Toyota's Chairman said that EVs pollute more than hybrids do, so here's what research says
Published on Oct 16, 2025 at 3:27 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards
Last updated on Oct 16, 2025 at 8:23 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
Toyota’s Chairman is adamant that EVs pollute more than hybrids and it’s causing some controversy.
In his latest comments, the Toyota chairman argued that one EV pollutes as much as three hybrids.
The cause? He cited higher emissions from making batteries and Japan’s fossil-fuel-heavy grid.
It’s certainly a punchy statement, but when you look at the research, it tells a very different story.
EXPLORE SBX CARS – Supercar auctions starting soon powered by Supercar Blondie
Do EVs pollute more than hybrids?
Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda is continuing to stir controversy amongst EV fans, scientists, and researchers alike, with his claim that EVs are bigger pollutants than hybrids.
Researchers have pushed back against Toyoda, saying that while he’s right in some aspects, he’s mostly incorrect when it comes to long-term EV usage.
Studies do show EVs come with a bigger ‘carbon debt’ from production, especially the energy-intensive battery, and manufacturing an EV can generate around 11-14 tons of CO₂, compared to 6-9 tons for a hybrid.
But while EVs might start off dirty, they quickly make up for it.
What the research says
Once on the road, EVs quickly make up the difference.
According to the Argonne National Lab, most EVs in the US break even after about 19,500 miles.
A Nature study puts it closer to 28,000 miles – still only a few years of driving, and after that, EVs keep outperforming.
Toyoda’s other point is about electricity: if the grid is dirty, so is your EV, which is true, but even under coal-heavy conditions, EVs usually come out ahead.
InsideEVs compared a Tesla Model Y and a Prius Plug-in Hybrid.
In West Virginia, where coal dominates, the Model Y still emitted less CO₂ per mile (149 g vs. 177 g).
In California, with its cleaner grid, the difference was dramatic: 80 g for the Model Y vs 130 g for the Prius.
The gap will only widen as battery recycling scales up too.
That means EVs are getting cleaner as they age, something hybrids can never claim.
Toyota’s Chairman was half right, because EVs do start their lives earlier.
Daisy is a technology and automotive journalist covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, emerging technologies, and transportation innovation. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral car stories and the latest developments shaping transportation and the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work spans cutting-edge technology, innovative vehicles, and the people driving change across both industries. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.
