Hybrid Car Review

A recent poll by Johnson Controls survey, conducted by Harris Interactive(R), shows that hybrid technology is seen as a must have for the US. Consumers want hybrid and battery technology to advance here in the US in order to reduce foreign oil dependence, create jobs and reduce the US impact on the environment.

The study was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive between March 9 and March 11, 2009 among 2,309 adults ages 18 and older, of whom, 35 (2%) already own a hybrid car. Results were weighted as needed to reflect the composition of the U.S. population of adults ages 18+ using targets for region, age within gender, education, household income, race/ethnicity, and propensity to be online. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

According to the numbers, 81% of those surveyed want the US to become a leader in hybrid technology in order to reduce our reliance on foreign oil. 67% want to create jobs through the development of hybrid and battery technology. While 64% are motivated by environmental concerns.

But all is not rosy when it comes to how well hybrids can fare. 80% think cost will prevent people from buying a hybrid car. 49 percent of adults cite reluctance to sacrifice features such as size and horsepower. 42 percent express concerns that hybrids might mean inferior performance, lack of speed, or a poor driving experience.

4 out of 5 believe incentives and tax credits work to encourage people to buy hybrids, and 35% of those who do not already own a hybrid said they would be willing to buy a hybrid if it cost the same. 23% would be willing to pay more, while one-third would expect to pay less.

59% of those surveyed had no idea what the distinctions were between the different types of hybrids, showing that auto makers still have a way to go to educate the buying public. 47% believe lack of understanding about hybrids in general prevents people from buying them.