The Graphyte's two-mode hybrid system uses it's first mode at low-speeds for stop-and-go driving, which runs mainly off the electric motors with some gasoline motor assistance as needed. The second mode operates at higher speeds such as for highway driving and towing and uses primarily the gasoline engine for power and torque with the electric motors running other systems such as the air conditioning.
The GMC Graphyte uses a system called Active Fuel Management (AFM), which turns off some of the gasoline engine's unneeded cylinders when vehicle is cruising or when stopped. When more power is needed such as when climbing a hill or towing, more cylinders are turned on automatically. The GMC Graphyte is powered by a Vortec 5300 V8 gasoline engine assisted to two high-torque electric motors and mated to a Hydra-Matic 4L60-E automatic transmission.
The Graphyte uses drive-by wire technology and independent air suspension that allows the vehicle height to be adjusted by 4.7 inches for either road-hugging stability or increased ground clearance. Up front is a strut-type suspension and a in the rear a five-link suspension configuration. The Graphyte also uses 22-inch wheels wearing Goodyear all-terrain tires and is made for off-road 4-wheel drive applications as much as it is for on-road use.
One additional feature that make the GMC Graphyte concept vehicle one of the more interesting hybrid SUVs is that it uses Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN), which communicates critical crash information to OnStar advisors after an accident. Because of this technology, emergency first responders know what to expect before arriving on the scene.
If the GMC Graphyte concept vehicle does ever make it from the trade shows to the showrooms it will be a welcomed addition for many off-road SUV enthusiasts concerned about cutting down on greenhouse gases and lessening our dependence upon foreign oil.
