Richard Scase
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One of the world's leading business forecasters, Richard's recent book Global Remix explores the impact of technological, social and political global trends on businesses and individuals.

  • Which brands will power the hybrid future? by Richard Scase
  • Business & Economy Tue, 9 Oct 2007 5:01 p.m.

  • The reason that petrol rules our economy is that it has traditionally been a cheap, convenient way to store energy. It can be transported easily and converted quickly to propulsion via combustion-driven pistons. But, regardless of climate change, the world’s oil supplies are dwindling. Research by the International Energy Agency suggests we will run out in 30-35 years. The automotive industry is being forced to react and, in this context, the hybrid car represents a fuel diversification strategy as much as a response to environmental activism.

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  • Why there's no such thing as a standard hybrid by Richard Scase
  • Business & Economy Tue, 9 Oct 2007 4:53 p.m.

  • If hybrids are ever to become mainstream vehicles, they need to reach a "tipping point," a moment of transition from niche interest to mass appeal. But for now their purchase price is still a disincentive to most drivers of conventional, petrol-engined cars. And there are many technological barriers to overcome before that price becomes truly competitive.

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  • The key players on tomorrow’s hybrid production line by Richard Scase
  • Business & Economy Tue, 9 Oct 2007 4:46 p.m.

  • The Toyota Prius may lead today’s hybrid popularity contest, but it’s not classically good-looking and, to take advantage of its efficiencies, you still have to pay a premium up front. We’ve yet to see a "killer2 hybrid car that is just too good a package for the average driver to resist - something that’s competitive in terms of cost, efficiency, looks and other criteria.

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  • Weaning the public on the hybrid's invisible benefits by Richard Scase
  • Families & Lifestyle Thu, 18 Oct 2007 3:44 p.m.

  • The majority of Britons now believe that human activity is contributing to global warming. So why don’t the majority of us drive hybrid cars? The simple answer is that we’re unwilling to pay more money for our personal transportation without receiving a proportionate benefit.

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