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Re-activateThe differences between various alternative fuel cars are confusing consumers, according to a new survey of some 1,900 new car buyers and browsers in the U.S. That lack of knowledge could mean fewer hybrids are purchased according to the market research firm that conducted the survey, Synovate.
If car buyers are not sure which alternative fuel cars needs to be plugged in, or if able to run on gas or electricity, then manufacturers claims of lower emissions may not make sense.
Here is a quick rundown of some of the points of confusion for potential car buyers:
Of those surveyed, few knew that a hybrid electric car, such as the Toyota Prius, uses a battery, and many thought that a hybrid electric car would need to be plugged in. On top of that, only a third knew that this type of vehicle could run on its electric motor alone.
Knowledge about plug-in hybrid cars, like the Chevrolet Volt, was less than that of hybrid electric vehicles. Most people did not know that this category of alternative fuel vehicle uses gas, and fewer than half knew that even though they do use conventional fuel, that the car is capable of running on an all-electric mode.
When it came to battery electric vehicles, new car buyers were better educated, but there was still confusion about charge time, operation and emissions. The Nissan Leaf –which is just starting roll out –is one such battery electric car.
The majority of new car buyers and shoppers surveyed said saving money would be their top reason for buying a fuel-efficient car. In our own recent green car survey, we also found that consumers want better fuel economy, they just don't want to have to pay extra for it.
For information about the various green cars on the market check out our guide to alternative fuel.
See the full Synovate survey
—Maggie Shader
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