The Escalade Hybrid’s two mode hybrid powertrain combines GM’s Vortec 6.0 liter V-8 engine with Cadillac’s new Auto Trans.  2 electric motors help to power the 4 gear EVT transmission.  The V-8 engine in the Hybrid has the brand’s Active Fuel Management System, allowing four-cylinders to shut off in light load conditions; ultimately conserving fuel.  When idling at a stop, the gas engine shuts off but restarts when needed.  The electric motors let the engine to run in a four-cylinder mode more often.

With light throttle, the electric motors can propel the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid up to 30 mph, but together the electric motor and gasoline engine produce 332 hp and 367lb.ft. of torque.  Located under the second row seats lies a 300-Volt battery pack that powers all electric engines, the steering system, and the electrically driven air conditioning compressor.  Regenerative braking also charges the batteries.  The SUV comes available in either front or all wheel drive.  The hybrid powertrain is only available on a standard length Escalade.

As far as towing capability, the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid will be rated to tow up to 6000 pounds with rear wheel drive and 5700 pounds with all wheel drive.  On the inside, the Escalade Hybrid has an 8-inch touch screen that showcases the hybrid drive system and informs the driver as to which mode the SUV is running in.  To encourage better fuel economy, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid comes with an economy gauge that represents which zones the drivers should drive in.  The TACH in the Hybrid also includes and Auto Stop indicater, letting the driver know when the motor is shut off.

But then the American auto industry suffered in the 70’s from the oil embargo…and Cadillac never quite recovered.

We fast forward to today’s modern Cadillac’s and they are back with a vengeance.  The current lineup of today’s cars is impressive.  The CTS-V is the fastest production Cadillac ever and the Escalade Hybrid is Cadillac’s first venture into the world of Hybrid Automobiles.

So if you are interested in anything Cadillac Related then I have got the site for you.  Not only are there pictures and descriptions for almost every Cadillac ever; there is also a Caddy Chat Forum and a ton of other stuff.  Cadillac Country is the place for Cadillac info, from pictures, to car mats, to posters!
Images Via Wikipedia