Malibu Hybrid Makes its Debut
6 July 2007
|The Malibu Hybrid in the MLB Fan Zone.|
GM gave the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid (earlier post) its world debut at Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game.
Powered by the GM Hybrid System (Belt-Alternator-Starter, or BAS), the first Malibu hybrid delivers an EPA rating of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, for a combined 27 mpg (8.7 l/100km). The hybrid offers a two-mpg improvement on the highway cycle compared to the conventional 4-cylinder 2008 Malibu.
Production of the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is scheduled to begin in October, with vehicles arriving in dealerships shortly thereafter. The system will be available as a powertrain option on the base LS model, which also features Electric Power Steering, Automatic Climate Control and the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
The GM Hybrid System features a 36-volt electric motor/generator mated to GM Powertrain’s 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. A 36V Cobasys NiMH battery pack provides energy storage for regenerative braking. (Earlier post.)
The Malibu hybrid and both Saturn Green Line hybrids—which use the same GM Hybrid System—provide: an electric power assist during acceleration; increased fuel economy through engine shut-off at idle; fuel cut-off during deceleration; and the capability to capture electrical energy through regenerative braking.
The GM Hybrid System provides additional power, when required, during launch from the electric motor/generator. At wide-open throttle, such as during a passing maneuver, the system enhances acceleration by using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine and achieve maximum power.
The GM Hybrid System also is designed to automatically maintain full accessory functionality—including climate control—when the vehicle is stopped. The Malibu Hybrid offer two selectable climate control modes. The Hybrid A/C mode favors more fuel-efficient performance by limiting the draw on the hybrid powertrain, while the normal mode provides maximum passenger comfort in hot climates and enhances defogging performance.
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is covered by GM’s five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. In addition, the Malibu Hybrid’s nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is covered by an eight-year / 100,000-mile warranty.
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