Expanding Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Options: General Motors’ Strategy Shift
General Motors (GM) has recently announced a change in its electric vehicle (EV) strategy, expanding its efforts to include more hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. This shift is evident in the automaker’s recent exhibit at the Beijing Auto Show, where it unveiled the new Chevrolet Equinox Plus, a plug-in hybrid SUV designed for the Chinese market. However, there are indications that this vehicle might also make its way to the United States.
It’s important to note that the Equinox Plus is a product of GM’s partnership with SAIC-GM. The SUV is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that delivers 177 horsepower, complemented by a 188-horse electric motor. This combination results in a combined output of approximately 365 horsepower (272 kW). Impressively, the Equinox Plus boasts a quick acceleration, with a 0-100 kph (62 mph) time of just under seven seconds.
One of the key features of the Equinox Plus is its electric driving range. The range-topping Activ variant offers a 155km (96-mile) all-electric range on the Chinese CLTC test loop. This is made possible by a 24.4-kWh battery pack. Cheaper configurations of the vehicle come with a smaller 16.5-kWh battery pack, offering a range of 102km (63 miles). It’s important to note that these figures are based on the Chinese test cycle and may be lower when measured on the EPA test cycle in the United States.
The Equinox Plus also offers an innovative vehicle-to-load function, allowing it to act as a temporary generator or power external devices. This feature adds versatility and convenience for owners.
While plug-in hybrids currently represent only a small fraction of EV sales in the United States, they experienced their best year ever in 2023. This growth is expected to continue in 2024 as more automakers adjust their plans and consider hybrid options instead of solely focusing on expensive new EV models. Plug-in hybrids serve as a reliable alternative to battery-only vehicles, providing a buffer for owners who may encounter challenges with the charging infrastructure across the country.
Although the Equinox Plus has recently launched in China, GM has not officially confirmed its availability in the United States. However, considering that the vehicle shares the same body and chassis as the gas-only Equinox being released in America, it would likely be relatively straightforward and cost-effective for GM to introduce the plug-in hybrid version to the U.S. market. Additionally, GM has expressed its intention to offer more hybrid models and increase hybrid sales, further indicating the possibility of the Equinox Plus making its way stateside.
In conclusion, General Motors’ decision to expand its hybrid and plug-in hybrid offerings reflects a flexible approach to the evolving EV market. The new Equinox Plus exemplifies this strategy, featuring a powerful hybrid powertrain and an impressive electric driving range. With the growing popularity of plug-in hybrids and GM’s commitment to hybrid vehicles, it seems highly likely that the Equinox Plus will arrive in the United States, offering consumers another appealing option in the realm of electrified SUVs.
