Environmental Alley Invades Washington D.C.

It’s been a "hot" week in Washington, DC. Yes, it’s that auto show time of the year, and a whole host of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) have been spotlighted at this year’s event. Included among them were the Lexus GS450h, a full hybrid luxury sport sedan that is capable of operating in gas-only or electric-only modes—or a combination of the two—with fuel economy of 28 mpg on the highway.

Several manufacturers have also unveiled new flex fuel vehicles; among them, the GMC Yukon and Savana lineup as well as Mercury’s Grand Marquis. Updated hybrids include the Mercury Mariner and Nissan Altima.

Not to be outdone, Volkswagen (VW) unveiled its cleanest diesel ever, the new Jetta TDI, slated to go on sale in the United States in the spring of 2008. VW has a 30-year history of providing efficient durable diesels to the US market. And while diesels have traditionally accounted for 20 percent of VW’s US sales, stricter clean air regulations prevented VW from selling their passenger car diesels in the states for the 2007 model year. Back in action now, this new clean diesel Jetta meets the lowest emission standards by adopting the BLUETEC technology developed jointly by Audi, Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen.

Today automakers offer 46 advanced technology vehicles, with more than 100 models that get 30 mpg on highways. So, would you consider buying one the next time you’re ready for a new car? Drop us a comment and let us know your thoughts.

2007 Lexus GS450h Hybrid
photo © Lexus