http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2008/01/2009%20Saturn%20Vue%20Green%20line%202%20mode%20hybrid.jpg

If anyone took closeup pics of the Volt during the auto shows (like I did), you would see the same exterior features for Volt and 2-mode FWD. (including that auto-trans-like valve body covered by the black case in front)

Now, what’s inside is the “proprietary information.” GM has so many patents on 2-mode and 4-mode transmissions it would make your head spin. We can only guess what is inside.

I knew this a long time ago. I was waiting for the day this info would finally break. He he.

BTW, series HEVs have poor hybrid fuel economy. Power-split always does better. Complexity does provide better efficiency. Plus, as someone pointed out, it is much easier to make money if you have part commonality. Remember, GM needs to make money, badly. (hello? This is car making – its all about mass production, otherwise every car would be >$100k).

When the gas generator is running can (or will) there be enough electricity produced to re-energize the batteries for another 40 miles (assuming that all the gas in the generator may have to be used).

It would be “cool” and helpful if the Volt could get another 40 miles on a recharged battery once all the gas has been used up. (Maybe this is just wishfull thinking)

carcus1: Cab Driver @ 145,15 BUCKS! . .. are you MAD??That’s a 12 pack of beer AND a box of Swisher Sweets!  (Quote)

Life is about priorities… Like the guy said to Dirty Harry: “I’s gots to know!”

15 BUCKS! . .. are you MAD??

That’s a 12 pack of beer AND a box of Swisher Sweets!

Jscott1000: It seems almost certain to me at this point that the Volt will use a variant of the 2MT70 if not identical to the one previously planned for the Vue hybrid. All they needed to do was beef up MG2, (which we all they can do) and tweak the software to allow the 40 miles AER.It’s going to disappoint the purists to realize there is a mechanical connection between the engine and wheels, but with software you can use an infinitely variable amount of ICE and electric motor combinations. I like this architecture if this is in fact what GM has done.Since the 2MT70 was planned to be deployed in the Saturn Vue I would assume that GM considers it sufficiently reliable to be in a production vehicle.  (Quote)

I agree, I think the reason it was mentioned the engine will operate at a varying rpm is because the so called sweet spot is not so much related to RPMs as it is loads. The Electric motor(s) will step in hold the ICE load at is sweet spot(s)….. Think of what happens when you watch your real-time MPG as you hold a constant rpm\speed and you crest a hill. But who knows for sure, certainly not me just postulating on what is presented.