Toyota, historically slow in developing electric vehicles (EVs), is considering transitioning most of its lineup to hybrid-only models. This shift follows decades of hybrid innovation, with Toyota aiming to phase out gasoline-only vehicles, reflecting its commitment to hybrids alongside its EV and alternative energy strategies.

Toyota's stubborn focus on hybrids over EVs is part of a broader challenge to the prevailing industry and regulatory orthodoxy that all cars will be electric in the near future. Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda believes the global share of EVs will top out at just 30%. Instead, Toyota embraces a "multi-pathway" strategy that includes EVs along with hybrids, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, green fuels, and other emerging technologies.

The automaker plans to evaluate, carline by carline, whether going all-hybrid makes sense. The RAV4, America's best-selling SUV, already has hybrid variants accounting for about half of sales. Toyota's effort to convert most or all of its North American lineup to hybrid-only vehicles aims to solidify its dominant position in a market segment that offers both economic and environmental benefits.

In summary, Toyota's bet on hybrid-only models reflects its calculated strategy to navigate the evolving automotive landscape while maintaining its commitment to environmentally friendly options.