A new survey from the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Consumers Union has revealed that over half of the drivers surveyed in the state of California are likely to consider an electric vehicle for their next vehicle purchase or lease.
The recent survey also revealed that more than 65% of the Californian drivers surveyed possessed an interest in electric vehicles (EVs), in a general fashion, whether or not they were considering an EV purchase.
“Many California consumers who might be looking for a new car this summer are primed and ready to purchase an electric vehicle,” stated Don Anair, research and deputy director for the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) Clean Vehicles Program. “These survey results should be encouraging news to automakers who are offering EVs or set to bring new vehicle models to market.”
The press release provides more:
Plug-in electric vehicle sales in California today represent only 3% of the new vehicle market, with a little over 20 vehicle models available from manufacturers. The survey shows that the electric market has real potential for bigger growth. The survey results suggest how automakers may be able to turn interest into sales. More than 65% of Californians want to see automakers offer more electric options across a variety of classes, including sedans, SUVs and minivans, and over half think that every automaker should offer a plug-in model for sale.
…The survey also found that 44% of California households could use an electric vehicle with little or no change to their current driving habits and vehicle needs. Survey respondents met the criteria for using a typical plug-in hybrid EV available today if they have access to parking and an electrical outlet at home, need to carry 4 or fewer passengers, and do not need hauling or towing capability.
The survey also revealed that, while the state offers substantial incentives to the buyers of EVs, most Californian drivers (¾ of those surveyed) are unaware of these incentives. A further 80% of those surveyed were also unaware of the federal EV tax credit.
Photo by Kyle Field | CleanTechnica
Hopefully the rest of the country will wake up and follow California that ALWAYS leads the way
Yes, but can you believe that “most Californian drivers (¾ of those surveyed) are unaware of these incentives. A further 80% of those surveyed were also unaware of the federal EV tax credit.” — we have a lot of work to do!