Air Pollution

About 146 million people live in counties where monitored air pollution levels in 2002 reached unhealthy levels.

Highway vehicles are a major contributor to air pollution in the U.S., producing 29-63% of key chemicals that cause smog and health problems.

• Carbon monoxide (CO) – 63%
• Nitrogen oxides (NOx) – 36%
• Hydrocarbons – 29%

All new cars must meet federal emissions standards, but as vehicles get older, the amount of pollution they produce increases. Therefore, vehicles with better fuel economy may pollute less than those with lower fuel economy.

Choose A Clean Vehicle

Fueleconomy.gov’s Find-a-Car feature provides air pollution information to help you choose the cleanest vehicle that meets your needs.