The Whole Picture: Are There Better Green Choices Than The Prius?

A new study conducted by researchers at Cardiff University and Clifford Thames finds that the Prius isn’t the greenest of them all. But how did they come to this conclusion? Well, Cardiff University and Clifford Thames researchers devised an environmental rating system for vehicles (ERV) which takes into account cars’ overall environmental footprint (including raw materials, production and end-of-life costs - based on their length, width and weight).

According to the study, in terms of high-volume "city" cars, the Citroen C1 and Toyota Aygo are among the best, with ERV scores exceeding that of the Toyota Prius hybrid. Someone might point out that the Prius is a C-segment vehicle so the comparison is unjust. True, but Richard Barber, Clifford Thames Strategy and Business Development director believes that conventional petrol and diesel cars will quickly outpace Toyota’s Prius on environmental friendliness.


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Agent009 - 9/28/2007 10:04:24 AM

0 Boost

Hmm this is another study that backs up the infamous "dust to dust" study about a year ago.

You have to look at the total picture for environmental impact not just the time you own it.

1970toyotamarc - 9/28/2007 3:17:21 PM

+1 Boost

It doesnt even come close to backing up the thoroughly debunked CNW dust to dust "study." This article is saying that two cars that are each about the size of a speck are greener than the midisized Prius. Ya think???? A bike is greener too, in case you were wondering.

EnnNorak - 9/28/2007 10:21:07 PM

+1 Boost

For me, the better choice would be the Mercedes Vision C220 Bluetec if it ever makes it to North America. That would give me a reasonably roomy small sedan with a frugal engine that has plenty of torque and long range between fill-ups on long-distance drives.

Agent009 - 9/28/2007 10:35:57 AM

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I doubt a large percentage buy it for the "green" aspect, most buy it for savings and to make a statement of some sort.

But buy owning many do not hesitate to toss out the "green" card as a factor since it is synonymous. After some people need all of the justification they can get.

Bmw8ter - 9/28/2007 10:21:56 AM

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Are companies really so envious, that they have to use the Toyota Prius as a benchmark in their "Environmentally Friendly" rating systems? I mean come on!!

answer - 9/28/2007 11:22:17 AM

-1 Boost

Next topic: "Why does agent009 feel a need to post every remotely negative Toyota/Lexus story?"

david989 - 9/28/2007 11:25:19 AM

+2 Boost

Agreed. He is obviously in denial that his German car companies are technologically outdated and following Toyota.

Agent009 - 9/28/2007 1:46:04 PM

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David989- When you compare the new diesels rolling out LS460h you will see what I mean.

XYZZ - 9/29/2007 3:18:58 AM

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XYZZ - 9/29/2007 7:43:41 AM

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"...overall environmental footprint (including raw materials, production and end-of-life costs - based on their length, width and weight)" is virtually a RED HERRING, dragged up to diss the superior overall package that the Prius represents.

we all know what a FARCE the cspan hatchet job was, claiming the tank of a Hummer was "greener!" now they try to compare the prius with "city cars" with only a fraction of the size and carrying capacity.

heck, why not compare the Prius to a moped? NO QUESTION those are FAR greener! and of course, plain ole bicycles are cleaner yet!

LOL! the length some will go to, just to diss the prius! whines of desparation???