For decades, hybrid vehicles have received varying amounts of praise and criticism. Although hybrids are economically and environmentally friendly, they haven’t always been the most attractive; especially to drivers who appreciate higher performance.
With electric and hybrid vehicles being widely produced by almost every major vehicle manufacturer, there are plenty of options on the market nowadays. As fuel-efficiency and environmental consciousness has become a driving factor in automakers’ production of hybrid and electric vehicles, the race speeds ahead.
In this article, we will cover the different types of hybrid vehicles and explore the availability of high performance hybrid vehicles.
Hybrid Vehicles of 2019
For many drivers in the market today, fuel-economy ranks high on the checklist of options. Prior to the introduction of electric vehicles, hybrids were the best option when it came to affordability and eco-friendliness. Over 20 years later, hybrid vehicles remain a contender at the top of the food chain. However, there are others in the race to the top.
The classic hybrid contains a standard combustion engine and a hybrid battery pack; providing the eco-friendliness and affordability when it comes to fuel-economy. As consumer demand increased, the need for more spawned a modern-day space race amongst automakers.
Although Toyota still ranks highest for hybrid vehicle sales, they have finally decided to join the race to offer electric vehicles. Tesla, Ford, and Chevy all offer electric vehicles and their sales surpass those of hybrid vehicles offered by the same automakers. So what’s next for Toyota?
Electric Vehicles of 2019
Just shy of halfway through 2019, there is a race between Toyota, Tesla, and several other industry leaders to produce a complex “solid-state battery” that would revolutionize the electric vehicle market. With millions invested in partnerships to provide the technology, Toyota remains in the lead and is projected to release the solid state battery by 2020.
The main differences between hybrids and electric vehicles are their internal components, such as battery packs and motors. Previously mentioned, hybrid contains a standard combustion engine and a battery pack, hence the name “hybrid.” Electric vehicles offer motors and batteries that can stand alone against their hybrid counterpart.
While Toyota focused on perfecting their Prius, other automakers worked diligently to offer multiple body styles with all the bells and whistles. From SUVs to compact cars, every brand has their “go-to” body style for the discerning driver. More options for body style aside, automakers felt they had left out a key demographic: the speedsters.
High Powered Hybrid Vehicles of 2019
Toyota is making headway when it comes to technology, but for now they are offering the first all-wheel drive Prius. Equipped with 50-56 MPG, the 2019 Toyota Prius offers a futuristic body style and more horsepower to get you there quicker. The best part is the price tag, coming in just under $25,000.
Not to be outshined, the 2019 Honda Insight hybrid is hitting the market with an increased MPG (up 10 points from 48 to 58) and a sporty exterior body style. Boasting 151 HP, the all new insight is as quick as it looks and performs like any other eco-friendly hybrid on the market.
With the affordable hybrids and electric vehicles taking front stage, luxury vehicle makers are getting in on the action. Ferrari rolled out what is considered to be a race car, with 769 horsepower and a 4.0 turbo charged engine. Although its all electric range is only 16 miles, a hybrid vehicle capable of 0 to 60 in 2.5 seconds, that’s pretty good.
Final Thoughts
What are you looking for on the 2019 market when it comes to high powered hybrid vehicles? Are you happy with the classic hybrid or electric vehicles, so long as they provide eco-friendliness and better fuel-economy? Let us know in the comments and be sure to follow our blog for monthly articles on all things hybrid!
