Buying a Car Just Got More Complex: Navigating the New World of Electrified Vehicles
Visiting a traditional car dealership today brings a new challenge: a diverse array of “electrified” vehicle options. As electric vehicle (EV) adoption progresses slowly in the U.S., automakers are increasingly introducing various hybrid models alongside EVs and conventional gas-powered cars. While this offers consumers more choices, it also adds complexity, especially for those re-entering the new car market amid supply chain issues and high used vehicle prices.
Paul Waatti, director of industry analysis at AutoPacific, emphasizes the need for clarity: “More choices are great, but consumers need to understand the differences in terms and acronyms, and the potential benefits and drawbacks.”
Today’s car buyers can select from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, mild-hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), battery-electric vehicles (BEVs or EVs), and soon, range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) like those from Stellantis, which function similarly to PHEVs but can operate exclusively as EVs.
Each type of vehicle serves different customer needs, combining internal combustion engines with electric technologies to enhance performance or fuel efficiency, except for EVs and fuel-cell vehicles.
Heather Seymour from St. Johns, Florida, chose a 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) after extensive research: “I wanted to explore hybrids before committing to full electric. The plug-in option was perfect for me, especially for shorter trips.”
Navigating the terminology is another challenge. Automakers use varied terms; for instance, Hyundai’s Genesis brand labels EVs as “electrified,” while Chrysler markets its Pacifica plug-in hybrid as simply a “hybrid.” This inconsistency can confuse consumers, according to Waatti.
Education is critical. Automakers like Kia and General Motors (GM) are actively educating consumers about EVs and hybrids through online resources and interactive platforms. GM launched “EV Live,” now “GM Energy Live,” to engage directly with customers about electric vehicles and charging solutions.
Consumer interest in EVs is growing, with many potential buyers willing to consider EVs sooner if they understand the ownership experience better. This trend is reflected in consumer behavior, with more time spent researching EVs compared to traditional vehicles before making a purchase decision.
As the automotive landscape evolves, informed decision-making and education will remain crucial for both consumers and automakers alike.
