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GM developing Opel (Saturn) Astra hybrid

GM developing Opel (Saturn) Astra hybrid

Viknesh Vijayenthiran September 26th, 2007 Viknesh Vijayenthiran By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Author September 26th, 2007
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December 31st, 1969 Engineers at GM are working on a new hybrid drivetrain they plan to install in the next-generation Opel Astra (current model pictured), scheduled to hit the streets in 2010. GM is working on its new E-Flex plug-in technology but is also planning to launch a new range of more conventional hybrid vehicles, where both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor drive the wheels. The next Astra is a crucial model for GM as its launch in Europe will coincide with a launch in the U.S. where the car will be sold as a Saturn. Speaking with AutomobilWoche, a GM engineer revealed the new car will be based on the latest version of the Delta FWD compact platform, which will eventually spawn 13 different models including a new baby Saab. The hybrid system GM will use for the Astra is a conventional two-mode hybrid, similar to the set-up used in the Toyota Prius. As for the E-Flex system, the GM insider said this won’t arrive on the market until the end of 2010, possibly in a production version of the Volt concept.
GM developing Opel (Saturn) Astra hybrid

GM developing Opel (Saturn) Astra hybrid

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Engineers at GM are working on a new hybrid drivetrain they plan to install in the next-generation Opel Astra (current model pictured), scheduled to hit the streets in 2010. GM is working on its new E-Flex plug-in technology but is also planning to launch a new range of more conventional hybrid vehicles, where both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor drive the wheels.

The next Astra is a crucial model for GM as its launch in Europe will coincide with a launch in the U.S. where the car will be sold as a Saturn. Speaking with AutomobilWoche, a GM engineer revealed the new car will be based on the latest version of the Delta FWD compact platform, which will eventually spawn 13 different models including a new baby Saab.

The hybrid system GM will use for the Astra is a conventional two-mode hybrid, similar to the set-up used in the Toyota Prius. As for the E-Flex system, the GM insider said this won’t arrive on the market until the end of 2010, possibly in a production version of the Volt concept.

Tags: General Motors

Posted in: Saturn, News, Hybrid, Astra


Comments (3 total)

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  1. By greenhornet #1, Posted: 9/27/2007

    An ASTRA hybrid could be SATURN"S first big selling hybrid due to the fact that the Astra is such a good driver to begin with. But beware, it better be a real hybrid, not the half and half things they are passing off now.

  2. By CRL #2, Posted: 9/29/2007

    The mild hybrid (BAS) are meant for people who don't want to spend the big bucks on a full hybrid system. Whats the point if you think about it? You buy the full system you pay an extra $2k (Some cases even more) and you lose your fuel savings unless you drive the vehicle for a very long time. The mild hybrid would be a great addition on all non hybrid vehicles if they can bring the price all the way down. Maybe someday standard?

    This full mode Hybrid Saturn Astra sounds great if the price can be kept under $1,000 especially if paired to a Diesel. I look forward to this vehicle and a future E-Flex powertrain.

  3. By MARIO #3, Posted: 8/26/2008

    What is the matter with GM? They are building cars without asking the consumers what they want, - again! The world is going ELECTRIC. Consumers will shun fuels from the oil companies. We have been screwed over much to often by them.
    Without being asked I will volunteer MY desires in a new vehicle. Take it for what its worth:
    1. Must seat 4 adults safely and comfortably.
    2. Attainable top speed shall be 80 mph (130 kph).
    3. Car must be Hybrid-Electric
    4. Drive train powered by ELECTRIC motor and CVT transmission.
    5. Batteries should be latest high capacity design, such as Lithium Polymer, Lithium Sulfur,
    or the like. Batteries should be should be charged by ordinary house current.
    6. A Solar Voltaic Array consisting of Amorphous Silicon Solar units should be built into the
    roof of the vehicle to trickle charge the batteries.
    7. A LNG engine will extend the range of the batteries during long trips.
    8. Price for this automobile MUST be below $30,000 US.
    It you can't or won't come up with a 4-wheeled vehicle with these specs, be prepared to
    go down the tubes. I prefer to buy my car from General MOtors, but if you persist in trying
    to sell JUNK, I will buy from Japan, Korea, India, or China. They are working on a vehicle that has specs that equal or exceed what I and the world wants. Get with it!

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