Green car technology is proving to be far more than a simple fad, as more and more consumers show an interest in hybrids and other eco-friendly vehicles. As we look ahead to the new crop of cars coming out in 2014, a few trends stand out. According to a scientific study conducted by Prime Research, there is now a greater interest in plug-in hybrid technology, along with finding ways of downsizing cars and using light-weight technology to improve efficiency. The following are a few upcoming green-friendly models generating excitement in the auto industry, all due for a release next year. If you’re looking to get one of these, you could find cheaper van insurance on Money Expert.
1. Cadillac ELR
The new Cadillac ELR has already been hyped in numerous auto shows and trade magazines, and will finally go on sale in January 2014. The new ELR will use the best of electric-gasoline hybrid technology to provide a major boost of power to the hybrid market. One of the major barriers preventing electric cars from going mainstreamed is their limited range, but the ELR will be capable of going 300 miles on its hybrid engine or 35 miles on electric power alone. It will combine this aspect with a luxurious interior and smooth handling ability for a complete package.
2. Ford B-Max
Many of the top-selling hybrids to this date have been small city cars, which is why the Ford B-Max is being watched so closely. This will be a hybrid minivan, well suited to the family car niche market. Yet despite falling into the family car class, the B-Max should remain compact and lightweight for streamlined efficiency. Offering an economical starting price, compact size, and efficient hybrid engine, the B-Max should be an interesting model to watch next year.
3. BMW i3
BMW has been playing with hybrid technology for a few years now, but the new i3 will be first fully electric car offered by the brand. It’s expected that this car could change how both consumers and competitors view electric cars, with its full range of amenities and serious engine power. The car will have a range up to 100 miles in its fully electric mode, but you can also choose to extend this option with a gasoline engine to give it a range of 190.
4. Audi A3 E-Tron
The new plug-in electric car from Audi comes equipped with a 1.4 liter, four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine as well as an electric motor. These two sources of power combine to provide up to 204 horsepower in a compact setting. The car is capable of accelerating rapidly, going from 0-62 mph in only 7.6 seconds and driving up to speeds of 138 mph. When running on electric battery power alone, the car can still drive up to 80 mph. This new sporty number should be both fun to drive and fuel-efficient.
5. Mazda 3
Although the Mazda 3 isn’t a hybrid, this new model is still extraordinarily efficient with its SKYACTIV engine. It will have a reported fuel economy up to 72 mpg and CO2 emissions are reigned in to a 104 g/km. In addition to its environmental friendliness, a key feature of the new and improved Mazda 3 will be its human and machine interface system. This will allow drivers to connect with their car on the road and provide greater control over safety and stability.