USA, Virginia
The US National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) has
released results from a national survey that indicates Americans
personally believe that developing alternative fuel sources for cars,
trucks, SUVs and buses is very important to them. The survey results –
presented at the National Alternative Fuel Vehicle Day Odyssey 2006,
show 55% would consider an alternative fuel/advanced technology car,
truck or SUV in their next vehicle purchase.
"This proactive information campaign has shown over the years that
when people understand the benefits of alternative fuel and advanced
technology vehicles, they begin to understand why these kinds of
vehicles are so important," said Al Ebron, Executive Director for the
NAFTC and National AFV Day Odyssey Co-Coordinator. "Our research shows
that while 93% of Americans believe that developing alternative fuel
sources for cars, trucks, buses and SUVs is very important to them,
there are still major barriers to overcome for consumers."
These barriers include the number of fueling stations available, the
higher cost of the vehicles and the lack of information and knowledge
about alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles.
NAFTC's national survey, conducted by R.L. Repass & Partners, Inc.,
polled adults age 18 or older regarding their behaviors and views on
alternative fuel vehicles. Results show:
- Alternative fuel/advanced tech vehicles are
becoming more popular. 55% said their next vehicle purchase would
very (16%) or somewhat (39%) likely be an alternative fuel/advanced
technology car, truck or SUV. Consumers most likely to purchase an
alternative fuel/advanced technology vehicle are between the ages of 25
and 34 and 45 and 59.
- Americans are willing to pay more.
Respondents said that they would be
willing to pay more for alternative fuel and advanced technology
vehicles if they provided the following benefits: Better fuel
efficiency (89%), tax breaks (83%), less dependence of foreign oil
(80%), and less pollution and better health for those around them (80%).
- More Americans are thinking alternatively.
27% said hybrid vehicles are most
likely to be a significant alternative to petroleum based fuel for
cars, trucks, SUVs and buses within 20 years. 22% said hydrogen
and fuel cell technology is most likely to be a significant alternative
by 2026.
More information about NAFTC.
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