A recently completed Internet survey reveals a progressive increase in consumers’ unwillingness to consider purchasing a new car. 

Those who definitely or probably will not buy has increased from 22 percent in September, 2008, to 38 percent in March, 2009 to 42 percent in April. This trend is reinforced by the survey’s "definitely/probably will buy numbers," which have decreased from 53 percent last September, to 37 percent last month to 35 percent in April 2009.

More than 1,100 people responded per survey, according to research firm AutoPacific.

“In early 2008, the US auto industry was hobbled by high gasoline prices, while consumer confidence was beginning its own collapse," says George Peterson, president of AutoPacific. "Then, just as gas prices declined, the financial crisis hit, and vehicle sales fell even lower."

He adds: "A key component of AutoPacific’s sales forecasting practice includes monitoring consumer intentions on a regular basis. One might think that the government’s stimulus expenditures, warranty guarantees for GM and Chrysler vehicles, or the rising stock market would have turned consumer sentiment around. But this survey shows that hasn’t happened, at least not yet.”

For more information, visit  www.autopacific.com and news.vehiclevoice.com.