Quote:
Originally Posted by AirGoya
Is that where when you brake, it takes that lost energy and uses it to charge something... i dont know. can you explain? 
I do remember them saying something about a pretty small turbo four. |
Ummm...in short;
The alternator doubles as a small motor, which suppliments the engine's power during cruising. It has a highly-researched and VERY robust belt, because when you come to a stop light or step on the brake at low speeds, the engine shuts down and captures the rolling energy as you brake. This recharges the Big batteries that power the little motor, and your accessories during engine-off periods. Then when you let off the brake, the alternator/motor fires the engine back up and off you go.
It's MUCH less expensive than the two-mode system, so it's a more practical Hybrid system to buy. (less time is needed to recoupe your investment from gas savings)
So I wondered if GM wouldn't consider packaging this system in the car mostly for the feel-good yuppies who would buy it
just because it says "Hybrid".