The automotive industry has undergone significant changes in the past five years, with electric and hybrid vehicles gaining popularity. In 2020, Tesla sold around 500,000 cars globally, and the Toyota Prius was the top-selling hybrid with 43,500 units sold in the US. Fast forward to 2025, and the hybrid and EV segments have exploded, with EV sales reaching 10.5% of new vehicle sales in the US and hybrids making up around 20% of sales.
The Toyota Camry, which has been America’s favorite car for decades, has played a significant role in the growth of the hybrid segment. In 2025, the Camry went hybrid-only, and despite some criticism, the car has been well-received by consumers. In fact, the 2025 Camry is on track to finish the year with its second-highest sales number this decade, with an estimated 312,929 units sold.
The success of the Camry hybrid has not been affected by the switch to a hybrid-only model, and it has remained America’s favorite car. The car’s sales have been consistent, with an average of 24,056 units sold per month. The hybrid-only model has also led to a significant increase in sales, with the Camry selling nearly as many units as it did in 2021.
The growth of the hybrid segment has been impressive, with hybrids selling nearly twice as fast as EVs. The Toyota Camry has been a major contributor to this growth, and its success has paved the way for other hybrid models. The car’s fuel efficiency, with a combined mpg of 51, has been a major selling point, and its affordability has made it an attractive option for consumers.
The EV segment, on the other hand, has experienced a boost in sales due to the expiration of tax incentives. Tesla, which has been the leader in the EV market, has seen a significant increase in sales, with the Model Y being its best-selling model. However, the EV segment still lags behind the hybrid segment in terms of sales, and it remains to be seen whether it will continue to grow in the coming years.
The future of the automotive industry is uncertain, with the transition to electric vehicles being a major topic of discussion. While some experts predict that EVs will become the norm in the next few decades, others argue that it will take longer. The government’s role in supporting the EV segment will be crucial in determining its success, and the current administration’s lack of support for EVs may hinder its growth.
In conclusion, the hybrid segment has been the clear winner in 2025, with the Toyota Camry leading the charge. The car’s success has paved the way for other hybrid models, and its fuel efficiency and affordability have made it an attractive option for consumers. While the EV segment has experienced a boost in sales, it still lags behind the hybrid segment, and its future growth is uncertain. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the hybrid and EV segments develop in the coming years.