- Grandland X Hybrid4 Vauxhall’s first plug-in hybrid
- Auto AWD on demand – three motors
- Still to come: Electric Corsa, Mokka X and Vivaro units
LUTON, England – Vauxhall (Opel in SA) says ”we’re continuing our journey towards electrification with the new Grandland X all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid electric vehicle”.
The vehicle will be the brand’s first plug-in hybrid but will include ”state-of-the-art” technology. The car’s power train employs a turbo four-cylinder, 150kW,1.6-litre, direct-injection engine and an electric drive system whose two electric motors can, in tandem, muster about 75kW.
Vauxhall is touting a combined fuel burn of (no error here!) 1.96 litres/100km and carbon-dioxide exhalation of 49g/km.
EIGHT-SPEED AUTO
The front electric drive spins and electrified eight-speed auto transmission, the second motor/differential are in the rear axle to deliver all-wheel traction.
The Grandland X Hybrid4 has four drive modes – electric, hybrid, AWD and Sport. The car claims a range of 50km in battery mode. Othereise, the engine/transmission will automatically select the most efficient propulsion.
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When travelling in a city, for example, the system switches to electric mode for zero-emissions driving. A 7.4kW wallbox can provide a full charge in less than two hours but while on the move the car employs a regenerative braking system, which can increase the electric range by as much as 10%.
Telematics includes satnav/congestion reports and a red button on the facia invokes a mechanical/security response. Similarly, if seat restrains or crash bags are deployed the car itself will call for help.
AUTO HELP TRIGGER
Later in 2019 Vauxhall/Opel will have a next-generation Corsa in showrooms, to be followed by a new Vivaro Life MPV, Vivaro LCV and the successor to the Mokka X – each of which will feature a fully electric version.
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