Posted by Dahcredyns in
GM,
Hybrid Cars,
Hybrids on 01 9th, 2012 |
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140S + 130R = Tru Code for GM’s eAssist hybrid success?
The Tru 140s eAssist hybrid Is GM taking the cost-effective hybrid approach, or refusing to admit failure? In a weird way, I believe that mild hybrid technologies, such as GM’s eAssist could make a lot of sense. As battery costs decline, eAssist — at least it seems to me — could simply become GM’s base powertrain. In fact, GM has even suggested the possibility of such an eAssisted future. And that makes concepts like the Tru 140S and the Code 130R potentially interesting steps forward for GM. So then, why do I feel like these new concepts demonstrate that GM is simply confused when it comes to the future of powertrains? Let me cut straight to the chase on these two concept cars. The 140s is an interesting design, but I’ve always been a fan of the Mitsubishi Eclipse. The 130R; however (see below), kill it now. Seriously. GM should be embarrassed for even suggesting such a concept. In fact, GM better get Bob Lutz back in the design conversation if the 130R has anything to do with future of GM’s design languages. I mean big time YUCK! Nevertheless, lets move beyond design. The point of both the S and R concepts is to appeal to young buyers. Connectivity, good fuel economy, and kid-loving designs. Unfortunately, I’m not sure that GM hit any of their goals. In terms of connectivity, I haven’t yet seen enough details. However, since GM’s OnStar is so great, I’ll give GM the telematic benefit of the doubt. In terms of design, GM might be breaking some ground for GM products with the 140S, but not compared to the industry. Chrysler already threw a Dart through these two concepts today at NAIAS, and let’s not even bring up the Hyundai Elantra. And, in terms of fuel economy, I’m really worried that eAssist just doesn’t make sense. GM claims both of these concepts would achieve 40 mpg, ON THE HIGHWAY, if pushed into production. Big deal. If that’s the best eAssist offers, then I’m confident that eAssist needs to be squashed. Now. If it were 40 mpg, combined. Then I’d see the point. However, what really bothers me regarding eAssist is that it just doesn’t jive with GM’s halo hybrid product, the Chevy Volt. In my opinion, you can’t have both. Either you believe...