hybrid cars final report

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We take this opportunity to thank all those who were directly and indirectly helped us in

making this marketing research project complete. First of all we extend our gratitude to Mr.

Sunil Barthawal, Faculty in Marketing, University Of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Dehradun

who guided us at each and every stage of the project.

We also thank all the 120 respondents who filled our questionnaire and helped us to

provide our analysis on the research. Last but not the least we thank our parents and friends who

supported us throughout this research.

Gourav Verma

Rony John Cyrac

Sambeet Mohapatra

S Aravinda Kumar


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CONTENTS

Headings Page No

1. INTRODUCTION 4

3. LITERATURE REVIEW 5

4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 195. ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION 21

6. RECOMMENDATIONS 31

7. CONCLUSION 32

8. BIBLIOGRAPHY 33

9. APPENDIX 35

LIST OF TABLES

Table No. With Headings Page No

TABLE 1: EMISSION SAVINGS WITH HYBRID CARS 9TABLE 2: AGE 21

TABLE 3: GENDER OF VARIOUS SAMPLES 21

TABLE 4: INCOME LEVEL OF RESPONDENTS 22

TABLE 5: ARE HYBRID CARS FUEL EFFICIENT? 22

TABLE 6: ARE HYBRID CARS ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY? 23

TABLE 7: SPEND ON FUEL FOR YOUR CAR IN A MONTH 24

TABLE 8: WHAT TYPE OF CAR DO YOU OWN? 25

TABLE 9: WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST IN YOUR CAR? 26

TABLE 10: WHAT ARE YOUR ROUTINE DRIVING ROADS? 27

TABLE 11: WHAT TYPE OF FUEL DOES A HYBRID CAR USE? 28

TABLE 12: DO YOU THINK ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY VEHICLES AREWORTH PAYING MONEY?

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LIST OF CHARTS

Chart no. with headings Page No

CHART 1: AGE GROUP 21

CHART 2: GENDER OF VARIOUS SAMPLES 22

CHART3: INCOME LEVEL OF RESPONDENTS 22

CHART 4: ARE HYBRID CARS FUEL EFFICIENT? 23

CHART 5: ARE HYBRID CARS ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY? 24CHART 6: SPEND ON FUEL FOR YOUR CAR IN A MONTH 25

CHART 7: WHAT TYPE OF CAR DO YOU OWN? 26

CHART 8: WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST IN YOUR CAR? 27

CHART 9: WHAT ARE YOUR ROUTINE DRIVING ROADS? 28

CHART 10: WHAT TYPE OF FUEL DOES A HYBRID CAR USE? 29

CHART 11: DO YOU THINK ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY VEHICLES AREWORTH PAYING MONEY?

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INTRODUCTION

Global warming defined as a gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earths

atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels of carbon

dioxide, CFCs, and other pollutants (Definition of Global warming)is one of the main problems

which the world faces in the present century. It is said that it is melting polar ice caps thereby

increasing the level of water in the earth which may result in future floods and even sink some of

the low lying coastal areas of the earth. (Myles, 2012)

Cars and Light trucks contribute to around 25% of the carbon dioxide emissions alone in the

United States (Beder, 2009) which are believed to be the main cause behind global warming.

This problem of global warming arises main due to human activity. Hybrid cars, the cars which

are believed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions are being popularized in the foreign markets of

United States, Japan, China and others. A car is referred to as a hybrid if it utilizes more than one

form of onboard energy to achieve propulsion. In practice, a hybrid car will have a traditional

internal combustion engine and a fuel tank, as well as one or more electric motors and a battery

pack. (Edmunds, 2009).

A gasoline-electric hybrid car has one or two auxiliary electric motors attached with the main

gasoline engine. Compared to conventional automobiles, the gasoline engine in a gas-electric

hybrid is smaller, less powerful, and more efficient. These conditions helps in passing, hill

climbing, and acceleration from a standstill. In some of the hybrid cars such as the Toyota Prius,

a special electric-only mode is designed for stop-and-go traffic. This is made possible by the

super heavy duty electric motor used in the Prius, which is capable of propelling the vehicle from

a standstill without the gasoline assistance. Thus, in contrast to the most other hybrid vehicles

Prius actually uses the electric motor more than the gasoline engine.

Most of the technologies such as regenerative braking, aerodynamic refinements, and lightweight

building materials found in hybrid vehicles would benefit vehicles of the any type including

conventional gasoline automobiles. However, the engineering and manufacturing costs

associated with these technologies would increase the price of the vehicle. (Edmunds, 2009)

According to Census in 2011, India is a home to more than 1.2 billion people. This huge market

provides tremendous opportunities to many products. So will Hybrid cars which are a success in

many foreign markets have a potential in India? Its a tough question and some of the Hybrid

cars launched like the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic have not shown substantial sales and so

were subsequently withdrawn. So to market hybrid cars in India requires some of the marketingstrategies of the foreign markets as well as some new and innovative ones.

This project can be used by firms manufacturing hybrid cars to cite whether India is potential

market or not and it would even provide recommendations for the appropriate marketing

strategies required to launch such a car.


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RESEARCH OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE

This project has both primary and secondary objectives which are cited below

Primary objectives:

To analyze the market potential of hybrid cars in India. To cite the factors that influences the market potential of hybrid cars. To suggest some possible recommendations to successfully market hybrid cars in India

Secondary objectives:

To know about the market strength of hybrid cars. To know level of awareness of customers in India regarding hybrid cars. To know differences between hybrid cars and normal cars.

Scope

Due to scarcity of automobile fuels such as petrol and diesel in India, hybrid cars canplay an important role in conserving these fuels.

Fuel effluents are a major source of environment degradation through carbon dioxide andparticulate emissions. Use of hybrid cars by people or citizens of India would safeguard

environmental pollution, thereby reducing global warming.

Lower operating costs (fuel, maintenance) can create an advantageous position for hybridcars in the small car market segment.


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LITERATURE REVIEW

A hybrid car is a car that uses an on-board rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) and a fuel

based power source for its propulsion. These cars use much less fuel than their counterparts and

produce fewer emissions. Hybrid cars recharge their batteries by capturing kinetic energy

through regenerative braking. Some hybrids use the combustion engine to generate electricity by

spinning a generator to either recharge the battery or directly feed power to an electric motor that

drives the vehicle. This takes place when cruising or in other situations where just light thrust is

needed (Orloff, About.com, 2005).

TYPES OF HYBRID CARS

Following are the types of hybrid cars with examples

PARALLEL HYBRIDMany of the new hybrid vehicles today are parallel Hybrid vehicles. The Parallel Hybridhas an ICE that works in conjunction with a small electric motor, 5kW to 25kW, toprovide extra torque to the powertrain system in the car. The parallel hybrid can alsoutilize the engine to charge the battery pack during less intense power driving cycles,such as cruising at freeway speeds. In a parallel hybrid it is possible to turn the engine offand run the electric motor from the battery pack for shorter in-town driving. In this case,the Parallel hybrid acts as a fully electric vehicle and becomes virtually emissions free.The driving range of a Parallel Hybrid can achieve up to 400 miles or more. (The ParallelHybrid Vehicle, 2005).

The Toyota Prius is a hybrid powered for short distances by an electric motor; at higher

speeds a gasoline engine drives the wheels and turns a generator to recharge the batteries.The two power sources are said to work in parallel. (Mayersohn, 2008)

SERIES HYBRIDA series-hybrid vehicle has an engine that is generally running all the time. An electric

motor placed "in series" between the engine and the wheels helps motivate the car. In

assisting the engine, the electric motor helps improve fuel economy and reduce

emissions. Some series hybrids also provide a "start-stop" function, which turns off the

engine completely when the car is stationary, then restarting it instantly when the brake

pedal is released. The Chevrolet Volt is designed to travel 40 miles on batteries. Its gasengine generates electricity to recharge the batteries, but it never powers the wheels.

Because the engines power output goes through the electric drive motor, it is called a

series design. (Mayersohn, 2008)


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PLUG-INWhile a conventional hybrid vehicle may travel short distances in pure-electric mode,

plug-in hybrids are designed to travel extended distances with little or no assistance from

the gasoline engine. Even before the charge is depleted, the gasoline engine may be

called on to provide additional power for recharging the battery, accelerating, passing,

and merging.

While operating on the additional plug-in charge, a plug-in hybrid more-or-less works the

opposite of a conventional hybrid, with the electric motor acting as the primary power

source, and the gasoline engine providing supplemental motivation. In the case of the

Vue, once the initial charge is depleted, it would operate just as conventional hybrid does,

using the gas engine. The Chevrolet Volt Concept is designed to use only its electric

motor, using gasoline only to aid in battery recharging, not driving. (Appel, 2009).

G.M. has announced that it will offer a plug-in version of the Saturn Vue crossover that

will drive up to 15 miles on batteries. The gas engine will be able to drive the wheels and

recharge the battery, or the Vue can be replenished by plugging into a standard socket.

(Mayersohn, 2008)

PURE ELECTRICCars like the Tesla Roadster drive strictly on the power from a lithium-ion battery pack.

Tesla says the car will go 244 miles on battery power and recharge in 3.5 hours using a

special high-power connector; there is no provision to recharge while driving.(Mayersohn, 2008)

HISTORY OF HYBRID CARS

In the 18th century, France had a steam-powered motor carriage that traveled 6 mph. In

the 19th century, an Englishman assembled a car with an electric motor, and a blacksmith

in Vermont produced an electric motor powered carriage in the 1830s. By the end of the

1800s, a Connecticut manufacturer had produced hundreds of electric cars and a German

named Porsche manufactured a front wheel drive electric car and later a hybrid using an

internal combustion engine pared with an electric motor. This is probably the first hybridvehicle on record. In 1904, when Henry Ford developed the first assembly line

manufacturing plant for gas-powered vehicles, the decline of electric powered vehicles

for mass consumption was imminent. After the U.S. Congress in the late 1960s, launched

bills suggesting that producing electric vehicles would help cut air pollution, renewed

interest in alternative transportation was revived. General Motors tested an experimental

hybrid car that used electricity up to 13 mpg, then switched to a gas engine, although it


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only reached 40 mpg. After the 1973 Arab oil embargo, gas prices mounted, and concern

for developing an effective alternative was revived. By the late 1970s, General Motors

was spending more than $20 million on electric vehicle research and promised to have

effective cars by the mid-80s. In 1993, the Dept. of Energy initiated the Hybrid Electric

Vehicle (HEV) program as a partnership with the three largest U.S. car manufacturers:

GM, Ford and Chrysler. Their joint goal was to have realistic models by 2000 and usable

vehicles by 2003-keeping costs, safety and operation in line with conventional cars, but

with double the mileage.

Over the next few years, several automakers offered electric vehicles for sale starting in

California, such as the Toyota RAV4, Ford's Ranger pickup and Honda's EV Plus. The

disadvantages of electric cars showed up in unenthusiastic sales, so the manufacturers

went back to the HEV concept. Toyota put out the first bona fide mass produced hybrid

car in Japan in 1997-the four-door Toyota Prius. It appeared in the U.S. in 2000. Honda

was right behind with the two-door Insight released in 1999 and in 2002, they releasedthe Civic Hybrid which offered almost double the mpg of the non-hybrid Civic and all

the performance quality. Since then, most of the other car manufacturers have jumped on

board. (Berman, 2011)

WHY SHOULD WE BUY A HYBRID?

Great Selection, Regardless Of Your NeedsFrom a small commuter vehicle, a touring luxury sedan or an SUV, there are now anincreasing number of hybrid vehicles on the market to fit your needs. Once restricted toonly a small number of models from just a few automakers, hybrids today are availablefrom a large number of manufacturers and in a variety of styles. No longer is style andfunctionality a deciding factor between a hybrid vehicle and its conventional counterpart.There are even hybrid versions of full-size pick-up trucks on the market today.

Outstanding Fuel EconomyThere is little denying it: when comparing vehicles, hybrids are almost always class

leaders for fuel economy. The ability of a hybrid to make use of an electric motor in

certain driving situations means you use less fuel. Other features of hybrid vehicles,

including some of the most impressive aerodynamics in the marketplace, help to further

give hybrid vehicles the edge. The same holds true for driver assist technology that

provides real-time feedback on the energy efficiency of your driving habits.


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Be Kind To The EnvironmentOne of the driving forces behind hybrid car ownership is that it supports a greener

lifestyle. By decreasing reliance on a conventional gas combustion engine, the emission

of harmful greenhouse gas into the environment can be reduced. Many hybrid vehicles

include other green features as well, such as interiors made of environmentally friendlymaterials and exteriors designed to resist drag and make the most efficient use of fuel. In

addition, hybrid vehicles are being developed that make use of other alternative energy

sources, greening up the electric generation that makes a hybrid a hybrid.

Support Green CompaniesIt's no secret that companies produce what consumers want. By supporting the demand

for greener vehicles, you provide positive feedback to automakers and developers to

improve the efficiency of hybrid technologies. Without a growing market for hybrids, it

is difficult to attract investment dollars into research areas such as improving battery

technologies and development of innovative power trains. If the U.S. demand for hybrids

weakens, automakers will focus on producing hybrids for markets in other areas of the

globe and the number of domestically available hybrid vehicles will continue to shrink.

(Weaver, 2011)

Table 1: EMISSION SAVINGS WITH HYBRID CARS

CONSUMER BEHAVIOR AND MARKETING STRATEGY

There are many reasons why people decided to purchase a new vehicle. In 2009 it wasfound that the primary motivation for buying a new car was high mileage on theconsumers previous or current car. When a vehicle attains high mileage, typically


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problems with the cars condition arise, whether the exterior of the car is eroding orbeginning to look worn, the interior might be unkempt and grungy, or the car might beginto have mechanical problems.

Cars which continually breakdown and spend excessive amounts of time being repaired

can work out to be a very costly expense. In the long run it is more economical to buynew and have the satisfaction and knowledge that the car will be covered under awarranty before problems arise, most people try to sell his or her car and then purchase anew one, or, if these problems occurred unexpectedly, rather than spending moneysenselessly on a vehicle that might not be worth it, it is more resourceful for the owner toinvest in a new car. (Gibbs, 2009)

Others sometimes just get tired of their vehicle and desire something more updated. Theymight wish for something with more modern technology, equipped with the latestmachinery and features, something more comfortable and with a contemporary sleekappearance. Many people are choosing to get a newer car because many safety features

now come as standard on most makes and models. Airbags fitted to both the driver's andfront passenger are a key feature many people now look for. Additional back seat airbagsand side impact airbags are becoming increasingly requested safety features by peoplelooking for family cars. (Gibbs, 2009)

Correspondingly newer vehicles have advanced sound systems and navigation systems,electronic power features and innovative voice notification for routine maintenance andreminders, keyless entry, sun roofs, increased comfort of seating and amenities, andenhanced lighting, among various other luxuries. Also having to do with appearance isthe size of the vehicle. Many people require a vehicle with more room and additionalspace to compensate for a growing family, extracurricular activities, etc. Corporations arecontinually producing new and improved SUVs, minivans, trucks, and larger cars withadded room and extra seating that are requisites for their customers. These larger optionslikewise are equipped with the updated modern technology and features mandatory forautomobiles produced today. A popular benefit of the cars produced presently is thattypically they feature improved gas mileage. Because of this increase in gas prices aprevailing rationale for getting a new car is this new characteristic of improved gasmileage. Going hand in hand with the desire for better gas mileage is the decision forpeople to go green. Many of the vehicles that are made with better gas mileage, or that

feature the greatest gas mileage, are hybrid vehicles that are also better for theenvironment and appeal to those concerned with global warming and pollution. Going'green' is high up on the list for many people. Saving on fuel and running costs is givencareful consideration by many people. (Benstein, 2005)

Studies have been performed on the consumers of hybrid vehicles, which have revealedthat these people have certain aspects in respect to their personalities that give them aunique profile. One study that looks at the profile of hybrid consumers is the J.D. Power

and Associates 2008 Power Auto Offline Media Report Spring Edition. This studyhad a target audience of 44,931 drivers of new cars and trucks. The study explores the


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characteristics of hybrid owners and potential hybrid owners. It also evaluates mediaviewing and readership behaviors.

The characteristics of hybrid owners are for the most part logical. For example those whopurchase hybrid vehicles tend to have much higher levels of education and report much

higher household income. Car buyers who have more knowledge can make an educatedand rational decision before committing to a large financial purchase. A higher level of

education benefits the buyer because the tools of research and decisionmaking canensure that the buyer receives the vehicle that fits his or her needs. It also comes as nosurprise that hybrid owners have higher incomes than those of traditional vehicles. The

average $5000 price difference between hybrids and nonhybrids is not something manyfamilies can afford to pay up front. This quickly eradicates the option of a hybrid.

The average age of a hybrid buyer is fiftyfour while the average traditional car buyer isage fifty. J.D. Powers study revealed some positive outcomes about hybrid owners. Thestudy showed that Hybrid owners tend to be proud advocates of their vehicles. This

suggests that they are pleased with the hybrid technology and they enjoy sharing it withothers. In general, they give more affirmative suggestions than those of other vehiclebuyers. This facilitates the hybrid market because those who have actually purchased ahybrid are giving recommendations to others, who may, in return, purchase a hybridthemselves. (J.D. Powers, 2008)

Many people have a desire to purchase an environmentally friendly vehicle. This can beseen by the large number of hybrids being both purchased and produced. However, thedemographics for people that desire green cars, is interesting. A J. D. Power studydiscovered that females are more eager to pay more for an environmentally friendlyvehicle. In the United States, certain areas are more supportive of this purchase. The

western U.S. has the greatest support, while the Midwest has the least support. Theenvironmentally friendly consumers show interest in compact vehicles. Furthermore,most have previously owned smaller vehicles.

The percentage is much greater than other new car buyers. This justifies thatenvironmentally conscious consumers have a trend in purchasing vehicles that haveexceptional fuel efficiency.

Mindset Media created a psychographic profile of hybrid owners that point out somedistinct personality classifications. One is that hybrid drivers are 78% more creative thanthe common population. They are inventive and imaginative and also tend to beemotionally sensitive and intellectually curious. The creative personality would explainwhy they partake in the new technology offered. Another reason for this is they are more

liberal than the broad population. The openmindedness and spontaneity gives theminterest in new hybrids, not leaving them with a sense of distrust in the advancedtechnological aspects of the vehicles.

Even though there are many people who are environmentally aware, not all of them takeaction. The J.D. Power study revealed that only 11% of consumers are very willing to


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pay more to buy an environmentally friendly vehicle. Also, only one out of tenenvironmentalists has purchased a hybrid. The study proved that the interest inenvironmentally friendly vehicles is limited to hybrids. Consumers are not interested in

buying socalled clean diesel vehicles of the negative aspects of diesel vehicles, such asthe dirty exhaust, have persisted with consumers. (J.D. Powers, 2008)

Through research, interviews, and studies examiners have concluded that specificsymbols exist for those who own hybrid vehicles. In a study done by the Institute ofTransportation Studies at the University of California, Davis it was concluded that acertain symbolism applies to the market for hybrids. In response to household interviews,the denotations of preserving the environment, opposition to war, management ofpersonal finances, reduction of support to oil producers, and the embracement of newtechnology were justified. Ethics was a major factor in these denotations. Independenceand a sense of individuality also came into play. The owners of hybrids feel as though itis the right thing to do and characterize their vehicles as something they can feel goodabout. Therefore, owners give precedence to his or her purchase in an ethical viewpoint.

It shows that they care. Owners happily sacrifice some personal interests for the greatergood. In conjunction with this sacrifice, owners hope that the purchase of a hybrid willhelp set an example and create a future where everyone drives hybrids. (Monica, 2008)

When marketing a new product, the general wants and needs of the target market shouldbe the focus, and fulfilling those determined requirements should be the overall objective.The new product should be an improvement over what it is attempting to replace, moretechnologically advanced and esthetically pleasing to entice the public into purchasingthis new merchandise. Traditionally, economists and market researchers have beeninterested in identifying the factors that affect consumers' car buying behaviors toestimate market share, and to that end they have developed various models of vehicletype choice. However, they do not usually consider consumers' travel attitudes,personality, lifestyle, and mobility as factors that may affect the vehicle type choice.

Lifestyles determine the types of vehicles that individuals purchase. Someone that makesa substantial amount of money, an individual with a higher status or a more elite rankingin society is typically interested in a lavish vehicle that is representative of theaccomplishments made or the position upheld. Status seekers are more likely to drive anexpensive car (luxury and sports categories) because such cars are common statussymbols in modern society.Whereas someone that makes a less significant amount of money has to purchase avehicle more modest and in line with what is affordable. Families require automotivesthat are capable of carrying multiple passengers; therefore they necessitate larger cars,trucks, or SUVs. Single persons or couples usually have little use for larger vehicles andmight prefer something smaller or more compact.

Demographically, a person that lives in the country might require a truck or larger vehiclewith four wheel drive or the capabilities of driving on roads that are not in the bestcondition, whereas people that drive in cities might desire a car that is more compact so

compensate for limited space and small parking areas. Those who like living in high


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density areas may choose a smaller car (small and compact categories) because they haveaccessible public transit and restrictions on parking, making them less likely to commuteby car. (Hudson, 2008)

Some people dread their commute to work or traveling anywhere in general. To atone for

their dislike of driving they are more likely to buy a larger, more comfortable vehicle sothat they might relax while driving and make their experience less frustrating and morepleasant.

Though, even those that enjoy traveling are likely to buy these extravagant vehicles inorder to make their experience that much more gratifying. People that are concerned withthe effects of emissions on the environment are more attracted to smaller vehicles withbetter gas mileage in an attempt to have a more positive effect on the environment, Those

who strongly support proenvironmental policies are more likely to prioritize reducingmobile source emissions and therefore to drive a smaller car (small and compactcategories). (Ransom, 2009)

Hybrid vehicles can be an overall improvement over conventional vehicles, but onlywhen many positive factors all culminate at once, which is unlikely. These vehicles arenow available in numerous models of all different sizes, capable of filling therequirements for single individuals or families. They are more technologically advanced,characteristically their appearance is more modern and desirable, and because there are somany different models and versions of these cars now, they are better suited for a wholespectrum of people with different desires and personalities. At a time when gas pricescontinue to increase, the economy continues to struggle, and many individuals arebecoming increasingly aware of contamination of our environment, the hybrid vehiclehas become alluring to many as it also addresses these about mobility, travel attitudes andlifestyle. Hybrid vehicles are an overall improvement over conventional vehicles, beingmore technologically advanced, characteristically their appearance is more modern anddesirable, it is appealing to those that are looking to save money on fuel, and is alsotempting to those concerned with the environment and the current issues surroundingglobal warming and pollution. At a time when gas prices continue to increase, theeconomy continues to struggle, and many individuals are becoming increasingly aware ofcontamination of our environment, the hybrid vehicle has become alluring to many.

Due to the steadily increasing gas prices, the popularity of Hybrid vehicles among societyhas also escalated. There are many reasons for purchasing these new technologicallyadvanced automotive; however, one of the more current reasons is the amount of moneycustomers save on fuel. These new cars are advertised to achieve exceptional gas mileagewhen compared with conventional cars. It is said that even though they are typically moreexpensive initially, the amount that you save on gas eventually allows the purchaser tobreak even and save money and with gas prices rising even further, it is likely that you

will recoup that upfront premium in just a few short years. For example, the ToyotaCamry Hybrid gets about 31 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on thehighway, while the Toyota Camry V6 gets about 21 miles per gallon and 31 miles pergallon respectively. If an individual was to drive about 15,000 miles in a year with gas


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prices at about $3.20 a gallon, the person would save approximately $547.00 a year,taking three years to recoup the upfront premium.

Another issue facing the economy is global warming and the effects of pollution on usand the environment. Those that believe and support in the world going green look at

the lower fossil fuel emissions of hybrid vehicles as a reason to buy these cars. With thecombination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, hybrid cars produce lessemissions while being driven, thus saving on gas and also helping the environment.While most hybrid cars still burn gasoline in an internal combustion engine, they also useother forms of motive power to help limit how much gasoline they burn. This means thathybrid cars cause significantly less damage to the environment than normal cars. It is saidthat every gallon of fuel burned produces 26 pounds of carbon dioxide that is thenreleased into the environment. By driving a car that is more fuel efficient, a car that getsabout 10 miles more per gallon in comparison to your old car, an individual can reducethe amount of carbon dioxide released into the environment by about 2,500 pounds eachyear. (Sangho Choo, 2003)

Other than the potential savings on fuel and the opportunity to give back to theenvironment, there are also state and federal tax benefits to persuade customers to spendthe additional money in purchasing a new hybrid vehicle. The Energy Policy Act of 2005

replaced the cleanfuel burning deduction with a tax credit. A tax credit is subtracteddirectly from the total amount of federal tax owed, thus reducing or even eliminating thetaxpayers tax obligation. The tax credit for hybrid vehicles applies to vehicles purchasedor placed in service on or after January 1, 2006. The credit is only available to theoriginal purchaser of a new, qualifying vehicle. If a qualifying vehicle is leased to aconsumer, the leasing company may claim the credit. There are many rules andrequirements that must be followed to make an individual eligible for these tax credits,some of these being that the hybrid must be purchased new, not used, the car must beused primarily within the United States, the vehicle must be purchased within a certaintime period, and the date that the vehicle is bought is somewhat a determining factor inthe amount of tax credit the individual will receive. Even with the restriction of theseregulations, there are many vehicles that are eligible to receive these federal tax credits.

When purchasing a new vehicle, finances are greatly important, if not the most importantaspect when the customer is making their decision. People generally look for numerousways in which they can reduce the amount of money that they are spending. Thegovernment has capitalized on this and began offering incentives for individuals,influencing them into spending more money initially to purchase a hybrid vehicle inorder to save money later. Through online sources, articles, and dealerships, the varietyof incentives and programs can be analyzed. Through interviews with both salesrepresentatives and customers, the effectiveness of these government incentives can bedetermined. Talking to individuals who have already taken advantage of thesemotivations determines if it was worth it for them to spend the extra money initially.Speaking with customers that havent yet made a commitment helps to determine if theincentives are successfully influencing people into making the decision to buy a hybridvehicle instead of a conventional car. The interviews with sale representatives should


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give insightful opinions on whether or not the programs are beneficial or deceiving forindividuals. (Bradley, 2009)

When hybrid vehicles were first introduced on the market, many associated them with theToyota Prius. Some individuals were attracted to the distinct style of the Prius as they

considered it a statement to society that they were concerned about the wellbeing of theenvironment and the condition of the world in which we live. Since the Prius, muchadvancement have been made and Hybrid vehicles are now available in numerousdifferent models to appeal to a wide variety styles and preferences of the target market,

One important decision is the size of the vehicle. If you really, really need an SUV sizedvehicle, there are a number of hybrid SUVs that are on the market now or coming ontothe market soon notes .Instead of the Prius that doesnt appeal to most, there are nowmore conventional looking vehicles available as hybrid models, providing people optionsand alternatives to choose a car that is best suited for them and their lifestyle.

Some may believe that the new hybrid vehicles are not as powerful as their counterparts,

their engines being significantly smaller than the engines of conventional vehicles. Whenthe hybrid was first introduced there were some reports of these new cars beingsomewhat sluggish, however, over time as improvements have been made, there arereports now that some hybrids are quicker than conventional cars, The engine in thehybrid car is powerful enough to move the car along on the freeway, but when it needs toget the car moving in a hurry, or go up a steep hill, it needs help. That "help" comes from

the electric motor and battery this system steps in to provide the necessary extrapower.41 With a smaller lighter engine, fewer cylinders, and lighter pistons and internalcomponents, this makes hybrid cars more fuel efficient. Also helping bridge the powergap between hybrid cars and conventional cars are the materials that the vehicles areconstructed out of, some hybrid cars are constructed with ultra-lightweight materials like

carbon fiber or aluminum. Hybrid cars are also designed to be more aerodynamic thanmost cars, allowing them to "slice" through air instead of pushing it out of the way. Allthese factors combined equate to a super-efficient form of car that gets excellent fueleconomy and helps the environment by cutting down on pollution. (Michael Beliveau,2010)

CHALLENGES FOR HYBRID CARS

There are several challenges which hybrid cars which have to be taken into account

before analyzing the potential market

Financial ChallengesOne of the main challenges faced by the Hybrid cars is its initial cost. Most hybrids

cost seven to twelve thousand dollars more than their non-hybrid versions of vehicles

of the same class in U.S.A. The Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, costs $35,000

compared to the standard Escape that costs $25,000. In some cases, this sharp

difference in initial price makes it difficult for hybrids to payback their purchase cost

through fuel savings even after ten years. These financial challenges may compel


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buyers to shy away from purchasing hybrid cars since they are reluctant to pay the

price for just better emission standards. Efforts should therefore be made at the

development stage to bring down the component cost and also to provide financial

incentives, rebate and tax exemptions to lower the differential cost between hybrids

and non-hybrids.

Lack Of Knowledge Of The CustomersThere are many misconceptions associated with the fairly new hybrid technology thatmislead consumers. One such misconception is the high maintenance cost onbatteries. Battery replacement can cost two to three thousand dollars, however mostmanufacturers now offer 8-10 years/240,000 km warrantees and in coming years,with the progress in battery technology, this warrantee is expected to go up to vehiclelife. Another reservation towards hybrid vehicles is their failure to deliver the fueleconomy numbers verified by the Environment Protection Agency in the US or byEnerGuide labels in Canada. Vehicle owners need to be made aware of the effect ofdriving habits on fuel economy, fast acceleration of a motor vehicle from a start,speeding, sudden braking and flooring the gas at. Some consumers also do notrecognize the wide-ranging operational performance and fuel efficiency of hybridcars designed for varied requirements. Not all hybrid cars give a high fuel economy.Mini hybrids give a competitive driving experience but only feature idle-stop, andthus give a very little improvement in fuel economy over its non-hybrid version.Speculations that hybrids are sluggish in performance also need clarification ashybrid models such as the Camry can now compete with any gas driven vehicle of itsclass. Buyers, therefore, need to be educated on the wide-ranging vehicleperformance and fuel savings offered by HEVs available in the market to help themmake informed decisions and consider fuel economy in their choice of vehicle.

Technology ChallengesThe addition of electrical components to the vehicle traction system makes the design

and control of hybrid electric vehicles a challenging task. Drivetrain components have

to be designed specifically to HEV application such that the vehicle performance can

compete with all other available automobiles in the market. In this regard, hybrid

vehicles have several challenges to overcome, particularly in the design and control

of their electric drivetrain for enhanced driving performance, advancement in battery

technology for longer life, lighter weight and higher power density, and the

improvement in the spaciousness of the vehicles to satisfy consumer expectation.

While the above mentioned are the most domi-nant inhibitors to market diffusion of

hybrid vehicles, there are several other noticeable issues like availability of

technicians and other maintenance equipment for hybrid cars. (Mariam Khan, 2009).


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17

ADVANTAGES OF HYBRID CARS

As it combines energy of electric motor with gas powered engine, there is lower CO 2emissions and better mileage.

There are purchase incentives for hybrid vehicle owners. The future for hybrid cars looks bright with rapid development in hybrid technology

to improve engine efficiency.

Due to regenerative breaking technology, the batteries need not to be charged by anexternal source. It helps to reduce the dependency on fossil fuels which directly

affects the fuel prices.

The batteries are recharged when brake is applied. The electric motor in hybrid vehicle boosts power to the engine during acceleration. Hybrid cars are the most gas efficient cars on the road. Most hybrid cars can typically

get 48-60 miles/gallon.

Maintaining a hybrid car doesnt cost more than a conventional car and may even costless due to decreased wear and tear on the engine and breaking system. It has electric launch, regenerative breaking and torque supplementation by an electric

motor.

Hybrid cars are often referred as `car of era. Most important of all the above, we cansave the only planet which we have by keeping it clean. (Vikash, 2010)

AN EXAMPLE OF A HYBRID CAR

The Toyota Prius

As with many of Toyota's vehicles, the Prius (from the Latin "to go before") has become

a standard-bearer in its segment. While many automakers' hybrid models are still in their

nascent stages, Toyota's Prius is already on its third generation. This four-door hybrid has

become a hit with consumers because of its stellar fuel economy, relatively

uncompromised driving and acceleration characteristics and reasonable price.

Due to its popularity and relatively long sales history, Toyota's original hybrid car is a

strong candidate for a shopper interested in a used hybrid vehicle. So far, it seems

Toyota's reputation for reliability and durability is holding true for the Prius. Earlyconcerns about long-term durability have turned out to be mostly unfounded. However,

potential buyers of a used Prius should take extra care during the research process. As the

Toyota Prius is quite complex, future repairs and part replacements could be quite

expensive. (Toyota Prius Review, 2010)


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Current Toyota Prius

In its first decade of production, the Prius hatchback was the sole body style available,

but now, a larger Prius V wagon, a compact Prius C and a plug-in variant are offered (and

covered in separate reviews). With the introduction of these newer models, the standard

Prius is referred to as the Prius lift back. Despite the name change, it remains a four-door

hatchback that seats five people.

The Toyota Prius' hybrid powertrain consists of a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that produces

98 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque that's used in conjunction with two electric

motors and a special planetary gearset that functions as a continuously variable

transmission (CVT). Total system power is 134 hp. Of course the Prius' real bright spot is

its impressive fuel economy, which comes in at an EPA-estimated 51 mpg city/48

highway and 50 mpg combined.

Shoppers have a choice of four Prius trim levels: Two, Three, Four and Five. Standard

feature highlights for the Prius Two include keyless ignition/entry, automatic climate

control, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface and an iPod/USB audio interface. The Prius

Three adds a rearview camera, Toyota's Entune system and a navigation system. The

Prius Four gains a power driver seat, heated front seats, faux leather upholstery and an

upgraded stereo. The Prius Five has larger alloy wheels and advanced LED headlamps.

Options vary depending on trim level, but include a solar-powered ventilation system, an

aerodynamic body kit, a sport-tuned suspension, a head-up display, an upgraded

navigation system, adaptive cruise control and a lane-departure warning system.

Under full acceleration, both gasoline and electric power sources work together to

provide maximum propulsion. In stop-and-go traffic, the Prius alternates between the

two, often running on battery power alone. This maximizes the car's fuel economy

potential. Under deceleration, the electric motors switch to generator mode, recharging

the car's batteries. With such a focus on fuel economy, performance is far short of

exciting, but power is adequate for merging onto highways. On the inside, the Prius'

hatchback body style allows for an impressive amount of cargo to be lugged around,

while a surprisingly commodious backseat makes it a plausible replacement for a family

sedan or compact SUV. The main downsides to the Prius are an uncomfortable driving

position for taller drivers and disappointing interior material quality. (Toyota Prius

Review, 2010)


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19

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research methodology is a way to systematically solve the research problem. It may be

understood as a science of studying how research is done scientifically. In it we study the various

steps that are generally adopted by a researcher in studying his research problem along with the

logic behind them. It is necessary for the researcher to know not only the research

methods/techniques but also the methodology. (Kothari, 2004)

According to Philip Kotler, "Marketing research is a systematic problem analysis, model

building and fact-finding for the purpose of improved decision-making and control in the

marketing of goods and services." The purpose of the research is to discover the answers to

questions through the applications of scientific procedures. (Kothari, 2004)

RESEARCH DESIGN

A research design is the arrangement of conditions for collection and analysis of data in the

manner that aims to combine relevance to research purpose with economy in procedure. Thus itseeks to investigate the persons with find out influences, which act on them. (Kothari, 2004)

The research undertaken in this study is descriptive in nature.

Descri ptive or Survey Research Design

It attempts to describe and explain conditions of the present by using many subjects and

questionnaires to fully describe a phenomenon. Survey research design /survey methodology is

one of the most popular for dissertation research.

The main purpose of descriptive research is the description of state of affairs, as it exists atpresent. The main characteristic of this method is that the researcher has no control over

variables; he can only report what has happened or what is happening. (Kothari, 2004)

RESEARCH METHOD

The research method used was survey method. This was chosen as it facilitates a systematic

gathering of data from the respondents. This method also helps in understanding some behavioral

aspects of the population being surveyed. The instrument used for the research is a structured

questionnaire. The survey was taken by filling the required questionnaire from the respondents in

hard copy or by the use of internet using Google Drive in case some of the required respondents

were not within our reach.


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20

QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN

The questionnaire (original blank questionnaire is cited in the appendix section) used for primary

data collection was structured and undersigned in nature. The questionnaire consists of open

ended and closed ended questions. Proper care was taken to restrict the number of questions and

at the same time they were designed to cover the scope and range of the project. The concernedquestionnaire consisted of three sections (types of questions) apart from the required

demographic questions (Questions relating to the personal details of the respondents) which were

as follows.

Section A: Questions that sought to find knowledge of respondents regarding hybrid cars.

Section B: Questions that sought to find the attitude of the respondents.

Section C: Questions that sought to find the preference level of consumers regarding hybrid cars.

Some of the respondents were interviewed and the level of understanding was found an thenecessary alterations were made

SAMPLING PROCEDURE

In order to achieve the research objectives a sample of 120 respondents were chosen. They were

the normal consumers of the Indian automobile industry belonging to different classes which will

be cited in the following section.

DATA COLLECTION SOURCES

The research consisted, two major sources of data which were

Primary data:The primary data are those which are collected afresh and for the first time, and thus

happen to be original in character. (Kothari, Methods Of Data Collection, 2004). The

required primary data (only qualitative) was collected through questionnaire (both hard

copies and by using internet as mentioned before). The purpose of the survey was clearly

informed to the respondents and all steps were taken to avoid the possibility of any bias

while filling the questionnaire.

Secondary data:The secondary data are those which have already been collected by someone else and

which have already been passed through the statistical process. (Kothari, Methods Of

Data Collection, 2004). The required secondary data sources included different websites,

journals, research papers and books.


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21

ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATIONS

SAMPLE TYPE ANALYSIS

A random sampling technique was used for choosing the respondents so as to provide the

primary data through the questionnaire. The 120 respondents chosen belong to all over India and

hence were not from a particular city or state. Most of them were of the upper middle class andhigher class of income group as these families (Income group above Rs 7 lakh) would be in a

position to buy the hybrid cars when they would be launched in the future. They were even

middle aged. The sample type can be analyzed from the following questions in the questionnaire.

Table 1: Age group

Sl. No Age % of Respondents

1 Below 25 13

2 25-35 43

3 35-50 36

4 50 and Above 8

Chart no.1: Age Group

Sl. No Gender % ofRespondents

1 Male 80

2 Female 20Table no.2: Gender Of the Various Respondents

10

33

28

6

Below 25 25-35 35-50 50 and above

0

5

10

1520

25

30

35

% of Respondents

% of Respondents


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22

Chart No.2: Gender of the various Respondents

Table No: 3 : Income level of the Respondents

Sl. No Income Group(Rs) % of Respondents

1 10 lakh 52

Chart No.3: : Income level of the Respondents

80

20

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

Male Female

%. Of Respondents

%. Of Respondents

9 5 10

24

52

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

10 lakh

%. Of Respondents

%. Of Respondents


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23

Table No. 4: Are Hybrid cars Fuel efficient

Sl. No Responses % of Respondents

1 Yes 52

2 No 12

3 May Be 264 Can't Say 26

Chart No. 4: Are hybrid cars fuel efficient?

40

9

20

8

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

Yes No May Be Can't Say

%. Of Respondents

%. Of Respondents


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24

Table No.5: Are Hybrid cars environment friendly?

Sl. No Responses % of Respondents

1 Yes 71

2 No 3

3 May Be 214 Can't Say 5

Chart No.5: Are Hybrid cars environment friendly?

Table No.6: Spend on fuel for your car in a month?(In Rupees)

Sl. No INR/Month % of Respondents

1 1500 16

2 2500 38

3 4000 36

4 5000 and Above 10

55

2

16

26

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

Yes No May Be Can't

Say

%. Of Respondents

%. Of Respondents


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25

Chart No. 6: Spend on fuel for your car in a month?(In Rupees)

Table No. 7:What type of car do you own?

Sl. No Type % of Respondents

1 SUV 19

2 MUV 14

3 Hybrid 3

4 Sedan 29

5 Hach Back 21

6 Others 14

12

2928

8

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

1500 2500 4000 5000 And

Above

% of Respondents

% of Respondents


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26

Chart 7: Which type of car do you have?

Table No.8: What do you like the most in your car?


1 Design 12

2 Performance 38

3 Environment Friendly 3

4 Cost Effectiveness 26

5 Brand 22

15

11

2

22

16

11

SUV MUV Hybrid Sedan Hatch

Back

Others

0

5

10

15

20

25

% of Respondents

% of Respondents


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27

Chart No. 8: What do you like the most in your car?

Table No. 9: What are your routine driving roads?


1 In City 64

2 Highways 10

3 By-Pass 10

4 Any other 16

9

29

2

20

17

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

% of Respondents

% of Respondents


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28

Chart No. 9:What are your routine driving roads?

Table No.10: What type of fuel does a hybrid car use?


1 Petrol 6

2 Diesel 8

3 Battery 38

4 Solar 6

5 A Combination of thefirst three

42

49

8 8

12

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

In City Highways By-Pass Any other

% of Respondents

% of Respondents


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Chart No. 10:What type of fuel does a hybrid car use?

Table No. 11: Do you think Environment friendly vehicles are worth paying more money?


1 Strongly Disagree 1

2 Disagree 9

3 Undecided 31

4 Agree 45

5 Strongly Agree 13

56

29

5

32

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Petrol Diesel Battery Solar Combination

% of Repondents

% of Repondents


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30

Chart No. 11: Do you think Environment friendly vehicles are worth paying more money?

ANALYSIS

More than 50% people do not have proper knowledge about Hybrid cars 57% of the people are ready to spend extra money to save environment As high as 64% of the peoples driving routine is City routs where Hybrid cars give the

best fuel economy

Almost 75% of the samples annual income is greater than 7 lakhs/annum, within 5 yearsthese people are the high potential customers for the Hybrid car market

In conventional car market, there are various Segment models, where customers are notfinding in the Hybrid cars

50% of the sample population is less than 35 years, they will be the customers for next 10to 15 years

Approximately 80% of the sample spends Rs 2500 or more on fuel every month. Using ahybrid car can decrease there fuel costs.

Advantages Of Hybrid Cars In

Indian Market

Disadvantages Of Hybrid Cars In

Indian Market

Large middle and upper middle class Lack of different hybrid car models inthe Indian Market

Hybrid cars are more fuel efficient Price sensitive markets

Low fuel cost City infrastructure is not good

Recent growth in performance drivencars market

Lack of awareness

17

24

35

10

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

StronglyDisagree

Disagree Undecided Agree StronglyAgree

% of respondents

% of respondents


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RECOMMENDATIONS

Govt. should provide subsidies on hybrid vehicles and vehicle parts as the US & UKgovernments did in order to increase the demand of these vehicles and take a new

step to curb the pollution.

Example:

Hybrid cars, which run both on the conventional fuel as also electricity charged battery, are at

present imported in India. But the costs are quite high, as these cars are priced at least 25 percent

more than the regular petrol or diesel fuelled vehicles.

Cars, which run on conventional fuel, attract excise duty ranging from 10 per cent (for small

vehicles) to 22 percent for sedans. During 2010, India produced 1.87 million cars. The hybrid

technology is pioneered by Japan, the US and Europe and to further develop the technology in

India, the ministry will seek a Cabinet nod on the matter from a high-level panel. If it gets

approved, it is expected that the panel will come out with a clear-cut policy by the end of thirdquarter this year.

Automobile manufacturers should try and sometimes cut down the prices of hybridvehicles so that to make these types of vehicles among the consumers.

Example:

Such as Honda did, Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI) shocked the auto industry by cutting the price

of the Honda Civic hybrid by Rs. 8 lakh, for a limited period.

The car was earlier priced Rs. 21.50 lakh.

In the five months since its launch, before the price cut, the Civic hybrid had managed to sell

only 60 units, owing to its rather forbidding price tag.

After, the price cut, on the other hand, the company sold 98 units in just 1 day.

Special Car loans provided on hybrid cars can result in increase in sales of hybridvehicles.

Lower insurance rates, if provided to the hybrid cars can increase the count in number. Free parking availability if given to the hybrid car owners. Special Awareness and advertising campaigns should be shown on various media so as

to promote these hybrid cars and to even increase the awareness level of the consumers

regarding their benefits if they buy these cars.

Hybrid cars should be launched in diversified models (Sedan, SUV, hatchback andothers) so as to match the tastes the Indian consumers.

First metros and other developed cities must be targeted then the market can be extendedto other potential ones.


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CONCLUSION

Customers or consumers decide the life cycle of any product. Sales of a product are fully

dependent on how much there are moulded to buy it in comparison to other competitive ones.The hybrid car market segment would no doubt face huge competition from the normal car

market segment as the latter cost less but effective strategies can be taken to increase the sales of

the former.

From the primary data, it can be concluded that many of respondents spend a substantial amount

of their monthly costs on fuel which they would obviously want to lessen. The use of hybrid can

bring a lot of benefits for its customers apart from being environment friendly. Launching

hybrid cars in the future market of India would surely make it available to a potential market

provided appropriate steps are taken for creating awareness, advertisement resulting in increased

sales.


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BIBLIOGRAPHY

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vehicle.org/parallel-hybrid.html

Toyota Prius Review. (2010). Retrieved February 27, 2013, fromhttp://www.edmunds.com/toyota/prius/

Appel, T. (2009). Howstuffworks. Retrieved Feruary 20, 2013, from http://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-

models/plug-in-hybrids/plug-in-hybrid-car1.htm

Beder, S. (2009). Car Industry and Global Warming. Retrieved from Business Managed Environment:

http://www.herinst.org/BusinessManagedDemocracy/environment/warming/autos.html

Benstein, M. (2005). Road And avel Magazine. Retrieved March 1, 2013, from

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Berman, B. (2011, June 14). History of hybrid cars. Retrieved February tenth, 2013, from

http://www.hybridcars.com/history-of-hybrid-vehicles/

Bradley, B. (2009, Sep 30). Hybrid Market Forecasts | Hybrid Cars. Retrieved Mar 1, 2013, from

http://www.hybridcars.com/hybriddrivers/

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http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/global%2Bwarming

Edmunds, D. (2009, April 29). What is a Hybrid Car. Retrieved April 5, 2013, from Edmunds:

http://www.edmunds.com/fuel-economy/what-is-a-hybrid-car-how-do-hybrids-work.html

Gibbs, D. (2009). articlesbase. Retrieved March 1, 2013, from http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive

articles/reasonswhypeoplebuyanewcar

Hudson, M. (2008, June 24). Most Consumers Willing to Pay for Hybrid Cars. Retrieved Mar 1, 2013, from

http://news.cnet.com/830111128_3997630854.html.

J.D. Powers, S. P. (2008). While Many NewWhile Many NewVehicle Buyers Concern for the

Environment, Few are Willing to Pay More for an Environmentally Friendly Vehicle.Calif: The

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/pdf/2008029.pdf

Kothari, C. (2004). Methods Of Data Collection. In C. Kothari, Research Methodology: Methods and

techniques (pp. 95-118). Japur: New Age Internatonal Publishers.

Kothari, C. (2004). Research Methodology: An Introduction. In C. Kothari, Research Methodology:

Methods and Techniques (pp. 24-25). Jaipur, Rajasthan, India: New Age International Publiishers.


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Mariam Khan, N. C. (2009). Hybrid Electric Vehicles for Sustainable Transportation: A Canadian

Perspective. World Electric Vehicle Journal, 3, 8-10.

Mayersohn, N. (2008). New York Times. Retrieved feb 10, 2013, from

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/14/automobiles/14SPOTTER.html?_r=1&

Michael Beliveau, J. R. (2010, April 28). Worcester Ploytechnic Institute. Retrieved Mar 1, 2013, from

http://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-042810-

194328/unrestricted/Hybrid_Cars_IQP.pdf

Monica, M. L. (2008, June 24). Most Consumers Willing to Pay for Hybrid Cars. Retrieved March 1, 2013,

from http://news.cnet.com/830111128_3997630854.html.

Myles, R. (2012, October 14).Arctic ice cap continues record melt. Retrieved April 5, 2013, from Digital

Journal: http://digitaljournal.com/article/334803

Orloff, J. (2005).About.com. Retrieved feb 10, 2013, from

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Vikash, T. (2010).A Study On The Potential Of Hybrd Cars.Chennai: SRM Unversity.

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http://alternativefuels.about.com/od/environmentalimpact/tp/Top-Five-Reasons-To-Switch-To-

A-Hybrid-Vehicle.htm


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APPENDIX

BLANK QUESTIONNAIRE

Sample Survey for Hybrid Cars : An Analysis Of its Potential Market In India

Tick the appropriate option

Section-1

1) What type of fuel does a hybrid car use?A) Petrol B) Diesel C) Battery D) Solar E)A combination of option A, B and C

2) Are Hybrid cars Fuel efficient?A) Yes B) No C) May Be D) Cant Say

3) Are Hybrid cars environment friendly?

A) Yes B)No C)May Be D) Cant Say

4) Are Hybrid cars sold in your city?

A)Yes B)No C)May be D)Cant Say

5) Which of the following company sells hybrid cars?

A)Maruti B) Tata C)Toyota D) Honda E) Any other

Section -2

6) Do you think environment friendly vehicles are worth paying more money for?

A) Strongly Disagree B) Disagree C) Undecided D) Agree E) Strongly Agree

7) Do you think you would purchase a hybrid car in the next ten years?

A) Yes B) No C) May Be D) Cant Say

8) Approximate how much do you spend on fuel for your car in a month?(In Rupees)

A) 1500 B) 2500 C) 4000 D) 5000 and above

9) What are your routine driving roads?

A) In City B) High-way C) By-Pass D) A combination of A, B and C

10) What type of car do you own? (Please mention your cars name)


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A) SUV B) MUV C) Hybrid D) SEDAN E)HATCH-

BACK F) Others

12) What do you like the most in your car?

A) Design B) Performance C) Environment friendly D) Brand E) CostEffectiveness

Section 3

12) Rate on a scale of 1-5 (1 is lowest and 5 is highest) the following in a hybrid vehicle?

Personal Details

Name:

Age:

a) Below 25 b)25-35 c)35-45 d)Above 45

Sex:

Occupation:

Annual Income: (Rupees)

a) Below 2 lakh b)2 lakh-5 lakh c)5 lakh-7 lakh d)7 lakh-10 lakh e) Above 10 lakh

1 2 3 4 5

Design

Size

Fuel efficient

Technology

Cheap insurance

High Resale Value

hybrid cars final report

Documents