GM begins production of two mode Hybrid transmission

General Motors started production of its two mode hybrid transmission this week. It will first be available in the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and GMC Yukon Hybrid. Production of the Hybrid SUVs will start next week. Fuel efficiency is equivalent to that of midsize sedans in the city. GM brought in DaimlerChrysler and BMW to partner on the development of the two mode hybrid system. The vehicle can run on electricity only at low speeds and on the highway the electric motor will assist the gasoline engine. GM also has active fuel management on the V8 that will cut off fuel to four of the cylinders when there is a light load on the engine. The Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra will be available with the two mode hybrid system next year. This fall hybrid versions of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango will come out. BMW showed the two mode hybrid system in the X6 crossover concept.

Source Edmunds