With Americans becoming more eco-friendly, concerns over sustainable resources and the carbon emissions of cars have prompted many to switch to a car powered by alternative energy. While hybrids are all the craze, what about electric cars?
A recent MSN article surveyed regular people across the country about their feelings toward electric vehicles. Their results were surprising. MSN found that despite American’s willingness to pay a little extra for a hybrid vehicle, most were conscious of the environment but not interested in purchasing an electric vehicle.
May people surveyed were skeptical of the safety and actual cost v. benefits of owning an electric car. The key to convincing them to switch, according to most surveyed, was cost and a seamless transition. Many people are unwilling to give up their high-performance cars in exchange for a car that, while more energy efficient, is less powerful and aesthetically pleasing.
Interestingly, car makers are moving fast to embrace electric car technology. This year GM showcased their Chevy Volt, a fully electric car projected to get an estimated 230 mpg. Nissan and Toyota both have plans to unveil an electric vehicle in 2012, stressing that affordability will be key.
Here are 5 electric cars either in or soon to be released into the market:
1. Chevy Volt (launch in 2010)
2. Mitsubishi i-MiEV (MSRP est. $30,000)
3. Nissan Leaf (launch in 2010)
4. Tesla Roadster (MSRP est. $109,00)
5. BMW Mini E (in testing)
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