An industry spokesman says new technologies such as plug-in hybrids will not benefit from the tax plan’s long-term incentives, threatening the ability of the U.K. and its automotive sector to meet ever-stricter CO2 targets.
The Roland Berger consultancy calls its 2025 forecast optimistic, meaning hybrid sales growth in the U.S. and Europe will depend on strict emissions and fuel-economy regulations and large investments in battery-recharging infrastructure.
As automakers maximize the potential of vehicle platforms, a GKN executive says the electric rear axle is a simple way to convert a front-drive architecture to a fuel-saving hybrid that also enables AWD when necessary.
Subaru’s hardy flat-fours once were criticized as buzzy, unrefined and not very fuel-efficient, but the latest 268-hp 2.0L turbocharged, direct-injected iteration earns high praise.
New engines from Toyota and Honda, transmissions from Aisin and hybrid systems from several suppliers were among the highlights from the Japan exhibition.