The need for smaller and more affordable cars is evident these days. Consumers struggle with the high cast of new models while regulators grapple with realistic ways to mitigate carbon emissions that can impact climate change. A massive influx of zero-emission electric cars has been a popular notion for achieving carbon reduction goals in recent times. But this singular strategy has been fraught with challenges by slowing electric vehicle sales and persistently high EV prices. New thinking is needed.
Along with hybrids and plug-in hybrids, smaller and lighter vehicles that achieve high fuel efficiency and thus lower carbon emissions are important. These present a natural complement to electrified vehicles and present another component in crafting an achievable national transportation strategy. Unfortunately, most automakers have abandoned their smallest and most affordable car models in recent times and focused on larger ones delivering greater profits. Now, to the surprise of many, the U.S. Department of Transportation has been directed to explore regulations that would support production of today's smallest class of highway-legal models – Japanese-style kei cars – for use on American roads.
Kei cars, a popular and affordable class of exceptionally small vehicles in Asia, do not meet U.S. safety standards and new models cannot be imported here. Whether kei cars can be reengineered to meet U.S. safety rules while remaining affordable is an open question. Also unknown is if drivers will embrace such small cars here given American consumers’ penchant for larger and heavier vehicles. But it sure is an intriguing thought.
Looking back for perspective, in 2009 Green Car Journal editors noted that things were changing in the automotive market. Buying trends were shifting as fuel economy again became more of an issue. Consumers were holding back on new car purchases as they weighed their budget limitations and the implications of a challenging economy.
At the same time, advanced technology vehicles like electric cars appeared to have more potential than ever as those in Washington seemed ready to push that agenda for energy efficiency and oil displacement goals. Concerns about carbon emissions and climate change were not yet primary drivers but would be soon enough. For these reasons, many automakers here and abroad were either committing to electric models or had ones in development.
Perhaps the most high-profile evidence of EV momentum at the time was Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV, an acronym for Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle. Based on the automaker’s offshore Mitsubishi i, a small kei car powered by a 0.7-liter three-cylinder gas engine, the electric i-MiEV was sold to Japanese fleets in 2009 and consumers there in 2010. It was also undergoing early testing with electric utilities Southern California Edison (SCE) and Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) here in the States. At the time it seemed likely this electric model would eventually make its way to American consumers…something that did come to pass a year after its introduction to consumers in Japan.
Along the way, Mitsubishi created anticipation with an edgy concept based on the production car called the i-MiEV Sport Air. Reinforcing the ‘Sport Air’ theme was a formidable clear cutaway roof panel providing a substantial feeling of openness to the cockpit even with the panel in place. That feeling was enhanced once the lightweight plastic roof panel was detached. Other design features included a lightweight aluminum and plastic teardrop bodyshell, interesting 3D headlamp and taillamp designs, and circuit board graphic elements incorporated into various exterior components…all in the interest of virtually shouting ‘electric.’
Bowing to its sporty theme, the mid-ship i-MiEV Sport Air variant was powered by an 80 horsepower electric motor, a 13 horsepower bump up from the standard electric motor in the i-MiEV. The electronic control unit was also re-calibrated to better suit American driving conditions. Energy was supplied by a 330 volt lithium-ion battery pack beneath the floor. Like the batteries, its charger and inverter were located as low as possible to optimize the 2155 pound car’s center of gravity.
Alas, while this sporty version of this Mitsubishi electric car never did make its way to the highway, the production version of the i-MiEV did debut here at the end of 2011, though slightly larger and reworked to meet the needs of American drivers. It was some 4.3 inches wider and 8 inches longer than its kei car sisterships in Japan and other world markets while riding on the same wheelbase. Mitsubishi also redesigned the EV’s bumpers and added side curtain airbags to the U.S. version to enhance safety and meet U.S. regs.
Our first impression when we laid eyes on the U.S. production i-MiEV? Mitsubishi’s small electric car was different. With styling considered cute to some and a bit of an oddity to others, it was clearly not a car for everyone. This begged the question: Just who was right for the i-MiEV?
That was not a question easily answered since there were no direct comparisons. Nissan’s LEAF was more sophisticated in many ways but cost about six grand more than Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV. When the electric smart fortwo ed (electric drive) emerged shortly afterward, it came in at a grand or so less than the i-MiEV, but that savings brought with it the loss of a rear seat and that was a deal-breaker for most American drivers.
Those who wanted an affordable – as far as electric cars go – zero emission ride with realistic expectations found the electric i-MiEV offering a potential fit. It was by design the least expensive, full-function four passenger electric vehicle on the market at the time. That didn’t mean it was cheap. Rather, at a retail cost of $29,125 for the base ES model, it was simply the EV that would strain budgets the least since all EVs, by nature, were expensive to make and their price reflected this reality. That said, factoring in the $7,500 federal tax credit available at the time meant the cost to American consumers was an approachable $21,625. Potential state and other incentives dropped the price even lower.
Back in the day, we had the opportunity to spend time behind the wheel of a 2011 i-MiEV in city driving and on California highways and back roads. What was that like? Think vintage VW Bug and you would be in the ballpark in the way of driving experience. The i-MiEV was fun to pilot if your expectations were modest, sort of like those early Beetles.
While it did have a host of modern features including an array of advanced entertainment, electronics, and safety systems, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV cabin was generally spartan by the day’s automotive standards, also like those early Beetles. Instrumentation was minimalistic with the obvious juxtaposition of an HDD navigation system and rearview camera that were optionally available. The interior was surprisingly spacious considering the i-MiEV's smallish external dimensions, featuring over 50 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats folded down. Access for stowing gear and goods was easy through a large rear hatch.
Our initial on-road testing was enlightening. We understood that running climate control or the stereo system would diminish range, but in the interest of driving the i-MiEV in ways that everyday motorists typically drive, we ignored that and did what we would normally do. Using the ‘Eco’ or ‘B’ transmission selections were recommended to maximize range and regenerative braking, but again, we thought it instructive to see what tooling about town in ‘D’ (Drive) would bring.
It was a pleasant experience. We drove 65 mph on the freeway and merged readily enough. Driving around town was comfortable and confidence-inspiring with no downsides. We were driving electric with zero localized emissions, a real plus. Then, amid our joyous care-free highway romps, we stole a look at the battery gauge and realized that our devil-may-care driving really had sapped this EV’s range. It was back to the barn for a charge, pronto. We understood why most drivers would want to opt for the transmission selections that favored range over performance. Driving more conservatively and using the tools provided to optimize range would allow drivers to realize the EPA’s combined range estimate of 62 miles.
When the time came to charge up, the deed could be done in 7 hours from full discharge with a 220-volt home charger through a port at the passenger’s side, or in 22 ½ hours with a 110-volt mobile charger that’s carried along in the vehicle. We used the more convenient 220-volt Level 2 wall charger in our Green Car garage. To encourage quicker at-home charging, at the time Mitsubishi was using Best Buy's Geek Squad to install Eaton home chargers that were priced at $700 plus installation costs.
Surprisingly, Mitsubishi also enabled high power charging capability in its cost-conscious i-MiEV. On the driver’s side of our test car was a second chargeport for replenishing batteries with a public CHAdeMO fast-charging system that could bring the i-MiEV’s battery’s back to 80 percent state-of-charge in about a half-hour. Fast-charge capability is common in EVs these days but an unexpected benefit back then.
Overall, Mitsubishi strived to keep the cost down by making the i-MiEV as simple as possible. One example of this minimalism was the model’s instrumentation that consisted of a battery state-of-charge meter, gear indicator, speedometer, eco/regen indicator, and odometer. A remote key fob allowed drivers to communicate with the vehicle to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin as well as control the charging process. While wireless, the remote for our test vehicle was not connected to the Internet so it could not be used with a smartphone.
We’ve had lots of experience with city-class cars over the years, most notably neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) aimed exclusively for around-town use at a governed top speed of 25 mph. The i-MiEV, while clearly intended as a city car with its limited range and minimalistic approach, was designed for much more than neighborhood use with its greater functionality, electronically-limited 81 mph top speed, advanced safety, and user-friendly features.
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV – like the kei car genre from which it sprang – was aimed at drivers who wanted their rides distinctive, eco-friendly, reasonably priced, and ideally suited for around-town driving or commuting. Demonstrating their everyday capabilities was the goal of Mitsubishi's EVTown Initiative in Normal, Illinois, home of the manufacturing facility where domestic i-MiEVs were built. Here, drivers were regularly seen behind the wheel of i-MiEVs as they went about their daily business, making these electric city cars a common sight around town and illustrating that driving zero-emission EVs in city environs was, well…”normal.”
Obviously, Mitsubishi was banking on a large enough pool of like-minded buyers to make this approach a success. American auto preferences being what they are – bigger, faster, more sophisticated features – it’s no surprise that the i-MiEV ultimately faded away from new car showrooms after the 2017 model year as new electric vehicle choices and capabilities expanded.
Still, the i-MiEV deserves its distinction as a trailblazer and an important point of reference. Its story is especially relevant today as the national conversation expands to address the potential for smaller and more affordable city cars with a lighter environmental impact. True, they may not be for everyone. But the very fact that small kei cars are even being discussed today opens the door for more minimalist models that serve the fundamental needs of daily life. Perhaps something along the lines of Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV Sport Air would do nicely, don't you think?
It’s no secret that Green Car Journal editors have long been fans of the quirky-but-lovable electric i3 that BMW brought to our highways in the 2015 model year. In fact, magazine staffers enjoyed tens of thousands of miles testing i3 models over several years of daily driving in different configurations. Alas, the i3’s time passed and BMW moved on to subsequent EV models. The latest of these, the coming all-electric BMW iX3, represents the first production model of a next-generation – or as BMW calls it, Neue Klasse – vehicle family.
The iX3 marks a clean break from previous shared architectures and signals BMW’s move toward platforms developed specifically for electrification, digital capability, and reduced manufacturing complexity. The 2026 iX3 is sized similarly to today’s X3 but benefits from the packaging freedom possible with a dedicated EV structure. A long wheelbase and efficiently shaped battery housing provide more usable interior volume than would normally be expected in a compact crossover footprint. As an added bonus, the vehicle’s low center of gravity, nearly even weight distribution, and wide track also serve to deliver the driving dynamics BMW clearly wants to define in its new generation of EVs.
Styling is intentionally simplified. The iX3’s shape relies on proportion and stance rather than heavy detailing, resulting in a clean front with vertically arranged kidney grille openings and a distinctive four-element lighting signature. The profile is smooth and aerodynamically efficient, contributing to a 0.24 drag coefficient. At the rear, broad shoulders and sculpted lamps give the iX3 a planted look without unnecessary surface activity.
The cabin follows this same design philosophy. BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive system spans the lower windshield and integrates with a 17.9-inch central display and a redesigned multifunction steering wheel. The goal is to deliver information with minimal distraction and to keep the primary driving view uncluttered. Much to our satisfaction, important controls remain physical, such as those for wipers, mirrors, hazard lights, and some temperature functions. Materials are satisfyingly tactile with the instrument panel using a textile-based surface with integrated lighting to give the cabin an inviting feel. A wide glass roof is available and adds to a sense of openness.
The iX3 debuts BMW’s sixth-generation eDrive technology. This includes new cylindrical battery cells, an 800-volt electrical system, and redesigned electric motors. Performance in the dual-motor iX3 50 xDrive is delivered with 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft torque. Accelerating from 0-60 mph is estimated at about 4.7 seconds with a governed top speed of 130 mph. The iX3 will also go the distance, with BMW anticipating up to 400 miles of EPA-based range once certification is completed.
Charging capability is a key improvement. With a peak charging rate of 400 kW, the iX3 can gain about 230 miles of range in about 10 minutes at high-power stations. Charging from 10 to 80 percent is said to take 21 minutes or so under ideal conditions. A revised battery management system allows the iX3 to charge efficiently on both 800-volt and 400-volt equipment. Bidirectional charging capability is included to support vehicle-to-load operation, home energy integration, and grid services where permitted.
The BMW iX3 integrates a structural battery approach that reduces vehicle weight and increases rigidity. Energy losses are reduced compared to BMW’s previous electric drive generation, and both charging performance and overall efficiency improve.
A new electronics structure debuts in the iX3 as well. Four consolidated computing modules handle driving dynamics, advanced safety systems, infotainment, and comfort features. This reduces wiring weight and provides the responsiveness needed for smarter chassis control. One of these modules, controlling propulsion, braking, regeneration, and steering, improves blending between regen and friction braking and is claimed to deliver more predictable pedal feel. An advantage is that most routine braking events are expected to rely on regenerative braking only, thus reducing brake wear and improving efficiency.
Standard driver-assistance systems include forward collision mitigation, blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, and lane-centering. BMW’s available Highway Assistant allows hands-off travel on approved limited-access highways at speeds up to 85 mph when conditions allow. Optional Parking Assistant Plus adds automated parking and remote operation features.
BMW has been at the EV game for many decades, as evidenced by Green Car Journal’s early reporting on the automaker’s electric BMW E1 and E2 prototypes in the early 1990s. Now, more than three decades later, the iX3 previews what drivers can expect from the brand’s future EVs, including cleaner designs, improved efficiency, and much more capable electronics supporting ongoing feature updates throughout the vehicle’s life. Production of the iX3 will be at BMW’s new Debrecen, Hungary facility, with U.S. deliveries planned for mid-2026. Pricing has yet to be set but is expected to start around $60,000.
At Ford, we’ve always believed our vehicles are more than just transportation – they are tools that empower our customers to live, work, and explore. For decades, that meant building trucks and vans that could haul heavy loads, navigate rugged terrain, and stand up to the toughest jobs.
Today, as outdoor recreation thrives and work-life boundaries blur, our definition of empowerment is expanding. We’re not just moving people and cargo. We’re moving power itself, directly into the hands of those who need it most, wherever they may be.
This is the promise of Pro Power Onboard, a feature that is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of our electrified vehicle lineup, particularly in the Ford F-150 Lightning. It’s more than just an inverter; it’s a fully integrated, robust power station designed to unlock unprecedented levels of productivity, adventure, and resilience.
Consider the traditional challenges faced by professionals working in remote locations, adventurers seeking to extend their time off-grid, or groups looking to build memories while camping, tailgating. or traveling. The hum of a gas generator, the constant worry about fuel, the scramble for outlets, the limitations of battery packs – these have long been accepted as necessary evils. But what if those limitations could be eliminated? What if your vehicle could silently and reliably power your entire operation, miles from the nearest grid connection?
This isn't a hypothetical question for people like Scott Rinckenberger, Scott, an acclaimed outdoor photographer, traverses wild landscapes across the country in search of the perfect shot. His work demands long days in unpredictable conditions, far from any conventional power source. For years, he relied on a gas-powered F-150, a trusty companion until nature intervened, and a falling tree totaled his truck. This unexpected event opened the door to a profound transformation in his workflow.
Scott chose a 2024 F-150 Lightning Flash, and as he puts it, it was "love at first drive." But it was Pro Power Onboard that truly revolutionized his professional life. With up to 9.6 kW of exportable power available directly from his truck, Scott’s F-150 Lightning became a silent, mobile office. He can now charge his cameras, drones, and laptop on the fly, editing photos from a remote trailhead, extending his time in the field, and capturing that perfect light while plugging them in as he goes – ultimately leading to a superior outcome for his work.
Pro Power Onboard allows folks like Scott to stay on location longer, reducing trips back to a home base. This convenience enables a more efficient, more immersive, and ultimately, more sustainable way of working and traveling.
Pro Power Onboard isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, but a scalable system designed to meet diverse needs. In the F-150 Lightning, for instance, customers can choose from 2.4 kW or the mighty 9.6 kW (on certain trims; standard on Platinum F-150 Lightning), offering a combination of 120V and 240V outlets. This means the ability to power everything from sensitive camera equipment and laptops to heavy-duty power tools, lighting rigs, or even a small mobile workshop. In other Ford vehicles like the F-150 Hybrid, Maverick Hybrid, and E-Transit, Pro Power Onboard offers varying power levels, from 2.0 kW to 7.2 kW, extending this versatile capability across a broad spectrum of customer needs.
Simply put, when paired with an electric vehicle, Pro Power Onboard represents a significant leap forward in clean, efficient, and quiet power generation. It eliminates the need for separate, often noisy and polluting, gas generators for many applications, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional remote work and outdoor activities. It empowers those who work in the field, like Scott, to embrace a lifestyle that aligns with their environmental values, allowing them to work from anywhere without compromising their commitment to sustainability.
This feature isn't just for photographers or contractors. It’s also for those who want to set up their office by a lake, the adventurer who needs to power their campsite, the small business owner who requires mobile power for their tools, or even the homeowner seeking reliable backup power during an outage. Pro Power Onboard is about giving drivers unprecedented control over their energy needs, fostering greater independence and flexibility.
As Scott Rinckenberger confidently states when asked if the F-150 Lightning is a 'real truck,' his answer is simple: “It's better.”
Bill Crider is Ford’s Senior Director of Global Charging and Energy Services
GM is bringing back its Chevy Bolt EV for the 2027 model year, fulfilling the wishes of drivers who pined for the affordable and practical electric car that helped mainstream EVs. This new edition builds on the idea that electric mobility can be accessible without compromise and, as it happens, at a reasonable price.
When it first arrived, the Chevy Bolt marked a major shift. As Green Car Journal noted then, it made long-range electric driving attainable for many. That milestone established a foundation that today’s Bolt inherits, adding modern range, tech, and refinement.
The 2027 Chevy Bolt LT launches at $29,990, including destination charges. A lower-priced LT variant will follow at $28,995. Tesla has yet to offer an affordable EV close that price range, though it has long promised to sell an entry-level model at $35,000…something it did only briefly five years ago. Chevrolet estimates a 255 mile range for the Bolt, the most for any EV under $30,000.
Production begins early next year as a limited-run model. Alongside the Equinox EV, the new Bolt anchors Chevrolet’s commitment to accessible electric vehicles. Together, these models are projected to account for most of the brand’s EV sales through 2026.
The 2027 Bolt uses GM’s latest X76 electric drive unit, developed for efficiency and durability. A permanent-magnet motor designed with reduced rare-earth content lowers cost and environmental impact, while silicon-carbide inverter materials limit energy loss between battery and drive system.
Shared across GM’s growing EV portfolio, this hardware helps keep costs in check. The 65 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery offers robust thermal stability and consistent performance. Blended regenerative braking with the benefit of one-pedal driving returns energy to the battery pack while encouraging smoother brake-free operation.
Inside, the Bolt EV evolves toward a more driver-focused layout. An 11.3-inch infotainment display and 11-inch configurable instrument screen give clear digital feedback while keeping key functions within reach. Physical controls for volume and climate remain for quick, tactile access.
Practicality stays central to the Bolt’s identity. There is open console storage, multiple USB-C ports, and available wireless phone charging. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an optional panoramic sunroof contribute to a comfortable cabin experience.
Charging performance represents one of the Bolt’s most notable upgrades. With 150 kW DC fast-charging, the car charges from 10 to 80 percent in about 26 minutes, more than twice as fast as before. It is also Chevrolet’s first model equipped with a NACS port, broadening compatibility across U.S. charging networks including Tesla's reliable Superchargers.
Google built-in connectivity now ties navigation and charging together. Google Maps routes include live charger availability and real-time range data, while automatic battery preconditioning optimizes fast-charging stops. Super Cruise driver-assist integrates with Google Maps to highlight hands-free routes and manage lane guidance on highway interchanges.
Design updates keep the familiar hatchback profile but introduce sleeker details. Seven exterior colors and 17-inch wheel choices allow personalization, while a new RS trim adds gloss-black accents, roof rails, and exclusive badging.
More than 20 standard safety and driver-assistance technologies include Intersection Collision Mitigation, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Bolt’s Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) functionality enables power sharing with properly equipped homes, signaling GM’s expanding role in EV energy integration.
The original Chevy Bolt introduced for 2017 was more than an efficient commuter. It was a social and technological marker, illustrating that electric cars could deliver meaningful range and practicality without a luxury-level price. As Green Car Journal noted at the time, the Bolt’s affordability placed EV ownership within reach of a broader audience, reshaping expectations for the segment.
Ten years later, the 2027 Bolt continues that legacy with improved capability, connectivity, and value. It builds on the same philosophy that made the first model a success: deliver real-world range, usable space, and forward-looking technology at an attainable price.
The new Bolt is set for assembly at GM’s Fairfax Plant in Kansas City, Kansas, and will reach showrooms in early 2026. Its return reflects a milestone in the electric vehicle market, positioning a once-again-mainstream Chevy Bolt as an affordable and desirable EV that can help lead the field toward a truly accessible electric future.
Those seeking exceptional fuel efficiency in an affordable mainstream model should consider Honda's ever-popular Civic. Honda has sharpened its electrification strategy with the availability of two hybrid trims in its refreshed 2025 Civic lineup. The model’s new Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid variants rise to the top of the Civic family, combining fuel efficiency with more performance than any non-Type R Honda Civic before them.
The Civic hybrid is expected to account for about 40 percent of model sales, signaling Honda’s commitment to electrification while maintaining affordability in its compact car lineup. With an EPA-estimated 50 mpg in the city and 47 on the highway, Civic Hybrid not only offers class-leading efficiency but also brings a performance upgrade over Civic’s standard gasoline trims.
This isn’t the first time Civic has gone hybrid. Honda previously offered the Civic Hybrid from 2003 through 2015, during a period when hybrids were still establishing themselves in the mainstream market. After a decade-long absence, Honda has not reintroduced the Civic Hybrid with far more advanced technology, reflecting both how the market has matured and how the company’s own hybrid systems have evolved.
Honda’s latest two-motor hybrid system delivers 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft torque. This makes the hybrid variants quicker than the outgoing 1.5-liter turbo Civic while delivering excellent efficiency. Linear Shift Control, a feature designed to mimic traditional gear changes, adds familiarity to the otherwise seamless hybrid driving experience.
Four levels of regenerative braking can be selected via steering wheel paddles, letting drivers tailor the level of deceleration and energy recovery. Combined with multiple drive modes – Econ, Normal, and Sport – the hybrid Civic allows drivers to optimize powertrain response for efficiency, comfort, or performance. The top Sport Touring Hybrid also introduces an Individual mode with customizable settings.
Honda has tuned the Civic hybrid with unique springs, dampers, and tires to match the added performance while preserving the model’s reputation for accessible driving fun. Hybrid trims benefit from the quietest cabins in the lineup thanks to Active Noise Control and additional sound-deadening measures, with Sport Touring models gaining resonator wheels for even greater refinement. This tuning underscores Honda’s effort to ensure the hybrid isn’t just the most efficient Civic. it’s also one of the most enjoyable to drive.
While the 2025 Civic receives updated styling across the board, the hybrid trims feature subtle cues that distinguish them from gasoline models. A more aggressive front fascia is complemented by a body-colored headlamp garnish and lower spoiler exclusive to the hybrid variants. The Sport Touring Hybrid receives its own machine-finished wheel design, while all Sport trims ride on 18-inch black wheels.
Four new exterior colors are available, including Blue Lagoon Pearl for sedans and Sand Dune Pearl for hatchbacks. Inside, hybrids can now be ordered with a gray interior, while the Sport Hybrid adds standard equipment like a moonroof, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The Sport Touring Hybrid upgrades further with leather seating and a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system.
Technology has been a key focus in this refresh. Hybrid trims benefit from more advanced infotainment, with the Sport Touring Hybrid features a larger 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. This top trim also introduces Google built-in for the first time in a Civic. With native Google Maps, Google Assistant, and app integration via Google Play, drivers can enjoy a more connected and voice-driven experience, backed by a complimentary three-year data plan. All Civic models now feature front USB-C ports.
Every Civic highlights safety with Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and the brand’s full suite of Honda Sensing driver-assist technologies. This includes collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. All Sport trims also feature blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert.
While hybrids headline the lineup, Civic LX and Sport trims are also available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine to broaden the model’s already-wide appeal. This ensures Honda retains an affordable $24,250 entry point for younger or budget-conscious buyers while gradually shifting more of the lineup toward electrification.
Hybrid power aligns one of Honda’s most important models with the brand’s broader electrification roadmap. The combination of efficiency, performance, and refinement positions the Civic Hybrid to appeal to longtime Civic fans while attracting buyers who want hybrid benefits without giving up driving enjoyment. Civic Hybrids are also within reach of mainstream buyers with the Sport Hybrid’s price of entry $28,750 and the Sport Touring Hybrid $31,750.
For a nameplate that has defined compact car value for over 50 years, the hybrid Civic represents both a nod to the future and a return to the formula that has always made Civic successful: delivering more than expected in an affordable, approachable package.
The all-new 2025 Kia K4 offers buyers a fresh choice that blends excellent fuel economy, modern technology, and a roomy interior. With its bold design and feature-rich trims, the K4 is positioned to appeal to those who want to address lower carbon emissions while driving more than just the basics in their daily commute.
Beyond efficiency, the Kia K4 is notable for introducing segment-above digital displays, advanced driver assistance, and premium interior features that are often reserved for midsize sedans. Its combination of everyday usability and upscale amenities sets it apart from rival models in the segment.
At 185.4 inches long and 72.8 inches wide, the K4 is one of the largest models in its class, offering rear passengers 38 inches of legroom and 37.3 inches of headroom. The design emphasizes a sleek, fastback profile with hidden rear door handles and a wide stance, giving it a sporty edge. GT-Line trims are distinguished with gloss black accents, satin chrome trim, cube LED projection headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the K4 makes a strong impression with its wide digital command center. Nearly 30 inches of combined display space blends driver instrumentation and infotainment under Kia’s Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims. Premium options such as Harman Kardon audio, ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Kia’s Digital Key 2.0 enhance its upscale feel. Voice interaction through Kia Assistant adds an extra layer of control.
The K4 comes with two front-wheel-drive powertrain choices. The standard 2.0-liter engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft torque, delivering power to the road via an intelligently variable transmission. For those seeking more power, the optional 1.6-liter turbocharged engine delivers 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft torque through an 8-speed automatic.
Fuel economy comes as a matter of course, with the 2.0-liter K4 earning EPA estimates of 40 mpg on the highway 30 mpg in the city, and 34 mpg combined. This places it among the most efficient choices in the compact sedan segment, aligning with competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The turbocharged version trades some efficiency for performance but retains a practical balance for everyday driving.
The K4’s GT-Line Turbo trim gains a multi-link rear suspension that enhances responsiveness and control, distinguishing it from base models with sharper handling. Across the lineup, engineers targeted noise, vibration, and harshness with acoustic glass and specialized tires, contributing to a more refined driving experience.
Safety tech is comprehensive, with all models featuring Kia’s advanced ADAS driver assistance systems. Standard equipment includes intelligent speed limit assist, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. Higher trims offer upgraded collision avoidance with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot view monitoring, evasive steering assist, and surround-view cameras, broadening driver confidence in varied traffic and road conditions.
Available in LX, LXS, EX, GT-Line, and GT-Line Turbo trims, the Kia K4 has carved out a presence in the compact sedan market. Its combination of welcome fuel efficiency, advanced digital features, and roomy proportions make it a strong competitor that will likely appeal to those seeking both daily practicality and a higher level of in-car tech.
Among its strengths is an easy entry for the K4 LX at $21,990, topping out at $25,990 for the higher performance GT-Line. For buyers wanting a sedan that balances style, technology, and real-world economy in an appealing package, the Kia K4 presents as a model deserving of real consideration.
RAM has been around as a distinct brand for some 14 years now, having split from its former identity as a Dodge nameplate in 2009. Since then, RAM has focused solely on pickup trucks and work vans with considerable success, especially with regard to its pickup truck line, which has won Green Car Journal’s Green Truck of the Year™ award three times in recent years. Now RAM has revealed details on its highly anticipated next act in the pickup realm, the all-electric RAM 1500 REV.
Building on the excitement generated by the wild electric RAM Revolution concept shown earlier this year, the 2025 RAM REV rides on the automaker’s all new STLA Frame optimized for full-size electric vehicle models with a body-on-frame design. This high strength steel frame is wider in the middle to accommodate battery packs while affording protection between the frame rails. It also features additional protection beneath courtesy of a full-length underbody belly pan.
This electric RAM pickup is especially noteworthy in that it boasts specs surpassing those of Ford’s F-150 Lightning and upcoming Chevrolet’s Silverado EV. REV will offer two EV powertrain options, with the base package featuring a standard 168 kWh battery pack projected to deliver a driving range of up to 350 miles. A more powerful option brings a 229 kWh battery pack with a targeted range of 500 miles, a feature sure to resonate with pickup buyers whose primary concerns are range and functionality. Normal and one-pedal driving capabilities are built in and regenerative braking comes as a matter of course.
Power won’t be a problem. We know the optional 229 kWh battery pack variant will offer a targeted rating of 654 horsepower and 620 lb-ft torque. Power ratings for the standard 168 kWh battery pack variant have yet to be disclosed. The REV’s projected towing capacity is said to be up to 14,000 pounds, with a payload capacity up to 2,700 pounds.
Charging is handled through the REV’s charge port located at the driver’s side front fender. Illuminated LED lighting and an audible chime lets a driver know that the truck is plugged in and charging. The charge port accommodates Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging connectivity on top and DC fast charging connectivity at the bottom of the charging interface. Drivers should expect the usual overnight charging experience if they have a 240-volt Level 2 wall charger at home. Those on the move can take advantage of the REV’s fast-charge capability at public fast chargers. If an 800-volt DC fast charger is available then the REV can add up to 110 miles of range in just 10 minutes while charging at up to 350 kW.
A handy feature is the RAM 1500 REV’s bi-directional vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-home, and vehicle-to-grid charging capability. With the use of a 7.2 kW on-board power panel mounted in the bed or a 3.6 kW power panel in the front trunk (frunk), this feature is very helpful during power outages in homes, or for individuals who will potentially use their truck to power equipment. It can also be used to charge your everyday devices if necessary.
REV’s exterior styling lets us know this truck is electric without moving beyond the burly and commanding nature of the brand. A blend of elegance and toughness shows that RAM’s designers certainly didn’t want buyers forgetting what RAM stands for, while also conveying their vision for the future. To that end, the front fascia of this electric pickup features a sporty nature with its muscular hood and low grill. The look is accented with aptly named ‘tuning fork’ LED headlights and unique EV-specific RAM badging. At the rear we find a set of angular LED taillights that span a portion of the tailgate, and are specific to the RAM 1500 REV. RAM is boldly shown at the center of the tailgate and, like the front end, uses an exclusive lettering style to show us that this RAM is indeed electric.
Styling along the REV’s flanks remains quite similar to the current RAM truck with the exception of a flush-mounted chargeport at the driver’s side front fender and unique REV. Familiar lockable ‘RAM Boxes’ are available and positioned beneath the bed rails on either side of the pickup box and feature a handy 115-volt outlet. These boxes are also illuminated to facilitate easy access under low light conditions.
Inside, the blend of practicality and luxury is seamless with premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, and leather with tech peppered throughout. Ample passenger room is built in and functionality is enhanced with second row seats that can fold up for additional cargo capacity. Optional 24-way power adjustments are available for the front seats, including three memory settings and massage capability. Also optional is a 23 speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system.
The REV cabin features a central 14.5 inch touchscreen, 12.3 inch digital instrument display, and a 10.25 inch digital screen mounted in front of the passenger seat. These screens utilize the automaker’s Uconnect 5 system that allows access to eight EV-specific functions across all screens, and entertainment functionality for the passenger screen. The REV also features a configurable head-up display capable of showing an array of selected information beyond vehicle speed, such as turn-by-turn navigation, speed limit, Lane Departure, Lane Keep Assist, and adaptive cruise control. A Uconnect 5 mobile app supports remote start and touchless door lock/unlock functions.
Showcasing many industry-leading specs and visionary style, the RAM 1500 REV is shaping up to be a model in demand when sales begin in advance of its likely arrival at dealers toward the end of 2024. Of course, RAM will continue offering its popular gas-powered pickups to a willing market even as it dives ever deeper into electrification. In the meantime, the 2025 REV shows us that RAM aims to be a serious contender in the electric pickup truck competition.
Rather than following the industry’s massive trend toward models powered exclusively by batteries, Toyota is confident there’s a better way forward. Its strategy is to optimize the use and environmental impact of batteries by offering a diversity of electrified vehicles consumers will actually buy and drive in great numbers, thus leveraging the potential for carbon reduction. This clearly plays to the automaker’s strength: hybrids and plug-in hybrids. There’s the all-electric Toyota bZ4X, of course, and other battery electric Toyota models to come. Just don’t expect that’s all the world’s largest automaker will be offering in the short term.
Enter the 2023 Toyota Crown sedan, this automaker’s newest hybrid. Toyota’s all-new Crown is somewhat of a milestone since so many automakers are killing off their sedans in favor of uber-popular crossover SUVs. In many cases, those crossovers are less SUV than mildly oversized hatchback, but that’s the auto industry for you. The Crown is a sophisticated looking sedan that doesn’t pretend to be something it is not, though it does offer a few twists.
The Crown has an interesting history, first debuting in 1955 as Toyota’s first mass production passenger vehicle before making its way to the States three years later, distinguished as the first Japanese model here on our shores. It had a 17 year run before it was retired from Toyota’s U.S. showrooms.
Now it’s back in all new form as a full-size, four-door sedan available in XLE, Limited, and Platinum grades. While it is a sedan measuring in just a bit larger than Toyota’s popular Camry, the Crown also integrates a slightly taller roofline, thus the ‘twist.’ This taller roof flows rearward into an elegant sportback design, accented by thin blade-style rear taillights. The front features blade running lights, sharp headlights, and a distinctively imposing grille design that’s come to signify Toyota and Lexus products these days. Its sides are handsomely sculpted and accented by large alloy wheels and wheel well cladding.
Beneath the hood resides one of two available hybrids, no surprise since this a Toyota and hybrids are its game. The more efficient of the two-motor hybrid models is powered by a fourth-generation, 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System (THS) that Toyota says should net an estimated 38 combined mpg. It connects to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.
Those looking for higher performance may opt for the Platinum grade, which comes standard with a 2.4-liter turbocharged HYBRID MAX powerplant, the first application of this more powerful Toyota hybrid system in a sedan. Delivering power to the road through a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission, the HYBRID MAX boasts 340 horsepower for spirited performance and offers a Toyota-estimated 28 combined mpg. All grades come with electronic on-demand all-wheel drive. A plug-in hybrid variant is said to be coming but details are not yet available.
The Crown’s cabin is designed to deliver a premium feel, featuring nicely bolstered front seats with 8-way power adjustment, intelligent controls, and wireless Qi charging with an array of readily accessible ports to accommodate today’s electronic devices. A Multi Information Display ahead of the driver provides the usual instrumentation along with selectable functions, including hybrid information that coaches eco-driving for netting maximum efficiency. In addition, a 12.3-inch center Toyota Audio Multimedia display features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and is audio and touch capable.
Upholstery is either Softex and black woven fabric or leather, depending on grade. A panoramic moonroof standard on Platinum and Limited grades lends an additional feel of openness to the cabin. LED ambient lighting adds to the interior’s ambiance and upscale feel. Significant effort has been devoted to creating a relaxed and quiet cabin environment through extensive placement of sound-deadening materials throughout plus the use of acoustic glass.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard across all grades to enhance safety on the road. This includes such desired features as pre-collision with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, blind spot monitor, and rear cross traffic alert. Other assist features such as automatic high beams, road sign assist, rear seat passenger reminder, and hill start assist control are also standard fare for all versions of the Crown. Those stepping up to the Platinum trim level also get Toyota’s advanced park system that identifies available parking spots and allows automated parallel and reverse/forward perpendicular parking.
Toyota’s Crown is a timely addition to this automaker’s lineup, giving fans of the brand a new, more exciting sedan option just as the more conservative Avalon sedan is heading off into the sunset. Pricing has not yet been announced but we figure the Crown will start somewhere in the neighborhood of the low $40,000s. We also expect this new model to be a hit for Toyota, serving the automaker well as it hones its hybrid and plug-in hybrid strategy while continuing to evolve its future electrified product line.
The Hyundai Tucson has long been a popular choice for those desiring the functionality of a crossover SUV at a reasonable price. Making the case even stronger now is an expanded list of Tucson offerings highlighted by plug-in hybrid and enthusiast-oriented N Line models that have joined the line’s gas-powered and electric hybrid variants.
Conventionally-powered Tucsons are equipped with a 2.5-liter engine delivering 180 hp and 195 lb-ft torque, delivering 26 city/33 highway mpg. PHEV and hybrid Tucson models share a 1.6-liter, turbocharged and direct-injected inline four-cylinder gas engine. These are equipped with Hyundai’s Continuously Variable Valve Duration technology that optimizes valve opening duration to improve power, efficiency, and emissions. The hybrid gets a 59 horsepower electric motor and 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery that brings 226 total system horsepower and up to 38 city/38 highway mpg.
With the addition of the plug-in hybrid’s 90 hp electric motor and a larger 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, total system horsepower increases to 261 hp and 258 lb-ft torque. EPA rates the Tucson PHEV’s electric-only range at 33 miles and fuel economy at 80 MPGe, with a 35 mpg combined city/highway mpg rating running on gasoline. Hyundai says the model’s onboard 7.2 kW charger will allow charging the battery in less than two hours when connected to a 220-volt Level 2 charger.
The remainder of the Tucson PHEV’s drivetrain consists of a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and a standard HTRAC AWD system with selectable drive modes. All Tucson models, including the PHEV, have a maximum tow rating of 2,000 pounds. The PHEV’s curb weight is a few hundred pounds higher than the conventional and hybrid models, so its payload capacity is commensurately less, rated at 1,012 pounds for SEL models and 1,166 pounds for Limited versions.
A higher level of driving dynamics is delivered to match the Tucson’s sporty new exterior design. The AWD PHEV and hybrid models are built with Hyundai’s e-handling technology that, under certain road conditions and driving inputs, applies an incremental amount of electric motor torque to the wheels. This enables the e-handling system to affect vehicle weight transfer – and therefore the tire’s contact patch – to improve cornering.
Tucson models are equipped with a number of safety technologies as part of Hyundai’s SmartSense Safety Feature suite. Standard safety features on both the SEL and Limited models of the Tucson PHEV include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane-Keeping Assist, Driver-Attention Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. Limited models add such features as blind-view and surround-view monitors and Remote Smart Parking Assist.
The Tucson PHEV’s interior amenities vary depending on model. Both SEL and Limited are equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities and have USB charging points for front and rear passengers. Stepping up to the Limited adds a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch color touchscreen (SEL has an 8-inch screen), a Bose premium sound system, and wireless device charging.
Prices start at $25,800 for the standard 2.5-liter powered Tucson with the hybrid coming in at $29,750 and the plug-in hybrid $35,400.
Green Car Journal’s Green Car Awards, the annual awards program honoring the year’s most standout new ‘green’ models, was presented at the Virtual Greenbuild Conference + Expo in November this year. The 2021 virtual awards program was an innovation during an unusual year, amid the postponement and cancellation of international auto shows where the Green Car Awards typically take place.
Over the years, these high-profile awards have grown along with the expanding field of ‘green’ cars on the road. They now recognize not only the magazine’s signature Green Car of the Year, but also exceptional models that speak to families, city dwellers, luxury buyers, pickup enthusiasts, and those requiring the functionality of an SUV. All provide the traditional touchstones of safety, quality, value, style, and performance, plus that fun-to-drive quality important to most drivers. What they add are greater efficiency, lower carbon and tailpipe emissions, petroleum reduction or displacement, or operation on battery electric power.
GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR
This year’s candidates for 2021 Green Car of the Year reflect the auto industry’s transition toward electrification, even as it continues to make internal combustion ever-more efficient. Three of this year’s finalists, the Mustang Mach-E, MINI Cooper SE, and Volkswagen ID.4, drive exclusively on zero-emission battery power. The BMW 330e is a plug-in hybrid that drives up to 23 miles on battery power and hundreds more as a hybrid. The Hyundai Elantra is offered with either an efficient gasoline engine or a gas-electric hybrid achieving up to 50 miles per gallon.
Rising to the top of the field is Green Car Journal’s 2021 Green Car of the Year, Ford’s all-new Mustang Mach-E, a model that boasts an instantly-recognizable name and heritage, while breaking new ground as an all-electric crossover featuring up to 300 miles of range. Performance is part of the package, as is unmistakable style and all the latest advanced electronics.
The 2021 Green Car of the Year® is selected by a highly-respected jury comprised of energy and environmental leaders including Mindy Lubber, president of CERES; Jean-Michel Cousteau, president of Ocean Futures Society; Dr. Alan Lloyd, president emeritus of the International Council on Clean Transportation and senior research fellow at the Energy Institute, University of Texas at Austin; Clay Nesler, interim president of the Alliance to Save Energy; and Matt Petersen, president and CEO of Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator and advisory board chair of Climate Mayors. Rounding out the Green Car of the Year jury is celebrity auto enthusiast Jay Leno and Green Car Journal editors .
LUXURY GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR
At a more premium price point, 2021 Luxury Green Car of the Year finalists also illustrate the momentum achieved by electric drive in the new car vehicle field. Four of these premium vehicles are all-electric models – the Audi e-tron Sportback, Polestar 2, Tesla Model Y, and Volvo XC40 Recharge. The fifth, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring, is the plug-in hybrid variant of Lincoln’s Corsair compact crossover that combines gas-electric hybrid and all-electric driving.
Honored as this year’s Luxury Green Car of the Year is the Polestar 2, a groundbreaking model from Polestar on many levels. This all-new premium vehicle is only the second of this new auto brand’s model offerings, and the first to be all-electric. This zero-emission, two-door fastback looks to the future even as it foregoes futuristic styling, instead choosing to offer an understated yet elegant and sophisticated design, tasteful appointments, and a nearly 300 mile range on battery power.
URBAN GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR
Urban environments pose their own unique challenges – tight spaces, often crowded streets, and hard-to-find parking. Here, smaller vehicles with a compact physical footprint and easy maneuverability are always top choices. The 2021 Urban Green Car of the Year award recognizes vehicles especially well-suited for life in the city. Top choices for this year’s award are the Hyundai Venue, Kia Seltos, Kia Soul, MINI Cooper SE, and Nissan Versa. Four are conventionally-powered – three of them crossover SUVs and one a compact sedan – with the fourth, the MINI Cooper SE, an all-electric crossover.
Taking top honors for 2021 Urban Green Car of the Year is the all-electric MINI Cooper SE. Standing out as an ideal vehicle for the city, the Cooper SE is compact in stature and big on features. Its represents what this brand all about: An iconic look, great maneuverability, and driving fun wrapped in a small package. Plus, electric power means zero localized emissions and no trips venturing out to the gas station in a crowded urban environment.
FAMILY GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR
While any model can serve family duty, those offering extra versatility and thoughtful family-friendly features are high on many shopping lists. Today, driving ‘green’ has also become a priority. Minivans have always been a solid choice, but these days three-row crossover SUVs can also do the job as family hauler. Finalists for 2021 Family Green Car of the Year are the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Kia Sorrento Hybrid, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and Toyota Sienna. The Kia Sorrento Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid crossovers drive on efficient hybrid power. Honda’s Odyssey minivan features an efficient V-6 with variable cylinder management. The Toyota Sierra is exclusively a hybrid-powered minivan, while the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan also offers plug-in hybrid power.
Standing out as Family Green Car of the Year is the Toyota Sienna, a minivan that seeks to set the standard for modern family haulers. The stylish and fuel-efficient Sienna offers premium sedan-like style, admirable hybrid fuel efficiency, and a thoughtful blend of family-desired features along with driver-centric characteristics not always associated with minivans. It shows Toyota’s keen grasp of how to make a modern minivan that not only serves up family functionality, but also premium car style and appeal.
GREEN SUV OF THE YEAR
The hottest segment in the automotive field today is the SUV, either full-size or compact, traditional or crossover, two-row or three, conventional, hybrid, or plug-in. There are no shortage of choices, which makes narrowing the field to five outstanding finalists no small challenge. The top five finalists emerging this year for Green SUV of the Year are the Audi Q5 55 TFSI e, BMW X3 xDrive 30e, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Toyota RAV4 Prime, and Toyota Venza. Four of these –from Audi, BMW, Jeep, and Toyota – are plug-in hybrids with an all-electric driving range from 18 to 42 miles, and additional hundreds of miles on hybrid power. Toyota’s Venza is an all-wheel drive, tech-rich hybrid with exceptional fuel efficiency.
Taking top honors for the 2021 Green SUV of the Year title is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, an SUV that’s different in many ways from others in its class. To some, it’s an SUV in the traditional sense with high functionality and loads of versatility that’s perfect for the diversity of everyday life. But to others, it’s that, plus a means of escape, heading toward the city one day and then driving the path less taken on another, a path often rough, unpaved, and pointed towards adventure.
GREEN TRUCK OF THE YEAR
This year’s Green Truck of the Year finalists embody all the workhorse capabilities expected of a modern pickup while offering passenger car-like comfort, advanced on-board electronics, and levels of fuel efficiency unheard of in pickups of just a decade ago. Pickups honored as finalists for Green Truck of the Year are the Chevrolet Colorado, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel, and RAM 1500. All offer diverse powertrain choices, from gasoline and diesel internal combustion to variations of mild- and full-hybrid power.
Powering its way to well-deserved recognition as 2021 Green Truck of the Year is the Ford F-150, a pickup long distinguished as the best-selling model in the nation and a champion of innovation. Beyond its wide array of configurations, powertrain choices, payload capacities, and towing capabilities, it now adds such innovations as an efficient PowerBoost hybrid powerplant, fold-flat ‘sleeper’ seats, and an available Pro Power Onboard output system with outlets that allow the truck to function as a mobile generator at worksites or campsites.
The Green Car Awards™ program, presented annually since 2005, is an important part of Green Car Journal's mission to showcase environmental progress in the automotive field.
The driving range of electric vehicles is becoming less of an issue as they surpass 200 miles or greater, approaching the distance between fill-ups of some internal combustion engine vehicles…or maybe the bladder capacity of their drivers. However, the time it takes to recharge an EV is still a negative attribute.
Generally, EVs charge at a fairly slow rate. A 240-volt Level 2 home or public charger will charge a Chevy Bolt from depleted to full in about 4 1/2 hours, providing a range of about 238 miles. That’s a far cry from 5 minutes to fill a gas tank. It’s significantly slower when charging a Bolt with a Level 1 charger using a household’s standard 120-volt power since this adds only about 4 miles an hour!
Of course, charging companies and automakers are working together to expand the small-but-growing network of fast chargers in key areas of the country, allowing EVs to gain up to 90 miles of charge in around 30 minutes. Tesla claims that its Supercharger stations being upgraded to Version 3 can charge a Tesla Model 3 Long Range at the rate of about 15 miles a minute, or 225 miles in just over 15 minutes under best conditions.
If current technology EVs become popular for mid- to long-range travel, gasoline stations, truck stops, and public charging stations equipped with Level 2 and even somewhat faster chargers run the very real risk of becoming parking lots.
When it comes to charging EVs, charging times come down to kilowatts available. The best Tesla V3 charger is rated at 250 kilowatts peak charge rate. Now, much research is being done here and in other countries on what is called Extreme Fast Charging (XFC) involving charge rates of 350-400 kilowatts or more. The U.S. Department of Energy is sponsoring several projects aimed at reducing battery pack costs, increasing range, and reducing charging times.
There are several challenges for XFCs. First, when lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are fast charged, they can deteriorate and overheat. Tesla already limits the number of fast charges by its standard Superchargers because of battery degradation, and that’s only at 120-150 kilowatts. Also, when kilowatt charging rates increase voltage and/or amperage increases, which can have a detrimental effect on cables and electronics.
This begs the question: Is the current electrical infrastructure capable of supporting widespread use of EVs? Then, the larger question is whether the infrastructure is capable of handling XFC with charging rates of 350 kilowatts or more. This is most critical in urban areas with large numbers of EVs and in rural areas with limited electric infrastructure.
The answer is no. Modern grid infrastructures are not designed to supply electricity at a 350+ kilowatt rate, so costly grid upgrades would be required. Additionally, communities would be disrupted when new cables and substations have to be installed. There would be a need for costly and time-consuming environmental studies.
One approach being is XFC technology being developed by Zap&Go in the UK and Charlotte, North Carolina. The heart of Zap&Go's XFC is carbon-ion (C-Ion) energy storage cells using nanostructured carbons and ionic liquid-based electrolytes. C-Ion cells provide higher energy densities than conventional supercapacitors with charging rates 10 times faster than current superchargers. Supercapacitors and superchargers are several technologies being considered for XFCs.
According to Zap&Go, the C-Ion cells do not overheat and since they do not use lithium, cobalt, or any materials that can catch fire, there is no fire danger. Plus, they can be recycled at the end of their life, which is about 30 years. Zap&Go's business model would use its chargers to store electric energy at night and at off-peak times, so the current grid could still be used. Electrical energy would be stored in underground reservoirs similar to how gasoline and diesel fuels are now stored at filling stations. EVs would then be charged from the stored energy, not directly from the grid, in about the same time it takes to refuel with gasoline.
The fastest charging would work best if C-Ion cell batteries are installed in an EV, replacing Li-ion batteries. EVs with Li-ion batteries could also be charged, but not as quickly. Alternatively, on-board XFC cells could be charged in about five minutes, then they would charge an EV’s Li-ion batteries at a slower rate while the vehicle is driven, thereby preserving the life of the Li-ion battery. The downside is that this would add weight, consume more room, and add complexity. Zap&Go plans to set up a network of 500 ultrafast-charge charging points at filling stations across the UK.
General Motors is partnering with Delta Electronics, DOE, and others to develop XFSs using solid-state transformer technology. Providing up to 400 kilowatts of power, the system would let properly equipped electric vehicles add 180 miles of range in about 10 minutes. Since the average American drives less than 30 miles a day, a single charge could provide a week’s worth of driving.
The extreme charging time issue might be partly solved by something already available: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). As governments around the world consider banning or restricting new gasoline vehicles in favor of electric vehicles, they should not exclude PHEVs. Perhaps PHEVs could be designed so their internal combustion engines could not operate until their batteries were depleted, or their navigation system determines where they could legally operate on electric or combustion power.
The Kona, Hyundai’s newest and smallest crossover, serves up a pleasing design and welcome functionality. It is offered with a choice two gasoline engines that net up to 33 highway mpg, and also as a battery electric vehicle.
Styling cues are a bit different on the Kona Electric, but subtle except for its distinctive closed grille. Silver side sills, unique 17-inch alloy wheels, and badging also differentiate the electric variant. Kona Electric sales are initially being focused on California and select states that have adopted California’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) program.
The Kona is available in three trim levels – SEL, Limited, and Ultimate. Kona SE and SEL models are powered by a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combo achieves an EPA rating of 28 city/32 highway mpg. Kona Limited and Ultimate trim levels are powered by a 175-horsepower, turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Here, EPA numbers are 27 city/33 highway mpg. Front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive an option for both powerplants.
Powering the Kona Electric is a 201 horsepower, permanent-magnet electric motor driving the front wheels. Energy is provided by a 64 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery that delivers an impressive EPA estimated 258 mile range. Offshore markets also get a base electric version with a smaller 39.2 kWh battery that’s good for about 186 miles, but that configuration is not offered in North America. The Kona Electric earns a combined EPA efficiency rating of 120 MPGe. Acceleration is quite good with a 0-60 mph sprint taking 7.6 seconds. Kona Electric’s top speed is electronically limited at 104 mph.
When connected to a fast-charge 10 kW Combined Charging System, the battery pack can be recharged from a depleted state in about 54 minutes. It takes 75 minutes to recharge with a more common 50 kW CCS fast-charge system. With more readily-available Level 2 (240-volt AC) public or home charging and the Kona’s onboard 7.2 kW charger, replenishing a depleted battery takes about 10 hours. The charge port is located in the front fascia just below the driver’s side headlight.
There are a host of driver assist features available. Hyundai SmartSense safety technologies standard on all trim levels include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist. Optionally available are Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Warning, High Beam Assist, Rear View Monitor, and Smart Cruise Control.
The gasoline-powered Kona has an MSRP of $19,990, while the Kona Electric is offered at a base price of $36,450.
Part of Honda’s Clarity triple-play – along with the hydrogen-powered Clarity Fuel Cell and more mainstream Clarity Plug-In Hybrid – the Clarity Electric is a model that clearly cuts its own path.
It does not aim to be part of the ‘200 mile club,’ the latest generation of uber-electrics that claim a battery electric driving range greater than 200 miles between charges. It also does not cultivate efficiencies through a compact form designed to eke the most from every electron. Nor is it exceptionally lightweight, another common nod to the need for making the most of the battery power carried on board. In fact, there is little about the Clarity Electric that makes us think of other all-electric vehicles…save for the fact that it runs exclusively on zero-emission battery power, of course. This mid-size, five-passenger battery electric vehicle aims to be in a league of its own.
First of all, let’s discuss driving range, which is EPA rated at 89 miles between charges while delivering a combined 114 MPGe (miles-per-gallon equivalent). Yes, that’s more limiting than that of the 200+ mile club, but there’s a reason. Honda designed the Clarity Electric with the needs of commuters in mind…those who want their daily drive to be in a highly-efficient, zero-emission electric car with a sophisticated look and premium feel. And they designed it so it was significantly more affordable than premium competitors offering higher-end electric models with features similar to those of the Clarity. Currently, the Clarity Electric is offered at a $199 monthly lease in California and Oregon where this battery-powered model is available.
Honda figures that an approach focused on commuters is a sweet spot for the Clarity Electric. Its range fits the needs of most commutes and its price is certainly justifiable for a commuter car, and a luxurious one at that, with fuel costs substantially less than conventionally-powered models. Plus, most households have two cars at their disposal, sometimes more. Having a Clarity Electric as a primary commuter car with a conventional gasoline or hybrid vehicle also in a household’s stable covers all bases.
Honda gave a lot of thought to the cabin design with welcome touches throughout. We especially like the ‘floating’ design of the center console with its array of integrated controls and flat storage tray beneath, with 12-volt and USB outlets. The dash features a handsome suede-like material and an 8-inch touchscreen display elegantly integrated into the dash. Deep cupholders feature flip-up stays for holding smaller drinks. Side door pockets are large enough to accommodate water bottles. The trunk offers plenty of room and is illuminated when the trunk lid is remotely or manually unlatched. At night this allows you to immediately note what’s inside through the trunk lid’s clear back panel before opening…something we’ve really come to appreciate over time.
Driving the Clarity Electric is a satisfying experience, with this sedan both well-mannered and responsive. Power is delivered by a 161 horsepower electric motor energized by a 25.5 kWh lithium-ion battery that can be charged in about three hours with a 240 volt charger, or in as little as 30 minutes with a public DC fast-charge system to an 80 percent state-of-charge. While its primary job may well be to handle everyday driving needs and negotiate traffic, it also delivers plenty of fun on twisty canyon roads with flat cornering and confident steering. It’s quick, like almost all electrics are because of instant torque delivered at launch, providing very satisfying acceleration.
Also appreciated is the Clarity’s handy Apple CarPlay integration and its Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies. Among these are important features like adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, forward collision warning, collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning, and road departure mitigation.
The Clarity Electric has served us well on our daily drives over the course of Green Car Journal’s ongoing long-term test. Its use supports what Honda envisioned for this efficient electric car. It has been ideal for around-town duty, area trips within its range, and daily commutes. Its thoughtful and sophisticated – dare we say futuristic – design and very satisfying drive experience are appreciated every day we’re behind the wheel.
With the growing market acceptance of electric vehicles in the U.S. comes an unprecedented auto industry focus on delivering these vehicles to consumers. Today nearly all major auto manufacturers and a handful of boutique automakers offer a growing lineup of electrified models.
When considering the purchase of an electric vehicle, the task of home charging is second in importance only to an electric’s driving range. How long will a charge take, and how often will it be needed? The cost associated with enabling home charging is also top-of-mind since using public or workplace chargers is a plus, but nothing beats the conveniences of overnight charging at home.
There’s an affordable and easy answer to these home EV charging concerns with the AV TurboCord Dual, developed by AeroVironment and available as part of Webasto’s EV Solutions product line. TurboCord Dual presents a portable transformable solution that aims to promote convenient electric vehicle charging using the two most common electrical outlets found in homes.
AV TurboCord Dual is a portable EV charging solution enabling both 120 or significantly faster 240 volt charging as needed through a quick clip-release adapter interface. It does not require hardwired installation to facilitate dual voltage charging, but rather connects to a standard 120 volt household outlet or 240 volt outlet.
While there is much competition in the home charging segment, there’s a lot to like about the AV TurboCord for its compact size, portability, and ease of operation. TurboCord Dual will look familiar to anyone who has used AV public charging stations in much of the U.S. Simply open the charge port on your EV of choice, look for the pulsing light on the business end of the TurboCord, and you’re charging. When the unit stops blinking, you’re done.
TurboCord Dual delivers a great solution for battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles alike, either at home or on the road. A handy carrying case easily stores the charger, power cord, and chargeport connector. AV TurboCord is available online or from your local building center.
Volvo’s smallest crossover features an aggressive design that’s a bit of a departure for the automaker, even as it retains the fundamental styling cues that say ‘Volvo.’ The first model built on the automaker’s Compact Modular Architecture, the new XC40 is offered as either a T4 front-wheel drive or T5 all-wheel drive and in three trim levels. The XC40 looks deceptively small but has plenty of cargo and passenger capacity for longer trips. A plug-in hybrid and possibly an all-electric model are likely in the future.
Inside, the stylish cabin aims for an uncluttered look while still providing all the amenities SUV buyers desire. Functionality is a top priority, which the XC40 provides in intelligent ways with features like spacious door bins that accommodate a laptop or tablet, easily accessible under-seat drawers for stashing wallets or other necessities, and even a trash bin for cleaning up clutter. The front storage compartment holds a wireless charge pad for smartphones. Other welcome features include a standard 9-inch Sensus Connect touchscreen and an available panoramic sunroof that provides loads of available light.
All XC40s are powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder Drive-E engine. In the T4 this engine is rated at 187 horsepower and 221 lb-ft torque. Engine output increases to 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque in the all-wheel drive T5. Both connect to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Manual gear shifts are possible with the Volvo’s shift lever or, alternatively, via steering wheel shift paddles on the R-Design model.
Standard on all XC40s are Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Forward-Collision Warning, Lane-Keeping Assist with Lane-Departure Warning, Automatic High-Beam Headlamps, Driver-Attention Monitor, and Traffic-Sign Detection. A self-parking feature, front and rear parking sensors, and Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert can be added as part of the Vision package.
Volvo offers Pilot Assist as a part of a Premium package. This is essentially adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode. It keeps the XC40 within its own lane and maintains a set speed and distance behind the vehicle ahead. Unlike some other near-self-driving systems, Pilot Assist requires the driver to keep his hands on the steering wheel at all times…perhaps not a surprise considering Volvo’s longstanding focus on safety.
The 2019 XC40 serves up 23 city and 33 highway mpg, at a starting cost of $33,700. Another option is Care by Volvo, an innovative subscription service that includes use of a new XC40 Momentum ($600 per month) or R-Design ($700 per month) for a maximum of 15,000 miles per year. Insurance, maintenance, and road-hazard protection are included, plus the opportunity for the lessee to upgrade to a new XC40 each year for the same all-inclusive monthly payment. A subscription lasts for 24 months.
Nissan's all-new, sixth-generation Altima has been extensively redesigned with greater refinement and efficiency, along with a more aerodynamic body boasting an impressive 0.26 drag coefficient. Distinctive styling cues include a more aggressive front facia with a V-motion grille and streamlined boomerang lights.
Inside there is a standard 7-inch driver display and a NASA-inspired zero gravity seat that enhances comfort and fights fatigue. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. Every 2019 Altima also comes equipped with a standard 8-inch multi-touch color display, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, streaming audio via Bluetooth, hands-free text messaging assistant, and Siri eyes free voice recognition. Some remote features are also accessible through NissanConnect Services’ Amazon Alexa Skill and Google Assistant Action.
Power is provided by a naturally aspirated, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower. There’s also an all-new, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower on tap. The world’s first production variable compression engine, this 2.0-liter powerplant enables compression ratio to adjust from 8:1 to 14:1 by continuously raising or lowering piston reach for performance or greater efficiency. Both engines connect to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Paddle shifters are available with the SR grade.
Every 2.5-liter Altima is now available with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with a 50:50 torque split in most situations, a first for a Nissan sedan and something that remains a relative rarity in this segment. Front-wheel drive 2.5-liter models are rated at 28 city/39 highway mpg.
Unique in the class, Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist helps drivers stay centered in the lane, navigate stop-and-go traffic, maintain a set vehicle speed, and maintain a set distance to the vehicle ahead. To activate the system, a driver simply pushes the blue ProPILOT Assist ON button, then sets the Intelligent Cruise Control when the desired speed is reached, similar to a conventional advanced cruise control system. It uses a forward-facing camera, forward-facing radar, sensors, and an electronic control module.
Along with ProPILOT Assist, also new for 2019 is Rear Automatic Braking that helps a driver by detecting and warning of objects while backing up, and if necessary applying brakes to help avoid a collision. Other safety and convenience features include standard Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Intelligent Driver Alertness 3 on all grades.
Intelligent Around View Monitor is standard on the Altima Platinum. Safety Shield 360 includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, radar-based Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and High Beam Assist (HBA). A new Traffic Sign Recognition system provides the most recent speed limit information.
The 2019 Nissan Altima offers a base cost of $23,900, a point of entry approachable for a great many buyers seeking a fun-do-drive, stylish vehicle offering laudable fuel efficiency and some of the most advanced technology available in its class.
Our drive of the 2019 Lexus ES 300h, the hybrid variant of this automaker’s all-new, seventh-generation ES sedan, was accommodating as expected from this luxury brand with welcome performance. During our drives we found turn-in sharp and precise. Considering front-to-rear weight distribution is heavy over the front wheels, the suspension compensates well and the car feels well-balanced.
Built on Lexus’ new Global Architecture-K platform, the ES enjoys a 2.6-inch increase in length, 1.8-inch increase in width, and wider front and rear tracks compared to the model it replaces. It also offers a two-inch longer wheelbase at 113 inches and a more spacious rear compartment.
The luxury sedan’s most striking angle is its profile that shows low hood and roof lines. From the front it’s the automaker’s unmistakable spindle grill that dominates, enhanced by slim L-shaped LED projector headlights.
The ES 300h layout is front engine, front wheel drive with power derived from a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, plus an electric motor mated to an all new hybrid transaxle. This delivers 215 total system horsepower. A six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is electronically controlled and continuously variable.
Powering the electric motor is a nickel-metal-hydride battery that's more power dense and compact than its predecessor, allowing it to be relocated from the trunk to beneath the rear seat, thus adding welcome trunk space. This fourth-generation Hybrid Drive System enables accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds and provides a nearly 600-mile driving range, plus excellent combined 44 mpg fuel economy.
Inside is a well-appointed cabin that’s tranquil and free of exterior noise. New suction-type ventilated cooling seats kept us as comfortable and entertained as any in the new movie theaters. There are lots of choices for interior personalization with three color schemes available, four trims, and three material options for the seats. The car’s standard audio has 10 speakers, and to please audiophiles there’s the optional Mark Levinson audio with 1800 watts and 17 speakers.
Of course, the ES 300h offers all the latest driver assistance systems plus an array of convenience features like Apple CarPlay, and it will be Amazon Alexa-enabled for Android phones and iPhones. Outstanding fuel consumption, a striking design, and first-class amenities make the new Lexus ES 300h a real contender for today’s premium car buyers.
The price of entry for the conventionally powered 2019 Lexus ES is $39,500, with the ES 300h hybrid just $1,810 more at $41,310.
Our drive of the new generation 2018 Nissan LEAF quickly reinforced this is a whole-new animal, a new generation of the venerable electric car intended to capture the imagination and, not coincidentally, market share in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle field.
We have history with the LEAF. Green Car Journal first experienced the original LEAF’s capabilities in a technology demonstrator designed to share what Nissan had in mind for its groundbreaking, soon-to-come production electric vehicle. At Nissan’s behest, we tested the automaker’s LEAF-destined electric drivetrain in its EV-12 test mule back in 2009 at Nissan’s global headquarters in Yokohama, Japan. We later witnessed the LEAF’s unveiling, clearly showing Nissan’s willingness to push the envelope for electric cars with an edgy design.
We were impressed. So much so, in fact, that Green Car Journal honored the LEAF with the magazine’s 2010 Green Car Vision Award™ in Washington DC, ahead of its introduction to the market. Nissan’s insight into what electric vehicle buyers desired has indeed proved visionary over the years. Testament to this is the LEAF’s standing as the world’s leading affordable, mass production EV since its launch.
The all-new generation Nissan LEAF aims to expand on this success with new styling and a 50-percent increase in driving range. It also features a full suite of Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies. This all-electric model is more attractive with excellent aerodynamics that result in a low 0.28 drag coefficient. Improved aerodynamics not only means a quieter ride but also contributes to greater range. That’s an important consideration in electric cars with near-silent drivetrains that don’t mask outside noise.
The new Leaf features a 150-mile driving range between charges compared to the previous generation’s 100 miles. This is an important milestone that serves to overcome potential ‘range anxiety.’ Why 150 miles rather than shooting for the 200+ mile range like the Chevy Bolt EV and Tesla Model 3? It’s all about balancing price with functionality. Simply, Nissan aimed at providing an affordable price point under $30,000 for the LEAF. That meant delivering the range it figured would fit the driving needs of most drivers while keeping battery costs within reason. It’s a sound strategy.
A more powerful 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack features improvements and revised chemistry that bring a 67 percent increase in energy density. Nissan designers have located the low-slung battery pack and other heavy components to the middle of the chassis to enhance the car’s center of gravity and handling. Fun fact: Using vehicle-to-home systems, the LEAF’s battery can store a home’s surplus solar energy while parked during the daytime and use it to help power a home in the evening.
LEAF’s electric powertrain features a 147-horsepower electric motor that’s well-suited to the model. It provides 38 percent more horsepower than the previous version with 26 greater torque for improved acceleration. Acceleration is crisp with more than enough power at the ready for all the driving situations we encountered on twisty roads and Interstates. Intelligent Ride Control delivers more precise motor torque control during cornering. This also reduces vibration while improving ride quality and steering control. Electric power steering software has been tweaked for improved steering feel. The LEAF’s steering torsion bar is also stiffer for better feedback and more linear response to steering inputs.
Nissan’s e-Pedal slows down the car via regenerative and friction braking when a driver’s foot lifts off the accelerator. This delivers electricity to the battery while essentially providing braking force without using the car’s brake pedal. It even brings the car to a complete stop. We found that driving with e-Pedal kept our LEAF tester in place while stopped on a steep hill without requiring a foot on the brake pedal. Notably, e-Pedal allows drivers to go without using the brake pedal 90 percent of the time.
LEAF’s ProPILOT cruise control conveniently maintains a constant distance to the vehicle ahead. If that vehicle stops, ProPILOT automatically applies brakes to also bring the LEAF to a full stop. It remains stopped even with your foot off the brake. Driving resumes when ProPILOT is activated with the touch of a switch or light pressure on the accelerator. The system also helps keep the LEAF centered in its lane at speeds between 19 and 62 mph. Other LEAF driver-assist technologies include Intelligent Lane Intervention, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Intelligent Around View Monitor with moving object detection.
The new LEAF’s interior has a more luxurious and high-end look. Its dashboard is dominated by a seven-inch display for infotainment and the navigation system, if so equipped, plus Nissan's Safety Shield state-of-charge and power gauge. Another seven-inch screen faces the driver in place of conventional dials. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included on LEAFs with the higher-spec infotainment/navigation system.
Today’s electric car market is different than that of the past. There are more choices in a growing number of vehicle classes and this makes it tougher for automakers to compete. Nissan aims to not only compete in the electric car field but dominate globally as it has in recent years.
The LEAF’s status as a true world car is underscored by widespread availability like the previous-generation LEAF. It’s also reinforced by Nissan’s global manufacturing capabilities with assembly plants in Japan, England, and in Smyrna, Tennessee. Offering the all-new LEAF at a base price of $29,990 here in the U.S. is a strategy that should bode well for Nissan in today’s increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
