A British opinion on future of hybrids

This article is somewhat funny in his writing style, especially when it comes to the Super Chief, but there are a couple of things I have problems with:

If the public isn't demanding them, who is buying them? And why are there still waiting lists?

But here it says "hybrid demand"...The first part may be true - but I highly doubt the second part.

Agreed. The Euro's still love'm though.

sure, a little public relations....and a LOT OF CONSUMER DEMAND!!! Strange, it's rare to see a commercial for any hybrid....but the regular vehicles are being shoved down your throat every 30 seconds. But look how well they are selling none-the-less!

When reading this, other articles regarding hybrids, and listening to the CEO's of the domestic auto makers, I can't help but feel that they only talk to themselves when it comes to what the people want. Nowhere do I see or hear of these folks actually talking to a consumer, Joe Blow & Jane Doe on the street (no offense Joe and Jane). You would be amazed to find out just how many folks out there, my co-workers and friends, actually want a hybrid vehicle but are not in the financial position right now (i.e. owe $20K on a 7 year old domestic SUV). Even a couple of my honky-tonk co-workers in their big trucks are looking forward to the day they can have their cake and eat it too (big truck in hybrid form).

Automakers: "We'll make hybrids to appease the few hippies, but this is not what they want. They want power."

Media: "This hybrid technology is nifty, but this is not what they want. They want whatever the automakers sell."

Consumers: "Wth Guys...I'd love to buy your product but can you make one like I want it please?"

 

As soon as I saw "detnews" in the link, I knew roughly what was in it before reading it. Yes, they talk to themselves. That's why Detroit is what Detroit now is.