Hybrid Cars In Demand

Good news to all eco-friendly car enthusiasts. There is an increase of 28% from last year’s 254,545 and this number pertains to those new registered hybrids. It’s good news for environmentalists and hybrid makers knowing that the demand did quite slow down last 2006 which then became recorded as the second-lowest year-over-year increase since 2000.

Lonnie Miller, the director of Industry Analysis for R. L. Polk & Co., said, "Consumers know that hybrids are important to the environment, but they are not the only option. Automakers still have obstacles to overcome to prove the merit of owning a hybrid." The director of the Detroit-based firm that tracks automotive registrations also adds, “Noting that many potential customers are risk-averse… toward the relatively new-to-market technology."

The production of hybrid cars sprung enormously after the release of the US’ very first Honda Insight Hybrid. The other hybrids that followed suit include the Saturn Vue Green Line and the Nissan Altima Hybrid. But nothing beats the fame of the Japanese car Toyota Pruis which accounted a total of 42.8% on the total number of hybrid cars that were registered. However, even if there are plenty of new hybrids produced, only three hybrid cars accounted for three-quarters of hybrid registrations last year. These were the Toyota Pruis, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid (12.5%) and the Honda Civic Hybrid (12.3%). The secret must be the catalytic converter found on these hybrid cars.

According to Polk Research, more than half of the 700 hybrid owners believe that all vehicles on the road must be running using the hybrid technology. They say that it is okay to pay premium over the use of the technology to achieve long-term environmental benefits.

Another study conducted by the PULS Market Research in Germany showed 42.7% of the 3,500 car buyers in the U.S., Germany, France, Great Britain, India and China are viewing hybrid cars and fuel-efficient vehicles as the car technology that we would all find in the future. Almost near to those who chose hydrogen fuel cells at 41.9% and alternative fuel-powered vehicles as the best option at 38%. Surprisingly, only 11.5% chose advanced diesel or gasoline technology.

It’s really good to know that people around the world are concerned about the environment. I guess they are more aware now that they should not only choose the car with outstanding performance parts but those who can preserve our environment as well.