Today’s eco-friendly cars don’t just minimize their environmental impact; they also deliver long-term savings and a better driving experience. It’s no wonder they’ve become quite popular.
What makes a car eco-friendly?
When shopping, consider these specific features that contribute to an eco-friendly vehicle’s sustainability and efficiency.
Powertrain options
The powertrain plays a major role in a car’s eco-friendliness. Electric vehicles offer zero emissions and lower operating costs, while hybrid engines combine gas with electric power for improved fuel efficiency.
Fuel efficiency
Lightweight materials like aluminum alloys and carbon fiber reduce vehicle weight and directly affect car performance and fuel economy. Aerodynamic designs minimize drag, while low-resistance tires require less energy to power their rotation.
Sustainable materials
Many eco-friendly cars’ interiors are made with sustainable materials, including recycled plastics and plant-based leather alternatives. Some vehicles additionally incorporate recyclable components that can be repurposed at the end of a car’s life cycle.
Energy-saving technologies
LED lights consume less power than traditional bulbs and last significantly longer. Regenerative braking captures energy during braking and uses it to recharge the battery. Start-stop technology conserves fuel by automatically shutting off the engine when the car idles. Some vehicles even offer eco-driving modes and climate control systems that maintain a comfortable cabin temperature without drawing as much power.
Advanced emissions control
Many cars meet Partial Zero Emission Vehicle standards, which require them to adhere to strict environmental regulations. When reviewing the information sticker in a car’s window, be on the lookout for the abbreviation PZEV (you can also find it on the vehicle emissions sticker under the hood or on the driver’s side door frame). The sensors and controls in a car with this designation help reduce the environmental impact of every mile driven.
Who makes eco-friendly cars?
While not a complete list, these are some of the automakers reducing their environmental impact.
BMW
BMW’s commitment to sustainability includes an expanding range of electric vehicles, such as the i4 and iX. The company plans to make a significant portion of its cars’ components 100% recyclable by 2035 and targets a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030.
Ford
Ford is investing heavily in electric vehicles with its Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. The company is channeling significant resources into EV production and technology while emphasizing renewable energy-powered manufacturing to reduce its environmental footprint.
General Motors (Chevy, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac)
GM has set the goal of carbon neutrality in its vehicles and operations by 2040. Its long-lasting Ultium battery now powers its growing EV lineup, including models like the Chevrolet Silverado EV and the GMC Hummer EV. Starting this year, GM intends to power all U.S. facilities with 100% renewable electricity.
Honda
Honda will phase out gasoline-powered vehicles by 2040 and focus on EVs and hydrogen fuel cells. Forthcoming models include the Prologue EV and continued hybrid offerings. Honda aims to become carbon-neutral across all products and operations by 2050.
Hyundai
Hyundai offers the versatile Ioniq, which includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric models. The company is a leader in hydrogen fuel cell technology and aims to achieve zero emissions from 30% of its vehicles by 2030.
Kia
Kia has a "Plan S" strategy, which aims for a 40% share of global sales of eco-friendly vehicles by 2030. It currently has its EV6, and more models are on the horizon. Kia is also exploring hydrogen mobility and sustainable materials for future models.
Mazda
Mazda is pursuing a multi-solution approach to sustainability. The brand’s first EV is the MX-30, and it’s currently developing hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and rotary range-extender technologies. Mazda wants to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, embracing sustainable materials and cleaner production methods.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz wants to become fully electric in markets where conditions allow by 2030 and produce a carbon-neutral new car fleet by 2039. To achieve this, it’s investing in battery technology, renewable energy, and sustainable materials while integrating eco-friendly innovation throughout its manufacturing and supply chains.
Nissan
The Nissan Leaf, a 100% electric vehicle, has become a staple in the eco-friendly car market. While its current incarnation is being retired, the automaker continues to invest in next-generation EV batteries. It aims to expand its electric vehicle lineup while reducing carbon emissions in manufacturing and logistics.
Stellantis (Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram)
Stellantis has bold ambitions and plans to offer over 75 battery-electric models globally by 2030. Jeep has the 4xe hybrid lineup and its upcoming all-electric models, Dodge is electrifying its muscle cars, and Ram is developing electric trucks. Stellantis wants to be carbon-net-zero by 2038.
Subaru
Subaru has the all-electric Subaru Solterra and plans to electrify 40% of global sales by 2030. It’s emphasizing sustainable production through its zero-landfill manufacturing plants and is reducing carbon emissions across its operations.
Tesla
Tesla is synonymous with eco-friendly vehicles. It offers a lineup of 100% electric cars with zero emissions. In some locations, solar panels power the company’s Supercharger stations. Tesla is also exploring energy-efficient manufacturing and solar power solutions.
Toyota
Toyota is a pioneer in hybrid technology, with an extensive lineup of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. The company is developing hydrogen fuel cells and aims to produce carbon-neutral vehicles by 2050.
Volvo
Volvo plans to be fully electric by 2030, with models like the XC40 Recharge and the upcoming EX90 leading this transition. The company is targeting climate-neutral manufacturing by this year and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.
Volkswagen Group (Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche)
Volkswagen Group wants to be carbon-neutral by 2050. To meet this goal, it has launched Volkswagen’s ID. series, Audi’s e-tron series, and the Porsche Taycan. Porsche is also investing in synthetic e-fuels to reduce emissions further.
Why choose an eco-friendly car?
Eco-friendly cars aren’t just better for the environment — they also offer tangible benefits for drivers. Reduced fuel consumption leads to lower operating costs, while advanced materials and technologies often enhance durability and performance. Check out the EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide for a deeper dive into eco-friendly cars.
Government incentives make purchasing an eco-friendly vehicle a wise financial choice. If you’re worried about your ability to buy one due to bad or no credit, you can start the online pre-qualification process here.