Electric cars have been getting a lot of attention lately, but hybrids are also becoming popular. In 2023, hybrid cars had a big year, reaching a new sales record. Even though they use both gas and electricity, hybrids are more fuel-efficient than cars that only use gas, and they produce fewer harmful emissions.
According to Energy.gov, hybrid sales went up by 53 percent in 2023, after a slight decrease in 2022. Last year, the number of hybrid cars sold was more than double what it was in 2020 and almost triple what it was in 2019. Looking back over the past ten years, hybrid sales have gone up and down:
– 2023: 1,175,597 units
– 2022: 766,412
– 2021: 799,046
– 2020: 455,067
– 2019: 399,444
– 2018: 338,149
– 2017: 370,680
– 2016: 346,949
– 2015: 384,400
– 2014: 452,172
People are choosing hybrids for many reasons. One big reason is that hybrids are cheaper than electric cars and plug-in hybrids. Also, since some hybrids can get nearly 60 miles per gallon, drivers don’t have to worry as much about gas prices.
Even though the data didn’t include plug-in hybrids, their sales are also going up fast. In the first quarter of this year, plug-in hybrid sales were 46 percent higher than last year. Experts think this trend will continue in 2024. Even though carmakers are still focusing on electric cars, some are changing their plans because of the rise in plug-in hybrid sales.
For example, Ford decided to delay the release of some electric models and offer more hybrid options instead. However, Ford is still working hard to make more electric cars. General Motors also made a similar decision. They plan to sell more plug-in hybrids and will keep making them as long as people want them. CEO Mary Barra said that their first new plug-in models will be available by 2027.
