Malibu Hybrid production begins in October, available at dealerships soon after
The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid will join baseballs other
stars as it makes its world debut in the All-Star Fan Zone today. The
Malibu Hybrids appearance continues through the last out of one of
MLBs highlights of the year.
Thanks to an
affordable hybrid powertrain option, the all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
Hybrid not only will be the most refined new midsize sedan in the
neighborhood, but one of the most fuel-efficient, as well. Powered by
the GM Hybrid System, the first-ever Malibu Hybrid delivers an EPA
rating of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway a two-mpg increase over the
non-hybrid four-cylinder model and will be Chevrolet value-priced,
offering customers an affordable hybrid choice.
The beauty of the Chevy Malibu Hybrid is that customers dont have to
choose between a stylish, expressive, fuel-saving sedan full of
standard content and the gasoline that goes in the tank,
said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. The Malibu Hybrids winning
package of uncompromising design and fuel economy will help us assert
leadership in the midsize sedan segment and meet the needs of Chevy
customers.
Production of the Chevrolet
Malibu Hybrid is scheduled to begin in October, with vehicles arriving
in dealerships shortly thereafter. The system will be available as a
powertrain option on the base LS model, which also features Electric
Power Steering, Automatic Climate Control and the StabiliTrak
electronic stability control system.
The GM
Hybrid system featured on the Malibu Hybrid saves fuel by using
sophisticated controls and software, as well as a unique, 36-volt
electric motor/generator mated to GM Powertrains 2.4L Ecotec VVT
four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. The
GM Hybrid system maintains the vehicles sporty feel and seamlessly
reduces fuel consumption by:
- Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling
- Restarting the engine promptly when the brake pedal is released
- Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration
-
Capturing vehicle kinetic energy during deceleration through
regenerative braking to charge the advanced nickel metal hydride
battery
- Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient
The GM Hybrid system provides additional power, when required, during
launch from the electric motor/generator. At wide-open throttle, such
as during a passing maneuver, the system enhances acceleration by using
the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine and achieve maximum
power.
The GM Hybrid system also is designed
to automatically maintain full accessory functionality including
climate control when the vehicle is stopped, so that hybrid operation
is seamless to the driver and passengers. The Malibu Hybrid delivers an
appropriate balance of fuel economy and cabin comfort with an air
conditioning system with two selectable modes. The Hybrid A/C mode
favors more fuel-efficient performance by limiting the draw on the
hybrid powertrain, while the normal mode provides maximum passenger
comfort in hot climates and enhances defogging performance.
Malibu Hybrid models make a statement away from the gas pump, too,
thanks to specific exterior appointments such as 16-inch low rolling
resistance tires and unique hybrid badging. Inside, a special gauge
cluster provides information and feedback about the hybrid powertrains
operation.
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
is covered by GMs five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the
most comprehensive in the industry. In addition, the Malibu Hybrids
advanced nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is covered by an
eight-year / 100,000-mile warranty.