CHILLIWACK (NEWS1130) – Gas prices have been nudging towards $1.50 per litre for the last while, and could get even higher as the weather gets warmer.
One car dealer says this trend is having an impact on the type of vehicle people are purchasing.
Mertin Hyundai General Manager Paul Mertin says the higher prices are driving many people to select vehicles with better fuel efficiency over some large SUVs or pickup trucks.
However Mertin says locally there is still a market for those big trucks. “Especially the farming families, towing, there’s a lot of need for those types of vehicles. We’re definitely seeing as Chilliwack grows a lot of commuters are putting their focus on premium small cars.”
Mertin notes there is also increased interest in alternative vehicles like an electric car, but says there is still some anxiety over their range. “Charging time can take a little bit longer than what we’re used to, which is getting gas. To charge your car if it runs out, it can take anywhere from two to eight hours depending on where you’re charging it.”
Mertin says perks like leather seats and a sun roof are now being offered in entry-level models because of this trend.
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