Legacy Auto Companies Shift to Hybrid Cars: A Review

Introduction to the Evolution in Car Manufacturing

The automobile industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly in how car companies address their environmental responsibilities. Long-time traditional car manufacturers, or 'legacy auto' companies, are increasingly focusing on hybrid cars rather than full electric vehicles (BEVs). This shift is driven by a range of factors, including profitability, technological limitations, and consumer demand.

Legacy Auto's Shift from Full Electric to Hybrid

For decades, legacy auto companies have been heavily invested in conventional combustion engine technology, making minor advancements in areas such as diesel and petrol engines while also exploring parallel hybrid technology. This investment strategy has led to a proliferation of Parallel Hybrid vehicles, which are designed to sell off excess gearboxes and large engines. The reasoning behind this approach lies in maximizing profit margins from existing assets. However, as the push towards full electric vehicles (EVs) intensifies, these companies find themselves at a crossroads.

Legacy companies like BMW, along with others, are shifting their focus towards hybrid technologies because pure electric vehicles (BEVs) are not financially viable for them. The development costs for BEVs are significantly higher, and the return on investment is often lower. Even the most efficient BEVs face challenges such as poor charging infrastructure, limited range, and higher initial costs. Consequently, hybrid vehicles, such as the BMW i3, which uses an old motorcycle engine achieving only 30 miles per gallon (mpg), offer a compromise by maintaining powertrain familiarity while reducing reliance on full electric technology.

Market Trends Towards Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Despite the hesitations of legacy auto companies, the market trend is clearly moving towards electric vehicles. Consumer awareness of environmental issues is increasing, and there is a growing demand for sustainable transportation options. BEVs, while still lagging behind in terms of market share, are becoming more accessible and affordable. Companies like Tesla, Nissan, and BMW have already embraced this trend and are manufacturing and selling solely full electric cars.

Critique of Hybrid Cars and Full Electric Vehicles

The argument in favor of hybrid cars over fully electric vehicles (EVs) emphasizes their viability and cost-effectiveness. While full electric vehicles are a step towards sustainability, they are not the panacea for all environmental ills. FULL EVs are often criticized for their high energy consumption during production, charging, and disposal. Moreover, the inefficiency of such vehicles is highlighted, particularly in terms of their weight and energy requirements. The Tesla Model S, weighing 2000kg, is cited as an example of a vehicle that, despite its green credentials, is not the optimal solution for reducing pollution and combatting global warming.

Opponents of full EVs argue that transitioning to these vehicles without a sustainable long-term solution is counterproductive. Instead, they suggest focusing on developments that might offer cleaner and more sustainable alternatives in the future.

Conclusion: Future of Electric Vehicles

In conclusion, the shift towards hybrid cars by legacy auto companies reflects a pragmatic approach to meeting market demands and environmental responsibilities. While fully electric vehicles represent a crucial step in the right direction, they are not the immediate future for every car consumer. Hybrid cars offer a reasonable compromise for now, providing the benefits of reduced emissions and improved fuel efficiency without the heavy upfront costs and logistical challenges associated with full electric technology.

The market continues to shift towards electric vehicles, but it is essential to recognize the complexity of the transition and the need for thoughtful, sustainable solutions in the automotive industry.