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2012 Regal to Offer New eAssistTM Fuel-Saving Technology



* eAssist "light electrification" system improves fuel economy 25 percent

* Estimated 26 mpg city / 37 mpg highway (pending EPA certification)

* On sale this fall



CHICAGO - Buick announced the 2012 Regal with eAssistTM fuel-saving technology, which improves overall fuel economy by 25 percent over the 2011 four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain. Estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg city and 37 mpg on the highway (pending EPA certification).



Regal with eAssist joins the 2012 LaCrosse as the second Buick to feature the efficiency-enhancing technology. The system uses a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery system, electric induction motor-generator and regenerative braking capability to improve fuel economy. Its fuel economy tops competitors such as the Acura TSX, rated at 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Regal's estimated 37 mpg on the highway is 20 percent greater and the TSX doesn't offer a six-speed automatic transmission, which is standard on the Buick.



"Buick's eAssist technology means customers don't have to trade a premium driving experience for efficiency," said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick marketing. "We believe Regal and LaCrosse with eAssist provide more logical and affordable choices, compared to other hybrid midsize and full-size luxury sedans."



Regal with eAssist goes on sale this fall. It joins an expanding lineup that also includes 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo (with manual transmission) models, as well as the upcoming Regal GS. Regal with eAssist offers the range of luxury and convenience packages offered in the other models, along with unique features that include:



Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels and tires with lower rolling resistance

A driver-selectable, fuel economy-optimizing mode for the air conditioning system, which enables more frequent and longer-duration engine stop periods

An ECO gauge on the instrument panel that continuously responds to driving behavior, enabling the driver to drive with greater efficiency

A powerflow readout in the 7-inch infotainment screen, which shows the flow of energy through the electric assist system, such as battery charging from regeneration and electric power directed to the engine.

eAssist details

Mated to Regal's 2.4L Ecotec direct injection four-cylinder engine and next-generation six-speed automatic transmission, the eAssist system uses power stored in the battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. An advanced 115V lithium-ion battery and latest-generation 15-kW induction motor-generator unit help increase fuel economy through:



Regenerative braking, which provides up to 15 kW of electricity to charge the battery

Providing up to 11 kW (15 hp) of electric power assistance during acceleration

Automatic engine shut-off when the vehicle is stopped

Aggressive fuel cut-off during deceleration down to zero vehicle speed, enabled by the torque smoothing provided by the induction motor-generator unit

Intelligent charge/discharge of the high-voltage battery.

"The capability to deliver electric boost to the powertrain system during heavy acceleration and grade driving enables the engine and transmission to operate more efficiently," said Steve Poulos, global chief engineer of the eAssist system. "Full fuel shutoff at stops and during deceleration complements electric boost and regenerative braking with additional fuel savings."



Regal with eAssist technology also features improved underbody aerodynamics and tires optimized for performance and fuel economy. It also features a hill-assist system that captures brake pressure to help the driver more comfortably accelerate from a stop on a moderate or steep grade. It does this by greatly reducing the tendency of the vehicle to roll backward with the engine in shut-down mode.



The eAssist system's 115V air-cooled lithium-ion battery bolsters the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine with approximately 11 kW (15 hp) of electric power assist during heavy acceleration and 15 kW of regenerative braking power. The system also enables the Ecotec engine to shut down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, which saves additional fuel. While in fuel shut-off mode, the induction motor-generator unit continues spinning along with the engine to provide immediate and smooth take-off power when the driver presses on the accelerator. Then, as the vehicle comes to a stop, the induction motor-generator unit spins the engine, bringing it to a smooth stop - properly positioned for a smooth restart.



"The battery system is designed to provide power assistance to the internal combustion engine, rather than store energy for all-electric propulsion," said Poulos. "It's really an extension of the conventional internal combustion engine, not a replacement for it."



The eAssist power pack contains the lithium-ion battery pack, the integrated power inverter and 12V power supply. It is located in a compartment between the rear seat and trunk; and it is surprisingly compact and lightweight, weighing only about 65 pounds (29 kg). Trunk space is slightly reduced when compared with 2011 models with the four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain, but still offers 11.1 cubic feet (314 liters) of storage. A quiet electric fan cools the power pack, drawing air from a vent located in the package tray, behind the rear seat.



The eAssist system's electric induction motor-generator is mounted to the engine in place of the alternator to provide both motor assist and electric-generating functions through a unique engine belt-drive system. The induction motor-generator is a high-performance, compact induction motor that is liquid-cooled for increased performance and efficiency.



Next-generation six-speed

The eAssist system works with Regal's direct injected 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder and next-generation six-speed automatic powertrain combination. In the Regal with eAssist, the engine is rated at 182 horsepower (136 kW) and the next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T40 takes transmission technology to the next level with features designed to enhance powertrain efficiency.



Significant internal transmission changes to clutch controls and hardware provide reduced spin losses while improving shift response and time. The added electric power provided by the eAssist system allows for higher gearing to improve steady state efficiency without impacting acceleration performance or driveability. The system's ability to provide some electric assistance at cruising speeds allows the driver to accelerate lightly or ascend mild grades without the transmission downshifting.



An auxiliary, electric-driven transmission oil pump is added to the 6T40, which keeps the transmission primed and the fluid flowing when the engine shuts down at a stop. That keeps the transmission ready to perform when the driver accelerates, for a seamless, uncompromised driving experience.

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2012 Buick LaCrosse Hybrid

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2012 LaCrosse Comes Standard With New EassistTM Fuel-Saving Technology, For 37 Mpg Highway Fuel Economy In A Full-Size Sedan with a full-size luxury sedan featuring 37 mpg highway and 25 mpg city for about $30,000 (exact pricing has not yet been set)

Boost in fuel economy comes with no compromises in the driving experience



Buick unveils the 2012 LaCrosse with eAssist,TM a new fuel-saving technology that increases fuel economy by 25 percent compared to the four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain in the 2011 LaCrosse. The eAssist technology provides class-leading highway fuel economy of 37 mpg, while maintaining the luxury, performance and value expected from Buick's flagship sedan.



The eAssist system becomes the standard powertrain on LaCrosse starting next summer. The system uses a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery system and electric motor-generator to enable regenerative braking capability to improve LaCrosse fuel economy by an estimated 25 percent.

Post Title → 2012 Buick LaCrosse Hybrid

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Buick Regal (2011)

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Post Title → Buick Regal (2011)

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Buick LaCrosse

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2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan Aesthetics 2.0L Turbo Engine V-6, four-Cylinder.

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2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan

Armed with turbocharged horsepower the 2011 Buick Regal, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis, it delivers a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment.

"The 2011 Buick Regal is like nothing you've ever experienced from this brand," said Susan Docherty, general manager of Buick GMC. "The Buick Regal is the next chapter in Buick's transformation and will expand the portfolio to include a sport sedan."

The new Buick Regal arrives in the second quarter of 2010, with its sights aimed squarely on competitors like the Acura TSX and Volvo S60. It has a longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume than those vehicles, along with standard features - including a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and OnStar - that aren't offered standard on either competitor.

The Buick Regal's development is rooted in Germany, where the globally led engineering team created the award-winning Opel Insignia - the 2009 European Car of the Year. The Insignia has garnered more than 31 prestigious awards and is the best-selling midsize sedan in Europe. Buick Regal will bring all of Insignia's award-winning design, technology and European-inspired performance capabilities to the American market.

2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan

The Buick Regal has already been a success on another continent, in China. It went on sale in December 2008 and more than 64,000 Regals have been sold there. Enthusiastic customers cite its sculpted, flowing design and responsive performance as the top reasons for purchase.
The Buick Regal's sleek design blends the sweeping silhouette and proportions of a coupe in a progressive package that suggests motion from all angles. Great attention to detail complements that aggressive styling, with tailored applications of Buick's signature design cues, such as the waterfall grille, select use of chrome trim and superior fit and finish of the exterior panels.

The car's performance-oriented spirit is also conveyed in sleek, sculpted body-side detail and aggressive headlamps that further suggest motion. At the rear, an abbreviated deck and tucked-in body panels are the hallmarks of a contemporary sport sedan, with bold taillamps and their intricate lighting elements reinforcing Buick Regal's attention to detail. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard.

"There is great design harmony between the exterior and interior," said Cafaro. "The feeling of flow and motion carries through in an engaging manner that makes you want to take the Buick Regal out to your favorite twisting road to see what it can do."
The Buick Regal's finely crafted, sporty and well-appointed interior builds on the exceptional attention to detail found in the Enclave and LaCrosse, blending signature styling cues with contemporary sport sedan aesthetics.

2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan

Unique with its all-four-cylinder powertrain, the Buick Regal relies on the excellent horsepower-per-liter ratio of the Ecotec engine family to deliver smart, on-demand performance that is also very efficient.

Both the standard 2.4L engine and the available 2.0L turbo use direct injection technology to optimize performance, reduce emissions and maximize fuel efficiency. The 2.4L is the same engine offered in the Buick LaCrosse, but in the smaller, lighter Buick Regal, it delivers more agile performance. The 2.0L turbo cements the sport sedan credibility of the Buick Regal, with on-demand power comparable to a V-6, but the inherent efficiency of a four-cylinder. To ensure responsive power across the rpm range, the 2.0L turbo uses a twin-scroll turbocharger that builds power quickly at lower rpm.

2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan

Distinct, uniquely calibrated six-speed automatic transmissions are paired with each engine. Both offer driver shift control that enhances the sporty driving feel of the Buick Regal.
Buick Regal's Interactive Drive Control System chassis technology (available on models with the available 2.0L turbo engine) offers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety. It is designed to change the personality of the car based on the personality of the driver.

Post Title → 2011 Buick Regal Sport Sedan Aesthetics 2.0L Turbo Engine V-6, four-Cylinder.

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Buick Business Concept MPV by PATAC powered 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Engine

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Buick Business Concept

The Buick Business Concept, a new concept vehicle designed to showcase Buick’s future vision of “business class on the road,” made its global debut at Auto Shanghai 2009.The multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) was developed in China by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), a design and engineering joint venture between General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), with global design input.The Buick Business Concept Vehicle captures the essence of the Buick form language in a thoroughly elegant and expressive design, with its taut surfaces, double sweep spear belt line, strong front and rear identities and dynamic presence.

According to Cao Min, PATAC Concept Car Chief Designer, the design team set out to create a modern global design for Buick, yet include a subtle Chinese essence and influence.To achieve this balance, they sought to draw from their heritage outside the automotive industry – from classic shapes to arts and ancient relics.

To establish their design direction, PATAC designers took the global Buick design vocabulary of sculpturally beautiful and dynamic forms established by the Riviera concept car and successfully extended it to a tall, one-box architecture...............................Buick Business Concept

The famous Buick waterfall grille takes on a bolder treatment. Intricate detailing gives it an even more prominent look. The backlit Buick tri-shield logo leads into the distinctive mid-hood crease prevalent in classic Buicks and consistent across the new Buick line today.
The prominent LED headlamps show influences of popular Chinese liuli glass through three-dimensional transparent and multifaceted surfaces. Liuli is a Chinese crystal sculpture art form that incorporates cultural and modern references. It has become a popular symbol of modern Chinese prosperity.
Buick Business Concept may accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.9 seconds and reach its top speed at 190 as it’s powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with Spark-Ignition, Direct Injection (SIDI) coupled with a front-wheel-drive system.
Buick Business Concept MPV sits on 20-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum wheels. This concept also gets a 6-speed automatic transmission with a hybrid auxiliary pump.Buick Business Concept also comes with an OnStar system with security, navigation and hands-free online service.

Interior trim and features befitting Buick prestige abound such as a power central console with a deployable tablet for writing or to hold a laptop computer. The console can be moved up and down the two rows of rear seats. The second row of power captain’s chairs slide on hidden rails and swivel 225 degrees, enabling them to be adjusted to an infinite combination of orientations. Traditional huiwen patterns are embroidered onto the seats and seat backs, bringing harmony to the entire design theme. .............................. Buick Business Concept

The three-dimensional instrument cluster reaches across the entire width of the front panel and features a multi-layer information display. The instrument cluster design reflects the liuli art influence but is utterly modern in design. It is complemented by a central console with touch pad controls on either side of a cylinder-shaped roller mouse. A large LED display crowns the central console. Once again, the huiwen motif shows up as details on the wings of the instrument panel.
PATAC designed the Buick Business Concept Vehicle to accommodate the next-generation GM Hybrid System, which will be introduced in China in the near future.The next-generation GM Hybrid System will build upon the successful belt-alternator-starter hybrid technology currently available in the Buick LaCrosse Eco-Hybrid. An advanced lithium-ion battery will help make the next-generation GM Hybrid System more powerful than the current system, improving fuel economy of vehicles with this system by up to 20 percent, depending on engine and vehicle application.

Post Title → Buick Business Concept MPV by PATAC powered 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Engine

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2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan will arrive in the second quarter

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2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan - Front

The new Buick Regal arrives in the second quarter of 2010, with its sights aimed squarely on competitors like the Acura TSX and Volvo S60. It has a longer wheelbase and greater trunk volume than those vehicles, along with standard features - including a six-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels and OnStar.

The Buick Regal's development is rooted in Germany, where the globally led engineering team created the award-winning Opel Insignia - the 2009 European Car of the Year. The Insignia has garnered more than 31 prestigious awards and is the best-selling midsize sedan in Europe. Buick Regal will bring all of Insignia's award-winning design, technology and European-inspired performance capabilities to the American market.

The Buick Regal has already been a success on another continent, in China. It went on sale in December 2008 and more than 64,000 Regals have been sold there. Enthusiastic customers cite its sculpted, flowing design and responsive performance as the top reasons for purchase.

2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan - Rear

Buick says the new shape is sleek and sculpted, and we're inclined to agree, after seeing it in a GM design studio earlier this year. We liked the car as the Opel Insignia, and as the Chinese-market Buick Regal, and the swift details pressed into its door panels and the Buick waterfall grille have been integrated nicely (and quickly) into a car that at one point was to be the second-generation Saturn Aura. The Regal's interior sports LED-lit gauges, a low instrument panel, and a sweeping dash with suitably upscale trim. Buyers will have a choice of satin metallic interior trim, or piano-black plastic or a dark wood called Kibo.

Powertrain options will include the new, 182-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 220 hp. The latter's a surprise, since it's been expected that the Regal would get a V-6 engine--especially since Buick claims the Acura TSX and Volvo S60 are competitors. For the first model year, Buick says only the Regal CXL will be offered. In 2012 they promise other model versions, which likely means a V-6 is in the offing. A six-speed automatic is the sole gearbox, standard on both, with a manual shift mode. Buick estimates the smaller four will get 30 mpg on the highway, while the turbo engine will get 29 mpg highway ratings from the EPA.

2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan - Side View

The Regal will arrive in showrooms in the second quarter of 2010. Buick says the sedan targets the likes of the Acura TSX and Volvo S60, although natural rivals will also certainly include the Infiniti G37, Saab 9-3, BMW 328i and Audi A4.

GM will initially offer the Regal in just one trim level, the range-topping CXL model. Lower content trims will follow for the 2012 model year. Initially, a 2.4-liter, direct-injected Ecotec four-cylinder will be the standard powerplant. Rated at 182 horsepower, the engine can also be found in the Chevrolet Equinox and, soon, in the larger Buick LaCrosse.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder also directly injected will arrive late in the summer of 2010. Buick estimates that engine to put out 220 ponies and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The Opel Insignia is offered with this engine, where, in European emissions specification, it cranks out 217 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque.

Both engines will be mated exclusively to six-speed automatic transmissions, although the turbo will use an Aisin AF40 unit and the standard four-cylinder will come with a GM Hydra-Matic 6T45. GM estimates 30 mpg on the highway for the 2.4-liter and 29 mpg for the 2.0-liter, although the company hasn’t said what grade of unleaded will be required for either powertrain.

The turbo model will offer a driver-selectable three-mode suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels, although all models will come with stability control, an electronic parking brake and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The CXL model will come standard with heated leather seats, Bluetooth, OnStar and XM Radio. GM has not released details of any other model to be offered, although we’d expect to see at least one, if not two, lower trim levels.

2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan - Interior

The Regal will be assembled at Opel’s Russelsheim, Germany, factory, which could mean production will be somewhat limited given the unfavorable Euro to dollar ratio. Pricing has not been announced but will certainly be thousands below an equivalent LaCrosse.

Post Title → 2010 Buick Regal Sport Sedan will arrive in the second quarter

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