Ms. Molina's New Car AP Environmental Science Fuel Efficiency Calculation w/ KEY

In this activity students are asked to compare the costs of several of today's most popular vehicles that are gas-fueled, hybrid and electric.  Students will calculate and compare the cost of purchasing the vehicle and annual fuel costs (whether for gallons of gas or cost of electricity) based on up-to-date pricing information and national averages (as of February 2024).  Students can work through the calculations independently or in teams.  They will then answer analysis questions to weigh the pros and cons of each car type, determine the pounds of CO2 produced by one of the vehicles, and then finally respond to an AP-style FRQ. 

This is the FULL version of my free activity, “Ms. Molina’s New Car”.  In addition to the 3 cars in the free version, this paid version gets you 3 MORE cars for your students to compare (Tesla Y long-range model, Toyota Tacoma, and Nissan Leaf).  Additionally, it includes questions that ask students to calculate pounds of CO2 emitted as well as a practice FRQ question.  The paid version also includes a teacher answer key with worked calculations.

This activity is designed for AP Environmental Science and aligns with Unit 6: Energy Resources and Consumption, 6.3- Fuel Types and Uses, 6c- Calculate an accurate numeric answer with appropriate units.