Quote:
Originally Posted by martyb
i purchased one of the first 2005 Silverado Hybrids. It has run great for 1-1/2 years. Just before new years (2007), I attempted to start it, and it wouldn't turn over. It has been in the shop for two weeks now, because first they didn't know what was wrong, then they replaced the whole sylenoid/starter unit (which requires removal of the transmission). After replacing all this, it still wouldn't start. Then I was told "since the Chevy Hybrid is so new, we don't have parts for it. Additionally, before we order the part, Detroit has to give us the ok to order".
Now I'm told that the Inverter is fried. Inverter/Battery? See a correlation there?
As soon as I get the stinking truck back, I'm going to buy something else! What is the savings on 2 mpg? Not worth it to me. Say 4 years from now, will I make up those savings on a new replacement battery?
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Actually I think your battery is quite small. I don't think you have a large battery pack since there is no regen braking energy to store and your only electric system is really just an enlarged starter/generator. I don't think the electric assists the drive wheels at all. I think its just used to start and stop the engine at intersections so the vehicle doesn't idle.
Its a fairly basic (that has good and bad points) system. It SHOULD be pretty reliable, and pretty cheap to make. But the MPG savings aren't very large. In reality it just should be the way *ALL* conventional vehicles operate, instead of being marketed as an optional drive train.