How would you rewrite this explainer?

Getting facts straight would be a good start. That implies getting a knowledgeable writer with no agenda.

Under Mild Hybrids under Cons should be "Increased complexity versus some other Hybrid types"

Under Series Hybrid, the first sentence is totally wrong! A Parallel Hybrid should be a different category! I guess power-split refers to parallel hybrid.

Under Advantages should be "simplicity & lower maintenance compared to mile Hybrids & conventional vehicles."

I do not think maximizing efficiency means reducing power output. Some proof would be useful.

 

Best Hybrid/EV Buying Guide - Consumer Reports

My takeaway: Is a Hybrid or Electric vehicle right for me?
Not yet.....

"....Towing
Towing is not hybrids' forte. Towing capacities are usually less than equivalent conventional models. Car-based hybrid SUVs can generally tow up to 3,500 pounds, plenty for a small boat or a very small camper. Some used large hybrid SUVs and pickups can tow 5,000 pounds, or enough for a medium-sized boat, travel camper, or large utility trailer."

 

I only see one error, but is a big one; the Series Hybrid section should have been called Full Hybrid. That is the step up in car hybridization over a mild hybrid. The different types of full hybrid systems; series, parallel, and power-split could be discussed. This is a primer on electricfied car types, so it depends on how much detail you want to convey in it.

To the target audience, all hybrids are more complex than the ICE only car they drive now. Yes, a power split hybrid has less parts than a car with an automatic transmission, but it requires a network of computers to work, each of which likely has more computing power than what we used to get a man to the moon. Then not every full hybrid available is a power split.

The KISS approach would be to acknowledge that all hybrids add complexity over a ICE car with additional components added for the hybrid system, and point out that the modern ICE car is already a very complex machine with multiple computers controlling the engine, transmission, emission controls, brakes, and other safety systems. As an introduction to hybrids and other electric cars, you don't want to take the reader down the rabbit hole, and start pointing out things like mild hybrids being less complex than an ICE car because they replace the starter and alternator with a single electric motor/generator.

Power-split is the hybrid type the Prius and Accord have. Parallel is what the Ioniq uses. Nissan has a series hybrid in Japan, but every one knows what a train locomotive is. These are all full hybrids, and only the parallel type can be a mild hybrid.

In order to have better performance, whether for fun or work, the car needs to be capable of producing more power than needed for a load of passengers and some luggage. If the car can do that, its design has not been maximized for efficiency, because then it is paying the price for producing that extra power in extra weight; in the engine, motors, or battery, at the very least.