2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Review

Cadillac announced the world premiere of the Escalade Hybrid, the first fuel-saving hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV. Powered by an innovative, fuel-saving 2 Mode Hybrid system, Escalade Hybrid offers more than 50 percent improvement in fuel economy in town - while delivering the same distinctive style, segment-leading characteristics and size capabilities that have made the Escalade an icon.

"Escalade, already the sales and style leader among large luxury SUVs, now adds the opportunity for fuel savings, technically advanced hybrid system," said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "Arrival Escalade Hybrid means that consumers can now use less fossil fuel, reduce emissions and still enjoy a full-size luxury SUV."

 

 

Hybrid goes on sale in the United States in the summer of 2008 and is the latest example of Escalade's technology leadership. Hybrid sales opportunities in Europe is currently being evaluated and a decision is expected within six months.

 

 

 

"No other manufacturer offers a hybrid luxury seat eight in the exercise or trailer load many comfortable," Taylor says. "And no hybrid has the dramatic presence that is synonymous with Escalade."

Escalade Hybrid is available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. Produces up to 6000 pounds (2722 kg) of towing capacity of a useful model 2WD and 5,700 pounds (2,565 kg), 4WD models. All the comfort features of the standard Escalade. This includes the eight-inch touch-screen navigation system, which shows the performance of readings from the 2-Mode Hybrid system on the screen.

Cadillac Escalade Hybrid extends leadership in the luxury SUV category. Escalade sales increased compared to changing sales trends and increased competition. In fact, sales were up 22 percent of the Escalade in September last year in sales. Other models include the extended-length Escalade, Escalade ESV and the versatile Escalade EXT luxury-utility truck. The hybrid model is available with the standard Escalade body of.

 

The patented 2-Mode hybrid

Escalade 2-Mode Hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy as well as city and highway while delivering the features of a true luxury SUV. A city, this advanced hybrid power system enables Escalade to launch and drive low speeds on electricity alone. Like the extra power is needed, the system merges the battery output and gas engine smoothly.

GM's patented two-hybrid system consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). These systems work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 Gen IV gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. AFM enables the V-8 engine seamlessly cut half of its cylinders when less power is needed, and on the road. This new hybrid system not only enables the Escalade Hybrid to drive low speeds on electricity alone, but also allows 6 0.0 L V-8 to higher profitability of its four-cylinder mode for longer periods.

The system key Escalade 2-Mode Hybrid is the energy used to propel the vehicle is generated by the same hybrid system. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle inertia, the hybrid system's electric motors produce electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

 

2-Mode Hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is less than half the size of single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses on the streets today in dozens of major North American cities. Use a small full-size SUV, 2-Mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most - for large vehicles with a high degree of readiness. It is a fundamental part of GM's energy diversity efforts, which focus on reducing dependence on oil, fuel consumption, reduce emissions and reduce the environmental impact of the car.

Smooth and quiet power for around Cadillac

Acoustic details specific to the hybrid model to make sure it offers the luxury of high quality that has been a feature of the Escalade, since its inception. Details include:

A new exhaust system and resonator specially adapted for engines running 6.0L LIVC active fuel management. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during two V-4 and V-8 operation

 

The power supply, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the cabin when the gasoline engine is off. It includes the standard tri-zone climate

An electric motor 42-volt variable assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to 0.5 mpg fuel economy, reducing parasitic losses common in belt hydraulic

Energy storage cooling system internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low speeds when the fan could more easily be heard by residents.

Escalade aesthetic

Hybrid to preserve the characteristics that have made the leaders great luxury SUV and the flagship Escalade is Cadillac's product renaissance of the total. This is an instantly recognizable style of the Cadillac Sixteen concept and includes tips, including a detailed grille, front fender vent ports and layers of chrome accents.

 

Escalade warm and inviting interior features a premium presentation. It comes in two colors, Ebony and Cashmere. Standard features include a distinctive gauges of the instrument panel with white needles and blue light inlays with continuously lit, white-LED backlighting, Nuance leather-covered seats, leather-covered door trim and center console and a power assisted rear liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button.