Nissan Leaf Creator Admits 'Hybrids Are a Misdirection'
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Nissan Leaf Creator Admits 'Hybrids Are a Misdirection'

"Godfather electric vehicles" made a bold statement to automakers that produce hybrid cars. In his opinion, instead of "half measures" they should switch completely to electric traction. Otherwise, there is a high probability of lagging behind Chinese companies that already occupy a leading position in this industry.


The author of this statement was Andy Palmer, the former CEO of Aston Martin and a top manager at Nissan. This figure is best known for his contribution to the development of electric cars and, in particular, the creation of the Leaf model.

The latter is the first "truly" mass-produced car on "green" fuel. Let us recall that it was released in 2010 and sold more than 500 thousand copies.

Nissan Leaf Creator Admits 'Hybrids Are a Misdirection'Andy Palmer at the presentation of the electric Nissan Note. Photo: YouTube.com

The former CEO of Aston Martin is sure that the bet on "blue cars" could become the biggest strategic mistake of global automakers. This is how he commented on his statement:

Hybrid cars are a dead end. The longer companies linger on this intermediate link, the further they lag behind their competitors. Refusing to fully electrify or artificially slowing down their production only worsens the position of such brands.

Palmer is confident that the growth of Chinese companies and their "green" cars is primarily due to government support. Since 2009, the Chinese government has invested more than $230 billion in this industry.

In addition to direct financial injections, China's leadership is promoting electric vehicles at the legislative level. For example, in some parts of cities it is no longer allowed to drive gasoline or diesel models. The strengthening of the position of "eco-cars" is also observed in subsidies for purchase, cheaper insurance and free parking.

A top manager at Nissan suggested that Western auto giants should prepare for tough competition with Chinese brands. In particular, we are talking about those that have already “set a course” for the EU market. A striking example of this is BYD and Xpeng.

Palmer commented on the expansion of electric vehicles from China as follows:

If Chinese brands gain a foothold in Europe, we simply won't be able to counter them. Our electric vehicle technologies are noticeably behind, and the final cost of the models is higher. As a response, we are being offered to introduce increased import duties, and some countries are already vigorously applying them. Such a move will most likely have the opposite effect, only strengthening the positions of Chinese companies.

Andy Palmer cited the Japanese auto industry as an example. Toyota's focus on hybrids in the past has led to its current stagnation.

Nissan Leaf – one of the first “truly” mass-market electric cars. Photo: YouTube.com

The company had many "blue" models and they sold well, but now the situation is reversed - the consumer literally refuses to buy the ninth generation Camry.

Another example is Nissan. The brand was a pioneer in the electric vehicle segment, but it was unable to maintain its position. Moreover, the Japanese company is now on the verge of bankruptcy and is forced to enter into a partnership agreement with Honda.

In conclusion, Palmer named two main obstacles that prevent a mass transition to "green" cars. This list includes the still high cost of such cars and problems with charging infrastructure.
Does the market need hybrid cars?
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