California expected to be largest market for plug-in hybrids

As should come as no surprise to those who follow the auto industry, the Center for Automotive Research has California picked to become the biggest US market for new plug-ins and electric vehicles. Although the leading markets for these vehicles are always the more populous states, California leads comfortably in the density of hybrid owners with 50 per 10,000 residents. Texas and Michigan come in with fewer than 26 per 10,000 residents.

“California is an initial launch state for the Volt, Leaf and Focus Electric — likely due to its position as the largest automobile market in the United States, as well as its relatively high penetration of hybrids, and regulatory environment conducive to electric vehicle adoption,” the study said.

Tax and other incentives are key to the technology taking off – and the states currently offering the biggest mix of incentives are Florida, Colorado, Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, Utah, and California.

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Detroit News