Are you joking: The 2008 Green Car of the Year?

Nissan's step-child hybrid vehicle

When I saw the title to NYTimes writer Jerry Garrett's new article, Green Car Award: None of the Above, I thought here we go again, environmental elitism. Sadly, after reading the article, however, I have to agree with Garrett, this year's Green Car Award is a pretty sad story.

Four of the five finalists feature warmed-over technology that had been previously introduced or licensed from others. The fifth, the likely frontrunner, is a full-size S.U.V. that weighs almost three tons and is only affordable if you make a six-figure income.

Two mild hybrids, a derivative of another hybrid that has been out for years, another built on licensed hybrid technology and a huge hybrid SUV. If not for Toyota one would have to consider hybrid cars a joke based on this lineup of vehicles. Sadly, the Toyota Prius will probably sell more units in just one month of 2008 than all of these hybrid vehicles combined for the entire year.

Perhaps a title change is in order, such as the The 2008 Green Car Hype of the Year?