Heightened environmental awareness and evolving regulations have transformed the automotive industry. Since 2015, automakers have focused on lowering their carbon footprints.
From electric vehicles (EVs) to recycled materials, these innovations address climate change and resource depletion. Here are six ways manufacturers have turned green in the last decade.
1. The EV Surge
EVs have been a driving force behind emission reductions. Thanks to growing favorability, these battery-powered cars occupy a larger market share each year. EV sales increased by 25% in 2024, with 17 million units sold worldwide. While electric passenger cars are innovative, manufacturers produce buses and trucks to expand sustainable transportation.
Electric cars benefit customers by reducing operating costs and offering stable energy prices. Tesla brought EVs into the mainstream, but other manufacturers are catching up. BMW, Hyundai and Chevrolet offer fully electric cars to mainstream consumers. These companies are investing in EV technologies and expanding battery capacities for longer drives.
2. Improved Fuel Mileage
While EVs are becoming more popular, Americans still drive gas-powered cars. These vehicles depend on petroleum and diesel for operations on the highway or at a construction site. Research and development have improved the fuel economy of sedans and trucks, meaning fewer stops on your road trips and weekly commute.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s 2025 Automotive Trends report signaled a continued increase in fuel economy. The average mpg in 2024 was 28, a 3.4 mpg increase from 2015. Efficiency-increasing features like direct fuel injection and variable valve timing have become more standard, so engines are working less to do more.
3. Alternative Fuel Options
Drivers are used to filling their cars with gasoline or diesel, whereas others plug in charging cables. However, another subset has started using alternative fuel options to power their vehicles. For example, biodiesel is more eco-friendly than gasoline and is feasible for diesel-powered trucks. This renewable resource originates from animal fats, so it’s renewable and sustainable.
Hydrogen is another rising alternative fuel, considering its low emissions output. This energy source emits zero or nominal fossil fuel emissions, thus enhancing its place in the automotive industry. Hydrogen’s availability is primarily in California, so other residents must wait for expansion. However, vehicles like the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo are advancing the idea.
4. Eco-Driving Modes
Since 2015, improving the engine and switching fuel types have been critical. However, eco-driving modes have been overlooked in the automotive industry’s greenification. These intelligent systems let you control the throttle, optimize gear shifts and reduce the air conditioning output. While these details are small, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
Here are a few examples of sustainable technologies in modern cars:
- Toyota Eco Mode: This feature maximizes fuel efficiency by controlling the air conditioner and throttle response.
- Ford EcoSelect: These systems adjust engine settings by limiting aggressive acceleration and giving real-time feedback to drivers.
- Honda ECON Mode: Honda drivers use this feature for enhanced cruise control and efficient engine performance.
5. Recycled Materials
Automakers used to build cars with heavy steel, chrome bumpers and large grilles. However, those days are in the past. The last decade has emphasized sustainable materials like recycled metals, plastics and textiles. From the body to the interior, these changes reflect more sustainable approaches. Upcycling materials means a reduced need for virgin resources.
This green approach has become popular as the supply chain eyes increased sustainability. Experts say over two-thirds of modern vehicles use recycled materials, from aluminum to rubber. While milk jugs are unconventional for cars, their recycled plastic can create functional trims. Manufacturing practices convert your used water bottles into comfortable seat covers.
6. Manufacturer Commitments
While the last decade has advanced sustainability, the best is yet to come. Automakers have made bold commitments to reduce emissions and phase out gas-powered vehicles. Renewable energy is the automotive industry’s future and should continue in future decades. Here are some examples of climate goals:
- General Motors: GM has set a 2040 goal to become carbon neutral in all operations.
- BMW: This automaker aims to cut CO2 emissions by 90% compared to its 2019 metrics.
- Volvo: The Swedish manufacturer is targeting a net-zero supply chain by 2040.
The Greener Road Ahead for Auto Manufacturers
The last decade has been an inflection point for the automotive industry. Innovation, accountability and consumer demand have shifted manufacturers toward sustainability. Automakers have set sustainability goals, positioning themselves for more progress in emissions reduction. Consumers and communities could benefit from cleaner air and enhanced mobility.
