the vehicle parked next to you or damaging your door while exiting your Aptera in a tight garage. There is enough storage in the rear for 15 bags of groceries, or 2 full size golf club bags. And the Aptera is even big enough for a couple of seven foot surf boards and any associated beach accessories.

The Aptera Typ-1 is now available for reservations. The approximate cost of this option with all the available features will be $26,900.  Is this not jaw-dropping?  You can learn more at the Aptera site by clicking here.

The Smart Car is (finally) Coming!

For any of you who have been in Europe in the last five+ years, you’ve seen the tiny Smart Car. Well it is finally coming to the US in 2008.  The Smart is designed to achieve 40 plus mpg under normal driving conditions. Its small size also makes it a parallel parking dream. Many people become concerned about safety when they see the diminutive size of the Smart, but it is surprisingly safe– garnering a 4 star safety rating in crash tests. The highlight of the safety management system is the tridion safety cell. The safety cell is made from steel and is designed to keep occupants protected. The reinforced steel and the design of the car allow for the displacement of impact and redistribution of crash energy. 

The Smart is also a bargain. The “smart fortwo pure model” will start at $11,590, the “smart fortwo passion” will start at $13,590 and the smart fortwo passion cabriolet will start at $16,590.The smart fortwo model is scheduled to be available in the first quarter of 2008, and they are taking reservations now.  To learn more please visit the SmartUSA site by clicking here.