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Fact #83: March 29, 1999
Single Most Important Reasons Why Consumers Bought Type of Vehicle

In February 1999, the Opinion Research Corporation International asked over 1000 consumers the following question:

What was the single most important reason you bought [the type of vehicle you purchased last]?

Top Responses by Vehicle Type
Small Car SUV
Price/value: 18% 4 WD: 20%
Fuel economy: 12% Haul things: 5%
  Towing: 5%
Large Car  
Price/value: 14% Pickup/Large Van
Safety: 8% Price/value: 10%
  For work/business: 9%
Minivan Haul things: 8%
Size of family: 24%  
More space/room: 16%  

Source: Opinion Research Corporation International,
Study #70809 Performed for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, February 25, 1999.

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