Aside from the incomprehensible abbreviations surrounding hybrid automobiles, the more compelling resistance is the uncertainty about where to charge them. Whether indeed one needs to charge them at all. Or may we instead rely upon a regenerative capacity when driving in dinosaur mode? And what’s with the plugs and hook-ups for 110v or 220v? And do we need special electrical installations? And what about those government incentives? Do we need to apply? Or are they deducted at source?
The automobile plutocrats have learned how to change our minds for us. From what I understand, GM and Ford no longer make sedans (except for their iconic sports cars like Camaro, Corvette and Mustang). Anything else remotely resembling a sedan is more likely to be a curious conveyance such as the Smart Car. For the rest, it’s all about SUVs.
While the SUV trend is generally targeted to a young audience, Lincoln has opted to serve its anticipated clientele of former “boulevard ride” customers; that is, people like I who drive without being in a hurry. And who like comfort and a terrific sound system while not doing so. As for the PHEV it has become the so-called “industry standard”, the effect of which is to criticize or disparage those of us who do not embrace the new trend.
Compared to conventional hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), PHEVs have a larger battery pack that can be charged from the power grid, which is also more efficient and can cost less than using only the on-board generator, and also often have a more powerful electric output capable of longer and more frequent EV mode driving, helping to reduce operating costs. A PHEV’s battery pack is smaller than all-electric vehicles for the same vehicle weight (due to the necessity to still accommodate its combustion engine and hybrid drivetrain), but has the auxiliary option of switching back to using its gasoline/diesel engine like a conventional HEV if the battery runs low, alleviating range anxiety especially for places that lack sufficient charging infrastructure.
Combined with energy efficiency is a move to minimalism reflected not only in diminished size but also in diminished power. For the moment the variety of choice is limited. The manufacturers are already having difficulty keeping pace with the appetite of its victims. For example what historically was recommended as an 8-week duration from order to delivery has now been translated to 4 months.
In the meantime Lincoln has kept alive the popular salivation by tweaking the bells and whistles to extraordinary levels. Technology has strongly influenced this evolution; namely, relentless and always gratifying. Automobiles have an alcoholic urgency to them.
Post Scriptum:
Very FUN read today, it was in keeping with an article in the WSJ. The confusion about Electric, to be or not to be is quite exciting…Especially if you live in California or want to go to California, and several other states I am told by my neighbors, that PLEASE DO NOT PLUG IN YOUR ELECTRIC car or truck during these times of low energy source and brown outs.
California is mandating all vehicles to be Electric in 7 years time. Presently there are 2% of electric chargers available on the roads, the power can’t be used anyway its forbidden.
First day on the Job, Biden cancelled the Canadian pipeline and made a deal with Putin for cheap gas. Don’t want to buy from your friends and neighbors, or be energy independent, that would take VISION.
Perhaps driving your sedan Chevy, that took $10.00 to fill the tank and lasted all week, is a vision in somebody’s rear view mirror.
Patti,
owner of a gas guzzler and proud of it.