eAssist hybrid system boasts 13-percent increase in fuel economy, but limited to California
General Motors said today it will add the hybrid-drive eAssist system to select GMC and Chevrolet trucks. The system consists of a small electric motor and a compact lithium-ion battery pack tacking on an additional 13 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque, while only adding 100 pounds of curb weight.
Available on 5.3-liter V8-equipped rigs, GM says the eAssist system will increase efficiency by 13 percent — or about 2 more mpg. That puts total highway fuel economy at about 24 mpg, and the combined rating at about 20 mpg.
The tech, pilfered from the latest Malibu Hybrid and Chevrolet Volt, consists of a 24-cell air-cooled battery pack stuffed under the front bench (or center console), and modified Volt software. The power inverter module is now under the hood and liquid cooled to help manage operating temperature.
Chevrolet says this system will only set you back an extra $500 — not bad, considering the subtle boost in performance and fuel efficiency. Of course, the bad news — this system will first roll out in California, will be limited to 500 units and will only get a national release if demand is deemed high. With constantly fluctuating fuel prices, we bet this will eventually get a national release.
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