Middle America: Hybrids hot here too
Not just for big citiesSo, I'm heading to HybridFest in Madison, WI, and along the way I've noticed hybrid cars everywhere, even in the smallest of Midwestern towns. Ironically, many times I've heard that the Midwest is much more pro-American made and more inclined to large vehicles because of the weather. Yet, hybrids, especially the Toyota Prius, are everywhere.
Truthfully, I'm not that surprised by my numerous and regular Midwest hybrid sightings. Instead, I am again reminded of just how aloof the US auto industry has been for far too long.
Labels: Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius
posted by Dahcredyns at
8:20 AM
7 Comments:
From a Pittsburgh Prius owner, it looks like GM is not the only aloof party.
All 3 US automakers have seemed inexcusably aloof for decades. While I don't want to see the US auto industry go under, I have very little sympathy for their current problems.
Having rolled my eyes at Mr. Wagoner's excuses on the evening news last night, I am certainly critical of all US auto management.
My comment on aloofness, however, was towards your surprise that any/many outside of LA would be hybrid stalwarts. Perhaps not how you meant it to come across, but take a step back and think about it.
I stated "Truthfully, I'm not that surprised by my numerous and regular Midwest hybrid sightings." So, I'm not sure what you mean by my surprise when I wasn't surprised and stated such.
My statements referred to the claims many have made to me that vehicles like the Prius only resonate in Hollywood and big cities. I've heard this type of statement made directly from Detroit auto execs - that's the aloofness to which I refer.
In greater DC there are a lot of hybrids. I also see a lot of Prius when I travel on the East Cost.
Many times I've heard auto execs claim 'We've been building the vehicles we've been building because that's what consumers have wanted'. Perhaps some consumers, but many consumers have been clamoring for alternatives for years. It's not just people from the left coast, or only treehuggers, but every day Americans.
Yet, US automakers - to borrow a phrase - have heard no change, seen no change, done no change.
Sure, just about everyone wants a hybrid these days. The only problem is actually getting one. I have several friends who want to buy a Toyota Prius, but can't due to cost or availability. GM could be cleaning up here.
Post a Comment
<< Home