Buick today announced that the second model in its lineup to feature the eAssist �light electrification� system is the 2012 Regal, and it will be officially unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show this week. According to the automaker, estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg city/37 mpg highway, while the overall improvement over the standard 2011 Regal fitted with a four-cylinder gasoline engine and six-speed transmission is 25%.
This is enough to beat competing models such as the Acura TSX, which returns 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
�Buick�s eAssist technology means customers don�t have to trade a premium driving experience for efficiency�, said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick marketing. �We believe Regal and LaCrosse with eAssist provide more logical and affordable choices, compared to other hybrid midsize and full-size luxury sedans�.
The eAssist system comprises a 115V lithium-ion battery and 15-kilowatt induction motor-generator, which is mounted to 2.4-liter direct injection four-cylinder powerplant in place of the alternator. Providing both motor assist and electric-generating functions, eAssist also reduces fuel consumption through regenerative braking, automatic engine shut-off when the vehicle is stationary and fuel cut-off during deceleration.
The powertrain includes a next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic transmission as well, with reduced spin losses and higher gearing that further improves fuel economy. The system�s combined output is rated at 182HP (136 kW).
Finally, engineers optimized the car�s underbody aerodynamics and opted for 17-inch lightweight alloys and low rolling resistance tires.
The 2012 Buick Regal eAssist will go on sale in the USA this fall.
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