2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid

Description:

The first two cars to adapt the futuristic 2-mode hybrid powerstation that has been jointly developed by BMW, General Motors and Daimler Chrysler are the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid and its counterpart, the GMC Yukon Hybrid. The Yukon Hybrid introduces a new range of larger vehicles that are much more greener than the gas powered ones. The heart of the GMC Tahoe Hybrid’s powertrain consists of General Motor’s 6 liter Vortec V8 engine that boasts of cylinder deactivation technology. This translates into fuel saving since the engine can turn off 4 of its 8 cylinders when the extra power is not required. Take a close look underneath the 2^nd row seats and you will observe that there is a 300-volt battery.

The transmission houses the 2 electric motors of the vehicle. This vehicle boasts itself as a `2 mode hybrid’ and the reason behind this is its capacity to run in two different modes depending on the situation. This allows the vehicle to run at peak efficiency. During low impact and low speed driving, this powertrain emulates other hybrids. It shuts down the V8 engine whenever it is possible in order to draw power from either one or both the electric motors. The other mode is generally useful when driving on the highway when either one or both the electric motors run simultaneously with the V8 engine to provide a boost in power.

At the heart of the system lies a 2 mode transmission which tries to keep the engine running at the most advantageous rotation per minute that permits low fuel usage. Basically it plays a balancing act between the electric motors and the V8 engine. The 2-mode transmission system is also responsible to ensure the changes between the 2 modes practically seamless. Thanks to these technologies, one can easily detect a 25% enhancement over the gas-powered cousin of the Yukon Hybrid. One will be pleased with the 40% enhancement in efficiency while driving in the city. The EPA rating of the Yukon Hybrid’s 2-wheel drive model is 14 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway.

You might be amazed to discover that the fuel economy of this huge SUV is equivalent to the 4 cylinder Toyota Camry. While not failing to deliver fuel-efficiency, the Yukon Hybrid also delivers all the capability and power one expects from a full size SUV. Boasting of 332 HP, and available in 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive models this vehicle can tow up to 6000 pounds. Its 4-drive system can be compared to nearly all trail rated pickup trucks and this permits this vehicle to drive through tough road conditions and off-road with amazing stability and traction. Many large size vehicles have a rigid feel, but it is not the same with this vehicle that offers the driver with a smooth and comfortable ride. There is sufficient space in this vehicle that can accommodate up to eight people easily. Apart from this, there are many additional features that the GMC Yukon Hybrid boasts of.