Sales of electric and hybrid vehicles continue to rise in Colorado. And to no surprise, the top-selling model this year is a crossover-SUV, the Toyota RAV4 PHEV.

But that’s a hybrid, so gas power kicks in when needed. Pure electric vehicles, especially SUVs and pickups, are a much rarer breed at area auto dealerships and among Colorado drivers.

This could change if Gov. John Hickenlooper’s executive order for the state to join California’s low-emission vehicle standard moves forward next month.

“We have some interest in the all-electric vehicles and we can’t get the cars,” said Lee Payne, CEO of Planet Honda and Planet Hyundai in Golden. “There’s not much we can do until the manufacturer makes the decision to send it here. …They’re filling orders in states where they have a mandate.”  Read more »