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Buick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in China

So far, Buick has tried to improve fuel economy only through turbocharging and mild hybrid systems. But a full Hybrid Electric Vehicle was revealed today in China, and it's based on the LaCrosse sedan that's also sold in the US.
Buick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in China 7 photos
Photo: Buick
Buick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in ChinaBuick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in ChinaBuick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in ChinaBuick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in ChinaBuick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in ChinaBuick Goes Hybrid with LaCrosse HEV Launched in China
China pretty much saved the Buick brand from being killed like Pontiac was. So for them to get a model before Americans is not that strange. But we can't even confirm that the Pontiac Hybrid will make it into our showrooms since it seems underpowered.

Under the hood is a 1.8-liter SIDI engine, so it's got the direct injection, but not turbocharging. The press release did not say what kind of combustion cycle is being used or what the output was. But we can tell you the electric motor, wherever it is, is connected to a 1.5-liter " high-performance lithium battery unit."

Buick says the Chinese-made LaCrosse HEV will drink gas at the rate of 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers, which is equivalent to 50 miles per gallon in the US. The company notes that the figure is 35% better than the LaCross with eAssist. That's pretty good, but with a 0 to 62 mph time of 8.9 seconds, the hybrid is slower than many much greener pure EVs we take for granted.

However, the LaCrosse didn't just get a hybrid engine. "Its green pedigree is supported by numerous advanced technologies such as an electronic climate control compressor, electronic power steering, exhaust thermal energy recycling, and active grille open and close that maximize its efficiency," says Buick.

Believe it or not, this is a sign of things to come. At Buick Brand Days, GM executive director of global propulsion systems Larry Nitz said the automaker will introduce ten or more eco-friendly cars in China over the next five years. Not all will be Buicks, but considering "Buick Blue" is now considered a brand, we wouldn't be surprised if the Regal went hybrid very soon.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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