Hybrid technology can reduce emissions and fuel consumption when used in a small car- but apply the same hardware to a large SUV, and the potential environmental benefits are even greater. Their thirstier engines stand to burn less fuel when assisted by an electric-drive system, and SUV's also offer plenty of room for the additional hybrid hardware like batteries and wiring.
SUV's don't get much larger than the Chevrolet Tahoe or GMC Yukon- and both are a popular choice for active families who enjoy the outdoors. Though their 5.3 liter V8 engines deliver class-leading fuel economy, GM engineers have developed a two-mode hybrid system to help owners save even more.
By pairing up the V8 with the advanced hybrid system, fuel economy in combined city and highway driving is expected to drop by some 25%. Opt for a two-wheel-drive model, and you'll use about the same amount of fuel as a mid-sized sedan while enjoying the size and capacity of a full-sized SUV.
The 2-mode hybrid system can deliver zero-consumption, electric-only driving at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. Conversely, the electric motors can boost vehicle performance during brisk acceleration- rather than relying entirely on the gas engine to do the job. Power for the electric system is generated entirely on board, with no need to plug the vehicle in.
GM's advanced hybrid system was developed jointly with Chrysler and BMW in a special purpose-built facility shared by the three automakers. The application of the resulting technology to the Tahoe and Yukon has just won the automaker two Pyramid Awards for 2008 from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). It's the third year in a row they've won the award.
This year's second award went to the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid- the latest addition to GM's family of affordable hybrids which also includes the Saturn Aura and Saturn Vue. This gives GM the broadest line-up of hybrids in the industry.
"GM remains focused on energy diversity, offering consumers a range of affordable green options from fuel efficient small cars and small utilities to options like cylinder de-activation technology and E85 flex fuels, more hybrids than any other manufacturer, and in the future, electric and hydrogen powered vehicles," said Marc Comeau, V.P. of sales, service and marketing for GM.
GM customers needn't go the hybrid route to do their part for the environment. With flex-fuel compatible engines fitted, even standard models can run on any combination of green E85 ethanol and regular gasoline from the same tank. Additionally, some of GM's V8 engines feature Active Fuel Management (AFM), which can disable cylinders when they aren't needed to help save even more fuel.
Tim Shearman, CAA president, sums up GM's current environmental initiatives. "General Motors has won CAA's Environmental Pyramid Award before due to a multi- pronged approach to finding environmental solutions designed to help Canadians make environmentally-friendly choices whether commuting around town or crossing the country."
photo:General Motors
SUV's don't get much larger than the Chevrolet Tahoe or GMC Yukon- and both are a popular choice for active families who enjoy the outdoors. Though their 5.3 liter V8 engines deliver class-leading fuel economy, GM engineers have developed a two-mode hybrid system to help owners save even more.
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| 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid |
By pairing up the V8 with the advanced hybrid system, fuel economy in combined city and highway driving is expected to drop by some 25%. Opt for a two-wheel-drive model, and you'll use about the same amount of fuel as a mid-sized sedan while enjoying the size and capacity of a full-sized SUV.
The 2-mode hybrid system can deliver zero-consumption, electric-only driving at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. Conversely, the electric motors can boost vehicle performance during brisk acceleration- rather than relying entirely on the gas engine to do the job. Power for the electric system is generated entirely on board, with no need to plug the vehicle in.
GM's advanced hybrid system was developed jointly with Chrysler and BMW in a special purpose-built facility shared by the three automakers. The application of the resulting technology to the Tahoe and Yukon has just won the automaker two Pyramid Awards for 2008 from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). It's the third year in a row they've won the award.
This year's second award went to the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid- the latest addition to GM's family of affordable hybrids which also includes the Saturn Aura and Saturn Vue. This gives GM the broadest line-up of hybrids in the industry.
"GM remains focused on energy diversity, offering consumers a range of affordable green options from fuel efficient small cars and small utilities to options like cylinder de-activation technology and E85 flex fuels, more hybrids than any other manufacturer, and in the future, electric and hydrogen powered vehicles," said Marc Comeau, V.P. of sales, service and marketing for GM.
 |
| 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid |
GM customers needn't go the hybrid route to do their part for the environment. With flex-fuel compatible engines fitted, even standard models can run on any combination of green E85 ethanol and regular gasoline from the same tank. Additionally, some of GM's V8 engines feature Active Fuel Management (AFM), which can disable cylinders when they aren't needed to help save even more fuel.
Tim Shearman, CAA president, sums up GM's current environmental initiatives. "General Motors has won CAA's Environmental Pyramid Award before due to a multi- pronged approach to finding environmental solutions designed to help Canadians make environmentally-friendly choices whether commuting around town or crossing the country."
photo:General Motors