Los Angeles Auto Show : General Motors
LOS ANGELES - GMC Yukon Hybrid General Motors CEO, Rick Wagoner, announced at the 2006 Los Angeles auto show the carmaker is determined to increase fuel economy and reduce automotive emissions by adopting alternative fuels and electric powertrains. To that end, GMC introduced a version of the Yukon as the industry's first two-mode hybrid system SUV. Developed in with BMW and DaimlerChrysler, the system exploits one mode for around-town motoring and another for higher speeds. The system cooperates with Active Fuel Management, cam phasing and late intake valve closure for maximum efficiency. GM expects a 25% improvement in overall fuel economy when it arrives at dealerships toward the end of next year. Expect to see this system in other full-size GM SUVs and pickups.