Go Go Green Cars

Since the automakers are all on the quest to produce vehicles that have high fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions there are an abundant of diverse vehicles to choose from. Greener vehicles are becoming more mainstream from entry level to luxury cars. There has even been an increase in clean diesels, which offer the driver more power along with better fuel mileage.

The Green Car Journal has chosen the 2010 Audi A3 TDI for the prestigious title of the Green Car Journal’s 2010 Green Car of the Year. For the second year in a row a clean diesel has taken top honors in the annual award program. Last year the award went to the VW Jetta TDI.

The competition for top honors was tough and among a lineup of stellar vehicles including three hybrids and a clean diesel. The other green cars that were contenders included the Honda Insight Hybrid, the Mercury Milan Hybrid and the Toyota Prius. The other clean diesel in the running for the award was the VW Golf TDI.

The judges of this year’s award liked the rakish styling and 42 mpg highway fuel efficiency of the Audi A3 TDI. This vehicle has a 50% improvement over the A3 gasoline model and has relatively low CO2 emissions. This model is also approved by Audi for operation on up to B5 biodiesel fuel.

The Audi A3 is an entry level luxury car that has a variety of distinctive features, including 17 inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and a sporty appearance. The Audi A3 looks like a hatchback; however, the EPA officially classified it as a small station wagon. Audi on the other hand describes it as Sportback. No matter what it is called, the Audi A3 TDI is a fuel efficient and low emissions winner of the 2010 Green Car on the Year award.

There has been a lot of talk about biodiesel being a good fuel alternative for diesel. It is possible to make your own biodiesel. Typically biodiesel is made by chemically altering oil with the help of a catalyst and methanol. Basically the oil is heated to start the chemical reaction; the catalyst and alcohol are mixed and allowed to settle.

Then all but the top layer is drained off and then is it “washed” to remove the water and impurities. Then the biodiesel must be “dried” in containers to remove the water and then it is filtered before using. Biodiesel can be made using common household items. You can purchase biodiesel systems to make it at home. There are many websites that can answer any questions you may have about making and using biodiesel.

You have to be very careful with biodiesel because it is a toxic chemical. Be sure to use caution when you are preparing it, handling and storing it. It should be made in a well ventilated area and away from children and animals. Make sure you always wear protective gear when making or handling biodiesel, including masks and splash proof goggles. You have to also remember to properly dispose of any byproduct.

Biodiesel can be used in any diesel powered vehicle. Most people who use it for the first time say it reduces engine noise and the engine runs smoother. Other reports have said there are slightly lower tailpipe emissions and a reduction in maintenance.

There are also drawbacks to using Biodiesel. Fuel lines in older diesel engines have been known to become weak, especially rubber ones, because of the biodiesel. Biodiesel will gel and clog fuel lines in cold climates. Also many automakers warranties will not cover engine or fuel system problems caused by biodiesel use.

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel that can be used in most diesel vehicles.