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Originally,
GM had proposed using a mild hybrid system for the Tahoe
hybrid, such as on
the Vue Greenline
hybrid. Fortunately, GM instead
developed the Tahoe hybrid as a full hybrid using its
new dual mode hybrid technology.
According
to the latest reports, the Tahoe hybrid will go on sale
some time in the first quarter of 2008 for around
$50,000.
In May of
2007, GM showed off a Tahoe hybrid to some reporters, so the
vehicle is near production. Nonetheless, according to GM
at that time, the company's dual mode hybrid Tahoe is still in
"development stages".
GM's
two-mode hybrid technology will place electric motors
mounted inside the transmission to assist a
300-horsepower V-8. So, the hybrid Tahoe should have the
power most large SUV consumers need.
Another
benefit of GM's dual mode powertrain, such as with the hybrid Tahoe,
is the ability to lock
the electric motors out of the drive train when extreme
engine power is needed, such as when towing. This
capability will enable the Tahoe hybrid and the Yukon
hybrid to tow up to 6,000 pounds - something Toyota
hybrids cannot do at this point in time.
And why
the heck are you getting a Tahoe for if you aren't going
to pull something heavy?
In terms
of the dual mode hybrid drive, essentially, one drive
mode will assist with slow, city driving, the other with
highway driving. This helps GM dual mode hybrids achieve optimal
fuel efficiency based upon driving conditions, and it could
make GM's hybrids superior to Toyota's single-mode
hybrids in some driving conditions, particularly highway
driving.
In
addition, the hybrid Tahoe will be 300 pounds lighter
due to the use of aluminum in the hood and front
tailgates - another fuel economy lifter.
Overall,
the two-mode hybrid system should make the Tahoe hybrid
as much as 25% more fuel efficient in combined city/highway
driving.
There is
no final word on pricing for the 2008 Tahoe hybrid, but
early reports indicate it will probably resemble the way
that Lexus prices the RX400h
versus the standard RX - a difference of some $10,000.
Thus, the
Tahoe hybrid might not be cheap.
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