Who’s the Greenest, really?
So. Somebody dares to call Toyota a liar.
Autoblog reports: Toyota’s environmental image takes a beating.
Apparently, an environmental group called the Bluewater Network has launched an ad campaign accusing Toyota of misleading the public about its environmental record.
Incidentally, the article citing Bluewater saying Toyota’s newest “gas-guzzler” hybrids, the Highlander and Lexus RX400h, get no better fuel economy than their non-hybrid versions was found in last Monday’s Detroit Free Press. (Toyota lovers and fans were quick to point this out, of course.) The ad ran in Mother Jones online Monday and will also be printed soon in full-page ads in the New York Times and other publications.
According to Autoblog, Bluewater also pointed out that Toyota is working with other automakers to resist the federal government’s efforts to raise fuel economy standards, and to fight California’s proposed tighter clean air standards. The environmental group noted that Toyota’s fleet-average fuel economy is worse than it was 20 years ago.
Being one of the many who are still waiting for their Prius to arrive, I’m a bit suspicious of this bit of news. After all, Toyota is very much successful with their hybrid program so far. I’m sure a lot of other people are irked with that fact. But, should there be any truth to this report – I hope not though – maybe something good will come out, as one Autoblog comment said, maybe it can start a “I’m the Greenest” competition among the automakers. That would be good news for all of us who care about the planet.
And if you’re wondering what else you can do to help make things better for the planet, well for one, as I always say – make sure that you don’t make things worse by having a car that emits smog all over the place every time you run your car. Since most of us cannot do away with cars, we might as well find ways to cause lesser damage by being responsible car owners. Make sure that your vehicle’s exhaust system is working as it should. If you have a worn or damaged catalytic converter, make sure to replace it immediately. Auto parts stores like Auto Parts Online are just a click away so there’s no need to put off things until you find the time.
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