According to WardsAuto, citing GM internal sources, the hybrid version of the model will use the same powertrain as the one featured on the hybrid incarnation of the LaCrosse and called by GM not a hybrid, but an eAssist.
Presented for the first time last year, in November, the eAssist pairs the model's regular internal combustion engine to an electric motor and a 115-volt lithium ion battery. The 15 horsepower and 79 lb-ft (107 Nm) of torque motor is used to provide initial acceleration. After the car is on the move, a torque smoothing function turns on the regular engine. While on the move, the electric motor remains dormant, coming to life during deceleration.It works in conjunction with regenerative braking and an idle stop system.
In the LaCrosse, which will launch this summer, the eAssist makes the car achieve 25/37 miles per gallon (9.4/6.35 liters per 100 km, city/highway). The same figures are expected to be reached in the Regal version powered by the 2.4l engine.
The news of the Regal getting this semi-hybrid version is not entirely a surprise, given the fact that Steve Poulos, GM's global chief engineer in charge of the eAssist already admitted the system to be the base powertrain of the future.
More details about the new version of the Regal to be announced next week.
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