GM Showcases Dual Hybrid Technology

Washington DC August 25, 2006; The AIADA newsletter reported that General Motors showcased its new "dual hybrid" technology, along with other future engines and powertrains at its proving grounds in Milford, MI yesterday.

Dual-hybrid technology uses a computer to choose from thousands of engine combinations: one electric motor, two electric motors, a combination of electric motors and the V-8 gas engine, or shutting down some of the V-8's cylinders, said Tim Grewe, GM's chief engineer for rear-wheel-drive powertrain hybrids.

The technology was developed jointly by GM, DaimlerChrysler, and BMW, and will be used in BMW vehicles, GM's GMC Tahoe, Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and Chevrolet Silverado, and DCX's Dodge Durango, reports USA Today.

The powertrains are huge for GM and its partners because they greatly increase the fuel economy of light trucks and may bring people back into the market, said Jim Sanfilippo, senior industry analyst for Automotive Marketing Consultants. "It's a big thing. It's a terrific thing," he said.