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NRCan currently has an online tool where users can compare the fuel consumption of various makes and models of vehicles for a specific model year to assist in selecting the most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets an individual's everyday needs.
Drivers can search by year as far back as 1995 under categories such as class, manufacturer and fuel type. The results can then be sorted by model or make, fuel efficiency or carbon dioxide emissions.
"This tool not only provides information on technologies, specifically fuel-saving technologies, but also on what Canadians need. Sometimes Canadians don't always know what they need, but rather they just know what size of vehicle they require," says Geoffrion.
"Whether they have a family, whether they have children or if they don't have children, or they are single, this tool is to help Canadians find the right vehicle for them. This tool is easy; it's user friendly and not too complicated, so that users can just click here, click there and be on the right path."
With only a few clicks, a user can get the fuel consumption ratings for a particular vehicle and compare several different makes and models and rank the fuel efficiency of vehicles sold in Canada, adds Geoffrion.
The Web offers many resources to stay informed and keep up to date on the latest greening technologies for you and your vehicle. Here are some helpful and insightful tips on what you can do to stay aware and conscientious to help the environment:
1) If you're in the market for a new car, use NRCan's online Fuel Consumption Ratings tool to compare the fuel consumption of various makes and models of vehicles for a specific model year.
2) Drivers also have the option of using NRCan's online Compare Vehicles tool to select and compare different makes and models and rank the fuel efficiency of vehicles sold in Canada.
3) Natural Resources Canada lists the most fuel-efficient vehicles for the year 2007 and also has an archive of past years available, going back to 1999.
4) Familiarize yourself online with the EnerGuide label.
This label can be found on all new passenger cars, light-duty vans, pickup trucks and special-purpose vehicles. The label shows the city and highway fuel consumption ratings and an estimated annual fuel cost for that particular vehicle. Use this information to compare different vehicles.
5) Natural Resources Canada has a Web site dedicated to unnecessary vehicle engine idling, in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Visit it here: Welcome to the Idle-Free Zone
6) "Be Tire Smart" is a Web site sponsored by the Rubber Association of Canada and the Government of Canada under the leadership of NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency. This Web site is meant to promote awareness of good tire maintenance practices. Visit the site here: Be Tire Smart
7) Similarly, visit Natural Resources Canada's page on vehicle maintenance. The page can be visited here: Tips for keeping your car in shape
8) Most people are aware that there are different types of fuel out there, but a lot of people fear change. For instance, ethanol fuel is friendlier to the environment than gasoline and can be used in virtually any gasoline-powered vehicle manufactured after 1980. Ethanol is already available at more than 1000 service stations across Canada, but how many of us actually use it?
Natural Resources Canada has a Web page dedicated to promoting and raising awareness of alternative fuels. Visit the site here: Alternative Fuels
9) Governments at all levels across Canada offer rebates and incentives to Canadians to be greener and more environmentally aware not only with their vehicles but in all aspects of their lives.
To find out more information about incentives and rebates, visit NRCan's Incentive and Rebates page
10) Awareness and education is for any age, but begins with children. While too young to drive, they can at least get a head start on learning the value of the environment so they can make proper, informed decisions about being environmentally sound when it comes time to get behind the wheel.
For 2007, NRCan is using the ecoENERGY Efficiency Initiative theme - using less, living better - to promote awareness and education. The page can be visited here: Calendar Club for Kids
Continued: EnerGuide Awards recognize greenest vehicles
Tim Flannery's climate for change
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