Road Tests: Green Cars—Pre- and Post- Pandemic
As automakers bring out more pure EVs and the charging infrastructure is built out, we must move away from hybrids and PHEVs entirely.
As automakers bring out more pure EVs and the charging infrastructure is built out, we must move away from hybrids and PHEVs entirely.
The 133 MPGe EPA rating places the 2020 Toyota Prius Prime into a lofty space of high-mileage plug-in hybrid vehicles, including the Hyundai Ioniq, Honda Clarity, Kia Niro and the now-defunct Chevrolet Volt.
Most of the coming Volvos will not be all-electric cars, but plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) like my recently tested 2020 Volvo S60 T8 E-AWD R-Design midsize sedan.
Plug-in vehicles sales (pure battery electrics and plug-in hybrids) hit a speed bump after a meteoric rise in 2018, dropping from 361,300 to 325,800.
The ACEEE (American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy) uses its own methodology to determine the most environmentally friendly cars offered for sale. This year they picked 12 top candidates, including the expected electric cars (EVs), but also a variety of gasoline-electric hybrids, topped by the Toyota Prius Prime plug-in hybrid.
The 2019 Honda Clarity was designed as an electric vehicle, and the packaging of interior space for people and gear shows, rivaling compact crossovers. The interior, which seats up to five adults, is made with eco-friendly materials.
What began in 2019 and promises to accelerate in 2020 is company for Tesla’s current and future vehicles.
Beyond the incredible fuel economy, 10 grand of miles has reinforced my long-held opinion about the Chevrolet Volt, one established when I first drove a Gen. 1 Volt when they were launched. While not a sports car, the low center of gravity created by the floor-mounted battery pack, coupled with the torque from its twin electric motors, turn the Volt into a sporty hatch.
Manufacturers showcased more than a dozen electrified cars, SUVs and crossovers at the 2019 LA Auto Show, demonstrating the importance of auto companies getting into this area of vehicle propulsion and the breadth of expanded plug-in offerings.
Hyundai Motor Group launched MoceanLab, an arm of the automaker that will provide mobility services in Los Angeles. First up will be a pilot carshare service, Mocean Carshare, followed by autonomous ridesharing, shuttling, multimodal transportation and personal mobility.