Odd - my hybrid, reverse is gas only .....

 

Same here and they all are from what I understand.

 

When you put the Tahoe in reverse, the gas engine turns on, but it is the electric motor that drives the wheels. There is no reverse gear for the transmission.

 

Interesting. Now that you mention that, I remember reading somewhere (probably here) that the reason the gas engine turns on is to alert pedestrians since a silent vehicle could back over people over who don't hear it coming. You'd think a back-up alarm would be more eco friendly!

 

12,000 lbs total gross combined. ~ 5000 plus on the boat and trailer with family and big dog.

 

If you notice, in reverse, go as fast as you want, the engine RPMs won't change, it will be at idle. Kind of tricky to back up fast and watch the tach, so be careful doing this. I did it going up my driveway backwards (very steep) and just gave it a few quick glances.

 

I think the engine is on in reverse so its torque is available immediately to supplement the rear drive motor. No waiting for the motor to start.

I think they got more confident in the autostart capability because I read somewhere that starting in 2010 the engine won't automatically start when the driver shifts into reverse.

 

On a side note, I checked with the dealership and no deal, they cannot
place the factory ITBC into the Tahoe. They can, however hook up a
aftermarket unit using existing harness under the dash and they have to
hook up some additional wiring into the fuse block under the hoood (it's
there, but unhooked).

I plan on ordering a Tekonsha P3 Proportional Controller from etrailer.com.
Dealership said they would hook it up no charge.

 

The engine always runs with xmsn in reverse on my 2008 hybrid Tahoe.

 

I tow a 1998 BMW M3 on an 18' open steel trailer (plus tools, etc) without problems. A good brake controller (Tekonsha) is all that is needed. The Tahoe handles towing well you just have to watch the tranny temp if you have lots of uphill driving.

BTW the engine runs in reverse so that people can hear if you are backing up.