Mumbai: More car buyers intend to buy hybrid vehicles as compared to electric as their next vehicle even as the former comes at a steep premium according to a study. Factors like charging time, availability of charging infrastructure and safety of battery technology continue to impede faster adoption to BEVs (battery electric vehicles) according to the findings of Deloitte’s 2024 Global Automotive Consumer Study… The study highlights that despite the cost advantage of electric vehicles, car buyers still prefer hybrid vehicles due to concerns related to charging time, availability of charging infrastructure, and the safety of battery technology… The longer charging times and limited availability of charging stations act as barriers to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Battery technology safety also remains a concern for potential buyers. However, the study suggests that as charging infrastructure improves and battery technology advancements ensure better safety measures, the adoption of electric vehicles may increase in the future. The findings of the Deloitte survey indicate that car buyers are willing to invest in hybrid vehicles due to their lower upfront costs and the ability to rely on conventional fuel as a backup. Hybrid vehicles offer the benefits of reduced emissions and increased fuel efficiency while still providing the convenience of refueling at gas stations… Despite the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, the study shows that hybrid vehicles are likely to dominate the market in the near future. Car buyers are hesitant to fully commit to electric vehicles until the challenges of charging time and infrastructure are adequately addressed… The study’s findings underscore the importance of improving charging infrastructure and addressing safety concerns to accelerate the wider adoption of electric vehicles.