Hybrid cars are gaining popularity amid electric car skepticism

Automakers are focusing on hybrids

While electric vehicles (EVs) are making headlines, many consumers are choosing hybrids as their entry point into electrification. The average price of an EV is still too high for many buyers and the availability of charging stations is a concern. Hybrids, on the other hand, offer good gas mileage at a more affordable price. As a result, automakers like Ford and General Motors are putting a bigger emphasis on hybrids and plug-in hybrids in their product offerings.

Ford, already one of the top three bestselling hybrid brands, has seen a 75.2% increase in hybrid sales in November. They are now planning to quadruple their hybrid offerings in the coming years. General Motors, known for its commitment to EVs, is also considering adding more hybrids to its lineup. Toyota, the leader in hybrids, is doubling down on them with models like the redesigned Prius and the upcoming hybrid version of the Camry.

This shift towards hybrids demonstrates that car buyers are the ones dictating the pace of the electric transition, rather than politicians, regulators, or carmakers.

Hybrids as a bridge to pure EVs

Hybrids are turning out to be the expected bridge technology to pure EVs. While EV sales have surpassed 1 million this year, the majority of them are considered luxury models, indicating that everyday customers are not yet ready to buy battery-only vehicles. Traditional hybrids also offer reliability compared to gasoline cars and plug-ins. The technology has been in use for over 25 years and is mainly offered by reliable automakers.

Carmakers find themselves in a conundrum as they try to meet emissions targets and sell more EVs while customers express their preference for hybrids. As a result, hybrids continue to be a popular choice for consumers who want a mix of fuel-efficient options without fully committing to pure electric vehicles.

The rise of hybrid cars

The data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows that electrified vehicles, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery-electric vehicles, accounted for a record 17.7% of U.S. car sales in the third quarter of this year. Hybrids and plug-in hybrids made up approximately 10% of sales, while pure EVs accounted for 8%.

Hybrid cars provide a happy medium for consumers who want better fuel efficiency but are not ready to go fully electric. They offer a seamless transition from traditional gasoline cars to electrified vehicles and are more accessible in terms of price and charging infrastructure. As automakers continue to expand their hybrid offerings, it's clear that hybrids are gaining popularity as a practical and reliable choice for car buyers.