GM Introduces first
Full-Sized Hybrid SUVs  
 

 Based on advanced 2-mode GM hybrid transmission.

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Interview with Tim Grewe,
Cheif Engineer of RWD Hybrids
SAE World Congress 2007, Detroit

GM To Introduce the World’s First Full Size Hybrid SUVs and Plug-In Hybrid SUVs
Recently, General Motors announced its intention to deliver the first commercially produced plug-in hybrid vehicles, beginning with a plug-in version of the Saturn VUE hybrid. GM also plans to be the first automaker to deliver a full size hybrid SUV, The Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, anticipated out this fall, based on an advanced 2-mode hybrid transmission. GM is also expected later to offer plug-in versions of these larger SUVs.

At the 2007 Society of Automobile Engineers’ World Congress in Detroit, David West, Co-founder of the Hybrid Consortium, spoke with Tim Grewe, Director of Engineering for GM’s Hybrid Powertrains, about the innovative 2-mode transmission used in GM’s full sized hybrid SUVs, and about GM’s plans to expand hybrid-- and plug-in hybrid technology into many other popular models.

Plug-In Hybrid Coming Soon
In addition to using the 2-mode transmission to offer full size hybrid SUVs, GM also plans to introduce plug-in hybrid versions using new Lithium Lion battery technology in the near future.

The Chevy Volt, introduced this year at the Detroit Auto Show, is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle concept that can drive up to 40 miles daily on batteries after plugging in, then continue on to up to 600 miles by generating its own electricity with a small onboard combustion engine used solely to generate electricity to propel the vehicle by an electric motor.

See also
GM Hybrid Development Timeline

GM Hybrid Family