Electric vehicles have become entangled in political and cultural debates, particularly in the United States. Supporters champion EVs as crucial for combating climate change and enhancing industrial competitiveness. Conversely, critics perceive them as symbols of government overreach and ideological imposition. This division is amplified by public figures like Elon Musk. The article suggests that the Toyota Prius, introduced 25 years ago, may have inadvertently contributed to this politicization by marketing hybrids as environmentally conscious choices, which appealed to liberals but sparked backlash from others.