Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Buick "Astra" spotted running bra-less]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/spy-shots-buick-astra-spotted-running-bra-less/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/spy-shots-buick-astra-spotted-running-bra-less/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/spy-shots-buick-astra-spotted-running-bra-less/#commentsFiled under:

Now that General Motors has decreed that Buick will be one of its four core brands, its lineup will need to be fleshed out a bit. The Lucerne is going away momentarily and the mid-size Regal is on the way. However, that still leaves only three models, including the LaCrosse and Enclave. Earlier this year, GM took us on tour of the Buick design studio and showed off a six-vehicle lineup for Buick, with a new compact sedan as the entry point. That sedan is essentially just the Opel Astra with a Buick grille and a trunk and we've seen it running before with heavy camouflage.

It appears that Buick has now decided to peel that back and leave just the vinyl triangles for the remaining testing. That probably means the new "Excelle" (as the previous model was known in China) will be hitting the streets sooner rather than later. Buick officials told us this car would be coming to North America. Since it rides on the same Delta II platform as the Cruze and Volt, it could be built in any number of plants, including Lordstown, Ohio and Detroit Hamtramck. Perhaps the most likely location would be the Orion, Michigan plant that is also building the new Aveo. At the time GM announced that the Aveo would be built in Orion, they said also said the plant would be able to build a C-Segment car. If that is the case, we'll probably see the Buick launch sometime in 2011 as a 2012 model.

[Source: WorldCarFans]

Spy Shots: Buick "Astra" spotted running bra-less originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Buickbuick compact sedanbuick excelleBuickCompactSedanBuickExcellespyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsSat, 07 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO]]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/avant-concept-buicks-new-look-at-the-small-premium-market-w-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buick Avant Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Need further proof that the premium car market is looking to downsize? General Motors' latest entry on its recently-launched Lab website is the Buick Avant, which the automaker developed to study the future of scaled down models for its upper-level brands.

Innovative ideas abound with the Buick Avant Concept, including doors that can both swing and slide open, a driver's seat that moves laterally to customize interior packaging, a luggage shelf that brings packages to you and a so-called micro pergola roof that can be either opaque or transparent depending on the driver's wishes.

All told, Buick came up with six exterior themes and four interior concepts that it hopes to get feedback on. Check out the image gallery below and click past the break to watch the video. Then, click here to let GM know what you think of its ideas for the small premium market. Thanks for the tip, Ryan!



[Source: GM Lab]

Continue reading Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO]

Avant Concept: Buick's new look at the small premium market [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avantbuickbuick avantbuick avant conceptbuick conceptBuickAvantBuickAvantConceptBuickConceptsmall buicksmall buick conceptsmall car conceptsmall premiumsmall premium buickSmallBuickSmallBuickConceptSmallCarConceptSmallPremiumSmallPremiumBuickWed, 23 Sep 2009 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to suppliers: Keep working on Two-Mode Hybrid PHEV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/gm-to-suppliers-keep-working-on-two-mode-hybrid-phev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/gm-to-suppliers-keep-working-on-two-mode-hybrid-phev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/gm-to-suppliers-keep-working-on-two-mode-hybrid-phev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Equinox - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that General Motors has offloaded its Saturn brand and the once-planned Buick plug-in hybrid SUV failed to get off the ground after being roundly criticized by the press and public, GM needs to pick yet another platform to introduce the Two-Mode Hybrid powertrain in its first plug-in capable front-drive application. Good news, though, plug-in fans: GM is reportedly telling suppliers like lithium ion battery producer Compact Power not to slow down on the project as its still very much in the works.

According to The Detroit Bureau, GM is still aiming to release its PHEV technology for the 2011 model year, likely in a vehicle from either the Chevrolet or GMC brands. We imagine it will be an SUV like the Vue, so the recently-redesigned Chevy Equinox or GMC Terrain seem to be the most likely candidates.


Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

GM to suppliers: Keep working on Two-Mode Hybrid PHEV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick phevbuick vueBuickPhevBuickVuechevroletchevrolet equinoxChevroletEquinoxchevychevy equinoxChevyEquinoxequinoxequinox phevEquinoxPhevgmgm plug ingm plug-inGmPlug-inGmPlugInplug inplug-inPlugInsaturn vuesaturn vue phevSaturnVueSaturnVuePhevSat, 12 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: GM cancels Buick crossover before birth, will add PHEV drivetrain to another vehicle]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/breaking-gm-cancels-buick-crossover-will-add-phev-drivetrain-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/breaking-gm-cancels-buick-crossover-will-add-phev-drivetrain-t/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/breaking-gm-cancels-buick-crossover-will-add-phev-drivetrain-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Surprising news comes by way of General Motors today as the automaker has already canceled its recently announced Buick crossover, which in reality was little more than an ex-Saturn Vue emblazoned with Buick's trademark chrome waterfall grille. And therein lies the rub. As confirmed to Autoblog by Michelle Bunker, Manager of Buick Communications, initial feedback from the media, employees and dealerships regarding the upcoming vehicle was almost universally negative, as the product just didn't seem to fit with the direction the automaker said it was taking the Buick brand. As a result, GM has apparently canceled the program.

Thankfully, though, the Vue's plug-in hybrid powertrain will reportedly be transferred to another vehicle and will hit the market with no delay from the previously announced 2011 sale date. While some might say (and with good reason) that GM should have known the Vue didn't belong in Buick showrooms in the first place, the automaker cites this quick action as evidence that things really are changing at New GM, and it's hard to argue with that assessment - there's little doubt it would have taken countless meetings leading to numerous delays to make such a decision just a few months back.

In any case, GM promises to discuss the replacement for the PHEV in the very near future. Watch this space for more.

[Source: General Motors]

BREAKING: GM cancels Buick crossover before birth, will add PHEV drivetrain to another vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid prototype - click above for high-res image gallery

We had a chance for a quick drive of a development prototype for Buick's upcoming plug-in hybrid crossover this week at the GM proving ground. The prototype was still wearing its Saturn grille and badging as that was the original intent of the program. When Rick Wagoner announced in late 2006 that the company would develop a plug-in hybrid, it was intended to the be the Vue. Of course, at that time, Saturn still had a future as part of GM but we all know how that turned out.

The Vue was Saturn's best-selling vehicle in 2008 with nearly 82,000 units sold. For the new version, the silly fake fender vents are being dispensed with and a water-fall grille is being applied to make it a Buick (so much Fritz Henderson's hatred of re-badging). The two-mode hybrid system that was scheduled to go into production late last year lives on but is now paired with an 8 kWh lithium ion battery pack supplied by LG Chem. According to Larry Nitz, director of hybrid powertrain development, this is half of a Volt pack repackaged to fit under the rear cargo floor. Learn more after the jump.

Gallery: Saturn Vue PHEV prototype


[Source: General Motors]
Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Drive: Buick/Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid prototype

Quick Drive: Buick/Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid prototype originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick phevBuickPhevfirst driveFirstDrivelarry nitzLarryNitzphevplug inplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpluginpluginsquick driveQuickDrivesaturn vuesaturn vue hybridsaturn vue plug-insaturn vue two mode hybridSaturnVueSaturnVueHybridSaturnVuePlug-inSaturnVueTwoModeHybridThu, 13 Aug 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[POLL: Should GM's upcoming Buick PHEV have a V6 engine?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/poll-should-gms-upcoming-buick-phev-have-a-v6-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/poll-should-gms-upcoming-buick-phev-have-a-v6-engine/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/10/poll-should-gms-upcoming-buick-phev-have-a-v6-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Buick PHEV 2-Mode Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

It seems likely that hybrid purchasers are basing their decision to pay extra for fuel saving technology on the assumption that they will be getting the maximum available fuel efficiency, right? If that's true, why did General Motors choose to use a large V6 engine in its upcoming Buick plug-in hybrid crossover? This exact question was recently posed by Lyle Dennis over at GM-Volt.com. In response, GM spokesperson Brian Corbett had this to say:
Our hybrid strategy has been pretty consistent over the last few years.

Our GM Hybrid system - the mild hybrid, belt-alternator starter technology - is our affordable hybrid technology paired with smaller displacement engines. Our 2-mode hybrid system is our more capable, premium hybrid technology. It's goal is to provide significantly higher fuel economy while maintaining the capability of the non-hybrid vehicle's cargo carrying, towing, etc.

That strategy applies to the plug-in as well; maintaining the capability of a 5-passenger crossover while providing significant improvements in fuel economy. It provides E85 capability, which means it likely will be the first flex-fuel hybrid.
What do you think? Would it be a better idea for GM to couple its 2-Mode hybrid system on a four-cylinder engine? Hit the jump to take part in our poll.

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

Continue reading POLL: Should GM's upcoming Buick PHEV have a V6 engine?

POLL: Should GM's upcoming Buick PHEV have a V6 engine? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick hybridbuick phevbuick vueBuickHybridBuickPhevBuickVuehybrid carhybrid carshybrid crossoverhybrid suvhybrid suvshybrid vehiclesHybridCarHybridCarsHybridCrossoverHybridSuvHybridSuvsHybridVehiclesMon, 10 Aug 2009 11:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid reborn as new Buick crossover]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/breaking-saturn-vue-plug-in-hybrid-reborn-as-new-buick-crossove/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/breaking-saturn-vue-plug-in-hybrid-reborn-as-new-buick-crossove/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/breaking-saturn-vue-plug-in-hybrid-reborn-as-new-buick-crossove/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Buick "Vue" Two-Mode hybrid - click above for high res gallery

GM CEO Fritz Henderson may not believe in re-badging Pontiacs for other GM brands, but it looks like at least one Saturn model will live on. The mid-size Vue crossover will become a Buick in 2011, and a plug-in hybrid will be part of the program. The Two-mode hybrid system that was originally scheduled to launch in the Vue last November will be installed in the Buick-badged version along with an 8 kWh lithium ion battery pack. The pack will use the same LG Chem cells going into the Volt and, as originally planned, the PHEV will be paired with the direct injected 3.6-liter V6.

According to GM, testing so far shows that the PHEV can run over 10 miles batteries alone at low speeds. Since this is a conversion-type plug-in essentially retaining the standard two-mode hybrid system, it isn't capable of running on electricity at any speed (like the Volt). Unlike any other current hybrid, the PHEV will be flex-fuel capable. Badging the PHEV as a Buick makes sense since it sells at a higher price point than the Saturn and it will also likely be available in China. GM expects this to be the first commercially-available PHEV SUV, beating Ford's first offering which is due in 2012.

GM spokesman Brian Corbett tells ABG there won't be a non-plug hybrid version of the Buick "Vue" available. The new Buick will be available with the same direct injected 2.4-liter four and 3.0-liter V6 found in the new Equinox.

Gallery: Buick Plug-in hybrid crossover


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Green Line PHEV


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Breaking: Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid reborn as new Buick crossover

Breaking: Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid reborn as new Buick crossover originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsbuickbuick crossoverbuick crossover plug in hybridbuick cuvbuick cuv phevbuick vueBuickCrossoverBuickCrossoverPlugInHybridBuickCuvBuickCuvPhevBuickVuephevplug inplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpluginpluginstwo mode hybridtwo mode phevTwoModeHybridTwoModePhevThu, 06 Aug 2009 09:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Day one for The New GM: the more things change... Lutz stays, company needs vehicles that matter]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/day-one-for-the-new-gm-the-more-things-change-lutz-stays-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/day-one-for-the-new-gm-the-more-things-change-lutz-stays-co/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/day-one-for-the-new-gm-the-more-things-change-lutz-stays-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



After only 40 days in bankruptcy, General Motors emerged today as the new GM (sans green logo, for now). While the bankruptcy was about as short and sweet as they come, the future is what everyone is most interested in, and it's kind of looking a lot like the present/past.

For one thing, Chevy Volt cheerleader and former General Motors product chief Bob Lutz has reversed his decision to retire at the end of this year and may stick around in either marketing and communications or product design, sources told Automotive News (subs req'd).

As for the company itself, their press release says, among other things, that the new GM has, "A fresh lineup of Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC cars, trucks and crossovers, each with leading-edge designs and technologies that matter to both consumers and the environment."

CEO Fritz Henderson wrote that the new GM will focus on "customers, cars and culture," meaning that they need buyers, vehicles that people want to buy and will shift things around in the company to make decisions faster. A lot of this we've heard before. After this morning's press conference, Henderson drove away in a 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover. Were all the Volts busy? is this a sign of what will the future will bring to the old new GM?

[Source: GM, Automotive News (subs req'd), Green Car Advisor]
Photo by Patricia Drury. Licensed under Creative Commons license 2.0.

Continue reading Day one for The New GM: the more things change... Lutz stays, company needs vehicles that matter

Day one for The New GM: the more things change... Lutz stays, company needs vehicles that matter originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzBobLutzbreakingfritz hendersonFritzHendersongeneral motorsgeneral motors bankruptcyGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsBankruptcygmgm bankruptcyGmBankruptcynew general motorsnew gmNewGeneralMotorsNewGmFri, 10 Jul 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Buick LaCrosse to add 2.4L DI four cylinder, 30 mpg highway]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/2010-buick-lacrosse-to-add-2-4l-di-four-cylinder-30-mpg-highway/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/2010-buick-lacrosse-to-add-2-4l-di-four-cylinder-30-mpg-highway/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/2010-buick-lacrosse-to-add-2-4l-di-four-cylinder-30-mpg-highway/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery

During a recent online media event, Buick announced a new addition to the powertrain lineup for the 2010 LaCrosse. When we first heard about the LaCrosse in January, it was to be powered by the 3.0-liter and 3.6-liter direct injected V6s. Around the end of the year, Buick will add the new direct injected 2.4-liter four cylinder as a base option. Like the V6s, the 182 hp engine will be paired up with a 6-speed automatic transmission although the four will use the smaller 6T40 while the sixes use the larger 6T70. Buick expects the four-cylinder LaCrosse to achieve 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. GM points out that its main competitors, the Lincoln MKZ and Acura TL are not available with four cylinder engines. As gas prices are on the rise again, Buick expects about a quarter of all LaCrosse sales to be four cylinders.



Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading 2010 Buick LaCrosse to add 2.4L DI four cylinder, 30 mpg highway

2010 Buick LaCrosse to add 2.4L DI four cylinder, 30 mpg highway originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010BuickLacrossedirect injectionDirectInjectionfour cylinder engineFourCylinderEngineTue, 23 Jun 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter the Rumormill: upcoming Buick CUV may get 2-Mode hybrid powertrain]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/enter-the-rumormill-upcoming-buick-cuv-may-get-2-mode-hybrid-po/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/enter-the-rumormill-upcoming-buick-cuv-may-get-2-mode-hybrid-po/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/06/16/enter-the-rumormill-upcoming-buick-cuv-may-get-2-mode-hybrid-po/#commentsFiled under: , ,



For all those weeping and gnashing their teeth over the loss of the 2-Mode Hybrid Saturn Vue, a ray of hope may be on the horizon from a seemingly unlikely source. According to a posting on GM-Volt.com, there's a possibility that an upcoming CUV from Buick could be granted access to the sophisticated hybrid technology that GM had initially intended for the latest Saturn Vue and was already supposed to be in dealer showrooms by now.

The world got a sneak peek at the new Buick 'ute on a CBS News piece that featured an interview with GM's Ed Welburn. This new CUV will share the same platform as the soon-to-be-departing Saturn Vue, so it theoretically shouldn't be too difficult to port the technology to Buick for a 2011 model year release. Of course, there still remains the possibility that the 2-Mode could also make an appearance in the latest Chevy Equinox or Cadillac SRX.

[Source: GM-Volt.com]

Enter the Rumormill: upcoming Buick CUV may get 2-Mode hybrid powertrain originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-mode2-mode hybrid2-mode hybrid buick2-modeHybrid2-modeHybridBuickbuickbuick cuvbuick hybridBuickCuvBuickHybridTue, 16 Jun 2009 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[GM unloads pics and details of new Buick Business MPV]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/gm-unloads-pics-and-details-of-new-buick-business-mpv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/gm-unloads-pics-and-details-of-new-buick-business-mpv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/gm-unloads-pics-and-details-of-new-buick-business-mpv/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Buick Business MPV - Click above for a high-res image gallery

On Monday, we brought you live images of the Buick Business MPV that's currently on display at the Shanghai Motor Show. While we admit that this hauler for the Chinese market is a pretty polarizing design, we don't necessarily think that's a bad thing. In any case, these new shots and accompanying press release from the GM mothership show the new concept in much better detail.

One of the most controversial design elements are the shoulder-level dips about halfway into the rear sliding doors. These were reportedly added to give the MPV a distinctive look and to incorporate the rail guides for the power sliders. Up front is a large toothy grille done up in chrome, typical for a Chinese Buick.

Inside, dual second-row captain's chairs slide for and aft and are capable of swiveling 225 degrees. A power sliding center console houses a writing tablet or laptop computer and is accessible from both the second and third rows.

Under the short front hood sits 2.4-liter four cylinder engine mated up with a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is equipped with the latest version of GM's belt-alternator-starter mild hybrid system, which reportedly improves fuel efficiency by up to 20 percent. Check out galleries below of both live shots and high-res images from GM, and click past the break for the official press release.

Gallery: Shanghai 2009: Buick Business MPV


Gallery: Shanghai 2009: Buick Buusiness Concept hybrid


[Source: GM]

Continue reading GM unloads pics and details of new Buick Business MPV

GM unloads pics and details of new Buick Business MPV originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick businessbuick business conceptbuick business mpvbuick business mvp conceptbuick hybridBuickBusinessBuickBusinessConceptBuickBusinessMpvBuickBusinessMvpConceptBuickHybridshanghai 2009shanghai motor showShanghai2009ShanghaiMotorShowWed, 22 Apr 2009 14:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Shanghai 2009: Buick Business Concept hybrid comes to light]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-buick-business-concept-hybrid-comes-to-light/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-buick-business-concept-hybrid-comes-to-light/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-buick-business-concept-hybrid-comes-to-light/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Buick "Business" MPV concept - Click above for a hi-res gallery

While we're busy at the SAE World Congress, GM took the wraps off of the Buick Business MPV concept in Shanghai. The hybrid concept vehicle fits into the class of executive transport vehicles in China, hence the Business name. GM partnered with the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) on the vehicle, which uses li-ion batteries and an improved electric motor to get fuel economy that's apparently 20 percent better than what was possible with the previous hybrid setup. The two groups also brought us the 2007 Rivera concept.

As you can see in the gallery below from our friends at Autoblog Chinese, the Busines MPV is a five-door hatchback that can seat seven. The concept can shut down the engine off at idle and uses regenerative brakes to stretch the fuel in the tank even further.

Gallery: Shanghai 2009: Buick Buusiness Concept hybrid


[Source: Autoblog Chinese via Autoblog, All Cars Electric]

Shanghai 2009: Buick Business Concept hybrid comes to light originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick businessbuick hybridBuickBusinessBuickHybridbuisness hybridBuisnessHybridshanghai 2009Shanghai2009Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Will a version of the new Buick Excelle be the next Voltec model?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/will-a-version-of-the-new-buick-excelle-be-the-next-voltec-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/will-a-version-of-the-new-buick-excelle-be-the-next-voltec-model/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/22/will-a-version-of-the-new-buick-excelle-be-the-next-voltec-model/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The next-generation Buick Excelle has been spotted testing in the usual camouflage. The existing Excelle is only sold in China, but now that General Motors has decided that Buick will be one of its four core brands in the U.S. market, it seems likely that it could come over as part of an expanded lineup. The new Excelle is based on the same Delta II platform as other compacts - including the Opel Astra, Chevy Cruze and, of course, the Chevy Volt.

Since Buick is intended to be a more upmarket brand than Chevrolet, it seems plausible that GM could create a version of the Excelle using the Voltec (formerly E-Flex) powertrain that will propel the Volt. Most likely, GM will simply focus on the Volt and Opel/Vauxhall Ampera for a couple of years. An ER-EV version of the Excelle will likely have to wait until the second-generation Voltec system arrives. If GM does build a Voltec based Buick will they finally revive the Electra name for it?

[Source: Left Lane News]

Will a version of the new Buick Excelle be the next Voltec model? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick excelleBuickExcellevoltecvoltec drivetrainvoltec powertrainvoltecdrivetrainVoltecPowertrainSun, 22 Mar 2009 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Several 2010 GM models likely to get new direct injected 3.0L V6 and 2.3L I4]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/03/several-2010-gm-models-likely-to-get-new-direct-injected-3-0l-v6/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/03/several-2010-gm-models-likely-to-get-new-direct-injected-3-0l-v6/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/11/03/several-2010-gm-models-likely-to-get-new-direct-injected-3-0l-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



General Motors appears set to introduce two new direct injected engines to its lineup for the 2010 model year. A newly downsized 3.0L version of the 3.6L "high feature" V6 used across much of GM's lineup is set to launch in the redesigned Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX and Chevrolet Equinox. The smaller V6 will get the direct injection system already offered in the premium versions of the 3.6L. The smaller engine will match the 250 hp output of the current non-DI 3.6L while offering a significant improvement in fuel economy. The base engine in the Equinox will be a new 2.3L four cylinder also with direct injection. The DI system should give the four cylinder about 210 hp and fuel economy equal or better than the current 2.4L engine used in a variety of GM cars.

[Source: GM Inside News]

Several 2010 GM models likely to get new direct injected 3.0L V6 and 2.3L I4 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM has decided that the fuel economy of its vehicles should be the main focus in its advertising, rather than attempts to merely buff its battered brand image. Even the luxury line, Cadillac, is talking up miles per gallon in its new ads. Take the CTS, for instance. Please. It is capable of a somewhat surprising 26 mpg (on the highway, downhill, with a tailwind).

New "pump less and drive more" commercials will show the General's vehicles at the gas pump with the likes of Toyota, Ford, Mazda, and Chrysler to help try and make the point that their Pontiac, GMC, or Buick models either have better fuel economy or are capable of going farther on a fill up. GM hopes this will help slow the freefall its sales and stock price are currently experiencing. Yeah, that and $6,000 rebates (now without trade-ins!) ought to do the trick.

[Source: The Detroit News]

New GM ads focus on fuel economy originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertising campaignAdvertisingCampaignfuel economyFuelEconomyGMThu, 10 Jul 2008 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[It looks like the Chevy Impala and Buick Lucerne will stay FWD]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/27/it-looks-like-the-chevy-impala-and-buick-lucerne-will-stay-fwd/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/27/it-looks-like-the-chevy-impala-and-buick-lucerne-will-stay-fwd/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/05/27/it-looks-like-the-chevy-impala-and-buick-lucerne-will-stay-fwd/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It looks like the combination of $4/gallon gas and CAFE rules may have finally administered the coup de grace to GM's plans for new rear wheel drive replacements for its big sedans. GM had been planning to replace the Chevrolet Impala and Buick Lucerne with models based on the same Zeta rear wheel drive platform as the Pontiac G8 around 2010. However, it now appears that the front wheel drive Impala will remain in production at GM's Oshawa Ontario plant until at least 2012. The new contract between GM and the Canadian Autoworkers union specifies that the popular Impala will live on. Most likely it will now get a visual refresh around 2010 and probably some powertrain upgrades to improve efficiency. The fate of the Buick remains uncertain. The Hamtramck assembly plant that currently produces the Lucerne and Cadillac DTS is scheduled to shift over to building a Delta platform MPV and some car called the Volt in 2010. Based on the current draft of CAFE rules, it seems GM could have likely met the requirements with a Zeta platform vehicle with smaller, more efficient engines and perhaps a hybrid powertrain. The seemingly inexorable shift to even more efficient vehicles driven by higher gas prices is likely to continue outstripping regulatory requirements for the foreseeable future and all the automakers are having to adjust quickly.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. req'd]

It looks like the Chevy Impala and Buick Lucerne will stay FWD originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 27 May 2008 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For 2009, General Motors is adding four more vehicles to the existing eleven that are capable of running on E85 but more than likely never will. The latest entry is Buick's big sedan, the Lucerne. Currently the Lucerne is available with Buick's old 3.8L V-6 that isn't long for this world and the 4.6L NorthStar V-8. The flex-fuel Lucerne will use the same 3.9L V-6 installed in the Chevy Impala. Other models picking up flex-fuel capability for 2009 include the Hummer H2 and Chevy HHR. GM has committed to making half of its fleet flex-fuel capable by 2012, and now we just need some stations where people can buy ethanol and some cellulosic ethanol in mass production.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading 2009 Buick Lucerne adds the ability to use a fuel that it will likely never use

2009 Buick Lucerne adds the ability to use a fuel that it will likely never use originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick lucernebuick lucerne flex-fuelbuick lucurneBuickLucerneBuickLucerneFlex-fuelBuickLucurneFri, 18 Apr 2008 09:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Big GM Crossovers not going hybrid anytime soon]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/29/big-gm-crossovers-not-going-hybrid-anytime-soon/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/29/big-gm-crossovers-not-going-hybrid-anytime-soon/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/29/big-gm-crossovers-not-going-hybrid-anytime-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



After a report here on ABG yesterday that General Motors was set to introduce hybrid versions of their full-size Lambda crossovers, I decided to call up Brian Corbett GM's spokesman for hybrid programs. The Lambdas include the Saturn Outlook, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia. According to Corbett, there are no immediate plans to hybridize the Lambdas. During a conversation with GM Vice-Chairman Bob Lutz at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November he indicated that the shape of the engine compartment of the big CUVs was too narrow for the two-mode transmission to fit. Corbett said that a second-generation version was being designed but it was still at least 3-4 years away. The current mild hybrid system also isn't suitable for the bigger vehicles although the second-generation version of that might be adapted. That, too, is still three years away. So if you like the Lambdas but want better mileage, you'll be waiting a while . As for the GMC Sierra hybrid, Chevrolet announced the identical Chevy Silverado hybrid in LA and the Sierra will no doubt be announced soon.

[Source: General Motors]

Big GM Crossovers not going hybrid anytime soon originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 12:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick-enclavegm-lambda-crossoversgmc-acadiasaturn-outlooktwo-mode-hybridTue, 29 Jan 2008 12:08:00 EST<![CDATA[CAFE takes another bite out of GM product plan as RWD programs fall away]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/cafe-takes-another-bite-out-of-gm-product-plan-as-rwd-programs-f/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/cafe-takes-another-bite-out-of-gm-product-plan-as-rwd-programs-f/http://green.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/cafe-takes-another-bite-out-of-gm-product-plan-as-rwd-programs-f/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



A year ago the Zeta rear-wheel-drive architecture developed at General Motors Holden division in Australia looked set to spawn a host of new North American models. The platform that under-pins the new Pontiac G8 and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro now looks like it will have much more limited application. The next generation of the Chevy Impala was due to be built on this platform alongside the Camaro but now will likely stay on an updated version of the current front-wheel-drive chassis.

The fact that the company needs to move aggressively to meet new 35mpg fuel economy standards will likely mean that higher-volume applications like the Impala go to smaller, lighter platforms instead. The fate of the rumored Alpha compact rear-drive platform is still up in the air at this point. Whether a new Zeta-based Pontiac GTO ever sees the light of day is unknown as well. The 2.9L Cadillac turbodiesel V-6 mated with the two-mode hybrid system would probably get a GTO or Impala in the ballpark of 35mpg. However, that combination would probably be too expensive to get the desired volumes on the Impala and might not appeal to prospective GTO buyers.

[Source: GoAuto via Autoblog]

CAFE takes another bite out of GM product plan as RWD programs fall away originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 20 Jan 2008 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corporate-average-fuel-economygm-product-plansgm-zetaSun, 20 Jan 2008 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to launch LaCrosse hybrid in China before Beijing Olympics]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/gm-to-launch-lacrosse-hybrid-in-china-before-beijing-olympics/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/gm-to-launch-lacrosse-hybrid-in-china-before-beijing-olympics/http://green.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/gm-to-launch-lacrosse-hybrid-in-china-before-beijing-olympics/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Here's an update on GM's new hybrid for China. Shanghai GM says they will release a Buick LaCrosse hybrid for the Chinese market before the Beijing Olympics, which will have its opening ceremonies August 8, 2008. The hybrid will be based on the Saturn Aura hybrid and the pricing and mileage difference ($2,500 premium and 25 percent improvement in mileage) hints the hybrid system is mild and not GM's two mode system.

In China, Toyota and Honda currently offer a hybrid for sale. Recently, China's Changan Auto debuted its first hybrid and other Chinese automakers like BYD and Chery said they would offer hybrids next year. In a recent speech, Bob Lutz said China admired the Buick brand over any other GM brand. Currently there are no plans to release a Buick LaCrosse hybrid in the American market.

GM has said they would release 16 hybrids in the next 4 years and the US market already has the Aura hybrid, so a Buick hybrid in the U.S. is possible. Below the fold is a Chinese TV ad for the Buick.

Related:
[Source: AutoChannel]

UPDATE: Thanks to Ash, image has been changed.

Continue reading GM to launch LaCrosse hybrid in China before Beijing Olympics

GM to launch LaCrosse hybrid in China before Beijing Olympics originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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