Anaheim Hills Auto Body

Why are Hybrids and Electric Cars Not Selling?

Despite a huge proliferation of new models and with ongoing pressure from more stringent emissions standards, sales of hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and battery-electric cars so far remain light. Planet-friendly models that have sold well previously are lagging along while cars that run on gas are stronger than ever. As a green business here at Anaheim Hills Auto Body, we value the quality of the environment in Anaheim, CA and all over the planet. So, here is some interesting news as we pose this timely question--why are hybrids and electric cars not selling well anymore?

The national launch of a redesigned, second-generation Chevrolet Volt has helped sales to increase by 58.5% in 2016, but other than that the cupboard is bare. For example, 311,352 Honda Accords were sold last year, but  only 6,055 of them were hybrids.

What has caused this slump in sales on hybrids and EVs? Lower gas prices and people's fascination with SUVs and trucks like the Ford F-150, might be the two main reasons for consumers staying away from green cars. In this country, we still want cars with "oomph" and many people believe that hybrids and EVs don't fall into that category. Plus when the economy is good (like right now) car owners aren't too worried about the cost of fuel.

Other prospective buyers of hybrids and EVs have what is known as "range anxiety"--where people worry about having to stop to recharge at inopportune times. Others are concerned about a shortage of charging stations in certain states or cities.

Another problem is related to consumer knowledge, as many car buyers don't fully grasp the difference between the three types of green cars: 1.) plug-in hybrids 2.) hybrids and 3.) all-electric cars.  If people can't understand what they're buying, they won't buy it.

In reality, it's the job of the car manufacturers themselves to educate the public and dispel their fears about these vehicles. In addition, they need to promote green cars right alongside their gas-powered fleet or otherwise their sales will continue to sag. According to the Sierra Club, automakers spend a lot less on national television advertising for EVs and hybrids as opposed to gas vehicles, which is one of the problems, no doubt.

Hopefully, consumers will begin to learn more about the value of planet-friendly vehicles while carmakers will promote them more aggressively. In the end, we will all win in a big way, because by driving EVs and hybrids, as well as making more of them here in the U.S., we can all make the world a better and healthier place to live.

Sources: MSN, Sierra Club and NY Times