ecoEnergy Awards

You’d think that the Smart Car and Chevrolet Express Cargo wouldn’t have much in common other than engines, wheels and the usual other components.

In fact, as different as they are, they top and tail the spectrum of 2009 ecoENERGY for Vehicles Awards, announced by Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt at the Canadian International Auto Show.

“Fuel-efficient vehicles are good for the environment and help drivers save money on gas,” she said. “By recognizing those manufacturers who are leading the charge to improve fuel efficiency, we are also providing consumers with better information on the options that are available.”

The vehicle awards are a part of the federal government $3.6-billion ecoENERGY package of measures designed to promote more efficient user of energy in general while enhancing renewable energy supplies and developing cleaner technologies.

The winners of the 2009 awards in each of 10 classes are:
Two-seat car: Smart fortwo/cabriolet.
Subcompact: Toyota Yaris and MINI Cooper in its various iterations.
Compact: Honda Civic hybrid.
Mid-size: Toyota Prius hybrid.
Full-size: Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata sedans.
Wagon: Volkswagen Jetta Wagon TDI.
Pickup: Ford Ranger and Mazda B2300.
Special purpose: Ford Escape hybrid.
Minivan: Mazda 5.
Large van: Chevrolet Express Cargo and GMC Savana Cargo

Minister Raitt’s department also has released its latest Fuel Consumption Guide. Details on it and the vehicle awards are available at www.ecoaction.gc.ca.