Malibu, Vue Hybrids Canceled
Speaking of GM’s ambivalence towards energy efficient vehicles, Bob Lutz’s determination that 95 percent of America won’t pay a hybrid premium seems to be bearing more fruit. GM’s 26/34 mpg Malibu mild hybrid has been canceled, reports Left Lane News (blog). The news is hailed as “unsurprising,” considering the hybrid Malibu’s $2,000 premium only improved mileage by 4 mpg in the city and 1 mpg on the highway over a six-speed auto, four-pot ‘bu LT. Meanwhile, despite Penske’s rescue of Saturn, the planned Vue Two-Mode Hybrid has also been axed.
The Vue hybrid had been completed but was delayed several times. GM’s two-mode system should be available in a Chevy Equinox, but not until 2011 because the Equinox won’t use the already-developed 3.6-liter engine. Instead, the system is being adapted for the 3.0 V6 or a 2.2-liter four-pot. Because why not? It seems that GM is so invested in the Volt that short-term hybrid options are being delayed.
More by Edward Niedermeyer
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But what's going to happen to all of the extra Hybrid badges??? There's no more room on their hybrid trucks and SUVs to stick another one!
So the engine turns off at traffic lights and stop signs? Hell, I had a '63 Chevy that did that!
There must be some mistake here. All the conspiracy stories about Obama's team forcing GM to make green cars can't be wrong can they? If so, why all the financial support for GM? To prevent further tanking of the economy? Nah.
in reality, the cost increase of the malibu hybrid is negligible because of the $1500 tax credit. Now the upcharge is only about $500, and for someone who drives a lot, 4 mpg would make that up quickly. Just saying...