The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid based on the Vision concept first shown in 2009.
A poll of German drivers claims that 75% prefer the idea of plug-in hybrids over conventional hybrids, with 61.2% agreeing that an electric range of 50 km – 31 miles – is adequate.
However, while 96% surveyed say they are environmentally conscious to some degree, when it comes to vehicles, the environment gives way to practical considerations.
Almost 81% say they are wary of hybrids, with 62.8% citing “poor value for money” as the main reason. Conversely, just 25% described all-wheel drive vehicles as “expensive” to purchase or run, with most a linking the technology with off-road capability (73%), safety (37%) and higher performance (36%).
The independent online survey commissioned by GKN asked 1,000 German motorists for their views on driveline technologies such as hybrids and all-wheel drive, as well as issues ranging from the environment to their vehicle preferences.
GKN Automotive President of Engineering Peter Moelgg thinks that, “drivers are environmentally conscious and like technology to offer clear benefits. The challenge is introducing eco-friendly technologies that add real value for them. We believe that plug-in hybrids with all-wheel drive make sense – and the public’s positive response to vehicles that offer this combination – like the Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine, BMW i8 and Porsche 918 Spyder – can only continue to grow.” Guess what company supplies the components?
The survey says the factor most likely to persuade drivers to consider a plug-in hybrid was greater availability of charging points (52%), followed by tax incentives (45%). Performance improvements (33%) scored slightly higher than environmental concerns (32%).
“It’s clear that for many drivers, making future vehicles more rewarding to drive is as important as protecting the environment,” said Theo Gassmann, GKN Driveline Senior Director Product Technology Advanced Engineering. “At GKN, we believe that driveline innovations must do both. We are developing a new generation of plug-in hybrid systems that will make personal mobility more sustainable and enjoyable for decades to come.”
The survey correlates with Germany’s current on- road vehicle population, with 2.3% of people using a hybrid as their main vehicle, 23.4% driving diesels and 72.6% driving gasoline. Just 0.3% of those surveyed currently drive a pure electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid.
More than a third (37%) of drivers still believe gasoline engines provide the best driving experience, hybrids came second in the poll with 13.5%, beating diesels with 12.8%. Twice as many male drivers chose hybrids (17% compared to 9%). Twice as many women stated they were unsure (37% compared to 17%).
