Consumers want more fuel efficient vehicles but are confused by the technology, new research from Johnson Controls suggests.
According to the firm, which specialises in lead-acid starter batteries and start-stop systems, American buyers are resisting a move to more fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles largely because of confusion over these and other types low carbon cars.
A survey of 1006 American adults looked at four main vehicle technology options; conventional internal combustion cars, start-stop cars, hybrid electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles.
Forty-five per cent of those surveyed said there are too few options when it comes to hybrid vehicles, while 39 per cent of those surveyed had no idea what the differences are between the various types of fuel-efficient vehicles, such as how full hybrids differ from conventional cars fitted with start-stop systems. The findings reinforce the need for greater education about the full spectrum of vehicle technology options, as well as cost considerations both at purchase and over the lifetime of the vehicle.
In addition to lack of understanding between fuel-efficient options, perception of price continues to be an issue. The data shows 75 per cent of car owners would consider a more fuel-efficient vehicle when shopping for a new car. However, only 20 per cent of car owners are willing to consider actually purchasing a hybrid, start-stop, or electric vehicle despite current US gasoline prices hovering between $3.50 and $4.00 per gallon.
"Our findings show that consumers will really take action when gas hits somewhere between $4 and $5 a gallon," Molinaroli said. "The bottom line is that these vehicles will take off when they make sense financially, likely the most quickly with start-stop and hybrid electric vehicles. Consumers do have options, they just are not aware or understand them. We’re focused to help them gain that understanding."
