U.S. Automakers Take the Bottom Three Positions in Environmental Rankings
A recent study released by the Union of Concerned Scientists ranked the top eight automakers based on the actual smog-forming and global warming emissions of their vehicle fleets. Not surprisingly, the bottom three manufacturers were Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler, whose product lines have only recently moved toward smaller displacement engines fitted with technology focused on fuel economy. Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai took the top three spots in the study, with Honda taking the title as the “Greenest Automaker.” This, too, is unsurprising since Honda has traditionally had a product line focused on small displacement, high output engines. For example, Honda is the only automaker on the list that does not offer a V-8 engine in any of its models, focusing instead on the development of V-6 and 4 cylinder/4 cylinder hybrid engines.
Recently, however, American auto manufacturers began developing technologies that will likely make their fleet ratings much greener. For example, Ford has introduced a line of EcoBoost engines that use turbo-charging technology to increase fuel economy while providing the power of higher displacement engines. GM, too, has increased recent efforts to address fuel economy with the coming introduction of the Chevrolet Volt. This model will be the first plug-in hybrid to hit the market and promises a range of 40 miles using only its electric motor.
Although the American auto manufacturers find themselves at the bottom of the list for this study- which includes fleets from the 2008 model year -hopefully their recent efforts to meet tougher government emissions standards, and to increase fuel economy by using new technologies, will allow them to move up in the rankings while staying competitive with their Asian and European counterparts. Increased efficiency should also bode well for public perception of these companies since efficiency and pollution are on the minds of consumers. A public opinion poll conducted in western states shows overwhelming support for state action to reduce global warming pollution by requiring automakers to produce more efficient cars that pollute less and use less gasoline. As such, pursuing a greener product line will not only allow U.S. manufacturers to meet government emissions standards, but will also help to align their products with the demands of their consumer base.
