GM Debuts Cadillac Escalade Hybrid SUV in China

Among other goodies we already told you about, General Motors also displayed at the Auto Shanghai 2009 the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, a two-mode hybrid that will go on sale in China later this year. The two-mode hybrid system is actually an assembly that consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (ETV) and a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (EES) working in connection with the standard 6.0-liter V8 gasoline engine.

And speaking of the powerplant, the 6.0-liter unit generates 332 horsepower (248 kW) at 5,100 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque (498 Nm) at 4,100 rpm. The car also incorporates a Start-Stop mode called Auto Stop that automatically idles the engine when not in motion. After pressing the throttle pedal, the hybrid uses electric power, thus reducing emissions and fuel consumption, especially when stuck in traffic.

There are several other engineering modifications supposed to maintain the electric autonomy and reduce emissions, including a new exhaust system specially tuned for the 6.0-liter unit, an electrically-drive 300-volt air conditioning compressor plus an electrically-driven 42-volt variable-assist power steering.

“No other manufacturer offers a hybrid than can seat eight luxuriously while simultaneously carrying lots of cargo comfortably,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac General Manager. “And no hybrid delivers the dramatic presence that is synonymous with Escalade.”

“Offering the Escalade Hybrid in China is part of GM’s commitment to improving the fuel economy of our domestic product lineup,” said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. “By adapting our advanced hybrid systems to products like SUVs that consume the most fuel, we can make a difference right now."