Tired of hearing about electric-cars? Americans still want muscle

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Though headlines might lead one to believe that this year is all about the hybrid car, manufacturers offerings suggest that it is more than that. Although energy efficiency is more prevalent now than ever before in the car game, manufacturers are also rolling out the most powerful cars – ever.

Ford and GM both offer cars steeped in ‘American Muscle’ that deliver upwards of 500hp, with Chrysler coming in at 465hp with its Dodge Charger SRT8. Toyota is even putting out power monsters through its Lexus luxury division.

Muscle models are even collectively outselling hybrid-electrics. The high-end muscles however, such as the Camaro ZL1, Charger SRT8, and Mustang GT500 make up a small niche in the market, with most buyers opting for blander base models of these cars, all of which offer decidedly less performance.

While automakers everywhere are honing their hybrid technology, the same goes for muscle and performance vehicles. A surefire sign of the rising demand for such vehicles is evidenced by Hyundai’s recent announcement at the Chicago auto show that it will be increasing the hp offered by the Genesis by 51hp, bringing the cars total to an impressive 429.

– By: Stephen Calogera

Source: MSNBC