Today's News by Jack Nerad for Driving Today

I Want My New EV?

Friday, September 10, 2010

Americans may not be ready to buy an electric car, but a new survey says a high percentage of them are at least eager to try one. The study, “Electric Vehicles: The Future of Driving,” suggests electric cars are enticing to consumers because of their potential to reduce environmental damage and save money. But the survey also notes that consumers have questions about battery life and the convenience of battery charging.

Consumers seem open to considering an electric car in the future, with 42 percent reporting they’re likely to follow related news reports. However, overall awareness of the various types of alternative-power vehicles remains low. While 32 percent say they are familiar or very familiar with hybrid vehicles, only 25 percent are familiar with electric-powered vehicles -- an interesting finding, since electric vehicles have been around for more than 100 years.

The greatest advantages of buying an electric car, according to consumers, are:

The ability to run without gasoline (78 percent)

Less pollution (67 percent)

The lack of need for oil changes and tune-ups (60 percent)

But for every positive, consumers were also aware of a potential negative. Cost of the vehicle, reliability and availability of charging stations are key concerns. The study says the most common perceived disadvantages of electric cars are:

Running out of battery power on the road (71 percent)

Lack of charging stations and/or not being able to recharge (66 percent)

Mileage potential before needing to recharge (50 percent)

Battery life (34 percent)

Limited mileage (59 percent)

Home charging stations may also affect purchase decisions. Half the consumers said they would be less likely to consider buying an electric car if they were required to install special charging equipment for the batteries.

“For a new product category, interest in electric vehicles is strong and likely to grow as more vehicles enter the market and consumers become more aware of them,” says Chris Ely, manager of industry analysis at the Consumer Electronics Association. “Manufacturers, dealers and other sellers will need to emphasize mileage and battery-related specifications when promoting and selling electric vehicles.”

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