EPA’s SmartWay program is to cars and trucks what Energy Star is to buildings and appliances. All vehicles manufactured from MY 2000 on are listed in EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide (
www.epa.gov/greenvehicles), and receive two environmental performance scores: one on air pollution and the other on greenhouse gases. Vehicles that receive a 6 or better on both scores and have a minimum overall score of 13 are EPA certified SmartWay®. EPA also certifies vehicles as SmartWay Elite when they achieve 9 or better in both areas. The ratings thresholds are updated periodically. For more information, visit
www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/Aboutratings.do#aboutsmartway.
To date, nine manufacturers have signed licensing agreements to use the “U.S. EPA certified SmartWay” logo to promote their certified vehicles. That means dealers who sell SmartWay vehicles can get promotional materials from EPA free of charge. These include posters, brochures, window clings, and stickers that can be affixed to certified vehicles on the lot or in the showroom. The licensed manufacturers are Chrysler, Ford, GM, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Smart and Subaru. Dealers with other franchises may suggest to their manufacturers that they apply to use the SmartWay mark. Contact your manufacturer for more information.
And SmartWay isn’t just for new vehicles. Dealers may have SmartWay-certified vehicles on their used-car lots. These, too, can be highlighted for shoppers by using SmartWay promotional materials. For a list of SmartWay-certified vehicles, go to EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide (www.epa.gov/greenvehicles). For more information on SmartWay, visit www.epa.gov/smartway. If you are interested in receiving free SmartWay promotional materials, contact Kristin Kenausis at kenausis.kristin@epa.gov.