That is true, but there could be a reduction of maintenance on hybrids as well, especially if the majority of stop/go driving is handled by the electric motors.

That is true, but there could be a reduction of maintenance on hybrids as well, especially if the majority of stop/go driving is handled by the electric motors. Synthetic oils are sometimes rated at 10k miles before needing changed, so the ICE does still have maintenance but it's not so constant. It seems like a sensible middle ground because hybrids are also cheaper than EVs in the US so it can get more pure ICE cars off the road.