Survey says: Americans want alternative fuels
Earlier, Sebastian mentioned that the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) would be announcing the results of a study on consumer knowledge and their purchasing likelihood of alternative-fueled vehicles to kick things off for Odyssey Day 2006. Since you've been waiting patiently for the results, we won't keep you in suspense any longer.
First of all, the survey was conducted on a national level by R.L. Repass & Partners, Inc. and consisted of adults 18 and older.
55 percent of respondents said they would consider an alternative-fueled vehicle for their next car purchase. That number was further broken down into 16 percent who said they were "very likely" and 39 percent who said they were "somewhat likely." The survey also noted that alternative fuel vehicles were most popular amongst those either between the ages of 25 to 34 or 45 to 59.
The survey also touched on additional costs and premiums. 83 to 89 percent of respondents said they would be willing to pay more for an alternative fuel vehicle if they would eventually realize monetary compensation in the form of tax breaks or better fuel economy, respectively. On the flip side, 80 percent said they would pay a premium for non-monetary benefits such as a reduced dependence on foreign oil and environmental issues.
Al Ebron, Executive Director for the NAFTC, says that since 93 percent of Americans believe that developing alternative fuels is important, the survey shows there are still a number of major barriers to overcome in continuing the advancement of alternative fuels such as the lack of an alternative fuel infrastructure and the dearth of information available to the general public. (Perhaps, more people should be reading AutoblogGreen.)
Related:
[Source: National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium)
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Rick 10:00PM (10/17/2006)
USA automakers - I want to buy a crossover (family vehicle with space for gear and light towing). Ideally it would combine modern diesel efficiency with hybrid regen energy capture and be biodiesel flex capable. Hurry up and put together the package, you have all the pieces. It will be worth a premium price to reduce forign oil dependance. Need to reduce both through improved efficiency and local production...
Reply