Chevrolet will sell its vehicles with EcologicTMenvironmental labels in the United States, starting with the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. Thus, customers will be able to see some of the environmental features of the vehicle relating to manufacturing, driving and recycling.

Photo: the all-new Chevrolet Sonic, from www.chevrolet.com

The Ecologic labels will be located on the rear driver-side window of Sonics beginning in March.  It will appear on the upcoming 2013 Chevrolet vehicles later 2012. The labels claims are audited by Two Tomorrows, an independent third-party sustainability agency that provides auditing and assurance services to companies for environmental initiatives.

The labels initiative is part of Chevrolet’s goal is to invest in fuel-saving technologies, use alternative energy sources, and reduce waste and emissions from its manufacturing facilities. Each label will communicate vehicle-specific features.

It will include ‘Before the road: Environmental aspects related to vehicle manufacturing and assembly,’ ‘On the road: Fuel-saving features such as advanced engine technologies, aerodynamics, lighter weight components or low-rolling resistance tires,’ and ‘After the road: How 85 percent by weight of the vehicle can be recycled at the end of its lifespan’.

“Chevrolet’s goal to invest millions in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other lower-carbon projects to reduce U.S. emissions by up to 8 million metric tons demonstrates innovative corporate leadership,” said Eileen Claussen, president of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES). “With this new labeling program, Chevrolet not only gives easy access to information customers want, it again shows its commitment to the environment.”

The Chevrolet Sonic 1.4L turbo is claimed to be one of the most fuel-efficient small cars in America, due to its six-speed manual transmission that achieves an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway.