“When I first learned how to drive, the only green cars were ones that were painted that colour.”

The quote says it all. Delivered by Jil McIntosh – auto journalist and board member of AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) – at the Green Living Show in Toronto last month, it illustrates just how far “green” cars have come.

An important moment in the evolution of these vehicles took place at the event, as AJAC handed out its inaugural Canadian Green Car Award.

“We’re just at the beginning of a revolution in green cars,” said AJAC’s Peter Gorrie.  “We want this award to help everyone understand and appreciate it. And to make the best possible choices for themselves and the environment.”

You may have heard by now that the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid took home the prestigious honours. The competition was stiff, with the Fusion pitted against 14 vehicles that were nominated by their manufacturers for the award. AJAC recognized plenty of different factors and criteria for the award, including:

  • Fuel economy and emissions
  • Use of recycled/naturally sourced materials
  • Build quality
  • Driving experience
  • Overall features
  • Availability
  • Price

The new Fusion Hybrid is one of the staple vehicles in the blue oval’s Hybrid/EV lineup. To learn more about some of its features, click here.

Also deserving of some recognition is the Ford C-MAX Energi Plug-In Hybrid, which was among the five finalists for the Green Car Award.

Are you considering a purchase of a hybrid or electric vehicle? Let us know in the comments below.