The editorial staff at venerable auto-world publication Kelley Blue Book has ranked the 10 Best Green Cars of 2014, choosing a decidedly non-fleet-oriented model – the BMW i3 – as this year's number one vehicle.
‘Each year, both the quantity and quality of 'green' cars is improving, offering a growing number of choices for environmentally friendly buyers at a wider range of prices,’ says Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.
‘The i3 is offered in all-electric and gasoline-assisted range-extender versions, and it features an ultra-light carbon-fiber body to help squeeze maximum range from its battery pack,’ he notes. ‘Its interior boasts plenty of recycled materials and door panels formed from visible natural fibers.’
The publication's editors select ’10 standouts’ each year from the full complement of ‘the most efficient vehicles available.’ The list reflects not only vehicles' fuel efficiency, but also ‘production methods and recyclability’ and elements that cater to ‘varying lifestyles.’
Here's the full list:
1. BMW i3
2. Nissan Leaf
3. Toyota Prius
4. Honda Accord Hybrid
5. Tesla Model S
6. Chevrolet Volt
7. Ford C-Max Hybrid
8. Honda Civic CNG
9. Lexus ES 300h
10. Volkswagen Jetta TDI
