It's seems that not long ago the only people considering or discussing hybrid vehicle technology was only the elite of the super eco-geeks. But lately, with gas prices reaching $4.00 US in many areas, hybrid vehicles are moving into the spotlight. Many people are taking notice of hybrids and the potentials of the technology. What has caused this shift in thought for consumers? Is it that more consumers are being made aware of the green movement? Or is it merely because these consumers want to gain the benefits of owning a super high MPG hybrid vehicle? I believe the only answer can be a combination of the two. Lately, everywhere you look there is talk of going green. HGTV is airing "green home" focused programs, businesses are making the movement to green, and of course the web is abound with green news. With this increase of exposure comes the positive benefit of raising awareness. And of course when you raise awareness you bring ideas into people's lives that they made not have encountered otherwise. Conversely, I also get the impression that driving a Prius and getting more MPG's than the neighbor has become a topic of much conversation in social settings. Getting the most out of a tank has become a challenge in some social circles with competitiveness driving people into searching out the most fuel efficient vehicles available. This search undoubtedly leads people into the hybrid market. Personally, I couldn't be happier with this trend. The more people that are trying to save at the pump means less carbon being pumped into the atmosphere. I would like to see more people making the switch for environmental reasons... but less SUV's on the road is a good thing no matter how we achieve it. Additionally, more hybrid's on the road helps the green movement by adding exposure to hybrid technology. With this exposure more people become aware of their personal impact and searching for more ways to make changes in their personal lives. In the end we all get the benefit of breathing a little easier, regardless of motive.
What has caused this shift in thought for consumers? Is it that more consumers are being made aware of the green movement? Or is it merely because these consumers want to gain the benefits of owning a super high MPG hybrid vehicle? I believe the only answer can be a combination of the two. Lately, everywhere you look there is talk of going green. HGTV is airing "green home" focused programs, businesses are making the movement to green, and of course the web is abound with green news. With this increase of exposure comes the positive benefit of raising awareness. And of course when you raise awareness you bring ideas into people's lives that they made not have encountered otherwise.
Conversely, I also get the impression that driving a Prius and getting more MPG's than the neighbor has become a topic of much conversation in social settings. Getting the most out of a tank has become a challenge in some social circles with competitiveness driving people into searching out the most fuel efficient vehicles available. This search undoubtedly leads people into the hybrid market.
Personally, I couldn't be happier with this trend. The more people that are trying to save at the pump means less carbon being pumped into the atmosphere. I would like to see more people making the switch for environmental reasons... but less SUV's on the road is a good thing no matter how we achieve it. Additionally, more hybrid's on the road helps the green movement by adding exposure to hybrid technology. With this exposure more people become aware of their personal impact and searching for more ways to make changes in their personal lives. In the end we all get the benefit of breathing a little easier, regardless of motive.