Although the Chevrolet Volt has dominated discussions and plans concerning the future lineup at the “New GM,” it seems as though GM has more elaborate plans beyond this highly-anticipated electric vehicle. New reports suggest that a new high-mpg hybrid is also in the works that will be a dedicated hybrid model. This model will likely fill the gap caused by the outgoing Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.
Hybrids have not seen significant success within GM’s lineup. While Saginaw Chevrolet says the Chevrolet Malibu in particular has been successful overall, it has failed to attract buyers to the Hybrid model. One problem with these mild hybrid offerings is that they are simply not efficient enough. Having a dedicated hybrid that is designed and engineered for efficiency appears to be the ideal solution, as seen by the popular Toyota Prius.
While a dedicated hybrid will likely give Chevrolet the high-efficiency it needs within its model range, the idea is not without disadvantages admits a Dayton Used Cars. While an ultra efficient car is needed in the near-term, building a dedicated hybrid is certainly more time consuming than building a hybrid based on a pre-existing gasoline powered model.
Due to recent emissions requirements, one Michigan Chevrolet dealer recognizes that a dedicated hybrid is essential to Chevrolet. Not only is efficientcy a priority among consumers, but the government demands a lower fleet-wide fuel consumption average. With GM hoping to introduce a new rear-wheel drive Caprice based on the Pontiac G8, as well as the high performance Camaro Z28, the dedicated hybrid is needed sooner rather than later to offset these potential lower mileage vehicles.
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Chevrolet hybrids and EVs are coming soon. Stay tuned.