Gm Suv Hybrids Given 40% Mileage Increase
The General Motors Corp. said that it now expects 40 percent better fuel economy in city driving from the gasoline-electric hybrid versions of its full-size SUVs than their gasoline-only counterparts, giving the hybrid Chevrolet Tahoes and GMC Yukons 19 or 20 miles a gallon in stop-and-go driving.
The largest American automaker intends to heavily tout improvements in fuel economy for the new-generation Tahoe and Yukon. Highway mileage increased from 19 mpg to 21-22 with the addition of Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Additionally, both the old and new versions get 15 to 16 mpg in town.
Moreover, the plan will significantly boost the mileage of sport utilities. Compared to a number of mid- and full-size sedans running on gasoline, the boost will be noteworthy. Additionally, the boost will make the SUV hybrids far better than the typical crossovers that use less fuel.
The Tahoe and the Yukon, set to arrive in showrooms this fall, will be the first full-size gasoline-electric hybrid sport utility vehicles. The so-called dual-mode hybrid system used in the vehicles was jointly developed with the Chrysler Group and BMW.The Auburn Hills- and Germany-based automakers intend to offer such technology in their lineup. GM will offer it on the Cadillac, then on the full-size pickup trucks. Saturn product lines will get a version later.
Tahoe and Yukon hybrids receive an enhanced hood and front fascias. Chevrolet Tahoe pedal covers and Yukon hood blended to some cutting edge auto parts accessories. The vehicles boast their new monolithic grille and headlights. Tahoe’s hood is highlighted a design attribute overhanging from its smooth contour. Meanwhile, Yukon features a smooth hood with two slight curves on both sides.
The GM SUVs are capable of towing up to 6,200 pounds, versus 8,200 pounds for gasoline-powered counterparts. And the hybrid SUVs will use a conventional four-wheel-drive system with low-range gears appropriate for low-speed challenges such as sand or mud.
There’s still an appetite for full-size trucks, but gas prices have cooled things off. Fuel prices, plus political and social strain for better mileage, have ‘accelerated development’ of fuel-saving technologies.
