A recent Auto TECHCAST study conducted by Harris Interactive interprets some interesting new data concerning PHEV appeal and expectations in both Europe and the U.S.
Figures show 20% of Europeans are very (13%) or extremely likely (7%) to purchase a vehicle that has plug-in hybrid technology, not taking into account estimated market prices. A further 25% are likely to make that purchase. In comparison, 15% of Americans are very (11%) or extremely likely (5%) (percentages do not add precisely due to rounding) to purchase a vehicle with plug-in technology, with an additional 17% likely to make that purchase.
What’s interesting beyond the piqued interest of European and American consumers, are their expectations of PHEV driving ranges that are…well, a bit far reaching. Most consumers are expecting in excess of 100+ miles per charge for their PHEV’s, and while it will depend on the size and capabilities of the battery in the vehicle, the average range for a single charge is closer to 40 miles.
It is clear to most within the industry that consumer education needs to be part of the dialogue to make PHEV’s and EV’s successful, but there is still reason to remain optimistic. As Stephen A. Lovett, director of automotive and transportation research at Harris Interactive, states: “It’s clear that people are open to this new approach of adding energy to the vehicle. The fact that drivers now prefer to conduct this task daily, versus once a week, shows real promise for the technology.”
via greencarcongress
