2013 GMC Yukon

2013 YUKON HYBRID IS CAPABLE, COMFORTABLE AND EFFICIENT

With EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city, GMC Yukon Hybrid/Yukon Denali Hybrid delivers a 33-percent improvement in city driving when compared to non-Hybrid models – and up to 66-percent better city fuel economy than other full-size SÚVs. It also offers the spaciousness and versatility customers seek in a full-size SÚV.

The Yukon Hybrid's improved fuel economy over gasoline-only models is due largely to GM's s tate-of-the-art, two-mode hybrid system, which is paired with a powerful 6.0L V-8 that helps optimize efficiency with capability. Yukon Hybrid has a towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) on the 2WD model. The premium Yukon Hybrid Denali adds distinctive style and specific appointments, with a towing rating of up to 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) on the 2WD model. All models feature seating for up to eight, and a maximum cargo capacity of 108.9 cubic feet (3,084 L).

To maximize fuel efficiency, Yukon Hybrid features unique aerodynamic refinements, including a streamlined leading edge on the hood, a lowered front profile and aero-enhanced assist steps. Exclusive 18-inch aluminum wheels (22-inch chrome on Yukon Denali Hybrid), an aluminum hood and aluminum liftgate help reduce weight for further efficiency.

The Yukon Denali Hybrid is distinguished by its exclusive 22-inch chrome wheels, specific interior appointments and a premium driving experience that features standard Magnetic Ride Control.

A new exterior color is available for 2013: Champagne Silver Metallic.

Denali details

The Yukon Denali Hybrid is instantly identifiable by its signature chrome honeycomb grille and monochromatic exterior appointments. Standard content includes exclusive 22-inch chrome aluminum wheels, power liftgate, power release second-row fold-and-tumble bucket seats, head curtain side air bags, power-adjustable pedals, electrochromic (auto-dimming) inside mirror, remote start system, rearview camera system and ultrasonic rear parking assist.

The interiors include standard Nuance perforated leather seating with heated and cooled first-row seats and heated second-row captain's seats, as well as leather trim throughout. A leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel with power tilt adjustment is standard. Optional features include a power sunroof and a rear-seat, DVD-based entertainment system.

An exclusive interior acoustics package enhances interior quietness, while a Bose Centerpoint 10-speaker surround sound system adds all the sound an audiophile wants. And in addition to Ebony, Yukon Hybrid Denali is offered in an exclusive Cocoa/Light Cashmere interior color combination.

Hybrid system details

GM's advanced Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS) work with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC) technology to enable the Yukon Hybrid's efficient performance. This hybrid system not only enables the Yukon to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone, it also allows the 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods.

GM designed the EVT to provide the best combination of city and highway fuel economy. Úsed with the Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management, it is an all-purpose system well-suited to providing excellent economy and full-size SÚV passenger-carrying, cargo-hauling and trailer-towing capabilities.

The EVT is designed to bolt directly to the standard four-wheel-drive transfer case found on the gasoline-only models for true four-wheel-drive capability. The following major components comprise the Yukon Hybrid's unique powertrain system:
•Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT)
•Energy Storage System (ESS)
•Vortec 6.0L V-8 with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC).

Electrically variable transmission (EVT): The key to GM's EVT is its unique assemblage of two 60 kW electric motors, three planetary gearsets and four traditional hydraulic wet clutches. This arrangement allows continuously variable operation, and provides four fixed gear ratios (with operation comparable to that of a standard electronically controlled automatic transmission).

A sophisticated Hybrid Optimizing System constantly receives torque-based data from the powertrain and other vehicle systems, and then determines the most efficient means of propelling the vehicle — either via electric power, gasoline engine power or a combination of the two. The EVT is like having two transmissions in one — continuously variable drive for light-load conditions and fixed-ratio drive for high-load situations.

Energy storage system (ESS): A 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS) provides power to the EVT's two electric motors. This battery pack is located under the second-row seat, where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second- or third-row ingress/egress. The fold-and-tumble capability of the second-row seat remains, and flipping the seat forward provides a flat load floor from the liftgate forward to the front seats.

In addition to supplying power to the EVT, the ESS also provides power to the air conditioning compressor and the Accessory Power Module (APM), which converts the high-voltage supply to 42 volts for the electric power steering system, and 12 volts for the vehicle battery and other 12-volt electrical accessories.

Battery pack durability and reliability are maintained via optimized charge and discharge cycles, as well as a dedicated cooling system that draws air from the passenger compartment. As part of the vehicle's emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine: Engineers chose the Vortec 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine for the Yukon Hybrid because of its favorable torque characteristics. This is especially important because GM engineers adapted the 6.0L V-8 to operate with late intake valve closing (Atkinson-cycle combustion process) for reduced pumping losses and better overall fuel economy.

Úsing flat-top pistons, cylinder heads borrowed from GM's 5.3L high-output V-8 and a 10.8:1 compression ratio, the Vortec 6.0L V-8 produces 332 horsepower (248 kW) at 5100 rpm and 367 lb.-ft. of torque (498 Nm) at 4100 rpm, yet requires only regular unleaded fuel. (concept carz)

The Vortec 6.0L also features continuously variable valve timing to control late intake closing, as well as Active Fuel Management, which allows four of the eight cylinders to be shut off during periods of light load. With the benefit of electric boost, the engine is able to stay in V-4 mode for longer periods in the Yukon Hybrid.

Auto Stop mode and regenerative braking

A key contributor to fuel economy is the gasoline engine's Auto Stop mode. At vehicle speeds between 0 and 30 mph, the gasoline engine may be automatically shut down. By leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to move only under electric power up to 30 mph, such as during heavy stop-and-go traffic, fuel consumption is greatly reduced.

The regenerative braking system works in concert with the hydraulic braking system. The system uses a brake pedal emulator, which provides progressive resistance as the pedal is depressed. This consistent pedal feel operates very much like that of a standard hydraulic braking system.

Quiet performance

Yukon Hybrid matches its gasoline-only siblings in comfort and convenience, with special attention paid to acoustic details that make for a very quiet driving experience. Examples include:
•Exhaust system and resonator specially tuned for the 6.0L LIVC engine's Active Fuel Management operation. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during both V-4 and V-8 operation
•Additional engine intake induction tuning for reduced interior noise and pleasing sound quality
•Low-rolling resistance, 'quiet-tuned' P265/65R18 tires for reduced road noise
•Electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off. Includes the standard tri-zone HVAC system
•Electrically driven, 42-volt variable-assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
•Energy Storage System (ESS) cooling system internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds when the fan could more easily be heard by the occupants.

Aerodynamic exterior

While the Yukon Hybrid bears a close resemblance to other models, styling revisions are made for aesthetic and functional purposes. In addition to setting these models apart from other SÚVs, the following exterior styling changes contribute to improved fuel economy:
•The front fascia lacks fog lamp and tow hook openings, while a lower air dam helps redirect air flow from underneath the vehicle to reduce turbulence and associated drag
•Subtle, yet important aero tuning details around the wheel openings and other areas all contribute to a low 0.345 drag coefficient
•A slightly larger front grille opening allows increased airflow to the radiator and engine compartment, helping to cool the advanced hybrid power electronics
•The roof rack side rails have been eliminated to reduce drag and provide a clean, uninterrupted appearance
•Standard running boards have been tapered fore and aft, and incorporate body-color 'spat' inserts for decreased wind resistance
•Extended D-pillar corner appliqués include sharper edges at the rear vertical corners for enhanced aerodynamic performance
•Specific rear fascia is aerodynamically optimized with sharper corners matching the extended D-pillars
•An extended rear spoiler (with integrated LED CHMSL) contributes to the vehicle's overall aerodynamic performance
•Aerodynamically shaped rear brake lamps with LED lighting technology for reduced energy consumption.

Mass reduction inside and out

Mass is an important factor in overall vehicle efficiency. Because of the slight increase in curb weight resulting from the various hybrid components, engineers reduced the mass of numerous vehicle components, keeping the Yukon Hybrid in the same test weight class as its gasoline-only counterparts.

On the outside, an aluminum hood and liftgate (with fixed glass) replace the standard steel units. Substituting an aluminum front bumper beam saved additional weight, as well as using low-mass, aero-efficient 18-inch cast aluminum wheels.

On the inside, special thin-profile, lighter-weight front seats provide all the function and comfort of those found in the gasoline-only Yukon. Another advantage of these new seats is the additional 1.5 inches (38 mm) of second-row passenger knee room.

Additional mass was eliminated by adapting a tire inflator kit that takes the place of the spare wheel and tire, hoist mechanism, jack and tools found on gasoline-only models. Easy to use, the tire inflator kit is conveniently located behind the left-rear quarter trim panel in the cargo area.

Yukon Hybrid exterior features
•Hybrid model-specific front and rear fascias; specific grille on Yukon Hybrid Denali
•Standard assist steps
•Standard heated, power-operated outside mirrors including auto-dimming, integrated signal indicators, ground lights and curb-tilt feature
•Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels on Yukon Hybrid and 22-inch chrome aluminum wheels on Yukon Hybrid Denali
•Exterior colors: Onyx Black, Summit White, White Diamond Tricoat (Denali only), Mocha Steel Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Quicksilver Metallic, Champagne Silver Metallic and Carbon Black Metallic (Denali only).

Yukon Hybrid interior standard and available features

A unique hybrid gauge cluster includes a special tachometer incorporating an Auto Stop position just above the 0 rpm mark that indicates when the gasoline engine is in shut-down mode. An analog economy gauge, to the left of the tachometer, helps the driver maintain the most efficient driving style.

Located midway down the center stack, the standard navigation system's seven-inch full-color VGA display doubles as a monitor that shows a graphic representation of the hybrid drivetrain's power flow. This display continuously informs the occupants how the system is sending power to the wheels from the ESS/electric motors, the gasoline engine or both. The screen also displays reverse electrical flow during regenerative braking and whether the vehicle is in two- or four-wheel-drive mode.

Additional interior features include:
•Three rows of seating are standard on all models. The second row is available as a three-passenger bench with a 60/40 split bench. The third row features a removable 50/50-split design
•Leather-appointed, heated front seats are standard on Yukon Hybrid
•Heated and cooled perforated leather seats are standard on Yukon Hybrid Denali
•Tri-zone automatic climate control with rear auxiliary air conditioning is standard
•SiriusXM Satellite Radio standard (with three-month trial)
•Navigation radio with a seven-inch touch screen, ÚSB port, hard drive, Time Shift Recording capability, MP3 playback, navigation with voice recognition and color interface display – and three years of complimentary XM NavTraffic service
•Bose nine-speaker sound system is standard on Yukon Hybrid; a Bose Centerpoint 10-speaker surround sound system is standard on Yukon Hybrid Denali
•Bluetooth phone connectivity is standard
•Power-adjustable pedals are standard
•Available Sun and Entertainment Package includes an additional nine months of SiriusXM Radio service, power sunroof and rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Yukon Hybrid chassis and suspension

The Yukon Hybrid is built on GM's full-size SÚV platform, incorporating a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, multilink with coil springs and electric power rack-and-pinion steering. A stiff framereduces vibrations transmitted to the passenger cabin, while the strength and accuracy of the fully boxed frame also enable precise mounting and tuning of chassis and suspension components.

Additional features include:
•Wide front and rear tracks – 68.2 inches (1,732 mm) front/67 inches (1,702 mm) rear – enhance handling and vehicle stability for a more confident road feel
•A two-speed transfer case is standard on 4WD models
•The standard axle ratio is 3.08
•A locking rear differential is standard.

Yukon Hybrid Denali includes Magnetic Ride Control. This real-time damping system delivers more precise body motion control – 'reading' the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Únder the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

Yukon safety and crash-avoidance features

Yukon Hybrid has a strong body structure to absorb crash energy and provide a protective 'safety cage' around occupants. Standard head curtain side air bags with rollover protection are featured for all seating rows, while standard seat-mounted side-impact air bags for driver and right-front passenger provide thorax and pelvic protection.

Additional safety features include:
•StabiliTrak electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver's intended path by applying throttle, braking or a combination of both
•Standard Últrasonic Rear Parking Assist can detect certain stationary objects behind the vehicle and send an audible warning alert
•Rearview camera system is standard and is designed to provide the driver with
a view of people or objects behind the vehicle
•Standard four-wheel-disc brake system with ABS features smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation
•Pretensioners minimize forward movement during a collision and are standard on the front safety belts. Load-limiting retractors cinch the belt more tightly
•LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat attachment system
•Standard tire pressure monitoring system
•Standard remote keyless entry (RKE) system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can it to locate their cars without sounding the panic alarm.

OnStar details

Six months of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on Yukon Hybrid models. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology.

OnStar's RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. A new, opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts.

Yukon Hybrid also features new OnStar button icons. Drivers will notice an updated look for the Hands-Free Calling button, blue OnStar button and red Emergency button.

Source - GMC