US: Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid debuts at LA motor show
Thursday, November 15, 2007, AutomotiveWorld.com
Chevrolet has premiered the 2009 Silverado Hybrid at the Greater Los Angeles International Auto show.
Tne GM division says this full-sized pickup achieves 40% greater City cycle fuel economy and a 25% improvement in overall fuel economy compared to the existing Silverado.
The vehicle's 2-Mode hybrid system was developed by GM, BMW and the former DaimlerChrysler. For the Silverado, it combines a 6.0-litre V8 with two electric motors.
The new vehicle is fitted with what GM calls its advanced Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). From rest and up to 30mph (50km/h), the vehicle will run on electric power alone. Should the driver require more acceleration, the gasoline engine is automatically activated and will switch between V4 and V8 modes as necessary.
When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the battery, which is located under the rear seat.
GM states that the Silverado Hybrid's electric motor is less than half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses in more than 70 North American and European cities, the OEM states.
With its standard 26-gallon (98 litre) fuel tank, the Silverado Hybrid has a claimed cruising range of more than 500 miles.
The new model also has an electrically driven 300-volt air conditioning compressor and 42-volt variable-assist power steering.
Additional details specific to the Silverado Hybrid include aerodynamic aids, such as a slightly deeper front air dam and a hard tonneau cover for the bed to reduce drag. The tonneau cover has a three-segment design that enables easy folding or removal.
The 2009 Silverado Hybrid is the second full-size hybrid pickup from Chevrolet. The previous-generation Silverado was offered as a mild hybrid that could act as a power generator at worksites.
Published on Thursday, November 15, 2007
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