Two Mode Hybrid SUV Coming From GM In 2011
The abovepictured Saturn Vue Two Mode Plug-In Hybrid Concept was debuted at the Detroit Auto Show in 2008 and was supposed to be the first vehicle from GM to feature their next generation hybrid drivetrain. Well, since that time, GM has had to shed the Saturn brand in order to save some money, so a Two Mode Vue isn’t coming. However, the technology has stuck with GM and hasn’t been sold off to Penske (who bought the Saturn brand), and the Detroit automaker has confirmed that a yet to be named SUV will premier the technology in 2011, and a plug-in version may be following closely behind it.
One the “New GM” emerges from bankruptcy proceedings, it will have four brands left: Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and GMC. One of the most likely candidates for the Plug-in Two Mode hybrid treatment is the Chevrolet Equinox, a small SUV that shared many similarities to the Saturn Vue. Regardless of what platform the Two Mode system finally finds a home in, there are high hopes for it.
The Two Mode system was developed by an alliance of General Motors, Chrysler, Daimler (who owns Mercedes-Benz), and BMW. It is considered revolutionary due to the fact that it has two driving modes (hence the name). Whereas some other hybrid applications use two separate drive systems (like an internal combustion engine to drive front wheels and electric motors to drive rear wheels), the gasoline engine drivetrain is part of the same system as the electric, leading for a combination of driving scenarios.Waitress buy
