EV models outnumber PHEV choices for the first time since 2014

2023 Toyota Prius PrimePlug-in hybrid tech continues to be something that neither automakers nor regulators can completely agree on. Some, like Toyota, Volvo, BMW, and others see them as a smart, effective bridge technology to EVs while others, including GM and Honda see them, at least for now in the U.S., as an unnecessary complication in the shift to EVs. In light of...

Toyota confirms fuel-cell, plug-in hybrid versions of Crown

Toyota Crown familyThe Toyota Crown lineup is due to expand with hydrogen fuel-cell and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as multiple body styles, Toyota confirmed Wednesday—although it hasn't yet confirmed what is coming to the U.S. The Crown returned to the U.S. for the 2023 model year with hybrid powertrains and a raised-sedan body style Toyota now refers...

F-150 Lightning tax credit will remain $7,500 after April 18, Ford says

2023 Ford F-150 LightningFord on Wednesday confirmed that the F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck and Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring plug-in hybrid SUV will be eligible for the full $7,500 federal tax credit going forward, while all of its other current EVs and plug-in hybrids will be eligible for smaller amounts. Following the release of guidance from the U.S. Treasury...

Review: 2023 Toyota Prius Prime plug-in reboots Volt formula

2023 Toyota Prius PrimeThe 2023 Toyota Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid version of the conventional 2023 Prius hybrid launched earlier this year. It shares that car’s striking new shape, the one that wowed reviewers and shoppers. The Prime adds a much larger battery that can be plugged into the grid to recharge—giving it an estimated EPA combined electric...

Here are the EVs and plug-in hybrids with top IIHS safety ratings

2023 Top Safety Pick awards by the IIHSDespite more stringent standards, a number of electric cars and plug-in hybrids were recognized with Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick awards for 2023. The IIHS strengthened requirements in a number of areas in 2023, and as a result only 48 models received awards, compared to 65 for 2022 (including eight EVs). Of that...

Plug-in hybrids emit many times the claimed CO2, test suggests

2021 BMW 330ePlug-in hybrids may emit more carbon dioxide (CO2) than their manufacturers claimed, even when fully charged, European environmental group Transport & Environment (T&E) claims. T&E recently tested current-generation plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 3 Series, Peugeot 308, and Renault Megane. All three are popular in Europe, although...

Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid recalled over stalling issue

2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSEToyota is recalling certain 2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrids to address an issue that could cause vehicles to stall in cold weather. The affected vehicles have hybrid-system software that could trigger a shutdown of the powertrain while driving in EV mode in cold temperatures "if the accelerator is rapidly pressed to further accelerate the...

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid PHEV is at the end of its extension cord

2023 Subaru Crosstrek HybridThe Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid plug-in hybrid has reached the end of its charging cord. Subaru confirmed to Green Car Reports that there is no plan for a Crosstrek Hybrid in its new generation, which made its debut Thursday at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show. The Crosstrek Hybrid launched for the 2014 model year as Subaru's first hybrid, then became a...

VW is considering a plug-in hybrid pickup truck for America

Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak conceptVolkswagen is considering a pickup truck for the U.S. market that would likely be a plug-in hybrid, the brand's North American boss said Tuesday in an interview with Motor Authority. President and CEO of VW Group of America Pablo di Si said the possible pickup could have a hybrid of plug-in hybrid powertrain, but that it would definitely be one or...

2024 Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid beats Toyota Highlander to PHEV punch

2024 Mazda CX-90Mazda just potentially leapfrogged Toyota, which as of yet has no Highlander Prime in sight. On Monday, the Japanese automaker unveiled the 2024 Mazda CX-90 lineup, consisting of a plug-in hybrid, mild hybrid, and three rows of seats with three different seating configurations. Mazda said all variants of the 2024 CX-90 will arrive in dealerships...