Deep Drive Podcast: Why Hybrids Are Suddenly in the Limelight

In this episode of the Deep Drive Podcast, Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor, Autocar India, and Sergius Barretto, Managing Editor, Autocar India, analyze how regulatory super-credits and evolving consumer preferences for fuel efficiency are making hybrids an essential bridge technology.

While EV penetration sits at around 8% and hybrids near 2%, upcoming regulatory targets—along with rising fuel costs and E20 efficiency losses—are prompting manufacturers to expand their hybrid portfolios.

We break down distinct technological approaches, ranging from Maruti Suzuki's localized series hybrid and REEV setups on models like the Fronx to Renault-Dacia's 1.2L Horse Powertrain units, Kia and Hyundai's 1.6L and sub-4m hybrid roadmaps, and flex-fuel hybrid developments from Toyota.

The discussion also explores how Mahindra and Tata Motors are evaluating hybrid options to complement their EV lineups, the driving mechanics of Atkinson-cycle engines, and whether competitive pricing can help hybrids close the market share gap with pure electric vehicles heading into 2027.

Watch the full conversation here.