Artifact #4

Bibliography:
Popely, Rick. "Hybrid demand falls with gas prices." The Baltimore Sun. December 31,2006. 03 Jan. 2007. http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/investing/bal-bz.ym.hybrid31dec31,1,6451539.story?page=1&ctrack=1&cset=true

Notes:
-" Demand for hybrids has fallen as fuel prices have eased off historic highs. " The economy and lifestly is affected by the prices. Trends, as hybrid cars spike when it seems more economical, but are often only trends.
-When hybrid cars were "in", people would pay more for them than regular cars; and since gas prices have fallen the amount willing to be paid has dropped.
-Fuel efficiency of vechicles influence car shoppers along with price ranges.
- Sales of hybrid cars and gas prices are linked. "After rising most of this year, hybrid sales dwindled to 19,000 in November from nearly 32,000 in August, when gas prices nationally peaked at more than $3 a gallon". Consumers go by what is, rather then what may be {with maybe later prices falling}
- There are also seasonal patterns in buying numbers. It is also quoted that gas prices directly affect sales.
- This article quotes "Sales of hybrids tend to rise and fall with gas prices. Consumers seem to be more aware of them when it impacts their pocketbook," said Kevin Riddell". As before, they look at prices then and only then.
-Sales of hybrids expected to rise in 2007. Especially with new dealers, and new features or choices.
-""Some consumers just buy for the moment. They react to immediate stuff," said John Wolkonowicz"
-Hybrid is fuel saving. Also help environment.
-"And because you can't predict which way gas prices will be headed" I think this is becuase of all the factors and consumer reaction.



Questions:
-"Still, their timing may work. Gas prices are inching up, and a jump next year could pump up interest in hybrids." Are they rising again?
- Are they better in the long run, gas and environment?
-How could hybrids be improved to be more popular or an even better solution?\
- Why are the prices higher than 'normal' cars?
- How many people would actually consider buying a hybrid?
- What are the other advantages/disadvantages to hybrid cars?