With the debut of the 2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, arrives a new “light electrification” system.
The vehicle increases fuel economy by 25 per cent compared to the four-cylinder/six-speed powertrain and produces fuel economy of 37mpg on the highway and 25mpg in the city. It is mated to a 2.4litre Ecotec direct injection four-cylinder engine and next-generation six-speed automatic transmission with an electric motor-generator that recaptures brake energy.
So what does the eAssist system do?
The system delivers regenerative braking that provides up to 15kW of electricity to charge the battery and provides up to 11kW of electric power assistance. It includes automatic engine shut-off when the vehicle is stopped; and features aggressive fuel cut-off during deceleration down to zero vehicle speed.
In addition, the vehicle benefits from improved under-body aerodynamics and tyres that are optimised for both performance and fuel economy. There are electronically controlled shutters in the lower grille that close at higher speeds to push more air over the vehicle.
The new Buick LaCrosse with eAssist also includes an ECO gauge on the instrument panel. It responds to driver behaviour and enables the driver to drive with maximum efficiency. It also includes a hill-assist system to capture brake pressure and help the driver more comfortably accelerate from a stop on a steep grade.
