That’s the view of Paul Newton, associate director
at analysts IHS Automotive, who says that although plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are now common on the auto show circuit, this year's offerings take performance further. Furthermore, this is not limited to concept cars whose production is some distance away; these powertrains are destined for near-term production or variants of technology already on the market.

Premium and luxury brands are showcasing and developing the technology in high-power, sporting applications. In doing so, they can continue to increase the profile of alternative-powertrain options and go some way towards banishing the rather staid image of hybrid models.

Several products at the show also feature standard hybrid electric vehicle options as well, including the extremely aggressive Lexus LF-NX and the Toyota Yaris concept, developed by Toyota's motorsports arm. Land Rover has also introduced hybrid powertrains.

And although some of the vehicles could be viewed as much as research and development projects as actual offerings, IHS adds that the most significant value to the company is the opportunity to learn and refine the technology for expanded use.