Choosing a Vehicle
Selecting a Vehicle
When selecting a vehicle, consider both fuel economy and emissions.
If your budget allows, an electric vehicle (EV) offers zero tailpipe emissions and minimal environmental impact. If you need a fuel-powered vehicle, choose one with low fuel consumption and low CO₂ emissions.
The Vehicle Certification Agency publishes detailed guides comparing the fuel economy of new models.
Manual vs Automatic
Older automatic cars were generally less fuel-efficient than manuals. However, modern technology has changed this.
Today’s automatics often equal — and in some cases exceed — manuals in both fuel efficiency and emission performance.
Whichever you choose, always check the CO₂ and fuel economy ratings before purchasing.
Petrol Engines
Modern petrol engines are far cleaner and more efficient thanks to:
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Fuel injection systems
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Electronic engine management
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Advanced exhaust designs
All new petrol vehicles are fitted with catalytic converters, which remove most harmful gases from exhaust emissions.
Catalytic Converters
A catalytic converter is a honeycomb filter coated with precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium.
These metals speed up chemical reactions that convert toxic gases — including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons — into less harmful substances.
An oxygen sensor monitors the exhaust gases and automatically adjusts the fuel–air mixture.
Note: Catalytic converters do not remove carbon dioxide (CO₂), which still contributes to climate change.
Diesel Engines
Diesel engines are very fuel-efficient and produce less CO₂ than most petrol engines.
They also emit less carbon monoxide and fewer hydrocarbons, but they do release more nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and particulates, which can harm local air quality.
Many newer diesels use Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. This system injects a special fluid (such as AdBlue) into the exhaust stream, significantly reducing harmful emissions and helping vehicles meet modern pollution standards.
New Fuels
All road fuels sold in the UK and EU now have very low sulphur content, complying with strict environmental regulations.
New formulations continue to be developed to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Always use the most up-to-date, approved fuel for your vehicle.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
LPG-powered vehicles are increasingly common, and refuelling stations are expanding nationwide.
LPG is cheaper than petrol or diesel and produces fewer pollutants, although it does generate more CO₂ per mile than diesel.
Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Manufacturers are rapidly expanding their range of electric and hybrid vehicles.These options reduce local air pollution, have lower running costs, and — in the case of hybrids — ease concerns about long-distance travel and battery range.