GM Hybrid Trucks

Two Mode Operation

Two mode describes operation of the 2-electric motors in driving situations.

In Auto Stop mode, the two mode system is designed to have one of the
electric motors gently move the truck from 0 to 30 mph. This same motor
provides all reverse gear driving power.

The other electric motor restarts the V-8 as needed. Then both electric motors
plus the V-8 combine to accelerate the truck and towing load to speed.

During light cruising, 4 of the V-8 cylinders shut down to conserve fuel. One of
the electric motors provides some 30 hp of power assist.

Finally, during braking, one or both of the electric motors can be used to convert mechanical stopping power to battery electrical energy.

GM Model Comparison

GM hybrid trucks all share the two-mode drive system. Below is a chart showing the specifics. Notice that the specs are identical except price. The fuel economies listed will likely vary with trim level and resulting weight changes however. Price estimates are average prices from Yahoo! Cars, April 2011.

There are a number of GM Hybrid Trucks. They all share the GM Two-Mode hybrid power plant. The two-mode hybrid system technically rivals that in the top selling Toyota Prius. GM trucks fitted with the 2-mode system are capable of fuel economies greater than 20 miles per gallon.

In this discussion, GM hybrid SUV and pickup truck models share similar powertrain components. All of these vehicles are then listed as trucks. Five brands of 2WD vehicles are listed.

The GM hybrid power plant includes a 6 liter, 322 hp V-8 mated to hybrid drive
components. The hybrid side includes
two-80 hp AC electric motors, 3-planetary
gear sets, 4-multiplate clutches, and
2-hydraulic oil pumps.