Apologies for the heading, realize it can be taken two ways, Prius does score low in toxicity per article. http://www.rodale.com/toxic-cars According to a new report released by the Michigan-based Ecology Center, that's 1.5 hours spent possibly inhaling flame retardants, hormone-disrupting plasticizers, and lead. In its annual automotive test, the group tested dozens of cars for those chemicals and found that, though automakers are slowly catching on to the fact that these materials are harmful, many cars still pose an unnecessary threat. The Prius ranked just behind the Honda Civic for being having the least toxic interiors. A Mitsubishi Outlander ranked the worst.
I'd be interested in knowing whether the 2012's with the new "sof-tex" seats are any different. It also doesn't say whether the tested model had fabric or leather seats, and I would think that would make a difference. Interesting article.
It's goofy studies and stats like this that drive me bonkers. People, you are in an automobile. As such, your greatest risk is from an accident. The incremental risk to one's overall health from toxic chemicals is insignificant. Where something like this could be meaningful is for people who have developed chemical sensitivities. But this is basically worthless for the rest of the population.
