Why People Say and Do Two Completely Different Things and How This Impacts CAFE

In a recent Consumer Reports survey, a whopping 93% of responders said that they would like to see higher fuel economy standards. In fact, 80% support CAFE's plan for a 55 mile per gallon average across all vehicles by 2025. In order to achieve CAFE's goals of 55mpg, 56% of those surveyed say they will consider a hybrid or an electric vehicle for their next purchase. Even better, 80% said that they would pay more for a fuel efficient vehicle that would save them money in the long run. Such results paint a very rosy picture for the automotive industry as it appears that the public is certainly willing to adopt and pay for new technology to raise their MPG. Unfortunately, in reality the picture is completely different. According to the latest data available only a scant percentage of car buyers actually do buy hybrids, in fact hybrid market share of all cars sold in October was less than 2%. This means that only 4% of those considering a hybrid actually buy a one and everyone else was just pretending.
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MeanVulcan - 11/15/2011 9:56:05 AM

+1 Boost

Duh, the "wanting" is based on competitive pricing. I strongly doubt many will fork over a premium for a hybrid when they can get a cheaper standard car.

The savings on gas at best is a break even proposition in 3~5 years, at which point most people want to trade in their car anyway. So the price advantage of good mileage is pointless.

There will be some willing to pay a premium for a hybrid, but it has come so far at a cost... lack of performance, lack of practicality.

1c3am5 - 11/15/2011 11:33:35 AM

+3 Boost

...also mentioned as "wanted" by Consumer Reports readers:


A reliable machine that makes you invisible.

Donuts that burn calories.

Reusable toilet paper.

Immortality.