"Just because we are destroying the world with CO2 does not mean we should run out and buy Priuses." -Nelson Barrios, 36yr old car enthusiast living in Pasadena, CA
Final conclusions were drafted after interviews and research from car enthusiasts, product planners, and
car designers. Enthusiasts believe in the green movement, but the Prius is not for them, nor is a 108k Tesla
Roadster. Hybrids and electric cars are seen overall as dorky and undesirable. Many car manufacturers
don't have a clue how to build a profitable eco-friendly sports car. Enthusiasts feel that lightweight cars,
not high horsepower cars, are more enjoyable to drive. They enjoy the sound of a gas motor exhaust, but
can adapt to an electric car shriek. Consumers want a beautiful green car that is built with high standards
of performance, desirability, and affordability. Desire and responsibility are separate things, and usually
desire wins out for enthusiasts. Electric cars are "the future" but enthusiasts feel no need to own or drive
one. There is no real culture for green enthusiasts, besides small EV car builders and various Tesla
Roadster owners. As far as styling goes, there's a difference between geek and chic. Most hybrids and
electric car styling are rated in the geek area. No one has figured out the design language for EV and
Hybrid sports performance cars. The Toyota Prius, the world's most successful hybrid car, is largely hated
by car enthusiasts. There is no accepted lexicon or language EV cars and Hybrids. As a result of these
conclusions, the following articles in ELECTRON are designed to change preconceptions and foster
new enthusiasm for sustainable mobility.
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©2010 Yee Chan & Art Center College of Design
