Ford's EcoBoost engine sales indicate growing consumer interest in fuel efficient vehicles 08/19/2011
In spite of so many fuel-efficient vehicles available on the market today, many motorists still choose to drive bigger cars and trucks that use more gas. However, Ford's recent sales show that the masses may slowly be starting to transition to more eco-friendly options. The American automaker introduced the turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine to the F-150, and the economical option accounted for 40 percent of F-150 sales in May, June and July, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Generally, pickup trucks, especially more heavy-duty models like the F series, are sought out for their V8 engines. The fact that the regular V6 only made up about 15 percent of the truck's sales shows that drivers are not just opting for smaller engines, but that they are starting to make more eco-friendly choices.
This is good news for automakers, especially as the new CAFE standard will require them to reach an average fuel economy of 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025. Many car companies are already working on new car technology that will improve fuel economy, such as hybrid and electric options.
Automobile Magazine reported that recent research saw a 6.4 percent decline of consumer interest in electric cars from March to July of this year, but the decline may not necessarily indicate a lack of interest. Chevy spokesman Rob Peterson claims that interest in the Volt is still high, but the availability of the car is holding it back. The new car is currently for sale in seven states, and General Motors promises that it will be more widely available by the end of the year.