A new analysis reveals that plug-in hybrid vehicles produce significantly more real-world emissions than official tests suggest, with some models releasing up to six times the pollution claimed under laboratory conditions. The discrepancy stems from how energy use and tailpipe emissions are measured, particularly when drivers rely more on gasoline power than electric. Regulators and automakers face growing scrutiny over whether current testing standards accurately reflect environmental impact, as these vehicles are often marketed as cleaner alternatives. Critics argue the findings could undermine consumer trust in hybrid technology and its role in reducing carbon footprints.
Plug-in Hybrids emit 6x more pollution than claimed, and they’re getting dirtier Electrek
