Competing With Hybrids

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New Technology Allows Even SUVs To Become More Fuel Efficient Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity today with car buyers who are looking for fuel efficiency, but their high prices mean it may take years to save on the upfront costs of buying them. Manufacturers are responding with new technology that makes regular vehicles more fuel efficient.

A sophisticated electronics feature called displacement on demand transforms a brawny V-8 engine into a thrifty 4-cylinder whenever full power isn’t needed. The system improves fuel economy by 15 – 20 percent and is making a significant impact on even SUVs. Chevrolet says its 2007 Tahoe will be the most fuel efficient full size SUV on the road – getting 20.5 miles per gallon.

With Chevrolet, Honda and Chrysler using versions of the technology, more than two million ‘displacement on demand’ vehicles are estimated to be on the road in the next three years. All at a fraction of what gas-electric hybrid engine vehicles cost.

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