Detroit: Buying a car is a significant decision that has become increasingly complicated. With the entrance into dealerships today, potential buyers are met with a bewildering array of options for “electrified” vehicles. Despite the slow adoption rate of all-electric cars in the U.S., the market is now flush with a variety of hybrid models serving as alternatives to both EVs and traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
This diversification means consumers have more choices, yet it also introduces added complexity for both the manufacturers and the car-buying public, particularly those returning to the market after a hiatus due to supply chain disruptions and historically high prices for used vehicles.
“Having more options is always beneficial for the customer, provided they understand what each choice entails,” remarked Paul Waatti, AutoPacific’s Director of Industry Analysis. He emphasized the need for more precise explanations of the various terms and their associated pros and cons.
Today’s car buyers can select from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, mild-hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs)—also widely known as EVs.
Additionally, Stellantis announced they would be introducing range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) later this year. These REEVs operate similarly to plug-in hybrids but can run exclusively on electric power, with a gasoline engine to recharge the battery.
Each vehicle type caters to distinct customer needs, blending traditional internal combustion engines with electrified technology such as batteries or motors to enhance performance or fuel efficiency—except purely electric and fuel-cell vehicles.
For instance, Heather Seymour from St. Johns, Florida, conducted thorough research before purchasing her 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
“I was intrigued by hybrids but wasn’t ready for a full electric. The plug-in model seemed like the perfect entry point,” she shared, noting her usual reliance on the electric range for daily drives and switching to gasoline for longer trips.
EV naming
However, the diversity of EV-related terminology needs to make the decision easier. Various automakers use different labels for their electrified vehicles, creating confusion. Hyundai’s Genesis brand, for instance, uses “electrified” for its all-electric models, whereas others reserve this term for hybrids.
Meanwhile, Chrysler brands its Pacifica minivan, a plug-in hybrid, simply as a “hybrid,” Toyota describes some of its hybrids as “hybrid EVs.” Stellantis distinguishes between its REEVs and PHEVs, even though they function similarly.
“This lack of standardization across automakers leads to confusion for consumers,” Waatti pointed out. He highlighted that some brands, like General Motors, apply traditional model names, such as the Chevrolet Blazer and Equinox, to entirely new EVs that differ significantly from their gasoline-powered namesakes.
Jeep is leveraging historical model names like “Wagoneer” for large gas-powered SUVs and smaller, all-electric Wagoneer “S” SUVs. Jeep’s CEO, Antonio Filosa, isn’t concerned about potential confusion, trusting the brand’s substantial legacy and consumers’ ability to choose what suits them best.
Central to navigating this new landscape is consumer education. Auto industry leaders from different regions globally stress the importance of arming buyers with knowledge.
Electrified and all-electric vehicles are pivotal for meeting stricter emissions and fuel economy goals, scaling production, reducing costs, and enhancing profitability.
“We’re focused on educating our customers rather than pushing them toward something they might not be ready for,” said Russell Wager, VP of Marketing at Kia America. Kia, along with other manufacturers like GM, is actively debunking myths and answering FAQs through various platforms, including websites and interactive video sessions, to clarify doubts about EVs and hybrids, covering everything from battery technology to whether it’s safe to drive these vehicles through a car wash.
Ford Motor has also introduced a video training program aimed at its extensive dealer network in the U.S., aiming to enhance customer service and provide better insights into selling these advanced vehicles.
In summary, as electrified options proliferate, clarity, education, and standardized terminology will ensure consumers can make informed choices that best meet their needs and preferences.
Automotive alphabet soup
The automotive industry has more powertrain and “propulsion” options than ever before. Here’s a breakdown:
- Internal combustion engine (ICE): A “traditional” vehicle with an engine that’s fueled with gasoline or diesel.
- Mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV): An ICE vehicle that functions largely like a non=hybrid vehicle but may include minimal electrified features such as a small battery, regenerative braking or electric motor.
- Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV): Think of the Toyota Prius, a vehicle that has a hybrid powertrain system combined with an engine.
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV): These vehicles feature an internal combustion engine combined with a hybrid system, including a larger battery than traditional hybrid vehicles as well as a plug to recharge the vehicle’s battery. They typically allow drivers to travel a certain number of miles using the battery before the engine is needed to power the car or truck.
- Battery-electric vehicle (BEV): These all-electric vehicles do not feature an internal combustion engine. Instead, they contain an electric motor that’s powered by a large battery. They need to be recharged using an electrical outlet and charging port or charging station.
- Fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV): Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles and equipment operate much like BEVs but are powered by electricity generated from hydrogen and oxygen instead of pure batteries, which commonly include lithium. They’re filled up with a nozzle, similar to traditional gas and diesel vehicles.
- Range-extended electric vehicles (REEV): These are an emerging technology that largely function as a PHEV, however after the battery runs out of energy to power the vehicle, an engine works as a generator to exclusively power electric motors. The vehicle still drives like an EV instead of having the engine directly power the vehicle’s motion.
Consumer adoption
Awareness and understanding of EV ownership significantly influence consumer interest in electric vehicles (EVs). A study by Cox Automotive has shown that as many as 96% of potential car buyers who are looking to purchase a vehicle within the next two years could be persuaded to consider acquiring an EV sooner than their initial three-to-five-year purchase timeline, provided they are better educated on the benefits and workings of EVs.
This was the case for Seymour from Florida and Kevin Storimans from Winnipeg, Canada. Storimans, in particular, opted for the Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid as a precursor to fully electric vehicles. He viewed it as a way to economize on fuel costs while not fully committing to an all-electric car. “It’s a perfect mix,” he mentioned, appreciating the combination of traditional gasoline power and electric capabilities, a notable shift from his former V-8-powered Jeep. Given the abundance of accurate and misleading information available on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and EVs, he emphasised the importance of diligent research.
The automotive industry has more powertrain and “propulsion” options than ever before. Here’s a breakdown:
Cox Automotive’s research also indicates that prospective EV buyers spend more time researching electric vehicles than those interested in conventional cars, with about 90% having decided on a specific model before visiting a dealership or making an online purchase.
Stephanie Valdez Streaty, Cox Automotive’s director of industry insights, underscores the challenge in navigating the vast amount of EV-related information, highlighting the paramount importance of education, awareness, and engagement in guiding consumer decisions.