The Ames Award, short for Automotive Market Environmental Sensitivity, was established in 1999. It was the first, and is currently the only company to develop an environmental performance rating system and award program to evaluate car and light-truck brand/models within the automotive industry. The fact that the results are presented in a consumer-friendly format on their web site at www.amesaward.com is a bonus.
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| The Oldsmobile Alero took one of the compact class top spots in the annual AMES Awards. (Photo: General Motors) |
The founders at AMES Award believe that when given easily digested info on how to contribute to sustaining the environment, consumers will act. This award provides an objective evaluation of the environmental quality of brand/models from all manufacturers of U.S. made vehicles. "Complete objectivity is a critical part of our rating process," said William Mattick, AMES co-founder. "What could be more timely, than to provide consumers with a credible means to participate in improving our environment."
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| Natural Resources Canada ranked the new MINI as one of the most fuel-efficient subcompacts of 2003. (Photo: MINI) |
Speaking of efficiency, Natural Resources Canada puts out a Fuel Consumption Guide every year, highlighting the most fuel-efficient vehicles in their respective classes (www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/vehicles). It lists liters per 100 km, the typical annual fuel cost and annual fuel use of a given vehicle. If miles per gallon (Imperial measurements) is more your lingo then check out the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) version at www.fueleconomy.gov. The great thing about both the EPA and NRCan sites is they post past model years too, helpful since more people buy used vehicles than new. The Clean Car Coalition has developed a terrific site too (www.cleancarcampaign.org), with links to a variety of auto industry green web sites. Of note are two resources that are invaluable: ACEEE's Green Book and Tailpipe Tally.