WAYNE, N.J. – Hankook says that its Spring "Tire Gauge Index" revealed that 61 percent of drivers would be interested in buying eco-friendly tires, with 68 percent of those drivers citing better fuel economy and gas savings as their top reasons.
The tiremaker also found that nearly half of Americans (47 percent) would consider buying a hybrid or electric car, however, only 3 percent actually own one. Hankook’s research indicated that men would be more inclined to purchase a hybrid or electric car: 56 percent of men surveyed would consider buying one, compared to 38 percent of women.
Price is the No. 1 reason consumers can’t commit, according to Hankook’s research. When asked why they would not purchase an eco-friendly car, 55 percent said the cars are too expensive and 23 percent said they are not very cost-efficient.
While drivers may not be willing to spend the money on hybrid or electric cars, 61 percent of Americans would consider buying eco-friendly tires, the Tire Gauge Index found. Hankook said 73 percent of those drivers are younger adults (ages 18-34), and 54 percent have a household income less than $25,000.
“Americans are looking for ways to help the environment while also saving on gas,” said Henry Kopacz, Hankook Tire America’s tire expert. “Hankook’s Optimo H426 Luxury Performance Touring All-Season tire maximizes fuel economy by providing lower rolling resistance and improved wet braking and dry handling. It gives consumers an energy-conserving, all-season option for better fuel efficiency.”
With the buzz surrounding the positive effects the right tires can have on the environment and fuel-efficiency, Americans are proving themselves to be continually tire-savvy, the company says. Tire maintenance levels have not changed as a result of the season. Consistent with the findings from Hankook’s Winter Tire Gauge Index in December 2011, 70 percent of those polled have checked their tire pressure in the past month, 63 percent have checked for proper tread and 63 percent have looked for damage (bruises, cuts, bulges, cracks).
The Hankook Tire Gauge Index is a quarterly survey of Americans that uncovers their attitudes and opinions about all things related to driving. The spring installment of the survey, conducted March 7-8, polled 1,016 randomly selected Americans on spring driving and what is on their minds as the season approaches.
