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New research by Honda finds nearly two thirds of drivers struggle to understand hybrid and electric cars.
Drivers of petrol and diesel cars struggle to understand how hybrids and electric cars work, according to a new survey.
Honda questioned 5,000 motorists across Europe, finding out how much they knew about electrified cars.
Nearly two thirds (61 percent) said they find researching hybrid and electric vehicles too confusing.
For those confused by EVs, technical jargon was a problem for 40 percent. A lack of real-world experience caused issues for 31 percent, with vague terms and phrases an issue for 30 percent.
However, more than half (57 percent) believe electric and hybrid cars will be the future.
In the UK, nine percent of petrol and diesel drivers would put plans to purchase an EV on hold if confronted with confusing terminology. This is despite 36 percent of British motorists planning to buy an electrified car.
To help tackle the language issue, Honda has worked with current EV owners to create the ‘E:Technology Translator’ online tool.
Along with explaining the complex terminology used by EV owners, the E:Technology Translator also addresses common misconceptions.
For example, nine percent of European drivers believe they cannot use the radio, heating or air conditioning when driving a hybrid car in fully electric mode.
More than a quarter (27 percent) believe the range of an EV would not be suitable for their day-to-day needs. And 18 percent think an electric car would require more maintenance.
Such misconceptions result in nearly a third (32 percent) of respondents saying they would not be confident driving an EV with their current lack of knowledge.
Rebecca Adamson, head of automobile for Honda, said: “More than a quarter of petrol and diesel drivers said they will stick with what they know because they don’t understand the technology, so it’s clear that this is an issue to address.
“Our e:TECHNOLOGY Translators are here to help, explaining the environmental and economic benefits of switching to an electrified vehicle, and translating the technical jargon for everyone to understand.”