The best way to save on fuel is to go the speed limit. If you stay at the posted speed limits you can increase your fuel mileage by between 2 and 15 percent. We are accustomed to following the other vehicles on the road. This is typically five to ten miles over the posted speed limit. When we are feeling rushed or having to hurry we also drive faster on residential streets. If you make an effort to try to stay within the speed limits you will see a definite increase in your fuel mileage no matter what type of vehicle you are driving.

By watching your speed you will save on gas and your vehicle will be producing less harmful emissions into the air. The harder you push your car’s engine the more pollution it puts out into our environment. Another added bonus is that if you go the speed limit you won’t have to worry about getting a speeding ticket which could lead to higher insurance premiums.

Whenever possible you should also try to minimize unnecessary miles by planning ahead and by doing all your errands at one time. Try to map out your errands so you are not back tracking and wasting fuel or your precious time. Even if you can’t afford to purchase a hybrid car you can change your driving habits to save you fuel and help the environment at the same time.

Tailpipe and CO2 emissions have played havoc on our environment. When you are considering buying a vehicle you should check the car’s air pollution scores. You can use the Internet and find the EPA’s air pollution scores for any vehicle. These list are searchable by state and vehicle model.

Today many of the automakers are using green materials in the interior of their vehicles. They are also using recycled components and making parts from plants. Some automakers are using leather like products and using environmentally certified fabrics.

You can use the Internet to find which vehicles have been given top awards for being green. Some people may be surprised that diesels have recently been beating out hybrids for green awards. There are a number of organizations that give green awards. You can check them out to see which vehicles are rated the highest as far as being green.

You can also compare the factories of the different automakers. Most of them have made huge strides in making their manufacturing facilities green. The Ford Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan has 10 acres of drought resistant plants helping to absorb the CO2 in the air. It also has a program that captures paint fumes and converts them to hydrogen to a power a fuel cell at the plant.

If everyone does their part and makes a conscious effort to drive green we can make a difference in the quality of air we breathe. By driving green you are also saving money on fuel.