Innovative tools to help you shop the right vehicle for you

Assess what your true needs are: That’s the title of the campaign conducted by Équiterre over the past two years about to encourage motorists to consider the impacts and high costs of SUVs. The organization highlights the additional purchasing costs of SUVs – estimated at almost $10,000 – their increasing dangers to vulnerable road users and environmental impacts due to additional greenhouse gas emissions. 

When considering a new vehicle, Équiterre recommends that you consider alternative means of transportation such as electric bikes, car-sharing and public transit. You could rent a large vehicle on occasion for work or vacation purposes. These practices are wholly supported by CAA-Quebec. Online tools are available to help you choose the vehicle best suited to your needs: 

The Équiterre Compare Vehicles. This platform allows you to measure the impact of two models on finances, road safety and the environment based on data provided including graphics and evaluations. 

The Running Electric Catalog of Plug-In Vehicles. This web page lists all plug-in, hybrid and electric vehicles available in Quebec and eligible for at least one government rebate. It also includes detailed information about each vehicle’s fuel economy as well as its battery, charging and towing capacities (roulonselectrique.ca/EN). 

The CAA Driving Costs Calculator. This tool will help you choose a model that best meets your needs.