As we get ready to ring in the new year, we’re taking a look at hybrid technologies about to hit the market. Ford made a big announcement earlier this year when they said they would discontinue selling many of their passenger vehicles. This was due to the rise in popularity of SUVs and crossovers; in no small part due to the amount of fuel efficient options for both.
So what other changes are in store for hybrid and EV trends? In this article, we’ll share some insider knowledge on what’s being rolled out and what it means for consumers.
More Options than Toyota Prius
For many years, whenever drivers heard “hybrid” they envisioned Toyota’s popular vehicle, the Prius. However, in recent years, drivers have more options to choose from. Whether drivers want a sedan, crossover, or SUV, hybrid and electric vehicle makers continue to deliver. Even the all new 2019 Toyota Prius AWD-e boasts 50 MPG and all weather capabilities, according to Green Reports.
California based company Tesla, which has become a household name, is even poised to roll out an electric semi-truck and has been making upgrades to its already popular Model S. For the drivers who want an option to accommodate their growing families, Chrysler offers a 260 horsepower Pacifica Hybrid minivan. With it having the “get up and go” to carry an entire soccer team, 84 MPGe (33 miles all-electric), and seating for 8 passengers, Chrysler expects high sales.
Higher end auto makers such as Porsche, Audi, and Jaguar are also joining the party with a few of their own additions to the market. The luxury hybrid options include a fully electric SUV (the first from Audi), crossover, and Porsche’s Mission E. The latter having horsepower up to 670 mph and the ability to travel 250 miles with just 20 minutes of charge time.
Upgraded Technologies
The most obvious upgrade will be in the form of increased fuel efficiency. Many of the automakers who have fused hybrid technologies into their vehicles are increasing their MPG. Hyundai for instance has a crossover, the Kona Electric, with an equivalent of 117 MPG. It offers modern luxuries such as passenger detection, lane assistance, and a robust entertainment system. The Kona Electric will be just one of two electric vehicles projected to be released by Hyundai in 2019.
Toyota is focusing more on safety and efficiency though with its newly designed Rav4 Hybrid crossover. An already AWD vehicle, the 2019 Rav4 will offer 30 percent more torque in “Trail Mode.” This will allow drivers to send more torque to a wheel during slick conditions, offering more traction. As previously mentioned, the new Prius AWD-e comes equipped with similar technology. These two vehicles from the Japanese automaker are especially desirable for those in regions that receive more rain and snow.
Although 2019 won’t see an influx of Artificial Intelligence in its hybrid vehicles, AI is in the works for hybrids. Studies coming out of Stanford and the like are focusing on the use of AI for energy management. We’ll keep an eye on that for now!
Final Thoughts
Have you heard something interesting about upgrades to hybrid technology coming in 2019? Share it with us in the comments! Be sure to follow our blog for more interesting tidbits, advise, and all things hybrid.
