General Motors launched its two-mode hybrid system on its Chevrolet and GMC full-size SUVs in early 2007, and later that year it launched the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. In Escalade guise, the hybrid system bumps city fuel economy by 50 percent, resulting in an increase in city mileage from 12 mpg to 18.

Like GM's other full-size hybrid SUVs, the Escalade uses a 6.0-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management - which can shut off four cylinders at cruising speed - as well as late-intake valve closing technology. The transmission is the same two-mode continuous electric ratio hybrid transmission used in the General's other full-size truck hybrids.

The Escalade also uses several other green technologies, such as a regenerative braking system to recharge the nickel-metal hydride batteries, an electrically driven 42-volt variable-assist power steering system and an engine start/stop system. The 300-Volt battery pack is placed under the second-row seat, where it doesn't displace cargo or passenger space. Apart from helping to drive the wheels, power from the battery pack runs the electric air conditioning compressor, the electric steering system, vehicle battery and all other 12-volt accessories. A dedicated cooling system draws air from the passenger compartment to keep the batteries at optimal temperature. The system is covered under Cadillac's 8-year, 100,000-mile emission control system warranty.

Unlike the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids, the Escalade Hybrid doesn't feature any unique styling cues to set it apart, relying solely on badging to separate it from other Escalades. There are also no aluminum weight-saving parts replacing their steel counterparts.

A peek inside the cockpit reveals a large green Hybrid insignia on the Escalade's tachometer. The eight-inch touchscreen display that acts solely as the navigation system in the regular Escalade doubles as a status readout of the two-mode hybrid system. The eight-seat SUV is rated at 5,800lb towing capacity when the 2WD model is ordered or 5,600lbs when buyers opt for the 4WD drivetrain.