I know. This isn’t really driving related, but go with me… Darren at Problogger is asking folks what hosting companies they use for blogging, and how different companies are working out. (I love b5, and Eco Friendly Driver, but may be starting new projects in the future.) I was happily surprised when I saw in the comments section, Ari Koinuma (of Our Best Version) mention a host that is powered 100% by renewable energy. Hazaa, my friends! And there you have the tie-in: Acornhost.com Their smallest plan is 2 GB of space, and 50 GB of bandwidth per month for $7.95. I’d say that’s affordable for carbon neutral hosting. And if you have your own strong opinions on the topic, head over to Problogger and let it all out. [Read more]

Volkswagen asked third-party certifier, AMCI, to take a look at their Jetta TDI and the results are in. EPA ratings for gas mileage were 24% lower than real-world economy. AMCI gave the Jetta TDI a rating of 38 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway. You would think those results, paired with advanced safety features and Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance Program (which keeps scheduled maintenance free throughout the New Vehicle Limited Warranty) you couldn’t do much better … but the US government has stepped in and granted taxpayers a federal tax credit for buying either the sedan or SportsWagen models. The Jetta TDI will hit lots this fall. [Source/Image: Volkswagen] [Read more]

The Nissan Altima Hybrid has been somewhat of a dark horse. Only available in 8 states, and in close competition with the widely available Toyota Camry Hybrid, the NAH is quickly becoming a “cult car”. Interestingly enough, most owners seem to stumble into this purchase, and then find they’re enjoying a comfortable ride while attaining impressive gas mileage. Fitted with a moonroof and leather seats, you’re MSRP will come in around $31,000. It’s perfectly legal to ride into town and buy one of these babies, then drive it home. Currently available in California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont, you may have a long way to travel to get the model you want. It’s... [Read more]

One thing I try to impress upon people here is that you don’t have to totally change your life to make changes that count. You can still drive to work. You can still travel if you want. It’s easier to save more emissions if you don’t, but you can be a “greener” driver without cutting the fun or privacy out of your life. We went on vacation this week and wound up driving to Mt. Rushmore. On the way there, we enjoyed pretty good gas mileage, but I drove on the way home and saved a LOT of gas. I don’t mess with my husband’s car too much, so unfortunately I can’t give you exact stats, but a little over $100 worth. Here are three things anyone can do on a long trip to save gas without going to great... [Read more]

People in the North Central region of the US will get a second chance to see a collection of hybrid, clean diesel, and other full-efficient cars during the Woodward Dream Cruise’s latest event, NextCruise(TM) sponsored by 9 major automakers. Guests will be able to see and drive current models, as well as take a look at future technologies and how they may shape cars of tomorrow. In addition, IndyCar and ALMS drivers will also appear during the show to discuss the Green Racing Challenge new for this season. The Woodman Dream Cruise will be hosted at Pleasant Ridge Memorial Park, Pleasant Ridge, Michigan, on August 15th and 16th, with NextCruise(TM) taking place the 16th. Source: NextCruise [Read more]