Quantcast
Channel: » Opinions
Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 10

Hybrid SUV Future? Beyond 2011

0
0

Hybrid Escalade Courtesy of Cadillac.comDespite Setbacks, Hybrid Future Looks Bright

Although the recent economic crises damaged the sales of hybrid vehicles, manufacturers expect the number of hybrid cars and SUVs sold within the next two decades to increase dramatically. The ever-increasing gas prices coupled with an improving economy contribute, but the recent improvements in the design of several hybrid models are poised to bring them back.

Luxury car makers are stepping onto the hybrid playing field. Cadillac offers its top-of-the-line SUV in a hybrid version of the Escalade. Already a popular luxury SUV, Cadillac took the engine design a step farther to improve mileage of the traditional SUV by 33%, without sacrificing any of the power. By storing energy used during braking, it provides an efficient, luxurious ride, but can also haul almost three tons and comes in 2WD or 4WD. With this SUV, Cadillac currently owns the full-size luxury hybrid SUV market.

One of the more successful hybrids of late, the Honda Insight is undergoing a massive retooling. Already holding a record for the highest fuel efficiency and lowest price of hybrids, Honda now introduces the Honda Insight Executive. Like the Mercedes-Benz, Honda wants to attract an upscale audience. The patented engine is upgraded from 1.3 liters to 1.5, adding 26 horsepower. Although only available in Japan, industry experts expect a version will soon come to the US.

Some car companies have languished in the background of the hybrid war, and appear to be waiting for technology to improve before introducing their model.  With several mediocre models already in production, Kia has quietly perfected the Ray, its big weapon in the hybrid slug fest. Although still a concept car, the Ray is well on its way to production. If this does what Kia says it can do, the first battle might be over.

The Ray plug-in would be a direct competitor to the Chevrolet Volt. Although it only achieves 202 mpg compared to the Volt’s 230 (seriously?), a single refueling allows it to go almost eight hundred miles and fifty miles on the batteries alone. This is achieved by a few smart tweaks. The alternator charges only on deceleration and braking, using the kinetic energy of the car itself. Additional solar cells on the roof charge secondary electronics, preventing drag on the engine.

These days, car makers seem to announce (or leaks rumors of) new hybrid-electric vehicles every other week. Most recently we learned about the Tesla X (SUV), Honda Freed (hybrid minivan) and Chrysler’s plans to (reluctantly) build more hybrids. These additions and improvement to hybrid technology offer a quick peek into the future.

Some industry experts believe that within thirty years, hybrid and electric vehicles will capture up to 80% of the new car market. If vehicles of the future advance as quickly as the Ray, Insight or Escalade Hybrid – they could be right.

'Hybrid SUV Future? Beyond 2011

The post Hybrid SUV Future? Beyond 2011 appeared first on .


Viewing all articles
Browse latest Browse all 10

Latest Images

Trending Articles





Latest Images