Good news for hybrid fans, as Bloomberg News (via Motor Authority) is predicting that the costs of hybrid vehicles will drop a whole bunch over the next decade.
These reduced hybrid costs will come from technological improvements, economies of scale due to rising production numbers and a greater amount of experience with hybrids. At the same time, demand will rise on the back of higher fuel prices and tightening emission standards.
Here's Green Car Advisor's take: Hybrid System Production Costs To Tumble With Increasing Demand, Says Study
ateixeira says:
11:51 AM, 10/20/08
Well, fuel prices have dropped and rather fast. This may be a buyer's market in the short-term, with the Insight arriving in the Spring. $19k sounds pretty affordable.
estreka says:
05:45 PM, 10/20/08
Like most goods and services, I imagine prices will not drop. Rather, prices will remain mostly flat as inflation catches up. Not to mention the improvements automakers make will drive prices up.
materialman says:
01:36 PM, 10/22/08
They will have to drop before I buy one....