Category: Hybrids & Electrics

May 16

A Surprising History: Electric Vehicles Are Not as Modern as You Think

The Dawn of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs), often perceived as a product of modern technological advancements, have actually been part of the automotive landscape far longer than many realize. The concept dates back to the early 19th century, with the first primitive electric carriage introduced by Robert Anderson in 1832. However, it wasn’t until the latter part of that century that electric vehicles became more practical and started to gain traction, thanks to innovators like William Morrison of Iowa.

The Rise and Decline of Early EVs

By 1889, Morrison had developed what could be considered the first successful electric vehicle, resembling an electric wagon capable of carrying up to nine passengers. This period marked a growing popularity for EVs, appreciated for their quiet operation, ease of driving, and lack of pollutant emissions—qualities that made them favorable over gas and steam-powered vehicles. Despite their initial success and accounting for a third of all vehicles by 1912, the advent of the affordable gas-powered Model T and the proliferation of gas stations led to a decline in electric vehicle popularity.

Modern Challenges Echo Historical Issues

Fast forward to modern times, the resurgence of interest in electric vehicles has paralleled historical patterns. Issues like limited range and lengthy charging times that plagued early EVs continue to be the main hurdles for modern manufacturers. Despite technological advancements, these persistent challenges mirror those of the past, highlighting a continuous struggle within the auto industry. The rekindling of interest in EVs during the oil crises of the 1970s and later through innovations by companies like Tesla has shown cyclical peaks and troughs in EV adoption, underscoring the ongoing journey toward sustainable automotive solutions.

May 16

Are EV Startups in Trouble? 1 Company Is Unlikely to Survive the Year

Last year, EV automakers couldn’t get anything wrong, but that success hasn’t transitioned to 2024. Automakers focused solely on electric vehicles had a rough first quarter, meaning four top names, Tesla, Lucid, Fisker, and Rivian, have to address challenges to turn things around. How are these EV startups addressing serious challenges? Let’s find out.

Let’s start with Tesla

It seems that Tesla sets the tone for the electric vehicle world, which makes this brand a good place to start. Tesla is the oldest of these EV startups and chose to lay off workers to address the first quarter losses. Unfortunately, firing the entire charging team wasn’t the smartest move, and Tesla has since begun rehiring them. The layoffs impacted other areas of Tesla, including engineering, service, and software groups. Cutting staff can be a double-edged sword, but it’s the direction Tesla CEO Elon Musk chose.

Blue Lucid Air Sapphire parked
Lucid Air Sapphire | Lucid

How is Lucid addressing its losses?

Lucid is a boutique-style EV startup, producing vehicles in small numbers. Lucid’s goal to build 9,000 cars this year might be in jeopardy after losing $685 million during the first quarter. This figure is better than the Q1 2023 losses of $780 million, and revenue is up to $173 million. Lucid intends to throw money at the problem and has $2.2 billion in cash to offset losses and continue forward.

Fisker Ocean parked in front of a home
Fisker Ocean | Fisker

Is Fisker done?

Fisker needs the EV market to be strong to survive. Currently, they only build the Ocean SUV, which might mean Fisker’s end. As one of the newest EV startups, this company was only just getting started when things slammed shut. The company could suffer $75 million in losses, which might be enough to cancel the contract with Magna International of Australia, which currently produces the Fisker Ocean. No more Ocean SUVs will be built, and Fisker doesn’t have another location to build them. Without a fiscal shot in the arm, Fisker may need to declare bankruptcy.

The 2024 Rivian R1T climbing over rocks
2024 Rivian R1T | Rivian

Rivian throws money at the problem

Rivian faced challenges last year and could be in a good position this year. Revenue is up $661 million, and deliveries are up 71% during the first quarter to 13,588 vehicles. With the new Rivian R2 on the horizon and potential partnerships with commercial companies, Rivian might be in a good position if its cash reserves remain. This company lost $5.4 billion in 2023 and another $1.45 billion during Q1 2024. The cash burn continues but might turn around for Rivian soon.

Will all four of these EV startups survive into the future? It doesn’t look like it, but three of them should remain for at least another year.

May 15

Why Many Owners Regret Purchasing the Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV

 

Introduction

Exploring Buyer’s Remorse with the Kia Sorento Hybrid The Kia Sorento Hybrid has been a subject of buyer’s remorse despite being well-received by automotive critics. Recent feedback reveals a significant portion of owners, over half, would not choose this SUV again. This article delves into the reasons behind the dissatisfaction and contrasts it with the satisfaction ratings of other vehicles like the Kia Telluride and Chevrolet Corvette.

Disappointment with the Sorento Hybrid

What Drives Regret Among Sorento Hybrid Owners? The Kia Sorento Hybrid, while celebrated by critics, has not lived up to the expectations of many of its owners. About 58% of these individuals have expressed regret, placing the SUV second on the list of vehicles owners are least likely to repurchase. This section examines the specific shortcomings that have led to this discontent.

The 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid on the road
2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid | Kia

Comparing Performance and Utility

Limitations in Towing and Space Affect Family-Friendly Appeal One of the primary criticisms of the Sorento Hybrid is its limited towing capacity and cramped third-row seating, which pose challenges for families. In contrast, its sibling, the Kia Telluride, offers a more robust towing capacity of 5,500 lbs and is generally considered more spacious and versatile, resonating better with family users.

Additional Insights

Reliability and Efficiency: A Mixed Bag Despite its drawbacks, the Sorento Hybrid boasts decent fuel efficiency with 39 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on highways. It also features a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor, delivering 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. However, the absence of a reliability rating from J.D. Power and minimal consumer complaints suggest that its performance is not the sole factor influencing buyer’s regret.

Adding Factual and Beneficial Information

The Kia Sorento Hybrid’s appeal is further complicated by its performance metrics in real-world conditions. While it accelerates to 60 mph in a respectable 7.9 seconds, this is not enough to offset the practical limitations faced by families, particularly with the third-row seating. Furthermore, potential buyers should consider the vehicle’s urban maneuverability and size, which, while advantageous in tight spaces, does not compensate for the lack of towing capacity when compared to larger SUVs like the Telluride.

Lastly, it’s noteworthy that while the Sorento Hybrid faces criticism, other vehicles in Kia’s lineup, such as the Telluride, receive high marks from consumers. This divergence highlights the importance of aligning vehicle features with buyer expectations, particularly in the competitive SUV market. Prospective buyers are encouraged to weigh the Sorento Hybrid’s fuel efficiency against its practical limitations to make an informed decision.

This analysis offers a comprehensive look at why the Kia Sorento Hybrid might not be the best choice for every SUV buyer, despite its technical competencies and critical acclaim.

May 14

Maximize Your Journey with Toyota Prius Prime’s Remarkable Fuel Economy

Unleashing the Power of Fuel Efficiency

If stretching a tank of gas beyond 500 miles sounds ideal, then the Toyota Prius Prime is the vehicle for you. In a world where gas prices are anything but stable, having a car that boasts exceptional fuel efficiency is a significant advantage. The Prius Prime not only meets this need but exceeds it, allowing drivers to travel more than 500 miles on a single fill-up, making it a champion of fuel economy.

Affordable and Efficient: The Toyota Prius Prime Advantage

The allure of the Toyota Prius Prime extends beyond its impressive mileage. Starting at a modest $32,975, this plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offers an accessible price point without sacrificing quality. It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a smaller vehicle footprint but still desire the freedom and efficiency of a PHEV for long road trips or daily commutes.

Driving Dynamics and Cost Savings

Driving the Prius Prime means enjoying significant financial savings alongside advanced fuel technology. The EPA suggests that drivers could save an average of $6,250 in fuel costs over five years compared to other passenger vehicles. This model combines a gas engine achieving 52 mpg and an electric motor that offers 127 MPGe, providing a dual benefit of cost efficiency and reduced environmental impact. With a combined driving range of up to 600 miles, the Prius Prime ensures that visits to the gas station are few and far between.

Performance and Charging Convenience

While the Prius Prime won’t outpace a sports car, its 220 horsepower from a hybrid engine setup ensures a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. Charging is straightforward with a Level 2 charger, which replenishes the battery in about four hours. For those using a standard 120-volt outlet, charging takes longer—up to 11 hours—but is perfectly manageable overnight, making it ready for the next day’s adventures.

The Ideal Plug-In Hybrid Choice

The Toyota Prius Prime not only meets but exceeds the expectations for a PHEV with its affordable pricing, extended range, robust power, and appealing design. It stands out as a top choice for drivers looking to maximize their fuel efficiency while enjoying a reliable, stylish ride that makes long-distance travel worry-free.

This overview provides valuable insights for anyone considering the Toyota Prius Prime as a viable option for maximizing travel distance while keeping running costs low. It highlights the vehicle’s blend of efficiency, affordability, and driving pleasure, ensuring it remains a favored choice in the competitive PHEV market.

May 01

Elon Musk Makes Delusional Claims About the Tesla Cybertruck

As Tesla Cybertruck problems continue to grow, Elon Musk still makes wild claims. It’s time to come back to reality.

It’s perfectly fine for owners to be proud of their trucks. The Tesla Cybertruck problems have provided tons of headaches while still relieving support. Despite using cheap materials and falling short of promises, Elon Musk still makes wild claims about the Tesla Cybertruck.

Is Elon Musk ignoring Telsa Cybertruck problems?

Elon Musk loves his Twitter or X app and recently tweeted that the Tesla Cybertruck is an armored personal vehicle from the future in response to a short video of the Cybertruck driving through water.

He also tweeted that the Cybertruck eats pickup trucks for breakfast with a side of bacon. But what about all of the Tesla Cybertruck problems?

There are accounts of the Cybertruck dying after car washes, failing to get out of small amounts of snow, struggling on sandy beaches, and dying after traversing through shallow puddles.

Also, it’s not exactly an armored personal vehicle. It is made of stainless steel with bulletproof windows, but the truck only stands up to lower caliber bullets, like shots fired from a 9mm handgun.

It didn’t withstand gunfire from higher-powered fires such as the AR-15 or a .50 caliber rifle. People will probably be using their stronger weapons in the apocalypse. Also, good luck waiting around at a charging station if everything hits the fan.

I don’t doubt that Elon Musk poured his heart and soul into this truck, but calling it a technology discontinuity is a stretch. Discontinuity is a fancy word for unique, which the Cybertruck is.

However, it also means a distinct break in physical continuity or time, which is ridiculous. The Cybertruck isn’t from the future, it’s a current truck. Arguably it’s from the past because it was supposed to arrive in 2019.

If the truck was from the future, then Telsa Cybertruck problems wouldn’t include things like the faulty accelerator pedal and wheel covers that destroy tires. A truck from the future would catch these problems before deliveries were made.

The Cybertruck is new and exciting for some and used as a status symbol for the rich. It hasn’t proved it’s off-roading capabilities yet and finally received a locking differential.

Plus, it was supposed to have up to 500 miles of range with the ability to tow up to 14,000 lbs. But it has a range of up to 340 miles and can only tow 11,000 lbs. It’s on par with rivals instead of outperforming them.

Apr 26

Here’s How Much New EV You Can Get for $40k

If you have been considering an EV, you’ll want to see the cheapest new ones you can buy.

So you’ve been wondering if an EV would be a good choice for you. But all of the cool ones seem to cost $100k or more. Well luckily prices have been coming down and there are five EVs you can buy in the U.S. for $40k. They are:

Model Average Sale Price Average Listed Price
Nissan Leaf $27,956 $34,706
Nissan Ariaya $35,556 $51,438
Hyundai Ioniq 6 $36,506 $46,917
Tesla Model 3 $40,547 $43,649
Toyota bZ4X $40,646 $48,087

Why two columns? That “average listed price” is before any automaker discounts, federal tax credits, or local tax breaks. One big difference for the federal EV tax credit in 2024 is that it is applied at the point of sale, so you don’t need to wait until you file your taxes to see the cash.

Nissan is one of the oldest names in EVs. The Nissan Leaf, introduced in 2009, is the longest running model on this list. It looks like Nissan is cashing in on this reputation and some dealerships are marking up Leafs. The average Leaf is currently going for 6% above MSRP, so you’ll want to shop around.

The face of the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 | Allison Barfield | MotorBiscuit

Experts worry that these EV prices won’t stay so low. But Tesla’s recent stock woes have driven it to slash prices. And other automakers are doing the same to compete. The Model 3 is by far its cheapest model. While it is a little outdated by the quick charging speeds of competitors, the Model 3 still benefits from Tesla’s comprehensive “Supercharger” network.

While Toyota’s bZ4X (and its Subaru Solterra twin, MSRP $44,995) are getting mixed reviews, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is getting rave reviews. With this first generation of EVs, everything is about the numbers and Hyundai is leading its segment with 800-volt charging speeds. Because you can charge the Ioniq 6 for 20-30 minutes, then drive for several hours, it is one of the only EVs you can roadtrip indefinitely.

Apr 22

U.S. News ranks the best 2024 Hybrid and Electric cars

Hyundai was the big winner in this year’s U.S. News & World Report rankings for the 2024 Best Hybrid and Electric Cars.

“We looked at 96 total vehicles across 10 categories,” said Tony Markovich, senior editor for Autos, at U.S. News. “This year, Hyundai really stood out — they had three vehicles that made it onto our list — and, Volvo had two.”

Markovich said Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 was ranked Best Electric SUV, the Ioniq 6 was named Best Electric Car, and the Tucson Hybrid was chosen as the Best Hybrid SUV.

For the third consecutive year, the Lucid Air won as the best luxury electric car.

“It just offers a great combination of luxurious and spacious interior, really efficient, and great driving dynamics,” Markovich said. “So, it’s a great, practical vehicle, but also fun to drive, with that instant torque that people love about electric vehicles.”

Among its criteria for electric cars and hybrids, U.S. News looks for “quality, value, and efficiency — and efficiency includes fuel economy, the EV range, and charging data.”

The luxury Lucid Air charges quickly: “In approximately 15 minutes, you can charge the battery up to 200 miles for that vehicle,” Markovich said.

While electric vehicles, which rely totally on charging the car’s battery, are still popular, “a lot of people are going for the plug-in hybrids,” which hold a charge for 20 to 40 miles, according to Markovich. Once the electric charge is used up, the gas engine provides power.

The growing popularity of the plug-in hybrids helps to alleviate potential hurdles with owning and operating an EV: “If the HOA doesn’t necessarily allow you to install a charger, or you don’t have the capability to install a charger at your house.”

Also, on the list was Ford’s F-150 Lightning, which won for Best Electric Truck.

“That’s another exciting one,” Markovich said. “There’s not a lot of electric trucks out there.”

The complete U.S. News list of 2024 Best Hybrid and Electric Cars:

  • 2024 Lucid Air Best Luxury Electric Car
  • 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge Best Luxury Electric SUV
  • 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Best Electric SUV
  • 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Best Electric Car
  • 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Best Electric Truck
  • 2024 Volvo S60 Recharge Best Luxury Plug-In Hybrid
  • 2024 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Best Plug-In Hybrid
  • 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid Best Hybrid Car
  • 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid Best Hybrid SUV
  • 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid Best Luxury Hybrid

Apr 22

Top Hybrid and Electric Vehicles of 2024: US News & World Report’s Premier Picks

Top Electric and Hybrid Vehicles for 2024 Revealed

According to US News & World Report, several outstanding electric and hybrid vehicles have earned top spots in their 2024 rankings. Surprisingly, Tesla did not make the top 10, while Hyundai and Volvo secured multiple leading positions, showcasing their strong presence in the market. The rankings are based on various factors including affordability, driving range, performance, safety, reliability, and design.

2024’s Best Electric Cars: Highlights

The Lucid Air stands out as the best luxury electric car of the year, starting at $69,076, and offering a remarkable 500-mile range on a single charge. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 Recharge has been named the top luxury electric SUV, priced at $52,450 and providing 293 miles per charge with advanced features like lane-departure warning. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 also shine, with the Ioniq 5 praised for its safety features and design, and the Ioniq 6 noted for its affordability starting at $37,500.

Apr 22

Eco-Friendly Cars to Consider for Earth Day 2024: Go Green with Your Ride

Earth Day invites us to think about our environmental impact, particularly how our vehicle choices affect the planet. Since driving plays a significant role in our carbon footprint, selecting an eco-conscious car is key. So, which models—Toyota, Tesla, or Ford—offer the best eco-friendly options?

Top Eco-Friendly Vehicle Selections

GreenerCars identifies hybrids, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicles (EVs) as the top choices for reducing environmental impact. Hybrids use a combination of gasoline and electricity, providing limited electric-only travel without the need for frequent recharges. PHEVs allow for an all-electric drive when plugged in but also use gasoline for extended range. In contrast, EVs rely solely on electricity, necessitating regular charging.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE

Leading the pack is the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE, a prominent PHEV. It features a 2.0-liter engine paired with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 220 horsepower. With an estimated electric range of 44 miles per charge, the Prius Prime achieves 53 mpg city and 51 mpg highway when the battery is depleted. It boasts a green score of 71 and has an estimated annual fuel expense of $529, starting at $32,975.

2024 Lexus RZ 330e

The 2024 Lexus RZ 330e stands out as a luxury electric SUV option. It is equipped with a 72.8-kWh battery and a single motor, producing 308 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle offers a substantial electric range of up to 266 miles per charge and achieves approximately 137 MPGe city and 112 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and an estimated yearly fuel cost of $651, it carries a higher price tag of $55,150.

2024 Mini Cooper SE

Completing our list is the 2024 Mini Cooper SE, a compact and efficient EV. It features a 54.2-kWh battery and a single motor generating 181 horsepower. The Cooper SE provides an estimated range of 114 miles per charge and achieves 119 MPGe city and 100 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and a starting MSRP of $30,900, it has an estimated annual fuel cost of $747.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right green vehicle involves considering both your driving habits and budget. While hybrids and PHEVs offer flexibility with a combination of gasoline and electric power, EVs provide a fully electric experience with zero emissions. Assess factors like electric range, fuel efficiency, and overall cost to find the best fit for your needs and environmental aspirations. For further details and comparisons, consult our detailed review and buying guide.

Apr 22

Here are the top-ranked electric and hybrid vehicles of 2024

Electric car sales have been making significant strides since 2020.

Last year alone, sales of electric cars shot up 60% year-over-year, according to MarketWatch data.

And as more companies fulfill the demand for eco-friendly vehicles, some electric and hybrid cars are standing out among the rest.

U.S. News & World Report — a recognized authority in rankings and consumer advice — came out with its list of best hybrid and electric vehicles for 2024.

For the third year in a row, the 2024 Lucid Air took the top spot for best luxury electric car.

Best electric car that isn’t a luxury vehicle went to the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6.

Hyundai led with the most awards, also winning best electric SUV, with the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5, and best hybrid SUV with the 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.

The best hybrid car went to the 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid, and the 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid was crowned best luxury hybrid.

Notably absent from the winners list was Tesla, which is interesting given its popularity in the U.S.

Tesla made up more than half of the electric vehicle market share in the U.S. between January and October of last year, with 56.3%, according to MarketWatch. Hyundai, on the other hand, only made up 4.8% of the electric vehicle market share.

For its rankings, U.S. News evaluated 96 luxury and affordable electric and hybrid cars, trucks and SUVs for quality, efficiency and value.

Top-ranked electric and hybrid vehicles:

Best Luxury Electric Car: 2024 Lucid Air

Best Luxury Electric SUV: 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge

Best Electric SUV: 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5

Best Electric Car: 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6

Best Electric Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning

Best Luxury Plug-In Hybrid: 2024 Volvo S60 Recharge

Best Plug-In Hybrid: 2024 Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid

Best Hybrid Car: 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Best Hybrid SUV: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

Best Luxury Hybrid: 2024 Lexus NX Hybrid