Something for Honda to keep in Mind

Its no secret that Honda plan to introduce the Civic hybrid in India.What is also known is as per present government policies the Hybrid would cost much more than the conventional petrol engine one[Since the Hybrid would be imported into India] plus the fact that unless there is a dramatic change in Government policy,there shall be no incentives in driving environment friendly cars.

In a similar situation,in the Australian market hybrids aren't really doing that well and its only the government being the major patron of the hybrids.In a country like India I doubt the Indian government would be so pro-active with things concerning the environment.Only 4228 hybrid cars were sold last year in australia, representing just 0.7 per cent of the total passenger car market of 637,019.And 2725, or 64.5 per cent, of those were bought by governments and businesses.Private hybrid passenger car sales are up 16.3 per cent to 1503 but from only 1292 in 2006.Hybrids have not yet caught on with the individual buyers in a big way.Also diesel cars are big competition for hybrids.

Only in countries where governments offer substantial subsidies and concessions such as free parking, no tolls and access to transit lanes, regardless of occupancy are hybrids catching up.

As for Honda Australia,they are not to worried,they actually even plan a hybrid for the Jazz which would be a much more cheaper option.Perhaps that is the direction even Honda India should be thinking of taking.

Source:News.com.au