Electric cars: manufacturers turn over a new leaf

Strategic shift: Carmakers focus on hybrids rather than electrics by 2025

A strong comeback for hybrids: Why manufacturers are reviewing their electric plans

The automotive industry, long geared towards a rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs), appears to be revising its strategy for 2025. Several major manufacturers, once fervent supporters of electric vehicles, have announced a return to hybrid vehicles, pointing to the continuing challenges of full electrification. This change of direction comes as a surprise at a time when most companies were setting ambitious targets for going all-electric by the end of the decade.

The challenges of total electrification

There are several reasons for this turnaround. One of the main challenges is the lack of recharging infrastructure, the higher cost of 30% compared with combustion engines, and battery range. Consumers are therefore turning to hybrid vehicles, and manufacturers are following this trend.

Brands opting for hybrids by 2025

In response to these challenges, several leading manufacturers have announced an increase in the production of hybrid vehicles by 2025. Toyota, the pioneer of hybrid vehicles with its famous Prius, has confirmed that it will be expanding its hybrid range, highlighting the flexibility and practicality of these vehicles for consumers who are not yet ready to go all-electric. The Japanese manufacturer plans to launch several new hybrid models, combining more efficient combustion engines with improved electric systems.

Honda, another major player, has also adjusted its strategy. After initially announcing an aggressive EV target for 2030, the Japanese brand has revealed that it will be investing heavily in hybrids, stressing that this technology represents a more realistic transition solution for markets where the electrical infrastructure is still insufficient. Honda plans to launch several hybrid models in the US and European markets, offering consumers a compromise between fuel efficiency and convenience.

Ford, which had initially set its sights on the rapid electrification of its fleet, has also revised its plans. The American manufacturer has decided to extend the life of its hybrid models by increasing production of hybrid versions of its flagship vehicles, such as the Ford Escape and Ford F-150. Ford justifies this decision by analysing the needs of consumers, who, according to its research, still prefer the range and flexibility offered by hybrids.

Why hybrids are back in vogue

There are a number of strategic advantages to the return to hybrids. First of all, hybrid vehicles help to meet increasingly stringent CO2 emissions standards while offering a smoother transition to electric technologies. By combining the advantages of the combustion engine and electric power, hybrids offer a pragmatic solution for consumers concerned about price, range and recharging infrastructure.

In addition, hybrid vehicles are seen as a more affordable option for a large proportion of the population, particularly in emerging markets where electric vehicles remain out of reach for many. Hybrids allow manufacturers to maintain a wide price range while meeting the growing demand for more environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Just when it seemed that the car market was heading towards total electrification, the continuing challenges associated with EVs have led several major manufacturers to reassess their strategy. For 2025, the focus will be on hybrid vehicles, which offer an ideal compromise for consumers and businesses looking for flexibility and sustainability. Toyota, Honda and Ford are at the forefront of this movement, reminding us that the future of mobility could be more hybrid than electric.