Nielsen’s latest automotive industry overview tracked the online conversations, and the steadily declining price, of diesel over the last 12 months. Though diesel has been a hot topic within alternative fuel buzz at times, a downward trend in discussion over the past year speaks to a decline in consumer interest.

Findings & Analysis:

• Total diesel buzz decreased 28% from June ‘08 to June ‘09, while diesel fuel fell by $2.15 per gallon or 45%
• Domestic trucks and German cars are most prominently mentioned within diesel buzz
• Mercedes-Benz and BMW are gaining share of diesel discussion
• Some consumers believe there is more potential opportunity for diesel in the U.S. market, particularly if original equipment manufacturers repurpose their small, fuel-efficient European offerings.

For more, download Nielsen’s Automotive Industry Overview: Diesel Focus