The Top 10 Hippie Mobiles – Past & Present
Image Credit – Flickr (erokcom)
There are a multitude of cars that have been labelled as ‘hippie’ for a variety of different reasons. From the classic camper van by Volkswagen to today’s eco-friendly and electric cars, there are many examples of cars that define hippie culture in the past and present.
Arguably, the ultimate symbol of hippie culture in cars is a used VW camper van. Many of the VW badges are replaced with the peace sign and painted in a variety of bright designs. Undoubtedly one of the top 10 hippie mobiles of all time, this remains the most prevalent and best known hippie car.
Another Volkswagen possessing hippie credentials is the Beetle. For some this could be simply an age and sound-alike tribute to the Beatles who revolutionized the music industry back in the 60′s. Others find that its unique shape appeals and endless examples decorated in multiple colours grace our roads today.
Image Credit – Flickr (erokcom)
The Toyota Prius is a rather more modern and planet-friendly option, being a hybrid car. Its lower emissions, reduced fuel use and stylish exterior make it a contemporary choice for the earth loving hippie who wants to make a statement about climate change.
In addition to the Prius, Toyota also makes the Auris hybrid. A relatively new car that began mass production in 2010 and is a slightly cheaper alternative to the Prius. The Auris was voted “What Green Car Car of the Year 2010″ by What Car? magazine. It also comes in three or five door variations.
The Jetta Diesel Wagon is the choice for hippies with families who want a spacious car with a decent sized trunk and available roof storage, but still want to save money by using diesel.
Also eco-friendly, the Chevrolet Volt is a hybrid plug-in electric vehicle made by General Motors. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Volt is the most fuel-efficient compact currently sold in the USA.
Image Credit – Flickr (medill dc)
For the younger on-trend hippie, there is the Honda CR-Z, a compact hybrid car which is marketed as a “sport hybrid coupe”. It combines gasoline and electric power with a sports car look and feel and comes only as a three door hatchback.
For the greenest of green, today’s hippies are embracing an electric car known as the Nissan Leaf. Its all electrical engine means lower than low emissions and the Leaf has a funky, modern aesthetic to the body work.
A lesser known option might be to opt for a SsangYong C200 eco car. Making its debut at the 2009 Seoul Motor Show, it uses a hybrid engine which runs on both diesel and electricity. It also has a stop-start system which shuts down the engine during stops, saving even more fuel and money.
For a smaller electric car (again with no emissions) and a price tag of way under $10,000, the Peugeot i0n could be referred to as Peugeot’s answer to the Smart Car. The average running costs of this car are estimated to be under $4 for every 100 miles driven. Perfect for hippies on a budget.
Louis
Louis Rix is a Director at Netcars.com, a used car classified website and Carfinance247.co.uk who provide guaranteed car finance. Louis has a massive passion for all things motoring and loves contributing great content on the web.
