AutoblogGreen

Report: GM struggling to market fuel efficient turbo technology

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:04:00 EST

Filed under: MPG, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, Pontiac, Saturn

In the automotive realm, marketing can sometimes prove just as important as the actual product. Take, for instance, Ford's well-regarded EcoBoost technology, which couples turbocharging with direct injection to produce more horsepower and reduce fuel consumption. Would it surprise you to hear that General Motors has had similar technology on the market for over three years?

It's true. GM's first turbocharged, direct injected powerplants hit the market with the company's 2007 models. The 2.0-liter Ecotec mills put down an impressive 260 horsepower and a matching 260 pound-feet of torque, and they were lauded by the press in the engine bays of the Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky, Chevrolet Cobalt SS and Chevrolet HHR SS. But few people outside a core group of enthusiasts actually remember this fact, and the automaker seemingly did little to promote any fuel mileage benefits with this line of powerplants.

Says Uwe Grebe, executive director of GM's global advanced engineering, "We didn't have a badge and say, 'This is the most important thing we will put on all our brochures.'" Ford, however, did just that, and its EcoBoost engines are right at the tips of all our tongues when we discuss today's most advanced powerplants. So, how does The General fix its mistake?

Well, that's a tad complicated. "It would not be good to say, 'This is EcoBoost, only better,'" explains Grebe. "People need to know what it is," but "people don't want to know every detail of the technology." Good luck with that.

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

Report: GM struggling to market fuel efficient turbo technology originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Quick Spin: Driving an Amp Sky shows there's real potential here

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:54:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, GM, Saturn, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Detroit Auto Show, Green Daily, Automotive X-Prize, Amp Electric Vehicles

Amp Sky - Click above for high-res image gallery

What you see in the picture above is not a Saturn Sky. Well, OK, it is a Sky, but it's a Sky that has been converted to all-electric drive by Amp Electric Vehicles, a conversion company based in Cincinnati, OH. A while back, during the Detroit Auto Show, we got a chance to spend a few minutes behind the wheel of the electrified Amp Sky and realized that, while the prototype version we steered was not exactly ready for prime time, there is a lot of potential here, both for Amp and plug-in vehicle fans who want an EV from the heartland of America (with Chinese batteries).

The all-electric Sky is, unsurprisingly, considering its heritage, not the best performer on snow and we had a ridiculously difficult time navigating the streets of downtown Detroit at anything more than 40 miles per hour. Of course, the day we drove it the weather was uncooperative, and no one else was going any faster than we were, even on our brief jaunt on the highway. We can't blame the converters for the lack of traction and limited speeds we were able to test out. Still, we got to enough time driving the Sky to get a feel for what Amp is up to here. Read on after the jump to see what the drive is like.

Gallery: Amp Sky

Continue reading Quick Spin: Driving an Amp Sky shows there's real potential here

Quick Spin: Driving an Amp Sky shows there's real potential here originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AMP will use Remy's electric motors in Saturn Sky, Pontiac Solstice conversions

Sebastian Blanco — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:04:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saturn, Amp Electric Vehicles

Progressive Automotive X-Prize contender Advanced Mechanical Products, Inc. (AMP) will (probably) use electric motors from Remy International, Inc. for its converted Saturn Sky and Pontiac Solstice electric vehicles (EVs). The two companies signed "a letter of intent for a potential long‐term electric motor supply agreement." Specifically, AMP will use Remy's HVH250TM electric motors, which AMP president Steve Burns called "simply the best on the market today."

AMP is currently taking reservations to install its all-electric drivetrain into 2007-2009 Skys and Solstices at an introductory price of $25,000, before tax credits. AMP says that once converted, the EVs will have a range of around 150 miles per charge. The Remy motors offer "improved fuel economy, increased range in all‐electric drive mode and the potential for a smaller internal combustion engine in hybrid vehicles." Don't expect AMP to get involved in hybrid powertrains; the Ohio-based company says more all-electric conversions of GM vehicles are in its future plans.

[Source: AMP]

Continue reading AMP will use Remy's electric motors in Saturn Sky, Pontiac Solstice conversions

AMP will use Remy's electric motors in Saturn Sky, Pontiac Solstice conversions originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM to suppliers: Keep working on Two-Mode Hybrid PHEV

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Saturn

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 AutoblogGreen on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid rated at 27/30 mpg by EPA, will never be built

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, MPG, Saturn

Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid - Click above to for high-res image gallery

One of our readers was was perusing the EPA's fuel economy listings and stumbled across a vehicle that we didn't even know had been rated. The two-mode hybrid version of the Saturn Vue had been scheduled to go into production in November 2008. However as General Motors careened toward financial apocalypse, many product programs were put on hold or canceled altogether. Among those was the new hybrid Vue which was delayed at least twice before finally being terminated altogether in late spring.

It appears that the EPA had already completed its testing regimen last fall and had officially rated the two-mode Vue at 27 mpg city, 30 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined. Compared to the existing mild-hybrid Vue, this doesn't look that great, since that one also had a 28 mpg combined rating (25 city and 32 highway). The mild hybrid, of course, used a four cylinder engine while the 2-mode had the 3.6-liter V6, giving it much better performance and a 3,500 pound tow rating.

Saturn did pretty much hit their target of a 50 percent improvement in combined efficiency compared to the non-hybrid V6 Vue which was rated at 19 mpg combined. The Vue doesn't look as impressive as the Ford Escape hybrid - which is rated at 34/31 mpg - but the Ford is also four cylinder powered while being smaller and lighter. A closer comparison might be the Toyota Highlander hybrid which, while larger, is also V6 powered. The Toyota is rated at 27/25 mpg and 26 mpg combined.

The Vue will, of course, never be built. GM has promised to put the new hybrid system into other vehicles in its lineup, perhaps even with a smaller, more efficient engine, improving overall efficiency. Thanks to Mike for the tip!

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Saturn VUE 2 Mode Hybrid

All Photos Copyright (C) 2008 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: EPA]

Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid rated at 27/30 mpg by EPA, will never be built originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:02:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Buick, Saturn

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 AutoblogGreen on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Saturn Vue plug-in replacement SUV on track, GM considering electric city car

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Saturn

Saturn Vue Two-Mode hybrid - click above for high res gallery

We've known for a while now that the technology that was to power the Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid would outlive GM's ownership of the brand and be ported over to another brand. The two-mode hybrid powertrain from the Vue Hybrid will likely become available in another GM product sometime in 2011, but what about the PHEV version? According to a report in Reuters, the vehicle may have changed but the timeline for GM's launch of a plug-in SUV remains the same. GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens told the news service that, "I can tell you that I won't lose one day in terms of customers being able to walk into dealerships and actually purchase a plug-in." In May, AutoblogGreen readers voted for GM to use the Chevy Equinox as a new home for the PHEV Vue's guts, but all that GM will say is that the plug-in powertrain from the Vue will make its way into one of the four brands GM has left: Chevy, Cadillac, Buick or GMC.

In other news, Stephens said that GM has not ruled out producing a small, all-electric city car in the coming years. We suppose he means a "real" car and not something like the PUMA.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Green Line PHEV

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Saturn Vue plug-in replacement SUV on track, GM considering electric city car originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Enter the Rumormill: upcoming Buick CUV may get 2-Mode hybrid powertrain

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:02:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Buick, Saturn

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 AutoblogGreen on Tue, 16 Jun 2009 08:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM to discontinue mild hybrid Malibu, Vue, Aura for 2010 model year

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 11:18:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Chevrolet, GM, Saturn

2009 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid - click above for high res image gallery

It's being reported that among the models that General Motors has decided to discontinue going into the 2010 model year are its existing mild hybrids. The Chevy Malibu, and Saturn Aura and Vue have been available with GM's belt-alternator-starter (BAS) system since 2007 but have never sold in any significant volumes. The system primarily provided automatic start stop functionality with a little bit of electric boost and regeneration. The system was limited by a weak motor and 36V battery system.

We checked with GM's hybrid spokesman Brian Corbett about the status of the mild hybrids. Corbett told ABG that currently there are no plans for retail sales of any of the mild hybrid models.

"There will be some MY2010 production. We will fulfill some MY2010 fleet orders for the Malibu Hybrid. As part of the Memorandum of Understanding between GM and Penske Automotive Group, Saturn plans to offer the Aura, Vue and Outlook models in 2010. Specific details of which versions (i.e. hybrids) has not yet been determined. "

At the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, GM announced a more powerful second generation BAS using a lithium ion battery. The second generation BAS wlll debut in 2011 and should provide a more significant increase in mileage over conventional models, hopefully attracting more customers. GM sent AutoblogGreen a statement on the Malibu's discontinuation (reason: "elevated inventory levels of the 2009 model"). Read it after the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid

[Source: GM, All Cars Electric]
Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading GM to discontinue mild hybrid Malibu, Vue, Aura for 2010 model year

GM to discontinue mild hybrid Malibu, Vue, Aura for 2010 model year originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn Vue two-mode dead, Chevrolet Equinox hybrid unlikely to hit until 2011

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:19:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Chevrolet, GM, Saturn

Saturn Vue Two-Mode hybrid - click above for high res gallery

When word came in the last few days that General Motors had reached a tentative deal to sell the Saturn brand to Roger Penske, the obvious question then became, "What about product?" The Penske deal apparently includes an agreement to continue supplying some current Saturn products on an interim basis until Penske lines up a new supplier and Penske has said that EVs are a priority. One of the most anticipated products that was scheduled to come from Saturn soon was the first front-wheel drive application of the two mode hybrid system in the Vue. GM had completed development of the two-mode Vue in mid-2008 and production was originally scheduled to start in November of last year. However, when GM's finances went from bad to worse, the hybrid launch was delayed first until spring 2009 and then summer.

GM hybrid spokesman Brian Corbett spoke with ABG at the opening of the company's new battery lab and gave us the bad news. The Vue two mode hybrid will never be, despite the Penske deal. While the two mode system will be installed in other as yet un-named vehicles (likely including the Chevrolet Equinox), those models won't appear until at least calender year 2011. The delay is likely due to an engine change. The Vue was to use the 3.6-liter V6, and that engine is not currently used in the new Equinox or the new Cadillac SRX, the other rumored recipient. Most likely, GM is switching over to using the new 3.0-liter direct-injected V6 or perhaps even the new 2.2-liter DI four cylinder.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Two-Modes

[Source: General Motors]

Saturn Vue two-mode dead, Chevrolet Equinox hybrid unlikely to hit until 2011 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn's future under Penske: electric cars might move to front of the line

Sebastian Blanco — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:11:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Saturn, Green Daily

Saturn Vue Plug-in - click above for a high-res gallery

Now that Penske has agreed to buy Saturn from GM, the big question is what will happen to the brand's vehicles. The agreement between the two companies stated that GM would keep building the Aura, Vue, and Outlook models for Penske on a contract basis and, as we heard earlier, the plug-in Vue Hybrid powertrain will be moved over to the Equinox. In the higher-mpg era that's coming, though, Saturn needs to focus on green cars. According to Roger Penske, there is at least a small chance that the new Saturn will bring all-electric vehicles to market soon. Penske told Edmunds that EVs "might be the first vehicles produced in the U.S." under Saturn's arrangement with foreign partners.

Penske highlighted Saturn's dedicated customer base as one reason that his company wanted to buy the brand. Penske also distributes Daimler's popular smart fortwo in the U.S. The all-electric smart ed is scheduled to make it to U.S. dealerships towards the end of 2010. Penske said Saturn and smart dealerships will remain separate entities.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Two-Modes

[Source: Green Car Advisor]

Saturn's future under Penske: electric cars might move to front of the line originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Plug-in Saturn Vue not dead, will be revived (sorta) by 2011

Sebastian Blanco — Tue, 05 May 2009 19:48:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, GM, Saturn

For all the jokes about how Americans now own GM, it turns out that AutoblogGreen readers and GM executives think alike. In a poll we ran yesterday, the most popular choice for what to do with the Saturn hybrid powertrains was "Move the powertrain to the Equinox." A GM spokesperson said today that, although the brand itself will indeed be sold, the powertrain - both the standard and plug-in versions - will be migrated to other vehicles in the GM stable, according to Automotive News. The new PHEV will come to fleet vehicles in early 2011 with Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC or Buick badging and might someday make it to dealer lots. As with the Chevy Volt, the fate of the new PHEV will be affected by the price of gasoline. Nice work, y'all, just remember to not take the corporate jet to DC any time soon.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Two-Modes

[Source: Automotive News (subs req'd)]

Plug-in Saturn Vue not dead, will be revived (sorta) by 2011 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 05 May 2009 19:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM hopes to sell Saturn by the end of 2009

Sebastian Blanco — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:53:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, GM, Saturn

That GM would sell Saturn has been floating around for what seems like ages now, but the most recent word from GM on the fate of the brand was that the "resolution" had been bumped up in the schedule to the end of 2009. GM just released a statement about the Saturn sale, saying that, "A number of potential buyers have surfaced and expressed interest in the Saturn brand and retailer network," and that GM hopes "to secure an agreement with a specific buyer later this year." We've asked GM if there is any indication about the fate of the brand's hybrids, especially the plug-in Vue hybrid that was so prominently displayed during the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, but haven't heard a thing yet. To fill the silence, what do you think GM should do?

View Poll

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Two-Modes

[Source: GM]

Continue reading GM hopes to sell Saturn by the end of 2009

GM hopes to sell Saturn by the end of 2009 originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 04 May 2009 18:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Saturn's death could hurt GM CAFE numbers

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:13:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, MPG, GM, Honda, Saturn

Saturn Vue Hybrid - Click above for a high-res gallery

The ultimate fate of Saturn as an automotive brand remains uncertain, pending the outcome of the offers currently being made to buy it from a shrinking General Motors. One thing is certain though, it will not remain a part of GM. One of the primary reasons that Saturn is being disposed of is poor sales. There is, however, one exception to that sales record: hybrids. So far, Saturn has accounted for about a quarter of GM's sales of hybrids. Saturn also had the best CAFE numbers of any GM division, thanks to the absence of any full-size body-on-frame vehicles or fuel-thirsty V8 engines in brand showrooms.

Removing those sales from GM's total will likely have a negative impact on GM's overall CAFE numbers, at least in the short term. Looking more closely at the sales, though, shows that the automaker's big two-mode hybrid trucks have been taking an increasingly large proportion of GM's hybrid sales over the course of 2008. The powertrain of the two-mode Saturn Vue will almost certainly be migrated to other GM vehicles such as the new Chevy Equinox and Cadillac SRX, helping the entire porfolio's numbers as well. Another factor offsetting the loss of Saturn is the end of HUMMER and Pontiac, both of which have a number of lower mileage vehicles.

Gallery: ABG Garage: 2008 Saturn Vue Hybrid

[Source: Automotive News-sub req'd]
Photos copyright 2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs. Inc.

Saturn's death could hurt GM CAFE numbers originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM ends Saturn brand in restructuring; PHEV Vue, we hardly knew ye

Sebastian Blanco — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:38:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, GM, Saturn, Green Daily

Saturn VUE 2 Mode Hybrid - Click above to view high-res gallery

As part of the big and updated Viability Plan that GM released today, GM has moved up the "resolution" of three brands - Saturn, Saab and Hummer - to the end of 2009. That means that some of the hybrids that we were promised - including the 2010 Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid and the plug-in Vue hybrid - aren't headed for your local dealership any time soon. GM once hinted that the PHEV Vue would be on the roads in "2009-ish."

We don't know what will happen to the work done on these platforms. We'd contemplated before that GM might simply put the Vue's hybrid system into the new Chevy Equinox and call it a day, but All Cars Electric says that's not going to happen. In its official statement, GM said simply that, "Updates on these brands will be provided as these initiatives progress."

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saturn Vue Green Line PHEV

[Source: GM, All Cars Electric]

Continue reading GM ends Saturn brand in restructuring; PHEV Vue, we hardly knew ye

GM ends Saturn brand in restructuring; PHEV Vue, we hardly knew ye originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mahindra trucks - coming to a Saturn dealer near you?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:33:00 EST

Filed under: Diesel, Saturn, USA

According to John Perez, CEO of Global Vehicles U.S.A. Inc., his company was approached by a senior official at General Motors to see about selling the Indian vehicles in Saturn's 403 dealerships. Global Vehicles holds the contract to distribute Mahindra's line of diesel-powered pickup trucks here in America. Apparently, the offer was rebuffed, though the possibility remains that Mahindra pickups could be sold at selected Saturn dealerships. Instead of handing over the rights to sell the vehicles complete with Saturn badges, Global Vehicles has reportedly contacted roughly 40 Saturn dealerships about changing over to Mahindra shops. Last month, General Motors announced that it would stop providing Saturn with new products after the 2011 model year.

Perez says that 327 dealerships have already signed on to distribute Mahindra's wares here in the United States. Following the launch of the pickups later this year, the Indian automaker's line of SUVs and crossovers may be on their way as well.

Gallery: SAE 2008: Mahindra Scorpio SUV

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

Mahindra trucks - coming to a Saturn dealer near you? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is the Saturn Vue Two-Mode hybrid DOA? Not yet

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Saturn

Click above to view high-res gallery of the Saturn VUE 2 Mode Hybrid

We got a comment from a reader the other day on a post we published back in December indicating that the Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid had been canceled. Our reader had placed an order for one of the new hybrid crossovers last summer but received a call from his dealer this week. The aspiring Vue driver was informed that the vehicles would not be built. Since Saturn had not made any official announcements about the fate of the Vue, we contacted spokesman Brian Corbett.

It turns out that what the dealer said was only partly true. According to Corbett, "due to a variety of factors including decreases in consumer spending, demand for vehicles and demand for hybrid vehicles in particular, the decision has been made to begin production of the Vue 2-Mode for the 2010 model year. It will hit the market this summer. "

So there won't be any 2009 Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrids built. At this point of course, it's impossible to predict what will happen between now and summer. All of GM's product plans remain in flux, as does the future of Saturn. If things continue to get worse for GM, it's possible this vehicle will never be produced. The most likely scenario may in fact be that GM will simply install the Vue's hybrid system in the new Chevy Equinox instead and call it a day.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Saturn VUE 2 Mode Hybrid

All Photos Copyright (C) 2008 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: General Motors]

Is the Saturn Vue Two-Mode hybrid DOA? Not yet originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chicago 2009: Propane-powered Saturn Vue Hybrid

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:47:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Solar, Saturn, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Chicago Auto Show, Natural Gas

Click above for a gallery of the propane-powered Saturn Vue Hybrid

Tucked away in a corner of the Chicago Auto Show was a booth from Shell Gasoline, and included amongst the tuner vehicles was a Saturn Vue Hybrid that was converted to run on propane. Other modifications to the vehicle include a free-flow exhaust system and air filter, a belly pan for improved aerodynamics and roof-mounted solar panels. We're not real sure what the solar panels are for, but our best guess is that they would allow the Vue's electrical systems to operate without draining the battery.

The best modification, by far, has got to be the cooking grill that's attached to the rear of the vehicle. We imagine, though it's not spelled out anywhere, that the grill runs off the same propane as the vehicle's engine, making this quite possibly the perfect tailgaiting vehicle. How cool is that?

Inside, the interior has been upgraded with seats that are upholstered with leather and Raphia fiber, GPS navigation and a full custom audio system. The entire vehicle has been lowered by 35 millimeters via new springs and then raised back up with 20-inch rims. See our full live gallery below.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Propane-powered Saturn Vue Hybrid

Chicago 2009: Propane-powered Saturn Vue Hybrid originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Washington 2009: picture fun with the Saturn Flextreme

Sebastian Blanco — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:46:00 EST

Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Saturn, AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Green Daily, Washington DC Auto Show

Click above for high-res image gallery of the Saturn Flextreme

One of the guilty pleasures available during the quiet period before the public days of an auto show is taking pictures when no one is around. We've seen the Saturn Flextreme (and it's Opel cousin) before, but haven't seen it spinning around on the stand all by itself, just asking for a few shutter clicks. We obliged, of course, and present you with these images. We got a little carried away with the long shutter speeds and liked the trippy effects they created. Oh, to have our fisheye with us at all times.

Technical details on this Volt-like plug-in hybrid concept can be found here. This post is all about the pics. Enjoy.

Gallery: Washington 2009: Saturn Flextreme

Washington 2009: picture fun with the Saturn Flextreme originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No 2009 Saturn Astra - too many 2008 models still available

Xavier Navarro — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Saturn, USA

Vehicle models have different life spans in different countries, and Americans are used to having new - or at least refreshed - cars pretty much every few years. One model that the U.S. will not be getting new in 2009 is the Saturn Astra. The reason is that Saturn still has a 139-day supply of the 2008 models. Canada will still get a 2009 edition.

The car hasn't been a star seller, having found about 12,000 owners in the U.S. during 2008. GM is planning on resuming new Astra deliveries in late summer or early fall as a 2010 model, but is skipping the 2009 model year altogether. The Saturn Astra is based on the Opel/Vauxhall Astra and is built in GM's plant in Antwerp, Belgium. GM blames the exchange rate between the Euro and the Dollar for the low sales, though we're sure there are other factors at play, as well.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd)

No 2009 Saturn Astra - too many 2008 models still available originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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