Buick Reveals LaCrosse Hybrid for China

China will be getting a fuel-sipping version of the new LaCrosse in the near future. The automaker revealed the LaCrosse Hybrid at an event yesterday in Shanghai.

The hybrid system is comprised of a 1.8L SIDI four-cylinder, electric variable transmission, and a 1.5 KwH lithium-ion battery. Buick is keeping quiet on performance specs, but does say the model will reach 62 miles per hour in 8.9 seconds and return 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers (about 50 MPG). Compared to the last-generation LaCrosse eAssist, the new LaCrosse Hybrid is 35 percent more efficient.

Other fuel saving tricks include grille shutters, electronic climate control compressor, and a thermal energy recycling system that is tied into the exhaust.

The LaCrosse Hybrid marks the beginning of a five-year rollout of ten eco-friendly vehicles that will be launched in China.

“GM’s leadership in electrification technologies, now and in the future, are coming to Buick in China. In fact, over the next five years, we will roll out more than 10 new energy vehicles in China, including several models for Buick. That includes full hybrids, plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles,” said Larry Nitz, GM executive director of Global Propulsion Systems.

Source: Buick

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Buick LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle Makes Global Debut in Shanghai

SHANGHAI – The all-new Buick LaCrosse Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) made its global debut today at the 2016 Buick Day event in Shanghai, where the award-winning Buick Avista concept was also shown for the first time in China.

Both models will be appearing on the Buick stand at Auto China 2016 in Beijing, which begins on April 25.

“GM’s leadership in electrification technologies, now and in the future, are coming to Buick in China,” said Larry Nitz, GM executive director of Global Propulsion Systems, at the event. “In fact, over the next five years, we will roll out more than 10 new energy vehicles in China, including several models for Buick. That includes full hybrids, plug-in hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles.”

Buick LaCrosse HEV supports Drive to Green strategy

A major component of SAIC-GM's Drive to Green strategy, the LaCrosse HEV adopts the same design language and technological advances as the recently introduced all-new LaCrosse, along with segment-leading hybrid powertrain technologies.

The LaCrosse HEV is powered by a 1.8L SIDI engine that is paired with an electric variable transmission and a 1.5-kWh high-performance lithium battery unit. Its green pedigree is supported by numerous advanced technologies such as an electronic climate control compressor, electronic power steering, exhaust thermal energy recycling, and active grille open and close that maximize its efficiency.

The LaCrosse HEV offers comprehensive fuel economy of 4.7 L/100 km. This represents a 35 percent decrease in fuel consumption from the LaCrosse with eAssist that is powered by a smart hybrid powertrain, yet the LaCrosse HEV sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds.

SAIC-GM also released the all-new “Buick Blue” logo for the brand’s green product lineup at Buick Brand Day. The introduction of the LaCrosse HEV and “Buick Blue” logo represents Buick’s focus on upgrading its conventional powertrains and promoting green technologies.

Buick earlier introduced eco-friendly models in China that include the LaCrosse with eAssist and LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid.

Buick Avista concept highlights brand’s future sporty styling

Developed by GM's global design team, the Avista concept embodies Buick's new design language, sophisticated performance and advanced technologies. Shown for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, it points to the future direction of the brand’s sporty styling.

The Avista has an arresting appearance, with flowing, uninterrupted body lines and a 2+2 modern cockpit that is clean, simple and elegant. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V-6 engine that produces 298 kW of maximum power. The engine is supported by an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The vehicle has adopted a great deal of carbon fiber and aluminum materials along with 3D-printed door and seat trims. It includes trendsetting technologies such as Buick’s next-generation QuietTuning, the advanced Air Quality System and the Buick IntelliLink infotainment system. Its Magnetic Ride Control suspension delivers more precise body motion control than ever.