Hybrid Camaro?

[McRat]

It appears that a discussion of hybrid performance has been closed due to political content.

In any case, hybrid technology is a huge jump for all automotive applications.

Should the Camaro be exempt from a performance hybrid option?

[SemperGumby]

I think the hybrid platform is finally to the point where it's worth having, as noted by the P1 and 918, but it will be a while before we see it handed down to the sub-100k price range. If I was in a position of needing one I'd be driving a Volt, but as it stands now my lifestyle doesn't warrant having any sort of hybrid as they are today, unless I suddenly am able to buy a P1, then you guys will see me on the news

[2012-1822]

Isn't there a Ferrari Hybrid, or one in the works of something? I'd drive that, if I had the money anyway.

[SemperGumby]

Originally Posted by 2012-1822

Isn't there a Ferrari Hybrid, or one in the works of something? I'd drive that, if I had the money anyway.

There is, in fact. http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-revi...y-chris-harris

[McRat]

I certainly would not do a 5th gen hybrid. Too heavy.

If the 6th gen is lighter, an inertial recovery option might be sweet.

The parts are there on the GM shelf as is the technology.

A lightweight 420HP gas engine (Vsport) mated to the 210HP ELR electric drive and a modest high discharge battery, would make for a CAFE worthy 630 horsepower Camaro under 4100lb.

[McRat]

Or to go NUTS ...

Flip the drivetrain.

Use the uber-light Sonic 138HP turbo motor and 2 of the ELR spec traction motors. 550HP on tap and unlimited range. I would not be surprised if you could get over 700HP with just tuning changes. Pretty sure that ELR motor will handle 250HP each, and the turbo 4 could pump 200HP.

And in a truly bizarre twist, you could offer AWD with very little added weight. Only 40-50lb. No center differential required. No big transmission required. Just the puny trans for the 4 banger, then put one electric motor where the spare tire goes, one mated to the front transaxle.

It is entirely feasible to have a 6th gen AWD GM 4 seater car, with 700HP that weighs less than 3500lb. GTR Killer as far as acceleration and top speed goes.

[robotfighter]

If there were an option to upgrade the Camaro to include hybrid capabilities at a reasonable cost, I would be all over it. About a year ago there was a news article about a university professor developing a device that would be compatible with most makes and models and would supposedly only cost several thousand dollars. I would go for that. I mean, who doesn't want to save money. Not sure why this always becomes a political issue. Even if you are made of money and don't care about the environment, wouldn't you want to save time and not have to fuel up as often?

On the other hand, if there were a new Camaro model that still had great performance, and was a hyrid, I'd be very interested.

[lbheat]

Originally Posted by McRat

Or to go NUTS ...

Flip the drivetrain.

Use the uber-light Sonic 138HP turbo motor and 2 of the ELR spec traction motors. 550HP on tap and unlimited range. I would not be surprised if you could get over 700HP with just tuning changes. Pretty sure that ELR motor will handle 250HP each, and the turbo 4 could pump 200HP.

And in a truly bizarre twist, you could offer AWD with very little added weight. Only 40-50lb. No center differential required. No big transmission required. Just the puny trans for the 4 banger, then put one electric motor where the spare tire goes, one mated to the front transaxle.

It is entirely feasible to have a 6th gen AWD GM 4 seater car, with 700HP that weighs less than 3500lb. GTR Killer as far as acceleration and top speed goes.

I would be in line for an AWD 6th gen...