"Research while the vehicles were being developed showed that potential customers didn't want to stick out just because they were driving a hybrid, Lexus spokesman Bill Ussery says." "But since the two made their debut last spring [Lexus400h & Highlander Hybrid], the company has received feedback from customers that they want more visibility, Ussery says. "We are now evaluating alternatives to the current rear tailgate badging," and front and sides, as well." The above paragraphs are from an article that appeared in today's USA Today.
I think he might be speaking for Ford and Mercury people. Maybe he's trying to say those kind of folks don't wanna join us in our freak show. Certainly the Highlander and Lexus folks want to join it. "Come one, come all! See the hybrid lady do her gas-electric trick."
This same story is now running on CNN. Apparently hybrid buyers want to "look cool" and not just "be cool". The older I get the more I realize the brilliance in that old Billy Crystal character on SNL; "It's better to look maaarrrvelous, then to be maaarrrvelous." http://money.cnn.com/2005/07/25/Autos/toyota_hybrid/
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(prius04\";p=\"110521)</div> OF COURSE!!! I kept thinking it was Steve Martin delivering that line. I completely forgot it was Billy Crystal. I think that not marking the hybrid versions of the Lexus, Highlander, and Civic is dangerous. For example, every time I see an RX330 I croon my neck all around trying to get a better look at the nametag. The same with the Highlander. I would be a much better driver if I didn't have to take my eyes off the road so much.
