Large hybrid SUV sales crash

Down from 1,000 per month

"The momentum that General Motors was starting to get with its hybrid sales hit a major speed bump last month," reports Autobloggreen this morning.

In September the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid combined, achieved sales of just over 1,000 units. In October, despite the edition of the Cadillac Escalade hybrid, total sales of all three of these hybrid vehicles dropped to 795 units.

I don't know that I'd call 1,000 units per month momentum, but I think it's obvious that large SUVs - whether hybrid or not - have no future.

GM's dual mode hybrids: Just greenwashing?

Is the marketing budget bigger than the production budget?

A few years ago Dan Neil wrote an article that so offended GM that the automaker pulled all of their advertising from the LA Times. Well, he might have achieved the same result with his recent article, Just Right, Yet Wrong.

Dan says a lot of great things about vehicles like the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid. Still, he has questions, a lot of questions about GM's dual mode hybrid vehicles, and those questions lead Dan to the word 'greenwashing'. Read more....

Can GM turn SUV drivers green?

The face of the devil according to environmentalists?

Following the Detroit Auto Show last January, my hosts, GM, gave me a ride to the airport in a Cadillac Escalade. As an SUV-hater, this simple trip to the airport was a profound moment. I realized that I had probably never been more comfortable in a vehicle as I was in that Escalade.

I had a similar moment, again provided by GM, when I was asked to test drive the Chevy Tahoe hybrid back in August, after which I penned my thoughts in the post, The Devil Drives a Tahoe hybrid.

Now I didn't come up with such a title because I think such full-sized SUVs are evil, which I kind of do, rather I compared the Tahoe hybrid to the devil because the Tahoe hybrid had caused me temptation. Like the Escalade, the Tahoe hybrid was a joy to drive, unlike the Escalade, however, the Tahoe was a hybrid SUV. Read more......

A hybrid for hip hoppers?

A bling-bling hybrid vehicle

When I was at the LA Auto Show I was given an issue of Dub Magazine. I thumbed through the issue expecting to find little of interest when I came across the Dub Edition of the Chevy Tahoe.

Wouldn't it be hilarious to see a Kid Rock video, or some hip hop artist in a video featuring a Dub Edition of the Chevy Tahoe hybrid? That's when you would know that hybrid vehicles have truly gone mainstream.

Is $50,000 too much for a full-sized hybrid SUV

A Yukon hybrid at the LA Auto Show

Back in August, when I was able to test drive the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, I was very impressed. In fact, I was so tempted I titled the article of my test drive as The Devil Drives a Chevy Tahoe Hybrid. I'm not a fan of big SUVs, but the Tahoe hybrid tempted me.

However, after learning that the price of this hybrid SUV, as well as the very similar GMC Yukon hybrid, is going to start around $50,000, I'm no longer tempted. I simply cannot afford such a vehicle.

I love hybrid vehicles, particularly full hybrid vehicles, but can GM really sell many of its full hybrids at such a price? I'm just not sure. The Tahoe and Yukon hybrids are excellent vehicles for hybrid SUV fans, but $50,000? Dammnnn!

A Mini environmental cause: The Tahoe hybrid

Deserving of the Green Car of the Year Award?

Yesterday, as I was walking through the Auto Show, I found myself near the Mini Cooper stand, and I thought I would check out some Minis for people whom might want to focus on fuel economy, without buying a hybrid vehicle.

I was SHOCKED.

As I was checking out these very small cars, which are gorgeous by the way, I noticed that many of them offer city fuel economy in the low 20's - the same city fuel economy of the HUGE Chevy Tahoe hybrid. (Finish)

Finally, a real revolution from Chevy?

A classic American vehicle goes green?

There is no vehicle segment more important than trucks to GM's Chevy brand. Certainly, SUVs are a profitable product for GM, but trucks are Chevy's marquee vehicle.

Thus, while it's great that GM has gotten into the full hybrid game with the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid, the hybrid that I think GM can be most proud of at this point in time is the Chevy Silverado hybrid.

If all goes well, this new hybrid truck will hit dealerships in late 2008 and it will be the definition of GM's American Revolution branding, finally - at least until the Chevy Volt.

GM's dual mode hybrids: DOA?

Is it now all about the Volt?

GM's dual mode hybrids, such as the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid, are not even yet for sale. Even so, are they already being phased out?

Finish: GM's dual mode hybrids: DOA?

Hybrid of Presidents?

Top hybrid for Presidential candidates

The DetroitNews reported this weekend that Ford began running ads in New Hampshire and Washington "touting the fact that the Ford Escape Hybrid was the top choice of vehicles among presidential candidates."

GM, however, was quick to respond, 'Wait until the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and GMC Yukon hybrid become available for sale.'

Tahoe and Yukon hybrids as efficient as a Camry?

As efficient as a Camry?

Ed Peper, a General Manager for GM's Chevrolet, told CNBC's Behind the Wheel that the Chevy Tahoe hybrid would achieve 21 mpg in the city - the city fuel economy of a conventional Toyota Camry.

That's a good start. Of course, the Toyota Camry hybrid, on the other hand, achieves mid to high 30s fuel economy in the city.

Still, I get Chevy's point.

My Chevy Tahoe hybrid test drive left me very impressed. Still, it's hard for me to endorse any large SUV, but I absolutely believe that the buyers of large SUVS need to take some responsibility for their gas-guzzling. The Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid provide such an opportunity for large SUV buyers to both reduce foreign oil consumption and to invest in GM's hybrid technology.

Hopefully, one day, that investment will lead to hybrid cars in addition to smaller hybrid SUVs from GM. Until then, the Tahoe and Yukon hybrids are a step forward.

Just 10,000 GM dual mode hybrids?

Just a PR effort?

I'm not a big fan of SUVs, but when I test drove the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, I was quite impressed. If you have to have an SUV of this size, I believe it should be the hybrid Tahoe.

Nonetheless, GM doesn't seem to have very high expectations for either the Tahoe hybrid or the GMC Yukon hybrid. While I can't remember the source, I read something the other day quoting Bob Lutz in which he said GM planned to sell about 10,000 of these hybrids in the first year - in total.

Considering the sales of other hybrid SUVs, such as the Ford Escape hybrid or the Toyota Highlander hybrid, these numbers are not that surprising. Nonetheless, the Highlander hybrid will outsell both of GM's hybrid SUVs, even though it barely qualifies for any tax credit.

I'm glad GM is finally launching some dual mode hybrids, I just wish they were being a little more aggressive.

Hybrid SUVs: The same old GM?

Large SUVs will become GM's first hybrids

When the first full hybrid vehicles from GM hit the streets this Fall, they will come in the form of full size SUVs. And, why should anyone be surprised that GM would start with large SUVs, such as the Yukon hybrid or the Tahoe hybrid?

If large trucks are GM's bread, then large SUVs are GM's butter.

Of course, GM's bread and butter isn't as tasty to consumers as it was a decade ago. Sure, more fuel efficient hybrid versions of these gas-guzzlers might help stem the public's growing disinterest in such vehicles, but will they provide any new marketshare?

--> Finish: GM's hybrids: The wrong start?

Volt and hybrids are the future for GM?

Chevy Tahoe hybrid: The future of things to come from GM?

"We know that our success in the future is contingent on delivering technology that is meaningful to society," said Larry Nitz, executive director of GM's hybrid technology, who was among the team of engineers at GM's Milford Proving Grounds Friday to showcase the automaker's new powertrain technologies. "The whole spirit of the company is driven to do this."

I have had the pleasure of hanging out with many GM employees, including top executives, and I have to agree that I do believe the "spirit" of GM is changing - has changed.

Already GM is finalizing the launch of its first full hybrid vehicles, such as the Tahoe hybrid and the Yukon hybrid, and many more hybrids are due to hit the road in the next few years, including a dual mode plug-in hybrid, the Saturn Vue.

Still, what really gets many GM employees excited is the Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid. Despite the claims of naysayers, this vehicle is not just a hype machine, although it has played that role well since its debut. For GM employees, I believe, the Volt is the nail in the coffin of GM-haters - a role I have taken in the past. The Volt is final proof that GM has not only changed, but that GM can bring the best automotive technology to the world - even in terms of fuel economy or emissions.

While success isn't guaranteed, where there is a will, there is a way, and I absolutely believe that GM has the will. May the force be with them.

The devil drives a Chevy Tahoe hybrid

GM's new hybrid face

Temptation.

That's the best way to describe my Chevy Tahoe hybrid test drive yesterday. Pure and simple temptation.

I mean large, gas-guzzling SUVs are destroying the world, right? Besides, when I was invited to test drive one of GM's first dual mode hybrid vehicles, I did it to test the technology, not to see if I liked the vehicle. I hate these SUVs, right?

So, why am I again tempted? Finish: The devil drives a Tahoe hybrid

A skeptical view of GM's hybrid vehicles

No Prius-fighter for years?

When it comes to hybrid cars, Toyota is king. Of course, when 2 members of the Big 3 aren't even selling full hybrids, it's easy to be king. So, will that change when GM starts selling its first full hybrids?

There is no doubt that GM's first dual mode hybrid vehicles, the Yukon hybrid and the Tahoe hybrid, will have an advantage over Toyota's hybrid trucks and SUVs. In particular, GM's dual mode hybrids can tow big loads and achieve impressive highway fuel economy for such large vehicles.

On the other hand, GM's hybrids might cost over $10,000 more than their conventional counterparts. Thus, while some can claim GM's hybrids are more technologically sophisticated than Toyota's, they also appear to be more expensive. Will the rewards justify the costs?

--> Finish: A skeptic's view of GM's hybrids

Tahoe versus Tahoe hybrid will you pay $10,000 more?

Dual mode hybrids $10,000 more than conventionals?

In just a couple of months GM's dual mode hybrid vehicles will finally hit the market. Thus, buyers of many of GM's top selling SUVs will be able to buy hybrid versions these gas-guzzlers, potentially providing a huge savings in fuel costs.

Finish: $10,000.00 more for a Tahoe hybrid

My American-made hybrid

Chevy's foreign oil dependency fighter?

Many SUV fans believe that hybrid SUVs are more important than hybrid cars. These SUV advocates argue that converting the most inefficient vehicles into hybrids results in the greatest fuel savings.

While I see the logic in this belief, I don't agree. Yes, hybrid SUVs are extremely important, but they are not more important than smaller hybrid cars.

For instance, if I'm single, and I want to have the greatest impact on foreign oil dependency, it is far better to buy a Toyota Prius or a Civic hybrid, rather than a Tahoe hybrid.

--> Finish: My American-made hybrid?

Is the Tahoe hybrid an American Revolution?

Finally, an American hybrid

I won't call it a freedom-fighter - that takes, minimally, 40 mpg. Nonetheless, I'll call the Chevy Tahoe hybrid an incredibly important step in the evolution of the American automobile. I might even call it an American revolution.

The Chevy Tahoe hybrid, as well as the Yukon hybrid, will not just be the first dual mode hybrid vehicles, these hybrids vehicles will be Made in America.

Unlike Ford's hybrids, such as the Escape hybrid, the Tahoe hybrid......

---> Finish: Chevy Tahoe hybrid: An American revolution

Will GM's big hybrids be better than Toyota?

Bigger hybrids are better?

Later this year GM's first dual mode hybrid vehicles are set to go on sale. The Chevy Tahoe hybrid and the GMC Yukon hybrid will be GM's first full hybrid passenger vehicles, and already many are claiming GM's dual mode hybrids are superior to Toyota's hybrids.

And they are right. Well, sort of. OK, maybe, in some circumstances, although no one really knows, to be quite honest.


---> Finish GM's dual mode hybrid advantage

Hybrid superiority: GM versus Toyota

Michelle Krebs says two modes are better than one, but where is her proof?

Recently, GM sponsored an event for a few journalists to check out their new Tahoe hybrid. More important, it was a chance for journalists to check out the new hybrid powertrain that was co-developed by GM, Chrysler and BMW - a collaboration which Krebs calls "unprecedented" (read more from Krebs).

Additionally, Krebs insists that the two-mode hybrid is superior to, for example, Toyota's single mode hybrid powertrain because it has a bigger "toolbox" to control fuel efficiency optimization. As a result, the two-mode hybrid achieves about a 25 percent overall improvement in fuel economy.

Talk, talk, talk.

I say, settle down Mrs. Krebs. First, a 25 percent improvement in fuel economy is in the same league as other hybrid cars. Second, while the two-mode hybrid ...(Finish GM's hybrids better than Toyota?)

Tahoe and Yukon hybrids hopefully ready be end of year?

Tahoe and Yukon hybrids still in development stages

GM was able to show off working versions of both the Tahoe hybrid and the Yukon hybrid yesterday, according to the DetroitNews, but neither hybrid is yet production-ready.

"We're still in the development stages, but we're on track to have these vehicles ready by the fourth quarter of this year," said Larry Nitz, GM's executive director of hybrid technology.

GM's first two full hybrid vehicles, utilizing GM's dual mode hybrid powertrain, are expected to offer a 25 percent increase in fuel economy.

Forbe's 2007 Hottest Hybrids

The Forbes hottest hybrids for 2007 list was topped by the Ford Escape hybrid and the Lexus LS600h L hybrid. In addition, Forbes also picked the Saturn Aura Green Line hybrid, as well as the Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid - a little coupe for Saturn. But Forbes's hybrid buzz for GM products didn't end with Saturn. The GMC Yukon hybrid, Chevy Tahoe hybrid, and the Cadillac Escalade hybrid also made the list.

I guess the fact that neither Toyota nor Honda added any new hybrids to their lineups kept them off the list?

(Source: MSNBC)

Going green by going yellow in a flex-fuel SUV? Really?

According to a study done by Consumer Reports, the 2007 Flex-fuel Chevy Tahoe achieves 14 mpg when filled up with gasoline. If E85 is used, on the other hand, it will achieve 10 mpg. What a deal! Let's hope the Tahoe hybrid can do a little better. O.K., a LOT better! (more)

Ford to lease GM hybrid technology for Expedition?

Ford has announced that is working on a hybrid version of the Ford Expedition, apparently, in an attempt to compete against GM's Tahoe hybrid, Yukon hybrid, and Chrysler's Durango hybrid. In fact, there is some speculation that Ford might even lease GM's Dual Mode hybrid powertrain (more).

While I understand that there are a number of Americans that essentially demand large trucks and SUVs, where are the Big 3's hybrid cars? The Big 3 simply aren't going to survive in the future if Detroit can't build top selling fuel efficient cars in addition to huge SUVs. It is hard to take Detroit's hybrid efforts seriously until they come up with a hybrid to challenge the Toyota Prius.

GM considering a plug-in hybrid

GM has stated that it is considering a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

"We are always looking at ways to provide fuel efficiency to our customers, and energy independence to the United States," said GM spokesman Brian Corbett. "Obviously, a plug-in hybrid is something that would definitely be on our radar screen, something we could consider for the future. But I'm not saying we're going to do one or the other." (more)

Concern for energy independence? Oh, really? Wow! I'm sorry, but GM is still admitting that hybrid cars are only useful for image and marketing. I guess their plug-in hybrid vehicle would be for the same?

Still, I hope GM builds the plug-in hybrid.

The future of hybrids: One Mode versus Two Mode

When the 2008 GM Chevy Tahoe hybrid hits the streets it will add a new page to the technology behind hybrid cars, the Two Mode Hybrid Powertrain. GM's two mode powertrain gives GM hybrid vehicles the ability to optimize performance based on driving conditions - highway versus city.

Toyota's Single Mode hybrid powertrain, on the other hand, is more optimized for city driving. Essentially, Toyota and Ford hybrids utilize larger electric motors and hybrid batteries than will GM hybrids.

So, which is better?

There is no doubt that GM hybrids will have an advantage when it comes to power tasks, such as towing compared to Ford or Toyota hybrids. Additionally, GM hybrids will compete with Toyota and Ford hybrids on the highway.

In the city, in the congestion that is predicted to become significantly worse and more common in the future; however, Toyota and Ford hybrids will dominate. Thus, it is not surprising to hear rumors that GM is intensely studying the Toyota hybrid powertrain.

Inevitably, the real potential of hybrid vehicles lies completely around electric motors and, more importantly, hybrid batteries. It now seems inevitable that lithium-ion batteries will soon replace the current NiMH batteries that power hybrids. This will produce lighter hybrids with significantly greater storage capacity resulting in better performance, cheaper costs and significantly improved fuel economy.

If NiMH batteries are replaced by lithium-ion batteries, hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and the Ford Escape hybrid could achieve massive gains in fuel economy, while costing less. Additionally, these hybrids could accommodate plug-in capabilities as well, resulting in even far greater fuel economy - we're talking 100 mpg +.

GM's dual mode hybrid technology can also utilize lithium-ion battery technology, but not nearly to the extent that Toyota and Ford hybrids can. This could really give Ford and Toyota a huge advantage over GM - at least with consumers that drive in any type of congestion. Since congestion will be the future for most Americans, GM's current hybrid path could be headed into the wrong direction.

Is 2010 the year of the hybrid?

Today, critics often question the value of hybrid cars. Only a few can save money over the long term at today's gas prices they state and reliability is still an issue.

Yet, hybrid technology is only just emerging and the future of hybrid vehicles won't really be understood until at least 2010. By then Toyota will offer 14 different hybrid models. Even Detroit will offer numerous hybrid vehicles. Plus, Nissan, Hyundai, Porsche - even Suzuki - will be in the hybrid game.

Then it won't just be the Toyota Camry hybrid that challenges the Prius for total sales, but many new hybrid models.

More important, there will be several different types of hybrid technology on the market and many more hybrid parts suppliers. This competition will give consumers real choices. Should I get the Chevy Tahoe hybrid, Ford Escape hybrid or Toyota Highlander hybrid? That will really begin to depend on your needs, such as towing, and that is just the beginning.

Moreover, Toyota has indicated that its hybrids in 2010 will not only be significantly more fuel efficient, but the cost differential between hybrid cars and conventional cars could be cut in half. Other automakers will have to do the same if they want to compete.

Competition, better technology, cheaper costs - by 2010 the question won't be why would you want a hybrid, it will be why would you want anything less than a hybrid.

_uck GM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GM is going to cap the price of gasoline at $1.99 for those in California or Florida whom buy certain vehicles, such as the Chevy Tahoe, for 12 months. The cap is expected to save buyers around $100.00 per month, or $1,200 per year. Hmmm. So, if GM offered a hybrid Tahoe instead, you could easily cover the extra hybrid costs in just a couple of years via gasoline savings - five at the most? In addition, we could significantly disrupt America's dependence on foreign oil and dramatically improve air pollution? But who gives a crap about those issues!!!! (Source: AutomotiveNews)

Gas guzzling, Iraq, 9/11 and Fixing Foreign Oil Dependency

Gas guzzling kills

I love discussing the connection between gas-guzzling, wars in Iraq, 9/11 and other forms of terrorism.

"There is no connection between Iraq, 9/11 and gas guzzling," so many often say.

Really? So, why do we care so much about the Middle East, but not other areas of the world? Why did we stop Saddam in the first Persian Gulf War? Was it about human rights? If so, why didn't - and why don't we - care about the slaughter of millions in Sudan, or Rwanda?

Do we really care that much about people from Qatar?

One only need listen to Bin Laden's own words to understand that there is a clear connection between America's need, or greed, for foreign oil and 9/11.

But back to the point. Whether it is the cost of gasoline, fear of foreign oil dependency, or a desire to protect the environment, many realize that America's oil addiction cannot continue.

So, which is a better tool to fight this dependency, CAFE or tax incentives?

I say put the power in the hands of the people. Congress and corporations have had decades to make a difference and the only thing they've accomplished is perpetually increased foreign oil dependency.

I say let Ford and GM do whatever they want. Put the power in the hands of the people!!

Instead of increasing CAFE, take that high CAFE number and give a huge tax incentive to EVERY customer that buys a vehicle that meets that CAFE number. That's the best way to promote technologies, such as hybrid cars.

Increase CAFE and automakers will just find some kind of loophole to do nothing.

If you want to buy a gas guzzler, no problem, but you'll pay high gas prices and receive no tax credit. Buy a Prius, buy an Escape hybrid, even a Tahoe hybrid and you get a HUGE tax credit - as long as it meets that high CAFE number - plus you'll you use less gas.

Tax incentives for Hummers? Please!!!!!! This must end, as must any other corporate welfare and loopholes for automakers, as must tax incentives for oil companies.

Give this money to the people and let the corporations fight for customers. By, of and for the PEOPLE, not the corporations!!!!

The Irony of 'safer' SUVs?

The fans of large SUVs claim such vehicles are safer than small cars and that making vehicles smaller would only increase the number of fatalities from automobile accidents.

While it is probably true that if a Honda Fit crashes into a Cadillac Escalade, chances are the person in the Fit will suffer more injuries. Thus, it isn't necessarily that small cars are unsafe, but that large vehicles are dangerous.

But let's forget that debate. For everyone's safety, should all Americans drive an Escalade or a Tahoe, or like-sized vehicle?

What would America's fuel economy be like then? How many more millions of gallons of oil from American-hating countries would have to imported every day? How high would gas prices be then?

I don't know, but it seems unlikely such a set of circumstances would make Americans safer.

Hybrid Technology: One Mode Versus Two Mode

Soon, the first hybrid cars from GM and Chrysler will be available for sale, and so too will a new type of hybrid technology.

The New York Times notes, "the new technology is different in some crucial respects. It has the potential to operate much more efficiently at highway speeds, with a greater boost from the electric motors. The components are lighter and more compact and can be readily adapted to different types of vehicles. It is particularly well suited to large trucks and S.U.V.'s — the biggest gas hogs in Americans' garages — where it will have the greatest impact on overall fuel consumption."

Wouldn't going from an SUV to a hybrid car, rather than a large hybrid SUV, "have the greatest impact on overall fuel consumption"?

Still, if consumers have to have a "gas hog", a hybrid "gas hog" will be 25% less piggish - and that's at least a good start.

The Chevy Tahoe Ad: Is SUV hate productive?

Recently GM launched a 'Write-Your-Own-Ad' for the new Chevy Tahoe as part of a viral marketing campaign. Essentially, you can go to the website chevyapprentice.com and use some tools offered on the website to build your own Chevy Tahoe ad.

Of course, SUV haters have used this opportunity to blast the Tahoe for its poor fuel economy and lack of environmental friendliness. Many Tahoe critics even used the Chevy site to try to create campaigns against this Chevy vehicle, posting some of their videos on Youtube, for example.

So, did Chevy lose or win this campaign? Is any publicity good publicity? Is any buzz good buzz?

Often I am incensed by the haters of hybrid cars, whom only empower both my passion for hybrid technology and my hate for gas-guzzling.

Is the same true of SUV lovers? Do the SUV haters only empower the majority of them to continue their support of SUVs?

Even hybrid SUVs?

Yesterday, I made a post about the Durango hybrid and I realized how hard it is for me to support large SUVs, even when powered by hybrid technology. Soon, there will also be a Tahoe hybrid. While I'm not fond of large hybrid SUVs, I feel that I must completely support them.

Minimally, they offer significantly improved environmental performance, a 25% gain in fuel economy, additional hybrid competition and hybrid investment.

Is this perfect? Not by a long shot, but it's positive momentum. Thus, while I want to be a hater, is hate really very effective?

Is attacking the Chevy Tahoe ad useful, or, ultimately, counterproductive?

GM's hybrid system, the industry standard?

GM announced yesterday that it would spend $118 million at a Maryland plant to begin mass-producing its dual mode hybrid vehicle transmission. "We believe the two-mode system will become the industry standard," Rick Wagoner said to workers at a presentation at GM's Baltimore transmission facility, where GM already builds a hybrid transmission for a small fleet of heavy-duty trucks and buses. (DetroitNews)

GM also added a new member to their 2008 lineup of hybrid vehicles. In addition to the Chevy Tahoe hybrid and GMC Yukon hybrid, GM will also offer a hybrid version of the Cadillac Escalade. All vehicles should hit the road in late 2007. (AutoWeek)

According to GM, its dual mode hybrid system will increase overall fuel efficiency by 25 percent. So, it seems odd that Wagoner would boldly state that the two-mode system will become the "industry standard".

Already, Toyota, Ford and Nissan beg to differ and so to will Volkswagen and Hyundai soon - with each automaker not using a dual mode hybrid system. Moreover, Toyota and Ford hybrids offer around the same fuel efficiency improvements as GM's dual mode system. So, Wagoner is being exceedingly optimistic, especially when Toyota will soon launch its third generation hybrid synergy drive, which is expected to increase fuel efficiency and performance, yet cut hybrid costs in half.

GM's hybrid system might have an advantage in the large SUV market, however, especially if towing is required. Still, I don't think that will be enough to make it the "industry standard".

Big 3 Showcase Fuel Efficiency at Washington Auto Show

The Big 3's Vision of Fuel Efficiency.

Yesterday, GM kicked off its three-pronged hybrid vehicle strategy at that Washington Auto Show.

The "low-cost" Chevrolet Silverado pickup, which barely qualifies as hybrid in my opinion, will be followed by the 'mild' Saturn Vue Greenline sport utility vehicle and, finally, GM's two-mode hybrid system will be installed on the Chevy Tahoe hybrid in 2008.

Soon the Ford Escape hybrid will run on gasoline or on any gasoline and E-85 combination. Ford is currently testing the Flex-Fuel Escape hybrid and plans to offer the technology in future models. According to Ford the technology only costs a few hundred dollars. Additionally, Ford is considering the Reflex Diesel hybrid vehicle.

Of course not all the news coming out of Detroit was about hybrid cars.

DaimlerChrysler is pimping its new diesels powered by the Bluetec diesel emissions-control system, which will offer much cleaner and fuel efficient diesel performance.

(More from the Detroit News)..

Saturn Vue hybrid versus the Chevrolet Tahoe

According to Reuters, GM still plans to launch the Saturn Vue Hybrid in 2006, which Reuter's called a competitor to the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid. GM; however, isn't releasing many details about the Vue hybrid.

"We need to get the price value equation right. We have to get the reliability right and the consumer needs to have enough time to see they are getting the benefit," Rick Wagoner, GM CEO, told Reuters.

Instead, GM is still focusing on SUVs to make the company profitable again.

I say, good luck. Gas prices will again spike sometime next year and the declining interest in large SUVs will only exacerbate. If another hurricane, some problem in the Middle East affecting America's foreign oil supply, or oil demand in China is higher than expected, GM could be in far worse trouble than they are today.

Still, you can't really expect GM to focus on the Vue hybrid. The hybrid Vue will only be a mild hybrid and its fuel efficiency capabilities will lag far behind those of the Civic hybrid and the Prius.

Unfortunately, GM's full hybrid vehicles won't be available until, at least, 2007.

After further review, corporate GM still stinks

"We just couldn't react," Wagoner said in an interview last week with Automotive News . "It really highlighted that the underpinnings of our business are too fragile. So if we lose mix or volume, we cannot get costs down as fast as (sales) volume comes down." (more)

While I agree that GM isn't "nimble enough" to quickly react to changing market forces, it is still a week excuse for why GM is in a sales slump. Actually, GM's problem is quite simple, the company has no automotive vision.

Sure, you can say fuel cell vehicles, but GM has been talking up the fuel cell vehicle since Nixon. When is it time to stop talking and start doing? Fuel cell vehicles have been nothing but an excuse for GM to do nothing.

Back in the '90s, the U.S. government gave the Big 3 a billion tax dollars to develop fuel efficient vehicles. Yet, where are those vehicles today? What happened to those American tax dollars?

The evidence demonstrating the massive harm that auto pollution causes to America and the world has been piling up for decades. The intensity of the dangers in the Middle East and America's oil dependence has been increasing for years, and the evidence for massively growing worldwide demand for oil has been clear.

How could GM not think that maybe, just maybe, some of this evidence would eventually have an effect on the American automotive market?

Toyota and Honda were certainly paying attention to this evidence. That's why when GM ridiculed Toyota and Honda for pursuing hybrid cars, these companies just pushed ahead. With such a massive amount of evidence piling up, change was inevitable.

O.K., so GM made a mistake, but since 9/11 what have they really done to change? Shouldn't 9/11 have been the last straw?

So, what is GM's big announcement today? The new Chevrolet Tahoe is going to achieve 2 more miles per gallon on the highway. Of course, if you stop at a street light or stop sign, or do any other kind of city driving, your fuel efficiency will barely be above 10 mpg.

What a joke!

Sure hybrid vehicles might not be the absolute answer to GM's problems, or to America's problems with pollution and foreign oil dependency, but at least hybrids demonstrate that you are addressing the most important issues facing America today.

After further review GM leadership still stinks.

American hybrids: A lack of leadership

Yes, Ford has the Escape hybrid, but it isn't nearly as coveted as the Toyota Highlander hybrid, and neither are nearly as coveted as the Prius.

So what's the problem? Leadership.

Lately Ford has blamed the "predatory" practices of Japanese automakers for their lack of hybrid production. (more)

Excuse me? As soon as a Toyota hybrid hits a dealership it is almost sold. The Escape hybrid can last for weeks, even longer. More important, if not for Toyota the hybrid supplies Ford needs wouldn't even be available. Ford is using the supply channels that Toyota created.

GM, well, GM just keeps talking. A few years ago GM thought hybrids were nonsense, then they were a good marketing story, but a poor business story. Now GM is trying to bolster it's hybrid efforts. "Right now, we're not where we ought to be (on hybrids)," said Bob Lutz, GM's vice chairman and product development chief, acknowledging that it's hurting consumer perceptions of the company.(more)

Not long ago Mr. Lutz even admitted that GM could have used a sliver of its yearly marketing budget to finance the development of hybrid cars. Instead, GM chose to market the Hummer and Tahoe.

How could American automakers have been so blind to the importance of foreign oil dependency, to fuel efficiency? Is doing the right thing impossible for American corporations? Is money more important than the safety of the people?

Leadership requires vision and tough choices. The lack of American hybrids reprints a void in American corporate leadership, and if it doesn't change, it will represent the downfall of America as well.

American Automobile Alliance Lies & Deceit

I'm really tired of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturer's deceptions and distortions. While I realize that is the role of lobbyist organizations, such as the Alliance, I've still had enough.

"We do not have control over the miles people drive, population growth, increasing congestion, commuting distances and other factors that cause fuel use to increase," said Eron Shosteck, spokesman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers in Washington.

Yes, but you do have the ability to offer fuel efficient and emission's reducing technology. Obviously, the technology behind hybrid cars proves this is possible.

It's too expensive, the Alliance would counter.

Really? How expensive was 911, the first war in Iraq, the second war in Iraq, Afghanistan and the War on terror? All of these incidents are a direct result of American foreign oil dependency.

But consumers want big vehicles and horsepower, the Alliance responds from its Big 3 arm.

Really? Why have the Big 3, for decades, lost marketshare to companies selling mostly small cars and sedans?

The truth is fuel inefficient vehicles, particularly trucks and SUVs, were a buoy for the Big 3 because of ridiculous profit margins - sometimes as much as $10,000 or more on some vehicles. In reality, the Big 3 have not been able to compete in the quality, fuel efficient technology market.

Judging by hybrid vehicles, they still can't compete. Yes, Ford offers the Escape hybrid, but Ford was years behind Toyota in developing hybrid technology, and it will take years for Ford to offer a large number of hybrid vehicles.

Nonetheless, let's get back to consumer wants and automaker responsibility and affordability. Not long ago, it was reported that GM spends more on marketing every year than Toyota spent creating the Prius hybrid production line.

That's right, GM could have developed fuel efficient, emission reducing hybrid technology, but it chose to spend that money on marketing the fuel inefficient, pollution-causing virtues of large trucks and SUVs.

Companies like GM and Ford marketed the concept that trucks and SUVs were an expression of American freedom, while providing safety.

Safety, such as the rollover scandal? Freedom, such as 2 Iraq wars?

The Alliance is the purveyor of lies and the ramifications of those lies are becoming too big to go left unchallenged. How many American GI's have to die to protect the incompetence of the American auto industry and their well financed cronies in Washington?

Issues such as pollution and fuel efficiency should have been addressed and acted upon decades ago for national security and economic reasons.

Now there are no more excuses left. American automakers and the American Congress have proven time and time again that money, not American citizens, is the only thing that counts.

Hybrid car ignorance on MSNMoney

The costly secrets of hybrid cars, a new article on MSNMoney, opens with the Sierra and Silverado hybrids and questions the fuel efficiency of hybrid vehicles.

Excuse me? Anybody whom starts an article about hybrids with the Sierra or the Silverado already demonstrates either their ignorance or bias of hybrid cars. Neither the Sierra or Silverado are full hybrids. In fact, in my book, they don't even count as hybrids.

Strike one.

Then the author discusses gas mileage and how long it is going to take to make up hybrid costs. Not until several paragraphs later is the hybrid car tax credit mentioned - probably because neither the Sierra or the Silverado hybrids qualify. Additionally, new tax credits might make hybrids even cheaper, but that also isn't mentioned.

Strike two.

Finally, the EPA numbers. "Then there's the issue of whether these cars actually get the mileage they claim."

THEY DON'T CLAIM IT. EPA numbers are determined by the government. The inaccuracy of the EPA numbers affects ALL vehicles. So, you can't compare the real world mileage of a Toyota Prius with the EPA numbers of a standard Civic or Tahoe. It's either real versus real, or EPA versus EPA. The reality is, that big SUV of yours doesn't achieve 16 mpg, more like 11, so I'll take the 50 mpg Prius.

More important, one would think every Prius owner hates their auto, yet 94% of owners would buy another one. How many SUVs have that kind of buyer loyalty?

Strike three.

Why are there so many questions regarding hybrid cars? Hybrids recover their 'extra' costs in 6 - 8 years. The average life of an automobile is longer than that, so the technology not only pays for itself, it reduces the cost of the vehicle over the long term. That's called an investment.

For a decade or two many auto manufacturers created SUVs with $10 - 15,000 profit margins. Yet, these vehicle account for a significant percentage of all accidents and all automobile-crash related deaths. Now that's value!

More important, how much does gas really cost? How much is the life of a soldier dying in the Middle East worth? How much does the dirty air that is causing health problems to millions of people cost? Why are past CIA directors and the Pentagon so worried about foreign-oil dependency? Why did the top 4 oil companies profit more than 20 billion in the first 3 months of the year?

If one looks at the state of the real world, one realizes that the problem is not the cost of hybrid cars, rather it's the cost of gas guzzling vehicles and American ignorance that is the real cost.

Demand nothing less than hybrid vehicle efficiency. The costs of hybrids, in the long run, are much less than the gas-guzzling, terrorist supporting, planet-killing costs of huge SUVs.

GM and hybrid vehicles

Is GM a hybrid failure?

I've pretty much argued that they are, at least in terms of passenger vehicles. In fact, GM has stated that they are not interested in hybrid cars, only hybrid trucks and SUVs.

Nonetheless, GM isn't a hybrid failure. GM's most important hybrid achievements have been confined to buses, which is a notable achievement.

A new article, Hybrid Powertrains: The Two-Mode Approach argues that GM's bus achievement, and it's Two-Mode hybrid powertrain will ultimately translate into success for the next generation of Yukon, Tahoe, and Sierra/Silverado hybrids.

Currently, only Toyota has technology that is similar to GM's; however, according to the article, GM's technology - its two-mode system - has even more potential than Toyota's powertrain.

The Prius, the Lexus RX400h, the Highlander hybrid are each full hybrids, but they do not function on electric power alone. GM's two-mode system, will allow GM hybrids to run on electric power alone.

GM claims its two-mode system can achieve a 60 percent increase in efficiency, versus about a 30 percent increase with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Anyway, its an interesting article if you are interested in reading about powertrain differences.

Click here for the complete article.

The Hybrid Car Hustle

What's up with Detroit? Last week, at the North American International Auto Show, probably the most important auto event in the world, the word on the floor was hybrid vehicles.

Even Truck of the Year, an especially important American customer segment, went to a hybrid, the Ford Escape Hybrid.

GM and DaimlerChrysler introduced a diesel-electric hybrid concept vehicle, and re-announced full hybrid versions of the Tahoe and Yukon, followed by a full Sierra / Silverado hybrid.

Not to be out done, Ford announced that the Mercury Mariner hybrid would reach the market this year, a year earlier than expected. Then Ford upped the ante by announcing not only a hybrid Freestyle, but also a Mazda Tribute hybrid, a Mercury Milano hybrid, and a Focus hybrid, with all models expected to reach market within three years.

Then Toyota, gaining on GM as the world's largest automaker, unwilling to lose face in light of Ford's hybrid hustle, went all in.

This year not only will Prius demand be met, but Toyota will announce where it will start building hybrids, such as the Prius, in the United States.

Moreover, Toyota announced to the world that the hybrid powertrain is the future for Toyota. Yes, gasoline engines might be improved, or diesel, hydrogen, or fuel-cells, but the hybrid powertrain, Toyota believes, can make each of those power sources better.

Toyota's next hybrid, the Lexus RX400h Hybrid, already has received more than 11,000 pre-orders. Additionally, interest in the Highlander hybrid is off the wall by industry standards.

Already Toyota is expecting to sell at least 100,000 Prius hybrids in 2005, yet the buzz building around the Highlander hybrid seems to indicate that the Highlander hybrid, an SUV, could be even more popular than the Prius.

Recently, Ford announced that it will easily sell 20,000 Escape hybrids in 2005, and if more hybrid batteries are located, they will produce even more.

Since the Escape hybrid uses leased Toyota hybrid technology, the price of the Highlander hybrid, with its price advantage, is going to be interesting. More importantly, what if Toyota can price the Highlander significantly less the Escape hybrid?

Why not try to steal some thunder from the North American Truck of the Year, the Ford Escape Hybrid? The opportunity facing Toyota couldn't be greater.

The Toyota Prius proved that a small, affordable, very fuel-efficient vehicle, could feel like the most innovative car ever created. But America loves SUVs, and an affordable, hybrid performer, could take that segment by storm.

Toyota's experience with hybrids bodes well for the Highlander hybrid, and I believe the Highlander hybrid has crazy American potential. American consumers aren't nearly the neanderthals the world believes. Show us we can help and we will. Well, hybrids help.

Ford and GM are not out of it yet though. While GM has dramatically and rapidly changed its position on hybrids, Ford appears to be building momentum. In addition to their more bullish position on hybrids, their commitment to hybrid cars, as well as hybrid SUVs, gives them a notch up on GM.

Honda is a wild card in the hybrid race, with the Accord hybrid and Civic hybrid already on the market, Honda could easily transition to a hybrid only automotive world - at least much easier than Ford, GM, or DaimlerChrysler.

Toyota is the one with the most to gain or lose from the hybrid hustle.

The leader has to set the pace. While Toyota has a big lead they can either move methodically, but cautiously into hybrids, playing it safe, but also allowing the competition time to reposition; or Toyota change the playing field forever.

The conundrum for Toyota will be supply and demand. The demand for affordable hybrids is without question. Based on customer interest and sales figures, by 2006, it is not hard to imagine Toyota selling 400,000 hybrid vehicles in the just the U.S. - even while more highly priced - but are they capable of meeting that level of production?

By that time, GM might not have yet sold one full hybrid in the U.S.

Furthermore, at 400,000 a year the afford-ablility factor between hybrids and conventional vehicles is reduced, especially in addition to Ford and Nissan license sales. Moreover, conventional cars will start meeting higher pollution standards in the next couple of years and those changes will inevitably lead to higher costing conventional vehicles.

Toyota's next few hybrid plays are sure to be interesting.

Two More Ford Hybrid Cars

The hybrid vehicle revolution is just beginning.

While Toyota is the leader in hybrid cars, Ford appears to be ramping up to meet this new market demand.

The Ford Escape Hybrid is Ford's only hybrid, but not for long. Ford has already pushed the release of it's newest hybrid SUV, the Mercury Mariner hybrid, up one year.

Additionally, Ford recently announced the addition of the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and the Mercury Milan Hybrid, and now you can add two more. Ford will also be producing a Freestyle Hybrid and a Five Hundred Hybrid. Thus, Ford hopes to have 6 hybrids on the market within three years.

The more compelling thing about Ford, unlike GM, is its commitment to hybrid cars, rather than just hybrid SUVs.

While Ford is the undisputed leader of hybrid SUVs - it's the only one on the market - this space of the hybrid market will be heating up quickly.

Later this year, Ford will have two hybrid SUVs on the market, the Escape hybrid and the Mariner hybrid. Within three years, a hybrid powertrain will also be added to the Freestyle.

Additionally, Toyota will also have two hybrid SUVs on the market this year. The Lexus RX 400h Hybrid and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid will be out in April and June, respectively.

By 2007 GM, will have the GMC Yukon Hybrid and the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid.

Honda, on the other hand, has been committed to hybrid cars, such as the Accord hybrid, but don't be surprised to see a Honda hybrid truck or SUV in the near future.

Competition in the hybrid SUV market is good for all hybrids and hybrid consumers. More important, it's good to see one American auto-maker taking the challenge seriously, and not just with trucks and SUVs, but sedans as well.

Join the Soultek Hybrid Car Club.

GMC Graphyte hybrid vehicle

The North American International Auto Show showcased some new GM hybrids, including the GMC Graphyte, a new hybrid SUV.

The Graphyte will be built with the same powertrain as GM's other planned hybrids, the GMC Yukon Hybrid and Chevy Tahoe Hybrid.

In addition to the Graphyte, GM is also adding a diesel-electric hybrid to its list of future hybrids. The Opel Astra diesel hybrid is set to be the first production vehicle created from the hybrid powertrain collaboration between GM and DaimlerChrysler.

More hybrid cars.

DaimlerChrysler and GM will team up on hybrids

In order to compete with Japanese rivals in the hybrid car movement, GM and Daimler Chrysler will jointly develop hybrid motors.

The plan calls for rear and front-wheel-drive versions for cars, trucks and sport utility vehicles. Each company; however, will integrate the new hybrids into its own models.

Nonetheless, both companies will be years behind in the hybrid race. Already, the Toyota Prius has created huge waiting lists, and there has been much favorable buzz regarding the Ford Escape hybrid, and the recently released Honda Accord hybrid.

For example, GM will put hybrids into its full-sized Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs in late 2007. Shortly after GM's SUVs hit the market, Daimler Chrysler will bring the Dodge Durango to market. Ultimately, Daimler will also bring Mercedes hybrids to market, but it will be as much as five years before that happens.

Future hybrids "Mean & Green" according to Newsweek

Newsweek's byline for this month's Next Frontiers article, Mean & Green. is "Forget about those puny gas sippers. The hybrid in your future is all about hot-rod horsepower."

While I realize that some have that opinion of hybrids, new hybrids are not lacking horsepower, and the future of the automotive world is hybrid vehicles.

Both the Honda Accord Hybrid and the Ford Escape Hybrid achieve greater horsepower than their standard counterparts. Moreover, the Toyota Prius proves hybrid cars can easily achieve standard car performance, while significantly increasing fuel efficiency and reducing pollution.

To this point, Newsweek states, "The first of these have-your-cake-and-eat-it models arrives next month, when Honda rolls out a 255-horsepower Accord hybrid that races from 0 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and still gets 37mpg on the highway."

Additionally, Newsweek mentions the Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUV which "packs 270 horsepower", and will be the first luxury hybrid SUV.

In just the next 3 years, Newsweek states that every automaker will be in the hybrid race, offering their biggest brands as hybrids. "By 2008, auto researcher J.D. Power predicts that car buyers will have a choice of 35 different hybrids—everything from a Nissan Altima to a Honda Odyssey minivan to a big Chevy Tahoe SUV. By 2012 the menu will grow to 51 models."

Porsche, Mercedes and BMW are also working on hybrids.

What about the battery?

Oh, the battery. One major problem with hybrids, according to Newsweek, is the future resale value of hybrid cars. Because the battery costs $3000.00, the question goes, will the car be valuable down the road?

Hybrid batteries typically have 8 - 10 year, 100,000 mile warranties. Additionally, the capacity of the hybrid battery isn't fully used in current models, so the battery is never being 'overworked'.

Still, this a point that only time will tell, but as hybrids become more common, so to will new and used hybrid batteries.

Where is Detroit?

Good question. Newsweek points out that Detroit "is miles behind" in the hybrid race, however, Detroit is focusing on trucks and SUVs for their hybrid efforts, which might be their only chance to catch Japan.

Click here for the Complete Newsweek article.