Scientists design 'green' automobile

The Union of Concerned Scientists said the minivan, using existing technology, would meet or exceed pollution standards for cars and trucks adopted by California and 10 other states.

Called the UCS Vanguard, the design features off-the-shelf engine, transmission and fueling systems and other technologies that the organization said would save consumers money, maintain vehicle safety and performance, and cut global warming pollution by more than 40 percent.

The Vanguard minivan design has eight key components, including improvements in the conventional engine, transmission, air conditioner, fuel system, tires and aerodynamic design -- all improvement the Union of Concerned Scientists said can be found piecemeal in more than 100 vehicle models on the road today.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International