Episode #1411: California hybrids reclaim the lead over EVs, Tesla reportedly weighs separating its China business ahead of a potential SpaceX merger, and record trade-in equity gives dealers and buyers more room to make a deal.
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California buyers are putting hybrids back in front. In the first half of 2026, hybrid registrations overtook EVs for the first time in four years, giving franchised dealers a lift as Toyota, Honda and others expand their gasoline-electric lineups.
- Standard hybrids captured 22.1% of California registrations, compared with 15.9% for EVs and 2.3% for plug-in hybrids.
- The shift favors franchised retailers because direct-sales brands such as Tesla and Rivian do not offer hybrids.
- Toyota led California with 19% market share, followed by Honda at 10.9% and Tesla at 9%. The Model Y remained the top individual model, with the hybrid Camry second.
- Dealers say smaller pri...