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Chevy
S3X SUV Hybrid
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The Chevy S3X SUV Hybrid
is scheduled to go into production in 2006 for the 2007
selling season. First shown at the 2004 Paris Auto Show,
the Chevy S3X SUV Hybrid is a compact 7-seater and the
first Chevy diesel vehicle for Europe.
The Chevy S3X SUV Hybrid
will combine the GM Daewoo Auto and Technology Company
(GMDAT) common-rail turbo 2.0-liter diesel-micro engine
(to be built at the new South Korean diesel engine plant)
and GM's belt alternator system (BAS), which provides
stop-start functionality.
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The Chevrolet S3X is based on GM's Theta platform, which is
the same used for the company's Chevrolet Equinox and Saturn
VUE sport-utility vehicles. Like most hybrids in its class,
the Chevy S3X SUV Hybrid also features regenerative braking
in order to charge the battery pack.
Early fuel cut-off during deceleration and engine idle shut-off
will also be featured on the S3X Hybrid. The Chevy S3X Hybrid
adds a 42-volt NIMH-storage battery, assisting the existing
12-volt electrical system. The S3X Hybrid is also considered
a mild hybrid and will achieve fuel savings in the 12-percent
range.
For the practical-minded, the S3X Hybrid offers an infotainment
system, which includes a DVD-based navigation system linked
to an 18cm monitor. The rear window can be opened separately,
without needing to open the rear flap, to make the luggage
compartment readily accessible.
Leave it to the South Koreans and Americans to roll out
a diesel hybrid SUV expressly for the Europeans. The Chevy
S3X SUV Hybrid will be the first vehicle created in the
GM Daewoo alliance and may be a start of much more business
to come as long as the EU embraces the vehicle as is expected.
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