Re "Buyers will be key to state goal of cleaner cars" (Editorials, Feb. 1): It's certainly true that buyers will be key to reaching California's cleaner cars goal, but we part company on the idea that consumers aren't interested.
Californians want cleaner choices. A recent Consumer Reports survey of California residents found that 75% agree California should require automakers to build more zero emission vehicles.
And it's not just Californians. A 2011 Consumer Reports national survey showed 56 percent of consumers would consider a hybrid, electric, or hydrogen fuel cell for their next vehicle, and 72 percent would consider purchasing one of these during the next 15 years.
While cleaner vehicles tend to cost more upfront than their gasoline counterparts, the fuel savings are expected to outweigh the additional cost. The California Air Resources Board rules are expected to save $3 for every $1 invested. More money in consumers' pockets and a shield from unpredictable gas prices are an easy sell.
-- Shannon Baker Branstetter, Consumers Union, Washington, DC
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