Most U.S. households own at least one car. Green vehicle ownership remains low in comparison to conventional autos, but this is likely to change as technology improves and more people recognize the ecological and financial benefits. Here are some of the top benefits of driving a green vehicle.

Auto Coverage Discount

As the cost of green cars has decreased in recent years, some insurance companies are providing a rate discount for drivers of these environmentally friendly autos. Rates are typically based on a variety of factors, including age, gender, where you live, how much you drive and your likelihood of getting in an accident. The assumption behind the green car discount is that you are more responsible and aware than conventional auto drivers. Not all providers offer the green car discount, so get auto insurance quotes from several companies to find the one that will provide the best financial break.

Fuel Cost Saving

There is a significant fuel cost savings with a green vehicle. The variance depends on how much and where you drive, but the average monthly expense of charging an electric car is one quarter the price of filling up the gas tank. Some of this cost saving is offset by a higher purchase price as well as life span battery replacement expenses for a green vehicle.

Reduced Environmental Impact

One of the biggest benefits of a green vehicle is that it produces fewer harmful emissions than regular cars. The burning of fossil fuels to run traditional automobiles emits carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change. Since green vehicles do not need fossil fuels to operate, the level of toxic emissions is drastically reduced compared with traditional cars. Along with the overall environmental benefit, the exemption from yearly emissions testing that some states provide green vehicle owners saves them money, time and aggravation.

Improve Health Quality

Emissions from gasoline engine vehicles are not just bad for the environment. These polluted substances also damage the air you breathe. The inferior air quality can cause respiratory problems, cancer and even cause premature death. Increasing the preponderance of green vehicles reduces the level of air pollution, particularly in more urban areas.

Lasts Longer

Another way that green autos benefit the environment is their longevity relative to traditional cars. The expected useable life of a green vehicle is up to 250,000 miles, compared with approximately 100,000 miles from a gas-powered auto. In addition to the savings from not having to replace your car as often, the green vehicle represents more sustainable consumption for the environment.

Lower Maintenance

Lower maintenance is another cost saving associated with green vehicles. With fewer moving parts, there is less opportunity for something breaking. Unlike a conventional auto, the engine, batteries and electronics of green cars require no regular maintenance. The brakes on electric and hybrid cars use a regenerative technology, so they do not wear out as quickly. These vehicles do not need oil, so owners save the money normally spent on regular changes.

Quieter Ride

Green vehicles tend to provide a quieter ride than traditional cars. This not only makes for more enjoyable travel, but the reduction in noise pollution also has health benefits. Exposure to extreme noise is linked with multiple health issues.

Tax Incentives

There are federal tax incentives for purchasing a green vehicle. Many states often provide additional deductions and credits. You may also receive discounts on vehicle registration and taxes. All the tax incentives can add up to substantial savings.

Other Perks

Special parking or driving lanes are other perks of green vehicle ownership. To encourage more environmentally friendly forms of transportation, green car drivers are given access to HOV lanes even when there is only one occupant. If you live and work near a high traffic area this perk makes a stressful commute much easier to tolerate.

The initial purchase price of a green vehicle is generally higher than a conventional car, but between financial savings and environmental benefits, this eco-friendly alternative is a good bet.