Overall theme? GM has cut the budget and is spending the money on improved products (good).
I found this opinion a good sign going forward but very sad looking back:
GM has come to the realization that customers are more perceptive than the old GM used to think,” said Eric Noble, president of CarLab, an Orange, California-based automotive consultant that specializes in product planning. “The only way to win is to gain an advantage in product quality.”
Here are the details of interest to me:
Truck redesign to include more efficient engines and lighter materials (Including Cadillac Escalade)
Cadillac XTS planned for production, perhaps to be in showrooms by 2013
Cadillac XTS will probably include a plug-in hybrid
All of this seems like good news that GM and Cadillac are on the right path — hopefully 2010 will be a shining year for execution — good production, good sales — that will lay the ground work for continued development and future products that we can all enjoy.
Cadillac still needs to solve the equation of how to sell their current sedans. It is terrific that the SRX is such a hit, but it puts in even greater contrast the sales performance of the sedans. Yes, the CTS Coupe will sell well when it arrives this summer. BUT they need to get the DTS and CTS sales moving or it will be a long year.
Cadillac Design Director Clay Dean introduced the new Cadillac XTS Concept car at the recent North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Here is the video, and following the video is the spoken transcript:
Spoken Transcript: [With my comments - Bruce]
The XTS is the next expression of Cadillac’s Art and Science Philosophy demonstrated in a premium luxury sedan.
It’s about artfully exceeding the Customer’s daily needs, while updating the genre for a modern sensibility. Understanding those needs led us to design the XTS from the inside out. What we are suggesting is a personal headquarters. An exquisitely crafted, spacious environment that provides gracious comfort and amenities for all passengers. Generous head, hip, and leg room are provided in both the front and rear compartments, so there is no need to apologize for your guests in the back seat. They even get their own self-rising infotainment screens, and their own connectivity options.
The prevailing light creme color interior adds to the overall feeling of spaciousness and is contrasted with darker, richer element such as the steering wheel, the IP (instrument panel), the full length overhead console, and the center console.
The Platinum designation means that every detail was attended to with hand crafted perfection. Intricate layers of rich materials build on each other throughout the cabin, interacting in a precise manner for enhanced overall effect. Laser etched suedes and aniline leathers, satin metals, and burled birch wood — they all work together in a beautiful harmony.
[Aniline leathers are leathers treated with aniline, (an organic chemical) resulting in delicate, soft, supple leather]
We have also imagined a new way of interacting with the information control systems of the vehicle. It’s a visionary interface that uses touch screens that are intuitive, and that are pleasing to use while embracing the latest technology. A twelve inch organic LED screen (OLED) is reconfigurable, projecting driver information and state of the art graphics.
[This has a lot of interesting possibilities for bringing out additional information to the Driver. Terrific flexibility in display]
XTS Platinum even acknowledges your arrival by illuminating the door handles with pools of light at the doors when you get into close proximity of the car, reinforcing the signature Cadillac light technology and instrumentation.
The exterior design reflects the evolution of Cadillac’s form and surface philosophy, with more emphasis put on the Art side of Art & Science, with graceful flowing forms and surfaces. Its sleek and elegant, with our attention turned to form and shape working in concert with line and edge. And we see that in the overall profile of the car, which really provides a feeling of spaciousness with a contemporary but progressive flow. The body side is also flowing and elegant, and even a little bit sensual, and it is all designed to evolve Cadillac’s form language and to appeal to the Premium Customer.
[Some pundits would like to see a longer hood. I was expecting a longer wheelbase]
The familiar shield grill and the vertical light signatures in both the front and rear which are key elements to Cadillac’s identity are apparent on the XTS. The large, 20″ wheels, and long wheelbase, and wide track all help to evoke spaciousness, stability, and build a strong presence, reinforcing this evolved form language for the next generation of Cadillac. At the same time, XTS challenges the notion of traditional luxury by suggesting a replacement for the large displacement power-train: a plug-in, two-mode hybrid V6.
[This power train is basically available NOW, so bringing it to market in 2 years seems quite believable. Cadillac has not confirmed production or a production date for the XTS but it is expected to go into production in 2012 as a 2013 model. A hybrid version may or may not be available then.]
And All wheel drive makes the XTS name very appropriate.
[Technically, no. BMW and others use X to indicate AWD; previously Cadillac had used X to suggest eXperimental, as in XLS, for Experimental Luxury Roadster, a car never made in AWD form]
The XTS Platinum Concept represents our desire to deliver unexpected innovation in the most artful expressions possible.
The Cadillac Escalade uses a 6L V8 engine with a 2-mode Hybrid power train. With Cadillac thinking of releasing a 2-mode hybrid + 3.6L DI V6 in the upcoming XTS Platinum, let’s review how the 2-mode Hybrid system works.
2010 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
Operation: In a 2-mode hybrid, compact and powerful electric motors are integrated into the transmission and work with traditional transmission gears and electronic controls to provide two modes or ranges of infinitely variable gear ratios. The input split mode is used for launching the vehicle from a stop, driving at low speeds and providing superior performance and moderate load trailer towing. The compound split mode is used primarily when the vehicle is at higher speeds to provide efficient cruising.
The drive modes alternate seamlessly between the input split mode and a compound split mode. In the input split mode the vehicle can operate on electric, mechanical or a combination of the two. The vehicle operates as a full hybrid when the engine is shut off at low speed and light loads, as leaving the engine off for extended periods of time and moving under electric power is key to reducing fuel consumption in stop and go traffic.
So, in other words, the vehicle can operate in electric-only mode at low speeds, or with light loads, or gasoline only mode for cruising, often with cylinder deactivation and other complementary technologies. The hybrid powerplant uses regenerative braking and other techniques to recharge on the go. A plug-in 2-mode hybrid can also recharge using standard wall current when available.
Under the hood shot of hybrid powerpack
A key contributor to the Escalade Hybrid’s fuel economy is the gasoline engine’s Auto Stop mode. Once the vehicle reaches 0 mph, the gasoline engine is automatically shut down. By leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to move only under electric power, such as during heavy stop-and-go traffic, fuel consumption is greatly reduced.
However, when extra power is required, such as for wide-open-throttle acceleration from a standing stop, the Vortec 6.0L V-8 is seamlessly restarted so it can deliver the necessary power and torque. In this case, the engine is restarted effortlessly from the Auto Stop mode using the EVT’s powerful internal electric motors; there is no traditional starter motor.
A 2-mode hybrid has a smaller powerpack than an extended range electric vehicle such as the upcoming Chevrolet Volt or Cadillac Converj. Press conjecture is that the Hybrid XTS concept may have enough powerplant to drive for 10 miles between recharges; the Volt or Converj should be able to go 40 miles between charges. My daily commute of around 1 mile would be gas-free with a 2-mode hybrid XTS.
The mild-hybrid system in the Chevrolet Malibu offers a 4 mpg improvement over the non-hybrid Malibu. So although Cadillac has not released any projections, the Cadillac XTS perhaps will get over 30 mpg on the highway EPA cycle — quite an achievement for a fullsize performance luxury sedan.
A plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle differs from non-plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles by offering extended electric-only propulsion, additional battery capacity and the ability to be recharged from an external electrical outlet.
When ready for production, the Lithium Ion energy storage system will be replenished when the battery charge is depleted to a specified level by utilizing the 2-mode hybrid system’s electric motors and regenerative braking systems. When the vehicle is parked, the battery can be recharged using a common household exterior 110-volt plug-in outlet.
2010 Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept with Plug-in Hybrid and DI 3.6L V6
The 2-mode hybrid system will be altered for use with plug-in technology. It maintains two driving modes — one for city driving, the other for highway driving. In addition, special controls will be utilized to enable higher speeds during electric-only propulsion and maintain electric- only propulsion for longer periods of time.
GM has also stated the desire to produce a 2-mode hybrid or extended range electric version of the SRX.
Embedded Computing focuses on the controllers or computers that are inside our everyday gadgets. In this article: Green up: Automotive solutions designed faster, smarter – By Don Dingee they discuss GM’s use of simulation tools to cut the development time of their current production two-mode hybrid systems:
It was imperative for GM to get the Two-Mode Hybrid power train into production quickly, and to do that, they turned to math and simulation-based tools from The MathWorks. Using Model-Based Design, GM designed the power train prototype within 9 months, shaving 24 months off the expected development time. The complex control system is currently in production in the GMC Sierra Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid, Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, Chevy Silverado Hybrid, and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid vehicles.
Not everyone appreciates that the GM two-mode hybrids are seriously excellent engineering. This also documents that GM is becoming more agile as they go — but that it is not just something that started this year. Still lots more room for improvement, but GM and Cadillac have been on an arc of improved design and engineering for the last 2 decades.
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is First-ever, Full-size Luxury SUV to Feature Hybrid Powertrain Technology
Mobil 1 also has been chosen as the factory- and service-fill endorsed motor oil for the re-designed high-performance Cadillac CTS-V.
As the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand, Mobil 1 delivers exceptional engine protection and performance for a range of engine designs and applications.
Mobil 1 is selected by Cadillac for a broad range of its vehicles, from its first full-size hybrid SUV to the supercharged, high performance CTS-V.
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
FAIRFAX, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ExxonMobil today announced that Mobil 1, the world’s leading fully synthetic motor oil brand, has been selected as the factory- and service-fill endorsed motor oil for the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, the first-ever, full-size luxury sports utility vehicle to feature hybrid powertrain technology.
Powered by GM’s innovative Two-Mode Hybrid Engine Technology™, which seamlessly blends power from two electric motors using a 300V battery pack with a combustion engine, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid delivers a 50-percent city fuel economy improvement compared to previous versions of the popular vehicle. The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid was launched in September 2008 and is now available at Cadillac dealerships in the U.S., Canada and China.
In addition, Mobil 1 has also been selected as the factory- and service-fill endorsed motor oil for the redesigned Cadillac CTS-V, which was launched in November 2008. Part of Cadillac’s acclaimed V-Series of high-performance vehicles, the 2009 CTS-V features a 6.2 liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 556 horsepower (410 kW) and 550 lb.-ft.(745 Nm) of torque, making it one of the fastest V8 production sedans in the world.
“The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid exemplifies our commitment to delivering vehicles that combine cutting-edge technological innovation with the style, performance and luxury that have long been the hallmark of Cadillac,” said John Howell, global product director, Cadillac. “With its history of technical excellence and ability to deliver exceptional engine protection for all types of vehicles, Mobil 1 synthetic motor oil was an obvious choice to be the factory-fill and service-fill motor oil across our range of vehicles, including the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid as well as our redesigned CTS-V.”
In extensive laboratory and on-highway testing, the new Cadillac Escalade Hybrid delivered a best-in-class fuel economy rating with an EPA-estimated 20 miles-per-gallon in city driving and 21-miles-per gallon for on-highway use. Beyond its fuel economy benefits, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is equipped with a 332-horsepower V8 engine that generates 367 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm, and is capable of towing more than 5,500 pounds.
“For many years, our Mobil 1 technical experts have collaborated with Cadillac and GM engineers to help advance engine technology and ensure that Mobil 1 always meets or exceeds the high performance benchmarks for which Cadillac vehicles are recognized,” said Lawrence Kearns, global automotive marketing manager, ExxonMobil Lubricants & Petroleum Specialties Company. “We are proud to have Mobil 1 selected as the factory- and service-fill motor oil for the new Cadillac 2009 Escalade Hybrid and the 2009 CTS-V, and to recognize the accomplishments of Cadillac and GM engineers for their development of the world’s first, full-size sports utility vehicle to incorporate hybrid engine technology.”
Chosen by more original equipment manufacturers than any other oil brand, Mobil 1 is the world’s leading fully synthetic motor oil brand. Additional information about Mobil 1 and other ExxonMobil lubricants can be found at www.mobil1.com.
2009 Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid Offers Unprecedented Combination Of Efficiency, Technology And Luxury In A Large SUV
Cadillac Escalade
DETROIT – Cadillac has launched the 2009 Escalade Platinum Hybrid, the most technically advanced large luxury SUV yet, blending the exclusive features of the Platinum model with the fuel-saving powertrain of the Escalade Hybrid. It delivers 20 mpg in city driving – a 50-percent city mileage improvement over non-hybrid models.
“This is the ultimate Escalade, combining the luxury features of the Platinum with the world’s first hybrid on a large luxury SUV,” said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. “Along with the upcoming CTS Sport Wagon and SRX crossover, the Escalade Platinum Hybrid represents an opportunity for the changing priorities of luxury consumers who want dramatic design and technology combined with fuel efficiency and functionality.”
The Escalade’s two-mode hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy, while delivering the capabilities of a true luxury SUV. The limited-edition Escalade Platinum model includes other advanced technologies, such as light-emitting diode (LED) headlamps and Cadillac’s advanced Magnetic Ride Control system.
Escalade Platinum Hybrid is available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. It delivers up to 5,800 pounds (2,631 kg) of usable towing capacity on 2WD models and 5,600 pounds (2,540 kg) on 4WD models.
GM’s patented two-mode hybrid technology
GM’s patented two-mode hybrid system consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). These systems work in concert with the standard 6.0L V-8 Gen IV gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology.
The key to Escalade’s two-mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.
Providing power to the hybrid’s electrically variable transmission’s (EVT) two electric motors is a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). This battery pack is located under the second-row seat, where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second- or third-row ingress/egress.
Additional features of the hybrid powertrain and supporting systems include:
* Fully blended regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle deceleration
* A 6.0L V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management and late intake valve closing (Atkinson-cycle combustion process) for reduced pumping losses and better overall fuel economy. It is rated at 332 horsepower (248 kW) and 367 lb.-ft. of torque (498 Nm) and runs on regular unleaded fuel
* Auto Stop mode. Once the vehicle reaches 0 mph, the gasoline engine automatically shuts down, leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to move only under electric power, such as during city driving or heavy stop-and-go traffic
* An exhaust system and resonator specially tuned for the 6.0L LIVC engine’s Active Fuel Management operation. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during both V-4 and V-8 operation
* An electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off. It includes the standard tri-zone climate system
* An electrically driven, 42-volt variable-assist power steering system reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
* The Energy Storage System cooling system’s internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds, when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants
The Escalade Platinum Hybrid’s battery pack durability and reliability are maintained via optimized charge and discharge cycles, as well as a dedicated cooling system that draws air from the passenger compartment. As part of the vehicle’s emission control system, the energy storage system is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.
Exclusive package of luxury, style and technology
In the new Escalade Platinum Hybrid, the hybrid system’s efficiency is complemented by an exclusive package of luxury, style and technology, including:
* A distinctive front fascia and grille patterned after Cadillac’s acclaimed CTS sport sedan
* Unique 22-inch wheels
* Magnetic Ride Control technology
* LED headlamps
* Exclusive interior appointments with Aniline leather
* DVD entertainment system with screens integrated in front-seat headrests
Magnetic Ride Control is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension system and gives the Escalade Platinum more precise body motion control. It is a real-time damping system – “reading” the road in 1-millisecond intervals – that replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a synthetic fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.
The LED headlamps emulate the characteristics of natural daylight much more closely than traditional auto lighting. LEDs are environmentally friendly, with a usable life more than 20 times longer than traditional halogen bulbs.
Inside the Escalade Platinum is the latest example of Cadillac’s 21st-century return to handcrafted luxury details. The instrument panel, center storage console and door trim are wrapped and stitched by hand. They feature decorative French seams that convey an elegantly tailored look and feel. Materials include rich leather on the instrument panel, with unique wood inlays and aluminum trim.
Aniline leather is unique to the Escalade Platinum and is used to trim the first- and second-row seats. Contrasting-color stitching is used on the French seams for a distinctive, luxurious appearance and the seatbacks feature embroidered Cadillac wreath and crest insignias. The leather-covered seats are comfortable and convenient, with the industry-exclusive power fold-and-tumble second-row seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat.
Additional standard interior features include Platinum-specific door sills and floor mats; a heated steering wheel; and heated and cooled cupholders and a power liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button. Also, the DVD entertainment system adds screens integrated into each front-seat headrest, in addition to the existing roof-mounted screen.
Each front-row headrest screen has its own driver and input controls. The headrest units can be operated independently or in tandem. This system enables passengers in different seats to watch or listen to different entertainment choices. Also including is the acclaimed Bose 5.1 Digital Surround system, as well as the eight-inch touch screen for DVD-based navigation and control of the DVD, CD, MP3 and XM Satellite Radio entertainment.
Evolving Cadillac fleet of luxury, fuel efficiency and functionality
The Escalade Platinum Hybrid joins an evolving fleet of Cadillacs that is focused on fuel efficiency and functionality, combined with dramatic design and advanced technology. Cadillac will launch the all-new SRX crossover this summer, with high levels of functionality and a 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine that delivers more horsepower and a 10-15-percent fuel economy improvement over the 3.6L engine it replaces. The CTS Sport Wagon will also launch this summer, with the same, fuel-efficient engine, as well as greater functionality than has ever been delivered by Cadillac’s core nameplate.
I am a fan of well expressed opinions, even if I disagree with them. I think that our level of discourse is very important, and the better the debate the more actual information and truth sneaks in.
Keith Ritter over at Consult Keith blogged a nice thought piece which at heart contains this statement:
Cadillac’s brand message is not about environment-friendly or great gas mileage. A Cadillac has always been A STATEMENT about who you are and that you’ve “made it.” It’s about Kate Walsh and your vehicle turning you on and not about gas mileage.
I would like to disagree. Cadillac has always been a vehicle for the Affluent. But more to the point, Cadillac is about precision, technology, performance, and luxury. Cadillac has had many WORLD firsts in technology, starting with the electric starter for example. Cadillac has traditionally had the best, the latest, and the most innovative. Although in the 80s GM lost their way a bit with badge engineering, the latest and newest technology is an important part of the Cadillac DNA.
Cadillac Escalade Powertrain Status display
The hybrid powertrain in a Cadillac Escalade is no more amazing to me than having the new lane change detection system in the Cadillac STS or heads-up displays in the STS-V and XLR-V. Cadillac gets the latest technology, premium powertrains, and luxury accessories that GM as the World’s largest vehicle manufacturer can bring to the streets.
Also, keep in mind that most people are not choosing between a Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, which is a fullsize SUV, and an economy car. There is a valid and necessary market for these vehicles among people who need the room, want the up-high driving position, storage space, need the towing capacity, etc. Not all vehicles fit all people; there are a variety of markets. IF you NEED or WANT a fullsize SUV, and you want it to get the best MPG possible, the Escalade Hybrid is a good choice.
The only surprising thing in the current markeing plan is that the new E-flex technology started out in a Chevrolet Volt instead of in the new smaller-than-a-CTS upcoming Cadillac model. And I suspect we will see the E-flex powertrain in a Cadillac as the next production example.
The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has a fundamentally different powertrain than the base Escalade. The Escalade Hybrid is a true 2-stage hybrid powerplant, able to move on battery power or on gas propulsion.
Energy Storage System (ESS)
Providing power to the hybrid’s electrically variable transmission’s (EVT) two electric motors is a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). This battery pack is located under the second-row seat, where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second- or third-row ingress/egress.
The primary function of the ESS is to provide power (300 volts) to the EVT and to store captured energy produced during regenerative braking. In addition to supplying power to the EVT, the ESS also provides power to the air conditioning compressor and the Accessory Power Module (APM), which converts the high-voltage supply to 42 volts for the electric power steering system, and 12 volts for the vehicle battery and other 12-volt electrical accessories.
Battery pack durability and reliability are maintained via optimized charge and discharge cycles, as well as a dedicated cooling system that draws air from the passenger compartment. As part of the vehicle’s emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.
In city driving, this advanced hybrid power system enables Escalade to launch and drive low speeds on electricity alone. So cruising along the avenue, the Escalade may use no fuel at all. As additional power is demanded, the system blends output from the battery and gas engine smoothly.
The key to Escalade’s two-mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.
A key contributor to the Escalade Hybrid’s fuel economy is the gasoline engine’s Auto Stop mode. Once the vehicle reaches 0 mph, the gasoline engine is automatically shut down. By leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to move only under electric power, such as during heavy stop-and-go traffic, fuel consumption and emissions are greatly reduced.
If you need the seating, room, and towing capacity of a fullsize SUV, the Cadillac Escalade is an excellent choice. With the addition of the Escalade Hybrid to the Cadillac line, you can have your luxury and quietly glide past the gasoline station too.
The good news is there are a LOT of tweets lately on the social media site Twitter.com about the new Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. The bad news is that a lot of the audience is getting the message wrong. The base Cadillac Escalade is a full size SUV and gets 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway as found on the Cadillac website
So what are people saying after watching the commercial?
Cadillac Escalade hybrid – 12MPG Highway, 19MPG city. Scares me to think of the mileage it got PRE-hybrid
so an escalade hybrid would get 12 miles per gallon?
Reading the fine print of car commercials is painful to me. Example, the Escalade hybrid: 12 city/19 highway. Terrible, even for a hybrid
Cadillac’s ad agency needs to fix this quickly. You only get one chance to make a first impression. Apparently the commercial says the Escalade Hybrid gets 50% better city mpg than the non-Hybrid Escalade. The small print (thank you Lawyers!?) shows that this is relative to the non-Hybrid Escalade’s 13 mpg. People are reading the small print to mean that the Hybrid gets 13 mpg which is wrong. The Escalade Hybrid gets 20 mpg City. Woops.
bwnunnally
