Saturn is adding another Green Line hybrid to its lineup for the 2009 model year. While the regular Vue Green Line is a so-called mild hybrid setup with a four-cylinder gasoline motor, the new Green Line 2 Mode delivers V6 power with even more advanced hybrid technology.
The Vue Green Line 2 Mode delivers an estimated 50-percent fuel economy increase over the non-hybrid V6 Vue, GM claims. The crossover also is expected to have a driving range of more than 500 miles.
GM says overall performance is not compromised — the sprint to 60 mph takes just 7.3 seconds and maximum towing load is 3,500 lbs. The 3.6 liter V6 features variable valve timing and direct injection for increased power and efficiency.
The Vue Green Line 2 Mode is GM’s first application of two-mode technology on a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The system is currently on the V8-equipped Chevrolet Tahoe 2 Mode and GMC Yukon 2 Mode full-size SUVs, and becomes available in 2008 on the Cadillac Escalade 2 Mode luxury SUV and Chevrolet Silverado 2 Mode full-size pickup.
Subtle exterior changes include “2 Mode†badging and lightweight aluminum alloy wheels. Low-rolling-resistance tires help enhance fuel economy. The Vue Green Line 2 Mode is accented by chrome door handles, dual exhaust tips and skid plates.
Availability is expected to begin in late 2008.
Two-mode Technology
The two-mode system works by integrating two electric continuously variable modes with four fixed mechanical gear ratios. The system consists of two active-cooled 55-kW electric motors integrated to the transmission. Electric power comes from a 1.8 kWh, 300V 22-module nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Regenerative braking also generates additional electricity.
In the first mode — at low speed and light load — the vehicle operates in one of three ways: all-electric power, internal combustion engine power or a combination of the two. All reverse operation is driven by the electric motors.
The second mode is used primarily at highway speeds to optimize fuel economy. It provides electric assist in addition to six-cylinder power. This is usually activated during trailer towing and climbing steep grades, and to allow the engine to run at its most efficient point under less-demanding conditions.
Other fuel-saving measures include: automatically shutting the engine off at idle and cutting off fuel to the engine during vehicle deceleration.
Model-specific features
Since the hybrid powertrain changes the weight distribution on the Vue Green Line 2 Mode, special chassis refinements such as revised springs, modified stabilizer bars, and re-tuned front struts and rear shocks help ensure a smooth ride.
An all-electric steering system replaces the typical hydraulic technology, improving fuel economy by half a mile per gallon.
An efficiency gauge replaces the tachometer, informing drivers of when they are achieving maximum fuel economy.
Standard features include: anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, rollover detection system, pedestrian impact protection, tire pressure monitoring system, Pedal Release System, front active head restraints, and six air bags.
