THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE
Top hybrid, plug-in vehicle options
Separating fact from hype, hybrid vehicles are not big sellers. And their electric plug-in counterparts would be even less so were it not for generous incentives from three green-thinking provinces, including Quebec. But the pundits say the latter are the wave of the future.
Yes, Tesla is garnering huge publicity for its Model S, Model X and new Model 3, yet it is struggling to get its assembly line production operating efficiently.
So, here are a few other hybrid and plug-ins.
CHEVROLET BOLT
The Bolt EV sets new benchmarks for affordable, long-range EV driving, with a propulsion system that offers up to 383 kilometres of range. The Bolt EV’s drive system uses a single high-capacity electric motor for propulsion.
The motor has an offset gear and shaft configuration tailored to meet efficiency and performance targets, and is capable of producing up to 266 pound-feet of torque and 200 horsepower.
The base LT comes with standard features that include a Regen on Demand steering wheel paddle, rear-view camera, 10.2-inch colour touch screen and self-sealing tires.
The top-line Premier includes all LT equipment plus additional standard features.
CHEVROLET VOLT
With only minor revisions for 2018, Chevrolet’s second-generation Volt electric car — with extended range — showcases a sleek, sporty design and offers 85 km of EV range, along with greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.
Volt’s technology and range advancements are complemented by a design that blends muscular proportions with aerodynamic efficiency, and an interior with seating for five and improved functionality. The Voltec extended range electric vehicle (EREV) propulsion system is the power behind the Volt’s increased all-electric driving range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.
The Volt uses an 18.4 kWh battery system consisting of 192 cells, which are positioned low for a lower centre of gravity. The 1.5-litre gasoline-powered range extender — which only powers the batteries and does not power the wheels directly — offers an estimated combined fuel consumption rating of 5.7 L/100 km.
HYUNDAI IONIQ
Hyundai says the Ioniq is the world’s first vehicle to offer three electrified powertrains. The hatchback comes with a choice of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or all-electric powertrains. The Ioniq Hybrid and Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid both feature the new Kappa 1.6-L four cylinder with gasoline direct injection combined with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The mated electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery enabling pure electric driving — for an estimated 37 km of range in the Plug-in Hybrid — and delivering instant torque.
The all-electric range extends to an estimated 170 km in the Ioniq Electric, thanks to a powerful 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
An integrated In-Cable Control Box (ICCB) is provided for charging the Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid and Electric in regular household sockets. Ioniq will also come available with an optional SAE combo-type charge port, permitting Level 3 DC quick charging at compatible stations.
KIA SOUL EV
The 2018 Soul EV is the fourth model year of Kia’s first mass-market, zero-emission battery electric vehicle. Available in three trims, the funky looking crossover includes a long list of standard equipment at affordable price points. Changes offered for the 2018 model year include a battery upgrade to 30 kWh from 27, resulting in an increase in maximum range to 179 km from 150.
At the heart of the EV is the electric propulsion system.
The high-voltage battery pack is the 30 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, good for 109 hp and a wheel-spinning 210 lb-ft of torque.
Power is transferred to the front wheels through a single-speed reduction gear transmission. To increase brake regeneration, there is a “B” setting on the gear selector.
TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID
The 2018 Camry Hybrid has been re-engineered from the ground up, with a new hybrid system.
The next-generation system works in concert with a new 2.5-L four cylinder mated to a continuously variable transmission with a new Sport Mode setting that allows the driver to execute smoother, quicker “gear” shifts of the simulated six-speed sequential-shift transmission.
The Sport Mode setting also improves acceleration and feel, thanks to an electric power boost from the hybrid system. To help enhance the vehicle’s handling capability, the hybrid system’s battery pack has been moved from the trunk to beneath the rear seat.
The Hybrid also features the new Auto Glide Control, which helps to improve fuel efficiency.
TOYOTA PRIUS
Prius, the world’s best-selling hybrid vehicle, was named 2017 Green Car of the Year, as voted on and awarded by members of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. The fourth-generation sedan debuted in 2016.
The car uses small, lightweight hybrid components, including a lithium-ion hybrid battery in addition to the existing nickel-metal hydride.
Not as jelly bean-shaped as its predecessors, the Prius is now boldly styled, with a long and lower outline that conveys a sporty image.