Survey: Americans want hybrid vehicles, but can't afford them

One out of every two Americans wants to exchange their current vehicle for a plug-in hybrid model.

The problem? Only 65 percent of those who want to go hybrid say they can afford it.

According to a new survey from Pike Research, 48 percent of consumers said that they would be "extremely" or "very" interested in purchasing a hybrid that can manage 40 miles on a single charge.

Think 40 miles isn't enough? More than 80 percent of respondents said they drive 40 miles or less per day.

Their average daily driving distance? Just 27 miles.

Still, the 12 percent price premium on hybrid cars, trucks and SUVs has some consumers holding off.

Other statistics from the survey:

• Consumers indicated that the availability of workplace, private, and public vehicle charging stations in their local area would be very important.
• 79% of consumers would be interested in investing in a fast-charging outlet for their home; however, willingness to pay is out of line with industry expectations.

Results are from a web-based survey of 1,041 U.S. consumers.

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com