Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid Delivers Great Fuel Economy Through New, Lower-Cost Hybrid System
2007 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid is the first GM vehicle powered by a new, more affordable hybrid system that delivers an estimated 20-percent improvement in fuel economy, depending on driving conditions. It is expected to deliver an EPA estimated 27 mpg in the city and the best highway mileage of any SUV at 32 mpg. The Vue's hybrid system will cost under $2,000. The full vehicle price will start at less than $23,000.
"The Vue Green Line is expected to be the lowest-cost hybrid-powered SUV in the market," said Mark LaNeve, GM North America vice president of Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing. "Its lower price allows us to offer the fuel-saving benefits of hybrids to a wider group of customers."
Vue Green Line uses sophisticated controls and a unique electric motor/generator mated to a 2.4L VVT four-cylinder engine and 4T45-E four-speed transmission. It is a simple and flexible hybrid design that provides additional power from the motor/generator during acceleration and allows increased fuel economy through engine shut-off at idle, fuel cut-off during deceleration and the capability to capture electrical energy through regenerative braking.
The Vue Green Line will be available this summer. It is based on the popular Vue SUV, which was restyled for 2006 with distinctive exterior appointments and a more refined interior.
"As Saturn continues an aggressive product lineup expansion, a hybrid version of the popular Vue is a natural addition," said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak. "The Vue Green Line st rengthens our position as an environmentally aware brand that provides great value - an attribute that has always appealed to Saturn customers."
Along with the Vue Green Line, Saturn will introduce the Sky roadster, Aura midsize sedan and Outlook crossover utility vehicle during 2006.
Fuel-saving performance of 2007 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid
Vue Green Line's innovative 2.4-liter hybrid powertrain is rated at 170 horsepower (127 kw), a powerful increase from the 143 hp provided by the 2.2-liter engine in the conventional four-cylinder Vue. This maintains the vehicle's sporty feel, with acceleration better or equal to many non-hybrid SUVs.
The Vue's hybrid system reduces fuel consumption by:
- Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling
- Restarting the engine promptly when the brake pedal is released
- Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration
- Capturing vehicle kinetic energy during deceleration (regenerative braking) to charge an advanced nickel metal hydride battery
- Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient
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