[songeater]

I would note that "hybrids" in China (where plug-in-hybrids have gone to 16% of market share, up 700bps y/y) is a fundamentally different architecture than hybrids in the west. In China (see Li Auto [1] for example) hybrids are Battery Electric vehicles (ie no gearbox, fully electric motor) with a small gasoline generator and tank to recharge the battery. This is "best of both worlds"... you get the electric motor, which is much more efficient / cheaper than an ICE transmission. Then the gasoline generator is just tuned to maximize efficiency (~44% efficiency to electric, vs the mid-30s on an ICE motor) so the net efficiency of the hybrid is far superior to a Prius-plug-in type structure. These are termed Electric Range Extender Vehicles ("EREV"s), which is type of a Plug-in Hybrid since you can charge by plugging in the battery or by filling in gas.

Really surprised haven't seen these EREVs in the west, although Hyundai is supposed to launch in US in 2026. Could be game-changer when that happens...

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li_Auto

[timbit42]

That's essentially what the Chevy Volt was, but when the engine kicks in, it isn't as efficient as a Toyota Prius.

[songeater]

Yes! Difference is the current-gen EREVs are in a different league of performance with the advancement in electric powertrain and software. Think change between a Model 3 and a Chevy Bolt...

[timbit42]

Normally I would call both the Chevy Volt and Toyota Prius HEVs but if the Volt is an EREV, what is the Prius?

Also, would you classify a Prius Prime an EREV?