Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid Car Overview

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, along with its GMC counterpart, the Yukon Hybrid, are the first vehicles to utilize the advanced two-mode hybrid powertrain developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler, and General Motors. This full-size SUV launches a new breed of larger vehicles that are significantly greener than their gas-powered versions. Maybe that's why the Tahoe Hybrid received the questionable title of “Green Car of the Year” at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. The panelists may have jumped the gun a little, as this hybrid doesn’t even meet the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standard.

The crux of the Tahoe Hybrid’s powertrain is GM’s 6-liter Vortec V8 with cylinder deactivation technology. In other words, this engine can shut down four of its eight cylinders when the additional power is not needed. That saves fuel. Beyond the engine, there’s a 300-volt battery that hides below the second-row seats. The vehicle's two electric motors are housed within the transmission.

In order to keep the vehicle running at peak efficiency, this hybrid system is able to run in one of two separate modes—hence the name "two-mode hybrid." For low-speed, low-impact driving, the powertrain works just like other hybrids; it stops the V8 engine whenever possible so that it may draw power from one or both of the electric motors. The second mode is mostly for highway driving, at which time one or both electric motors can run concurrently along with the V8 engine in order to provide a power boost. The two-mode transmission is the key to the whole system, which attempts to keep the engine running at the optimum rpm for low fuel consumption. Essentially, it manages a balancing act between the V8 engine and the electric motors. It is also responsible for making the transitions between the two modes practically seamless.

All of this technology results in a 25 percent improvement in overall fuel economy over the Tahoe hybrid’s gas-powered counterpart. More impressive is a 40 percent improvement in city driving. The Tahoe Hybrid two-wheel drive model has an EPA rating of 21 city/22 highway, as compared to the conventional Tahoe’s 14 city/19 highway. Unbelievably, this huge SUV’s city fuel economy is equivalent to that of a four-cylinder Toyota Camry.

Aside from its efficient powertrain, the Tahoe Hybrid achieves greener motoring by utilizing a new power-conserving air-conditioning unit, and lightweight, low-resistant aluminum wheels. To that end, Tire Pressure Monitoring also comes standard.

Despite its focus on fuel-efficiency, the Tahoe Hybrid still delivers all the power and capability needed from a full-size SUV. It boasts 332 horsepower, and can tow up to 6000 pounds. And it is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive models. Its four-drive system is comparable to most trail-rated pickup trucks, allowing the Tahoe Hybrid to drive off-road or through difficult road conditions with excellent traction and stability. On normal, dry pavement, this SUV offers a comfortable and smooth ride, as opposed to the rigid feel of many larger vehicles.

The Tahoe Hybrid grants plenty of capability for work-related endeavors, and an abundance of space and amenities for large families, even up to eight.

In the next year or two, it will be joined by a roster of full-size two-mode hybrid SUVs and trucks, including the Chrysler Aspen, the Dodge Durango, the Cadillac Escalade, the Chevrolet Silverado, and the GMC Sierra.

The Tahoe Hybrid has virtually the same truck-like body as the regular Tahoe, with a few minor modifications. It rides slightly lower to the ground, which enhances its aerodynamics. It also has a revised D-pillar and flared ends for the running boards, both of which help to reduce wind resistance, and in turn, increase efficiency. The Tahoe Hybrid also has a larger air intake up front for more effective engine cooling.

To save weight, the hood and liftgate are made of aluminum—which especially helps since the hybrid powertrain is 400 pounds heavier than the conventional gas-powered one.

Furthermore, the wheels have been outfitted with low-rolling-resistance tires, again to improve efficiency.

The Tahoe Hybrid identifies itself with special badging on the C-pillars and liftgate.

Inside, the Tahoe Hybrid offers the same handsome, spacious and comfortable cabin as the standard Tahoe. It offers seating for eight and vast cargo room, whether it be for luggage, groceries, or lumber. The second row shows the biggest difference, having been redesigned to accommodate the hybrid battery pack hidden below.

Up front, the driver and front passenger enjoys plush and supportive seats, as well as excellent visibility. And the instrument cluster includes an economy meter with a “green range” that tells how efficiently the hybrid motor is operating.

This family-centric SUV grants options and amenities galore. Favorites include a premium audio system, DVD entertainment system, navigation, and a back-up camera. And on a more basic level, Chevy even made sure that all passengers have a cupholder of their own, a simple convenience that is often overlooked by vehicle planners.

As a work truck, the Tahoe Hybrid is as tough as any. It is rugged enough to handle the abuses of higher-impact environments like construction sites. The interior has been built to handle heavy-duty tasks, such as hauling tools, equipment, and building materials.

Passenger safety comes from an array of airbags: front, side, and head curtain canopy with rollover sensors.

“The 2008 Tahoe Hybrid uses cutting-edge technology to combine improved fuel economy with full-size SUV performance and practicality.”

“Helping you have your cake and eat it too, the Active Fuel Management system, which cuts the operation of four cylinders when they are unneeded, enhances fuel economy.”

“Marrying Active Fuel Management with a two-mode, full hybrid system is the latest in fuel conservation science.”