With the standard version of the new 2013 Malibu, Chevrolet also introduced the ECO-taste variant of its sedan at the New York Auto Show. The Malibu ECO returns a fuel consumption of 38 mpg (6.19 l / km) on the highway and 26 mpg (9 L/100 km) in the city, with the Chevrolet sedan that has the cheapest average fuel in 100 years of the Society throughout history.
The new version includes a eAssist "light electrification" GM technology, which is how the company to say it is a micro-hybrid car. EAssist to use lithium-ion battery and electric motor-generator, so that the regenerative braking power to help and start-stop function.
The system weighs 65 pounds (29 kg) and is coupled to a direct-injection Ecotec 2.4-liter gasoline and a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 180hp, but rises to 15 more horsepower in the system eAssist heavy acceleration. Energy efficiency is increased by the eAssist driving in different scenarios, helping Malibu ECO to reach a range of 550 miles (885 km) of the total of 15.8 gallons (60 liters).
Malibu ECO is also a platform for improvements Aero and electronically controlled shutters that close to the lower grille at higher speeds to run more air in and around the car. Blinds open or closed depending on the temperature of the coolant and engine speed. For example, are open when the car is on its way up the hill, pulling a trailer, or driving around town in a warm and close at highway speeds, When the engine cooling is less necessary. Malibu ECO racing wheels shod with tires with low rolling resistance 17-inch is also designed to improve the economy.
Inside, the midsize sedan receives an ECO gauge in the cluster that reacts to driver behavior, encourage fuel efficient driving, while an indicator of automatic stop on the tachometer allows the driver when the engine is start-stop mode.
The Chevrolet Malibu ECO will be released in early 2012 in the United States, with the Malibu LS, LT and LTZ to arrive in the summer of 2012. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
By Dan Mihalascu
*Live Photos Copyright Carscoop / Phil Alex
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