Survey finds big shift in UK buyers’ attitude to diesel; more concern over running costs than environment

UK car buyers are turning away from diesel in favor of gasoline models, according to new research by Whatcar.com. The changing mood among buyers is reflected in the latest What Car? Intelligence survey results, which indicate that more than seven in 10 would be likely or very likely to choose a gasoline car, compared with the four in 10 who would consider buying a diesel.

With engine performance and good fuel consumption being rated as the two most important factors for car buyers, the shift from diesel to gasoline is more about running costs than concerns about the environment, following the diesel emissions scandal last year.

More than 84% of car buyers surveyed are also worried about possible legislation changes that may affect the cost of ownership of diesel cars in the future, such as the retail price, fuel duty and vehicle road tax. . . .

The research also shows hybrids and electric cars are even less tempting for prospective car buyers, with between 12% and 32% of buyers considering diesel or gasoline hybrid vehicles; more than 48% of buyers would be very unlikely to consider an electric car.

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Survey: Fuel efficiency top criterion for US buyers regardless of size of vehicle; good news for start-stop

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American consumers are strongly influenced by fuel efficiency and the price of gas when purchasing a vehicle, according to a new survey conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation on behalf of Johnson Controls. Of the 1,006 people surveyed, fuel efficiency (57%) is top of mind for consumers when they go to buy any size automobile, followed closely by cost (55%) and safety (54%).

That preference is consistent with a similar survey conducted five years ago, despite falling gas prices, which are down more than 37% from the national average in 2011. The new survey also found consumers are sensitive to the price of fuel when considering a new vehicle, with 64% saying it directly impacts their purchase. This is up 14% from 2011.

• Whether someone wants to drive a truck, SUV, or car, increased fuel efficiency remains the number one purchase criterion for American car buyers. What we’re seeing in the market place due to low and stable gas prices is a migration to larger vehicles, but the expectation now is that those vehicles come with increased fuel efficiency.
  
  —Joe Walicki, president of Johnson Controls Power Solutions

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