The Continual Evolution of EVs, Hybrids, and Charging Technology

­The shift to electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids (HEVs) are providing a large and growing market for power electronics innovations. According to the International Energy Agency, electric cars accounted for around 18% of all cars sold in 2023. Almost 14 million new electric cars were registered globally in 2023, bringing their total number on the road to over 40 million. These vehicles offer alternatives to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At this writing, the market is in flux with the projections vs the actual demand out of alignment. Many of the EV companies are under financial pressures which might lead to a potential shakeout.  China is emerging as a dominant player in the global market as well.

EVs are powered entirely by electricity stored in high-capacity batteries. Models like the Tesla Model 3, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Nissan Leaf are reshaping the automotive market. The advantages are clear: zero tailpipe emissions, lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and quiet operation. However, challenges remain: Battery costs, vehicle weight, range anxiety and access to charging infrastructure. Innovations in solid-state batteries and increased infrastructure are gradually addressing these hurdles.

HEVs bridge the gap between internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs. Popular models like the Toyota Prius and Honda Accord Hybrid demonstrate the versatility of hybrid systems, which seamlessly switch between power sources based on driving conditions. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) take this a step further by allowing short all-electric trips while retaining the range of an ICE vehicle.

The proliferation of EVs and PHEVs has fueled the expansion of charging networks. Public charging stations range from Level 2 chargers, which provide a full charge in a few hours, to DC fast chargers that can replenish 80% of a battery in 30 minutes. Companies like Tesla, ChargePoint and Electrify America are leading the charge (pun intended). Residential charging solutions also play a critical role, with many EV owners installing home chargers for overnight use. As battery technology improves, EV ranges are extending and charging times are shortening.

Governments worldwide are investing heavily in expanding infrastructure. Countries are setting ambitious goals to phase out ICE vehicles—Norway aims for 2025, while the U.S. targets 50% of all new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030. Consumer adoption continues to grow as incentives and awareness increase, making EVs and hybrids an integral part of the global push towards sustainable transportation. Political changes and technology breakthroughs will have a lot to say about the direction and speed of the market. The shift to EVs and hybrids and even advanced power electronics technology applied to traditional ICE applications are providing a large and growing market for power electronics innovations.