Quote:
Originally Posted by Dragoneye
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".
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Oh yes i remember, they were also called the "mild" hybrids. I do remember reading that the "mild" hybrids were going to get a little less mild and deliver much better fuel economy. Obviously i dont remember exactly what they were going to do but i think they are coming soon like in the malibu, aura ...