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From GM...
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 Powertrain’s 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. The GM Hybrid system maintains the vehicle’s 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 powertrain’s operation.
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is covered by GM’s five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the most comprehensive in the industry. In addition, the Malibu Hybrid’s advanced nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is covered by an eight-year / 100,000-mile warranty.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Type:
2.4L Ecotec I-4 VVT
Assembly site:
Spring Hill , Tenn.
Application:
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Displacement (cu in / cc):
145 / 2384
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
3.46 x 3.85 / 88 x 98
Block material:
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
Crankshaft material:
cast nodular iron
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing
Ignition system:
coil-on-plug ignition, with extended-life spark plugs
Fuel system:
sequential port fuel injection
Compression ratio:
10.6:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):
164 / 122 @ 6000 (estimated)*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
159 / 220 @ 4400 (estimated)*
Recommended fuel:
unleaded regular
Max. engine speed (rpm):
6900
Emissions controls:
close-coupled catalytic converter
EPA fuel economy (city / hwy mpg):
24 / 32
Additional features:
twin counter-rotating balancing shafts; pressure-actuated cooling jets, torque-based engine management system; cartridge-style oil filter; extended life coolant; extended life accessory belts; digital sensors
Transmission
Type
Hydra-Matic 4T45 four speed front-wheel-drive, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transaxle with electronically controlled torque converter clutch
Assembly site:
Windsor, Ont., Canada
Hybrid features:
auxiliary oil pump, pipes, check valve, and specific electronic controls
Engine range:
2.4L
Max engine torque (lb-ft / Nm):
162 / 220
Max gearbox torque (lb-ft / Nm):
325 / 440
Gear ratios:
First:
2.95
Second:
1.62
Third:
1.00
Fourth:
0.68
Reverse:
2.14
Final drive ratio:
3.05
Maximum shift speed (rpm):
6900
Maximum validated gross vehicle weight (lb / kg):
4717 / 2140
Shifter quadrants:
P, R, N, D, I, L
Case material:
die-cast aluminum
Shift pattern:
(2) two-way on/off solenoids
Shift quality:
variable bleed solenoid
Torque converter clutch:
pulse width modulated solenoid control
Converter size (mm):
245 (diameter of torque converter turbine)
Fluid type:
DEXRON® VI
Transmission weight (lb / kg):
dry: 171.5 / 77.8
wet: 194.2 / 88.1
Fluid capacity (qt / L, approximate):
bottom pan removal: 7.4 / 7
Complete overhaul (qt / L):
10.6 / 10
Dry (qt / L):
13.2 qt / 12.5
Pressure taps available:
line pressure
Transfer design:
two-axis design, link chain assembly
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