More Considering Buying Hybrid Vehicles

In an effort to reduce fuel costs, the number of U.S. consumers considering buying a hybrid vehicle has doubled in the last year. Automotive consumer researchers Maritz Automotive Research Group found those strongly considering a hybrid for their next vehicle jumped from 17 percent to 29 percent from 2004-05.

From United Press International

TOLEDO, OH — In an effort to reduce fuel costs, the number of U.S. consumers considering buying a hybrid vehicle has doubled in the last year. Automotive consumer researchers Maritz Automotive Research Group found those strongly considering a hybrid for their next vehicle jumped from 17 percent to 29 percent from 2004-05.

The survey of 1,009 U.S. adults, found 97 percent of those considering a hybrid wanted to reduce fuel costs, 78 percent wanted to reduce pollution that causes greenhouse gases, 75 percent wanted to reduce Americans’ dependence on foreign oil, 55 percent wanted to receive tax credits and 27 percent wanted better engine performance.

“Although many question whether buyers will reap enough savings in fuel costs to offset the higher cost of the new power train, a growing number of consumers are betting that it will,” said David Ensing, director of research and development for Maritz Automotive Research Group.

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