Hybrids Appealing to US Consumers but Still Questioned

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Ruder Finn Insights released interesting news today; details of a survey about U.S. consumer’s thoughts on hybrid vehicles show that the consumers are interested in hybrid vehicles yet show concern about the performance and durability of these cars. The company surveyed 514 Americans in August 2008; here are some of the results.

The Hybrid Attitude Survey Results

  • Two-thirds of those surveyed stated that they plan to purchase a hybrid vehicle in the next two to three years.
  • While 80% of those queried said that they would trade in their current gas-guzzling vehicle for a more fuel-efficient model, 87% of those cannot afford to make the swap.
  • The perception that hybrid vehicles are costlier – both in terms of upfront purchase price as well as on the maintenance side are considered a major obstacle to purchasing a hybrid.
  • Six percent of those surveyed would consider hybrids luxurious and 12% consider them to be better priced than non-hybrid alternatives.
  • “The hybrid industry has gone through a significant evolution in the last decade but consumer perceptions have not caught up,” said Marty McGough, Director of RF Insights. “As manufacturers balance their portfolio of traditional and hybrid vehicles and weigh their go-to-market strategy, the study reveals a clear need to re-educate consumers on this significant industry transformation. A concise communications strategy conveying how far these vehicles have come, and all they have to offer, is paramount, especially for U.S. automakers. Any Congressional bailout will likely place restrictions or provide incentives designed to produce more fuel-efficient, next-generation cars.” (Source: PR Newswire)

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