Recent research in hybrid networks for next-generation Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) emphasises the fusion of multiple networking paradigms—such as vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), cellular V2X, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) relays, fog/edge computing and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms—to create flexible, resilient, and high-performance vehicular communication systems. These hybrid architectures dynamically switch among or combine various access technologies and routing frameworks depending on context (e.g., traffic density, mobility patterns, application latency requirements), allowing intelligent vehicles to maintain reliable connectivity, share sensor data, and coordinate in real time even under challenging urban, rural or emergency conditions. Key innovations include multi-layer network overlays, adaptive resource allocation, path-diverse routing, and AI-driven decision making embedded across network tiers, enabling seamless connectivity and improved safety, efficiency and autonomy in connected and automated mobility ecosystems.