GM To Launch New Plug-In Hybrids In 2027

General Motors CEO Mary Barra has confirmed that the automaker’s new plug-in hybrids will be available in 2027. Speaking to The Detroit News, Barra said GM is timing the launch of its PHEVs to “help us comply with the more stringent fuel economy and tailpipe emission standards.” Once prepared to leave hybrid and PHEV technology in the past, GM has decided to embrace PHEVs again, following a steady decline in demand for EVs.

While hybrids are part of GM’s strategy for now, it’s clear that it’s a bridging technology until EV charging infrastructure is improved. “How long hybrids will be part of the solution depends on how quickly we get a robust charging infrastructure,” said the chief executive.

PHEV Options Will Broaden Appeal

While they’re still equipped with a gas-powered engine, plug-in hybrids can run on electric power for a certain number of miles. The Kia Sorento PHEV, for example, has an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 30 miles. That’s not as impressive as the 324 miles the Chevrolet Blazer EV is capable of covering, but it’s something, and it reduces tailpipe emissions. Not only are PHEVs cheaper to buy than their EV contemporaries, but they’re also more practical for longer journeys – at least until the national charging infrastructure improves.

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Earlier this year, Barra reiterated that GM hasn’t given up on its sustainability goals. “Let me be clear: GM remains committed to eliminating tailpipe emissions from our light-duty vehicles by 2035. But in the interim, deploying plug-in technology in strategic segments will deliver some of the environmental benefits of EVs as the nation continues to build its charging infrastructure.” General Motors is one of several brands to change its EV plans. Mercedes-Benz also plans on introducing more PHEVs, and so do Land Rover and Kia, to name a few.

GM Still Has Big EV Plans

Despite its decision to introduce several plug-in hybrids in the near future, General Motors has no plans to abandon the EV sphere. The automaker has launched several new electric cars through its different brands and is even killing off the Malibu to make space for the new Bolt EV. Aside from the new Bolt, Chevrolet offers the new Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Silverado EV. More affordable trims of the Equinox and Blazer will broaden the appeal for GM electric cars.

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On the luxury front, Cadillac has the competent Lyriq crossover and is getting ready to launch the Optiq and Vistiq. Let’s not forget the full-size Escalade IQ. GMC also has the Hummer EVs and the Sierra EV pickup. All these vehicles will contribute to GM’s environmental goals. The Detroit-based automaker plans to build and sell between 200,000 and 300,000 EVs in North America this year. It remains to be seen which GM vehicles will get the PHEV treatment, but we’re guessing strong sellers like the Tahoe, Suburban, Equinox, Escalade, and possibly several Buick models.