10 Best Electric And Hybrid Cars From The 2023 Monterey Car Week

A lineup of EVs and PHEVs graced the 2023 Monterey Car Week, and here are our 10 favorites.

Welcome to the recap of the highly anticipated and exhilarating automotive extravaganza of the year - the 2023 Monterey Car Week! Against the picturesque backdrop of Monterey's stunning landscapes, a symphony of innovation and horsepower reverberates through the air, marking the dawn of a new era in the world of automobiles. Prepare to be enthralled as we unveil a dazzling array of concept cars and future vehicles, each one a masterpiece of design and engineering, showcased for enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

In an age where the automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation, this event shines a spotlight on the forefront of progress, featuring an impressive lineup of cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) set to redefine sustainability, as well as the allure of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) that seamlessly blend uncompromising power with unprecedented efficiency. Join us on an electrifying journey as we delve into the captivating realm of these automotive marvels, unravel their distinctive and ingenious features, and catch a glimpse of the thrilling possibilities they unfold before us.

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The Kia EV6 Limited Edition was unveiled during the Monterey Car Week 2023 and swiftly snatched up the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award. Distinguished by its exclusive dark emerald exterior hue, reminiscent of the Monterey coastline, the limited edition boasts black mirror caps, roof rails, and 20-inch wheels with a dark finish.

Powertrain

Dual-Motor

Drivetrain

AWD

Power Output

320 horsepower

Range

280 miles

Its dual-motor all-wheel drive system generates up to 320 horsepower, offering an impressive range of up to 280 miles. Inside, luxury abounds with Nappa leather seats, a Meridian sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display. Safety features include blind spot collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, and highway driving assist. The Kia EV6 Limited Edition is available exclusively to 1,000 U.S. customers and can be reserved online or at Kia dealerships. While pricing details are yet to be announced, it's anticipated to exceed the starting cost of the base EV6 at $40,500. Highlighted alongside the new EV9 SUV, Kia showcased the limited edition at Monterey Car Week, offering test drives at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering— a premier event during the Monterey Car Week at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club.

Unveiled at Monterey Car Week 2023, the Acura ZDX limited edition is a standout version of Acura's debut electric vehicle- the ZDX mid-size SUV. Drawing inspiration from the Electric Vision concept presented at the same event, this edition showcases the Type S performance package, featuring an upgraded single electric motor, sport-tuned suspension, enhanced brakes, and a distinctive front fascia.

Starting MSRP

$60,000

Powertrain

A-spec single motor configuration

Power Output

400 horsepower

Estimated EPA Range

325 miles

The ZDX Type S boasts up to 400 horsepower and a 325-mile range. Embracing the evocative Blackbird design theme, it features a black exterior with red accents, a carbon fiber roof, and 21-inch dark-finished wheels. The lavish interior includes leather seats, a Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a head-up display. The Acura ZDX's advanced safety features encompass adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. Limited to 500 US customers only, reservations are available online and at Acura dealerships. The lucky attendees of the 2023 Monterey Car Week were able to test drive the Acura ZDX at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club.

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Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon and now in the U.S. at The Quail, Monterey Car Week, the Lexus RZ Sport Concept is an electric performance crossover derived from the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e, marking Lexus' inaugural battery-electric vehicle. Distinguished by its dynamic design, the Sport Concept showcases enhanced elements such as a sizable rear spoiler, side skirts, front splitter, and rear diffuser, complemented by a striking dual-tone paint scheme, black alloy wheels, and red brake calipers.

Battery Type

Lithium-ion

Powertrain

Dual-motor system (201 bhp each)

Power Output

402 horsepower

Torque

516 pound-feet

Housing two motors—one per axle—the vehicle has the potential to produce a power output of 402 horsepower and a substantial 516 pound-feet of torque. While specific performance metrics and pricing details remain undisclosed, the Sport Concept represents Lexus' entry into the electric domain with a notably sporty and aggressive offering.

Unveiled at the 2023 Monterey Car Week, the Lexus GX 550 emerges as a beacon of luxury and off-road capability in the realm of mid-size SUVs. Boasting a redesigned front fascia, a larger spindle grille, and LED headlights and taillights, it offers a captivating visual statement. Inside, the refinement continues with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.

Engine

3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine

Hybrid Powertrain

Single electric motor

Power Output

450 horsepower

Torque

516 pound-feet

What truly sets the GX 550 apart is its innovative hybrid system, uniting a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine and an electric motor to generate 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, all while enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. As Monterey Car Week unveils the future of automotive excellence, the Lexus GX 550 stands at the forefront, a fusion of luxury, performance, and environmental consciousness that heralds the road ahead.

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The Pininfarina Pura Vision is a design idea that envisions the company's electrified luxury cars of the future. The Pura Vision model, unveiled at Monterey Car Week 2023, draws inspiration from Pininfarina's 94-year history of producing innovative and stunning automobiles. Blending sports car performance with SUV comfort, the Pura Vision boasts an aerodynamic silhouette, and gull wing doors revealing a lavish interior.

Power Output

600+ horsepower

Range

300+ miles

Length

205.31 inches

Width (including mirrors)

84.53 inches

Height

64.61 inches

Running on an all-electric powertrain, it prioritizes sustainability with zero emissions and efficient battery integration for stability. The Pininfarina Pura Vision electric vehicle is expected to have a power output of 600+ horsepower and an EPA-estimated range of more than 300 miles. The cabin features a transparent roof, a digital cockpit, and eco-friendly materials like recycled wood, leather, and wool. The Pura Vision defines luxury EVs, uniting avantgarde design with eco-engineering.

Unveiled at Monterey Car Week 2023, the 2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio signifies the next generation of the esteemed Giulia lineup, commemorating the brand's 100th anniversary. Alfa Romeo is renowned for its iconic Italian design, rich heritage, and captivating driving experience. This iteration marks a paradigm shift, embracing full electrification and thus, a departure from its gasoline predecessors.

Power Output

1000 horsepower

Range

500 miles

Powertrain

Tri-motor system (one front, two rear)

The 2025 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio promises to redefine performance, boasting an anticipated 1,000 horsepower and a three-second 0 to 60 mph acceleration. With a range of around 500 miles on a single charge, the Alfa Romeo is expected to follow the same motor setup as the Maserati GranTurismo. The 2025 Giulia seamlessly blends efficiency with excitement. Its notable features also include a digital dashboard for multifaceted information and settings, wireless charging for devices, and a customizable sound generator, catering to diverse driver preferences.

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Revealed at Monterey Car Week 2023, the Mercedes Vision One-Eleven is a glimpse into the forthcoming era of Mercedes-Benz sports cars, seamlessly merging avant-garde design with innovative all-electric propulsion. Embodying the hallmark Mercedes-Benz One-Bow design, the concept sports a supercar profile marked by its low, wide stance, elongated hood, and abbreviated rear overhang. A see-through canopy grants a panoramic 360-degree view of the surroundings.

Battery Type

Liquid-cooled cylindrical-cell battery

Powertrain

Axial flux motors

Power Output

1,111 horsepower

0 to 60 mph sprint time

Under three seconds

Propelled by four compact axial flux motors, delivering a combined 1,111 horsepower, the Vision One-Eleven sprints from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds. A liquid metal battery offers a speedy 15-minute recharge. Noteworthy features include an animated digital grille, an adaptable rear spoiler, and a biometric scanner for personalized settings. Enriching the experience, a virtual assistant facilitates driver-vehicle communication and interaction with other cars.

The Zenvo Aurora Agil, a dynamic hybrid hypercar, prioritizes track agility. It is one iteration of the Zenvo Aurora, joined by the luxury-focused Zenvo Aurora Tur. A twin-turbocharged 5.8-liter V-8 engine, electric motor, and seven-speed sequential gearbox combine for a robust hybrid system generating 1,450 horsepower.

Engine

Twin-turbocharged 5.8-liter V-8 engine

Hybrid powertrain

Singular electric motor

Power Output

1,450 horsepower

Torque

1,032 pound-feet

Achieving a top speed of 233 miles per hour, the Agil integrates an active carbon fiber body with a dynamic rear wing, front splitter, and rear diffuser. Its adaptable suspension system aligns with driving modes (Road, Sport, Race, Custom), and the minimalist interior emphasizes the driver experience with digital instruments, a central touchscreen, steering wheel controls, and a telemetry system for lap times, speed, G-force, and temperature analysis.

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Unveiled at Monterey Car Week 2023, the Rimac Nevera Time Attack is a remarkable variant of the hyper-advanced Nevera electric hypercar. Elevating the bar with 1,813 horsepower and a top speed of 259 mph. Of course, the Rimac Nevera Time Attack doesn't have "Time Attack" in its name for nothing. It is able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under two seconds and commemorates its Nürburgring triumph—clocking seven minutes and 0.928 seconds, securing the record as the fastest electric production car on the iconic track.

Powertrain

Quad-motor

Power Output

1,813 horsepower

Top Speed

259 mph

This edition bears unique elements, namely a Nürburgring-inspired custom paint scheme, an aerodynamic carbon fiber rear wing, and a safety-enhancing roll cage. Outfitted with a data logger, it captures performance metrics for driving analysis. Exclusivity is paramount, as only 12 units are planned, each priced around $2.8 million, slightly exceeding the base Nevera. A testament to the Rimac Nevera Time Attack is the fact that all 12 examples planned have been booked already.

Unveiled during Monterey Car Week 2023, the Pininfarina B95 is a special rendition of the Battista electric hypercar. Exhibiting a barchetta style, it lacks a roof and windshield, prioritizing an undiluted driving thrill. Sharing the Battista coupe's 1,877-horsepower Rimac quad-motor powertrain, the B95 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and tops 186 mph.

Battery

Lithium-ion battery pack

Battery Capacity

120 kWh

Powertrain

Quad-motor

Power Output

1877 horsepower

Fast Charging Speed (270 kW charger)

20- to 80 percent in 25 minutes

Its carbon fiber body, red-black color scheme, and imposing rear spoiler define its distinctive design, complemented by a custom helmet matching the car's esthetics. With only 10 copies planned globally, we expect the Pininfarina B95 to cost more than double the Battista coupe's cost, which only had 150 examples produced. Attendees of the Monterey Car Week also had the opportunity for test drives at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, a prominent facet of the week's events.

As a child Aliza was fascinated with the world of science-fiction, a time where electric vehicles was an entity one could only possess in the future. Since the emergance of EVs the passion for seeking knowledge over this sustainable mode of transportation was planted within her mind. Thus began a love story between her passion for writing, sustainability, and all things electrical.