General Motors Corporation (GM) will have a large participation at the upcoming 2007 State Fair of Texas on September 28 to October 21. The Detroit-based automaker will make the event as the stage for the public debut of the all new 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid sport utility vehicle (SUV) models. The two SUV models will roll out in dealer showrooms after the State Fair of Texas. With the presentation of the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid, GM said they want consumers to have a preview on what to expect on these two models.
According to Ed Peper, general manager of Chevrolet: "The new Tahoe and Yukon Hybrid SUVs offer the best of both worlds to customers and complement the Texan lifestyle - all the capability expected of an SUV with better-than-ever fuel economy."
Both the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid come with a host of features inside and out, along with fuel efficient and environmental friendly powertrain systems. The 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid are equipped with a monstrous 6.0-liter V8 engine under the hood. This power unit for the Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids comes with the GM Active Fuel Management system, allowing better fuel economy and optimum performance. The GM Active Fuel Management is capable of deactivating half of the engine's cylinder. This means that the engine can run with only 8, 6, or 4 cylinders depending on the driving situations.
As a hybrid model, the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon also come with a battery package and can travel solely on electric power with a maximum speed of 30 mph. Running on electric propulsion reduces fuel consumption for both models. The hybrid powertrain system also allows the battery pack to be recharged through regenerative braking. Further fuel economy features can be achieved with the electric boosting brisk acceleration and engine speed and load control.
According to GM, the Tahoe and Yukon hybrid models "deliver a 30 percent gain in overall fuel economy and, during certain driving conditions, will run on pure electricity."
Both the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid will be produced in the state of Texas at the GM Arlington Assembly Plant.
Alicia Boler-Davis, GM Arlington plant manager commented:
"Building the full-size SUV hybrid vehicles locally is a perfect fit for Texas. Most auto manufacturers offer hybrid vehicle technology only in smaller vehicles with less room for passengers and cargo. In Texas, we know transporting family and towing boats, campers and trailers is a way of life. GM is proud to bring a green alternative fitting for our fellow Texans needs and lifestyles."
GM did not yet announce the availability and the manufacturer's suggested price (MSRP) of these two hybrid SUV models. Maybe consumers should upgrade their auto parts (like ) while waiting.