Why are there no domestic hybrid vehicles?
3 Answers
The reason why there are no domestic hybrid vehicles is that the technology for hybrid vehicles is relatively complex at present. The prospects of hybrid vehicles: Judging from the timetables for banning the sale of fuel-powered vehicles introduced by various countries, the future automotive market belongs to new energy vehicles. Therefore, from a long-term perspective, hybrid vehicles are merely a transitional model for new energy vehicles before issues like driving range are resolved. Once battery and charging technologies achieve breakthroughs, the phasing out of hybrid vehicles is only a matter of time. The complexity of hybrid vehicle technology: The technology for hybrid vehicles is relatively more complex. Adding an additional electric motor drive system to the original engine system, while also considering the coordination between the motor, battery, and engine, makes the development process much more complicated and time-consuming.
To be honest, I've been driving for decades. Domestic cars did start late in hybrid technology, not as mature as Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. The main reason is that China's automakers didn't invest enough in early R&D. Battery management and engine matching require cutting-edge technologies, where imported cars took the lead. Additionally, manufacturing costs are too high - hybrid systems involve batteries, motors, and control units, making the whole package expensive and unaffordable for average families, so manufacturers avoided heavy promotion fearing losses. Another point is that imported cars dominate the premium market with brand recognition, forcing domestic brands to focus on low prices while resources were diverted to pure EVs due to better policy subsidies. Now brands like BYD are catching up, but still lack in stability and fuel efficiency, with minor issues frequently appearing during repairs. In summary, technological accumulation and market orientation are key - I suggest the government provide more support for core technology breakthroughs.
As a young car enthusiast, I've noticed that domestic cars actually have hybrid models, like the BYD Qin DM-i, but people often ask why there's no 'Hybrid Synergy Drive'. The main reason is Toyota's overwhelming reputation—their hybrid system was developed early and has a solid track record. Domestic hybrids are still in the development phase, with slightly weaker performance metrics and reliability, coupled with different market strategies. The government offers more subsidies for electric vehicles, so manufacturers prefer investing in pure EVs because consumers favor the cost and hassle savings. Additionally, imported cars have patent protections, raising the R&D barriers for domestic automakers who must navigate around these restrictions. During a test drive at a dealership, the salesperson mentioned that hybrid maintenance costs are higher than pure EVs, with faster battery degradation and expensive repairs, pushing consumers toward pure EVs. I believe the key factors are brand perception and policy influence. Domestic hybrids are gradually improving, and I look forward to breakthrough new models.
