# Greenest Vehicle List: Electric Cars Sweep

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2017/04/greenest-vehicle-list-electric-cars-sweep/
- Published: 2017-04-20T00:19:02-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

# Electric Cars: The Greenest Vehicles of 2017

Electric cars have become increasingly popular in recent years. Especially as people
look for more environmentally friendly transportation options. With advancements
in technology and a growing concern for the environment. For electric vehicles (
EVs) have emerged as the greenest vehicles on the market. In this article, we will
explore the top electric cars of 2017. Moreover, their impact on the environment.

## The Rise of Electric Cars

![BMW i3 Electric car](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/
06/wp-1466537749387.jpeg?resize=500%2C333&ssl=1)

[Electric cars are vehicles](https://greenlivingguy.com/2009/01/plenty-magazine-mentions-build-your-own-electric-vehicle-by-seth-leitman/)
that run on electricity instead of gasoline. They are powered by rechargeable batteries.
All which eliminate the need for traditional fuel sources. Finally and reduce harmful
emissions. Concerns about climate change and air pollution continue to grow. For
electric cars have gained traction. Especially as a more sustainable alternative
to conventional vehicles.

## The Greenest List of 2017

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy ([ACEEE](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/02/6919/))
releases an annual list of the greenest vehicles on the market. The list, available
on greenercars.org. For it ranks vehicles based on their environmental impact. Thereby
taking into account factors such as manufacturing pollution. Also fuel production
and tailpipe emissions.

### Top Electric Cars

The top two spots on the Greenest List of 2017 are dominated by electric cars. The
midsize Hyundai Ioniq Electric claims the first place. That’s with a record-breaking
Green Score of 64. This is followed closely by the [BMW i3](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/11/energy-star-certified-a-green-solution-for-a-sustainable-future/).
For its another impressive electric vehicle. Both cars have made significant strides
in improving the environmental performance of electric vehicles.  Moreover, setting
new standards for the industry.

### Hybrid Vehicles

While electric cars dominate the top spots, hybrid vehicles also play a crucial 
role in reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency. Toyota’s Prius line, known
for its hybrid technology, performs exceptionally well on the Greenest List. The
lithium-ion Prius Eco variant secures the third spot, while the plug-in [Prius Prime](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/06/walkable-green-neighborhoods-key-to-safer-future/)
and Prius C claim spots eight and nine, respectively. [Honda and Kia also have hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/11/honda-civic-hybrid-test-drive-review-2026/)
vehicles on the list, highlighting the continued competitiveness of hybrid technology.

### The Growing Presence of Plug-in Electric Vehicles

For the second consecutive year, the Greenest List is entirely populated by [plug-in electric vehicles](https://greenlivingguy.com/2013/06/the-declining-value-of-plug-in-electric-vehicles/),
including all-electric cars and plug-in hybrids. This trend showcases the growing
acceptance and viability of electric vehicles. Plug-in electric vehicles have significantly
lower emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, making
them an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers.

### New Entrants

The 2017 Greenest List welcomes two new additions: the highly anticipated Chevrolet
Bolt and the new [Honda Accord Hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/02/surfrider-foundation-honors-2011-wavemakers/).
The Chevrolet Bolt, with its impressive range of over 200 miles, becomes the first
electric vehicle in its class to make the Greenest List. With a price tag of $29,995
after federal tax credits, the Bolt opens up the electric vehicle market to a broader
range of buyers. The new [Honda Accord Hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/03/6-smart-steps-to-an-eco-friendly-business/)
offers class-leading fuel economy and demonstrates the continuous improvement in
hybrid technology.

## Greener Choices for All Vehicle Types

While electric cars dominate the Greenest List, greenercars.org also provides options
for individuals with different vehicle needs. The [Greener Choices list](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/10/smithfield-foods-moves-greener-says-newsweek-list/)
features trucks, SUVs, and vans that prioritize fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.
The Chevrolet Colorado diesel and Honda CR-V represent the truck and SUV categories,
while the [Chrysler](https://greenlivingguy.com/2017/12/coastal-bend-bays-estuaries-program-wins-third-place-gulf-guardian-award/)
Pacifica, accompanied by a new plug-in hybrid version, fills the van category. These
vehicles offer greener alternatives to their counterparts in their respective classes.

## Making Informed Decisions

![Charging port Hyundai Sonata Plugin hybrid electric Car](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.
com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/wp-image-693840302jpeg-2806191671-1523757255323.jpeg?
resize=455%2C499&ssl=1)

Greenercars.org aims to help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing a
new car. The website provides a wealth of information on vehicles’ environmental
performance, fuel economy, and pollution impacts. It also offers a consumer primer
on vehicles and the environment, guiding buyers through the process of purchasing
a green car or truck.

### The Environmental Impact

The Green Score assigned to each vehicle on the list takes into account various 
factors that contribute to its environmental impact. This includes emissions from
vehicle manufacturing, fuel production, and tailpipe emissions. The methodology 
used to calculate the Green Score has been updated to reflect changes in gasoline
sulfur content and electricity emissions factors. Thereby ensuring accurate and 
up-to-date information.

### The Meanest List

Greenercars.org also presents the Meanest List, which showcases vehicles that have
the least positive impact on the environment. This list typically includes large
SUVs, heavier medium-duty vehicles, and European luxury cars. By highlighting the
least environmentally friendly vehicles, the Meanest List serves as a reminder of
the importance of choosing greener transportation options.

## The Future of Electric Cars

![Chevy Volt Plugin Hybrid Electric car](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/06/wp-1467155021551.jpeg?resize=499%2C281&ssl=1)

The dominance of electric cars on the Greenest List reflects the industry’s commitment
to sustainability and the increasing availability of electric vehicle options. As
technology continues to advance and battery costs decrease, electric cars are expected
to become even more accessible and affordable. Additionally, the expansion of charging
infrastructure will alleviate range anxiety and make electric vehicles a viable 
option for more people.

### Additional Information: Making an Environmentally Smart Decision

“Anyone buying a new car now has plenty of options for making an environmentally
smart decision,” said Eric Junga, Transportation Research Analyst at ACEEE. “Whether
you are looking to purchase the greenest car available, or the greenest vehicle 
for your needs such as a minivan, or simply stay away from the bottom of the list,
greenercars.org can help you.” [Greenercars.org](http://Greenercars.org) serves 
as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to make greener choices when it comes
to their vehicle purchases.

## Conclusion

[Electric cars have emerged as the greenest](https://greenlivingguy.com/2005/11/the-case-for-electric-vehicles-now/)
vehicles of 2017, with the Hyundai Ioniq Electric and BMW i3 leading the way. Hybrid
vehicles also play a significant role in reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency.
The Greenest List showcases the environmental progress the automotive industry has
made, with plug-in electric vehicles becoming increasingly dominant. Greenercars.
org provides valuable information for consumers to make informed decisions and choose
greener transportation options. As technology continues to advance, electric cars
are set to revolutionize the automotive industry and pave the way for a more sustainable
future.

![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641?
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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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