converting the unwashed masses - GreenHybrid

coyote · #1 (**permalink**) 02-27-2005, 05:41 PM

Okay, well maybe the masses are not all unwashed, although I wonder sometimes when in a crowded elevator.

But -- have you had any success in converting other folks into buying a hybrid?

I have played a part in encouraging two of my colleagues here at work to buy hybrids. There are now three Honda Civic Hybrids in the HP parking lot where I work. Sadly, we all fit the stereotype of educated, from California, techno-geek types. No conversions yet from the redneck, 'you got a hemi?' crowd. But that doesn't mean I'll stop trying.

Oh yes, and one other colleague is waiting for his current automobile to expire (probably this year), and then he plans to buy an Insight. Hybrids rule.

Anyway -- anybody else have any luck in spreading the good word about hybrids?

Jason · #2 (**permalink**) 02-27-2005, 06:02 PM

Not me, but then again people my age aren't usually buying automobiles

I tend to give a lot of people rides, though, and they're constantly impressed. They do, however, ask if it's "fast" and I usually say, "Not this one, but the Accord Hybrid has 255 horsepower."

hawkGT647 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-27-2005, 07:35 PM

Having just purchased a new Insight, everyone will be asking lots of questions tomorrow at work... where's the plug? how many rubber bands does it have?
How many soda cans does it take to make one Insight? Lots of jokes. But probably a few serious questions mixed in.

I will make sure I park next to one of the many 4X4 diesel F-250 or Z-71's in the lot. They'll totally shield my car!!

But seriously, when I first mentioned my interest in a hybrid there were a few people that wanted to hear more about the technology and the durability. A few questioned the long-term reliability, they had their doubts.

I will do my best to take the crude humor in stride and explain the benefits of the hybrids.

My sister-in-law is a long time Accord fan (she's had 3 so far) and is very interested in the Accord Hybrid now that she's checked out my Insight.

My wife had a bad experience with a Toyota years ago, and had sworn off ever owning one again. After test driving a Prius, she was very impressed with it and questioned why I wanted the Insight, and not the Prius (I wanted the max MPG, and 2 seats are fine) If or when her Acura needs replacing, a Prius may replace it, unless some other hybrid is a better choice.

ericbecky · #4 (**permalink**) 02-28-2005, 09:46 AM

The only person I have oficially converted is my retired mother. Most other times I figure I'm simply showcasing the technology, or dispelling the myths about hybrids.

gbl102 · #5 (**permalink**) 03-04-2005, 06:57 AM

I'm not sure I've converted anyone yet, but I'm getting really good at explaining how everything works! Most people seem very interested, and many are surprised that they don't have to be plugged in every night.

KLCarch · #6 (**permalink**) 03-06-2005, 01:09 PM

all my neighbors/friends are really interested and can't believe it's (the civic) a hybrid. Then they hear 45mpg and they really start paying attention.
The first question always is 'how do you plug it in?'

Haven't converted anyone but my husband - he wants to trade his jeep in for an escape hybrid -
but give me time, I've only had the car for 3 weeks!

infael · #7 (**permalink**) 03-07-2005, 12:23 PM

I've had people ask me questions about my Prius. One even wanted to look at the engine!

I'm now seeing many new Prii on base.

kenny · #8 (**permalink**) 03-07-2005, 06:06 PM

Yes.
The day after I got mine one of my best friends liked mine so much that bought one.
She had to pay $1000 more than I did, but she loves it.

Then a guy I know through an internet chat room bought one based on my recomendation.

A 2nd guy may soon.

Nobody is beating my mileage though.
58.7 MPG average for almost a year.

ericbecky · #9 (**permalink**) 03-07-2005, 07:17 PM

kenny,
Good for you! You should be given some kind of "recruiter" award. You have certainly earned it.

coyote · #10 (**permalink**) 03-08-2005, 07:44 AM

The other day, my one friend whom I helped convince to get the HCH, bumped into the other friend of mine whom I also helped convince to get the HCH. Friend #2's wife said to friend #1, "so, did Chuck talk you into buying a hybrid too?"

So Eric, do I at least qualify for "Honorable Mention"? :-)