Green Technology 'Baffles' Drivers

Motorists may be missing out on lower tax and insurance premiums because less than 40% fully understand how hybrid and electric cars work, according to a poll.

Yahoo! UK quizzed 5,800 people and found more than 50% considered environmental credibility when buying a car, although 60% thought fuel-saving technology was more compelling than electric vehicle developments.

Women were more likely to place importance on green fuel technology then men, but interestingly 20% of respondents said they were thinking about purchasing a vehicle within the next six months.

About 45% said TV advertising is still the most influential way to market a car.

Yahoo! published the results ahead of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). international automotive summit in London.

Ian Webber, Yahoo! UK & Ireland category director of automotive, said: "Our research indicates that despite believing green technology is a key consideration when purchasing a car, there is still a need to further educate customers on green technology."

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "As an industry, we have an important role to play in educating our customers about what is available, which technology best suits their needs and when it will be widely available."