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GMC Graphyte with Hybrid Drive Suggests How Future SUVs May Look Review

September 2005
Filed under: GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATE Car News | GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATE Headlines

European premiere for all-wheel drive SUV with two-mode hybrid drive

Frankfurt. The GMC Graphyte concept vehicle is a refined SUV with all the capability expected in a four-wheel drive SUV, but with 25 percent improved fuel economy enabled by GM’s latest two-model full hybrid propulsion system. With its sculpted design and elegant, metal-framed grille, the Graphyte exudes urban flair.

GMC Graphyte Concept with Hybrid Drive

The prototype was designed and built at the GM Advanced Design Studio in Coventry, England. Following its world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show at the beginning of the year, the GMC model is about to make its European debut in Frankfurt.

The midsize Graphyte uses a two-mode full hybrid system mated with a Vortec 5300 V-8 with Displacement on Demand (DoD) technology, to deliver strong, continuous power in all driving conditions. The hybrid system is similar to the one that will be available on the GMC Yukon and Chevy Tahoe full-size SUVs in 2007.

The two-mode full hybrid system is based on the multi-patented diesel-electric technology first used by GM in buses. It was developed jointly by GM and DaimlerChrysler for use in vehicles from GM, the Chrysler Group and the Mercedes Car Group. Rear-, front- and all-wheel drive versions are planned for cars as well as for SUVs and light trucks.

GMC Graphyte Concept with Hybrid Drive

With a combination of full electric propulsion and gasoline engine power, the first mode provides fuel-saving capability for low-speed, stop-and-go driving – the kind of driving typical of urban commuting. The second mode optimizes fuel economy at higher speeds, while providing full engine power when conditions demand it, such as trailer towing or climbing steep grades. It works synergistically with other technologies such as Displacement on Demand to reduce fuel consumption at highway speeds.

The 300-volt NiMH battery pack for the Graphyte's two-mode full hybrid drive system is located beneath the rear passenger seat. Systems under the hood support the electrically driven HVAC, power steering and power brake systems. The drive system itself, which includes two compact electric motors and a series of gears to provide an infinite range of drive ratios, is contained within the case of a conventional Hydra-Matic 4L60-E automatic transmission.

The Graphyte has the built-in strength of a truck, including a full ladder-type perimeter frame, with a strut-type front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. The driver can adjust the suspension ride height by up to 4.7 inches (120 mm), with the lowest height providing improved aerodynamics and enhanced fuel economy, and the raised height providing extra ground clearance for off-road driving.

The Graphyte takes GMC’s design language to new levels of elegance. Despite its aerodynamic appearance, the vehicle incorporates strong truck cues such as minimal overhangs, tight wheel-to-fender openings, and an upright grille.

Aerodynamics also plays an important role in the vehicle’s design, as a slippery shape enhances fuel economy. The Graphyte’s fast, 40-degree windshield, swept headlamps and tapered roofline convey a wind-driven look, while the underbody cover reduces drag. A pillarless side window design also contributes to the smooth styling, making the glass appear continuous from the A- to the D-pillar. Providing an open feel in the interior are two large, transversal skylights, which are divided by an overhead console.

Details such as jeweled Xenon headlamps (which rotate left, right and vertically to follow the attitude of the vehicle) and LED tail lamps complement the new, metal-frame grille design and convey a sense of solidity. The Graphyte’s gray exterior color was carefully selected to convey both professionalism and urban chic. Another clever exterior detail is the cargo area hatch/tailgate system. The tailgate operates independently of the upper hatch for ease of loading.

From its commanding driving position, the Graphyte’s interior has a crafted, airy environment that is enhanced by the large skylights. Mokanto wood veneer and anodized and polished aluminum trim accent the Spiral Grey leather upper section of the interior. The wood veneer and aluminum theme extends to the front seatbacks, which are mounted on pedestals rather than conventional tracks to provide more legroom. The lower section of the instrument panel, lower door panels and seats are covered in Prairie Sandalwood-color leather.

GMC Graphyte Concept with Hybrid Drive

The rear seats have a unique 1-2-3 folding capability, which allows the seatbacks of each three seating positions to be folded flat independently. The rear seat cushion can also be adjusted to increase cargo space or to provide extra legroom for passengers.

The intuitive drive-by-wire controls for the hybrid drive system are located in the center console. Instead of moving a lever to select a gear, for example, the driver simply pushes a button to select drive, reverse or park. An LCD screen in the console shows how the hybrid system is working, while a two-bin instrument panel in front of the driver provides conventional analog readouts. The console screen also provides access to the vehicle’s satellite navigation system and other infotainment options. A second screen folds down from an overhead console for the convenience of rear seat passengers.

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