So consumers like hybrids, but it feels less like news every time somebody says it. Obviously, customers like vehicles that save them on gas, and since hybrids are mostly newer vehicles, they come with bells and whistles.
Really, most customers just want to get to work, the grocery store, a couple of vacations, and maybe pick up a free desk from Craigslist from time to time.
--
We've said it before, and we will say it again, Hybrids are winning right now. Consumer Reports' 2024 reflects a shift toward eco-friendly and efficient options.
Toyota leads with four top picks, all hybrids or plug-ins, underscoring the automotive market's move towards diverse powertrain choices. The list notably includes three plug-in hybrids, emphasizing their role as a practical bridge between traditional hybrids and full EVs.
These vehicles offer the best of both worlds, combining electric driving with conventional engines for longer trips, addressing current EV infrastructure challenges.
Full list of Consumer Reports' 2024 top vehicle picks:
Honda will lease its co-developed hydrogen CR-V in California despite fueling-station limitations that make EV chargers seem to grow on trees.
The result of teaming up with GM is that the 2025 CR-V e:FCEV will have a 270-mile range, including 29 miles of all-electric driving and 174 horsepower.
Like many plug-in models, the SUV will feature bidirectional appliance charging. So if you've got no power, you'll at least keep your ice cream frozen until help arrives.
Speaking of bidirectional charging... Vehicle-to-grid (V2F) standards are enhancing the ability of EVs to interact directly with the local power grid. A recent breakthrough at the University of Delaware could transform EVs into a grid asset instead of concerns over them draining or damaging existing infrastructure.
The new standard relies on communication and control features to increase the efficiency of the V2G power exchange, so peak hours are less taxing and everybody wakes with a charged battery.
Automakers will not contest the EU's 2035 fossil-fuel vehicle ban despite some early tension. The ACEA President says automakers will instead rally around the need for supportive policy, subsidies, and infrastructure updates needed to make a transition to electric feasible. While not the only factor, an impending battle with China for the European market has automakers looking to strike a healthy head start while the iron is hot.
An Israeli battery startup is planning a $400M factory in the US to produce copper anodes for EV batteries. The project will supply material for 1M EVs per year starting in 2027. Leveraging the US Inflation Reduction Act grants and focusing on recycled copper, Addionics targets more cost-effective production that could increase companies' affordability in their supply chain.
--
Ok ok we know pennies aren’t really made of copper anymore, but the idea felt so smooth I had to go for it.
The real crime here is how little “Grid-alaxy” is like “Galaxy.”