Truck enthusiasts far and wide are not usually the demographic concerned with emitting the fewest pollutants. However, the annual Green Truck Of The Year award is a coveted prize for manufacturers wishing to stay clear of the EPA, CARB, and PR departments hoping to market their vehicles to the ever-more environmentally-concerned consumer.
Adjudicating bodies Green Car Journal, and the San Antonio Auto & Truck Show have announced the finalists for the 2016 Green Truck Award. Last year the award went to the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. This year three diesel-powered entries are in the running for the prestigious commendation, and we hope for a diesel winner!
The five finalists include the Chevrolet Colorado Duramax, Ford F-150, GMC Canyon Duramax, Nisan Titan XD, and Toyota Tacoma. Though many non-diesel types may find it counterintuitive to think that smoking diesel trucks could ever be considered green, it is no surprise to us. Diesel engines are some of the most fuel efficient powerplants, and put many hybrid-gas systems to shame for economy, reliability and longevity. Diesel technology is the primary proving ground for alternative fuels, and represents a future for our departure from dependence on fossil fuels.
Of course the Colorado and Canyon will share the 2.8-liter Duramax powerplant eagerly awaited by the mid-size truck market. The four-cylinder diesel will produce 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Boasting mileage number in the high twenties, the Colorado Duramax will also include a cooled EGR system to reduce emissions. Catering to the proponents of renewable fuel sources, the 2.8 Duramax will come tuned to run on B20 biodiesel as well as conventional diesel.
The Nisan Titan XD is one of the most exciting new collaborations the truck market has been salivating after. The rugged off-roadability of the Titan paired with a new Cummins V8 diesel engine. The 5-liter Cummins will produce 310 horsepower, and 555 lb-ft of torque. This engine will feature advanced technology in both it’s construction and emissions controls. A CGI (compressed graphite iron) block will be bolted to aluminum cylinder heads containing the double overhead camshaft valvetrain. Nisan explains a particulate filter, and selective catalytic reduction system will ensure the tail pipe emissions meet standards.
According to a press release issued by the San Antonio Auto and Truck show, “These finalists showcase how improved environmental performance is becoming part of the DNA of pickups and light commercial vehicles,” said San Antonio Auto Dealer’s Association President Pam Crail.
The goal of this award is not just to draw attention to the Green Car Journal, and San Antonio Auto and truck Show, but to highlight the manufacturers pioneering technology and construction practices that promote environmentally-sensitive operation. According to Alamo Area Clean Cities Coordinator Nicholas Jones, “Showcasing these vehicles brings much needed attention to the advances manufacturers have made in designing dependable and economical vehicle choices.”
The selection process by which the finalist vehicles are established is not just a favoritism contest. The Green Car Journal evaluates each candidate for a number of measurable factors. Criteria including emissions and performance are balanced with more consumer driven information like market “newness” or significance. Innovation and integration of green designs are rewarded behaviors.
We are excited to see diesels still recognized as green vehicles even in the press, and hope to have a 2016 Green Truck award go to one of the three nominated vehicles.
You might also like
Do You Know Where America's Diesel Trucks Are Assembled?
If you’re curious where your heavy-duty diesel truck was assembled (built), the answer takes you on a little road trip across North America.
