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An online survey of 350 Toyota Hybrid drivers has demonstrated some interesting facts around current hybrid customer sentiment.
When asked if they would choose hybrid power again for their next vehicle, 97 per cent said yes. What is more surprising is that 70 per cent would not even consider an electric vehicle (EV), despite the recent advances in EV capabilities. The two main reasons given against buying an EV were the long charging times and limited range, while a smaller factor was a lack of understanding of the technology.
Just over half of those questioned would favour a hybrid over a diesel or EV, and the fact that 13 per cent of current Toyota sales are hybrid powered (a 140 per cent increase over last year) confirms that verdict.
Toyota Ireland's Marketing Director, Michael Gaynor, remarked: "There is a misconception that hybrid drivers will automatically switch to electric vehicles, however, this research clearly shows that hybrid drivers recognise the benefits of low emissions driving that a hybrid vehicle provides without the inconvenience of driving an electric vehicle. Until EVs can travel much greater distances without having to re-charge for long periods of time, they will have limited appeal within the Irish market, especially in rural Ireland. We are not surprised by the results of the findings as we know that our customers love their hybrid vehicles".