Carmakers Turn to Gas Engines to Extend Electric-Car Range

The auto industry is preparing a new stopgap on the road to an all-electric future: electric vehicles fitted with gasoline engines.

Hyundai, Ford and Stellantis are preparing to bring vehicles to market that promise the convenience of electric driving while retaining the reassurance of a gas station when needed.

The approach is being considered as a response to Americans’ fear that an electric car could leave them stranded on the highway. The open question is whether extended-range electric vehicles will ease charging anxiety or become another complicated transition step for buyers to learn.