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Tribute HEV - The Tribute Hybrid Electric Vehicle is a “full” hybrid, capable of running on 100 percent electric power up to approximately 25 mph – maximizing in-city fuel economy and making it one of the least-polluting vehicles sold.
Equipped with standard front-wheel-drive or optional electronic four-wheel-drive, Tribute HEV is available in two trim levels, Touring or Grand Touring. Mirroring design cues shared by its gasoline-powered sibling, Tribute HEV offers a bold, rugged exterior set off by 16-inch alloy wheels and new front and rear fascias, hood, liftgate, body-side molding, power side view mirrors, headlamps, taillamps and standard fog lights.
Highlights of the 2009 Tribute HEV include:
* A new 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine features Atkinson-cycle combustion for improved efficiency and produces 153 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. At speeds over 25 mph, when maximum acceleration is desired, the 70-kWatt (equivalent to 94 horsepower) electric traction motor also provides an added boost to the drive wheels.
* A generator-motor recharges the batteries, starts the engine and helps regulate how the two propulsion channels blend together in the transaxle.
* A special electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission (eCVT) harnesses internal combustion and electric power sources to drive the vehicle.
* A 330-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery pack located and sealed at the rear load floor stores electrical energy.
* An electronic vehicle system controller manages charging, drive assist and engine-starting functions. This device shuts the engine down during coasting and at stoplights to save fuel. It also converts the traction motor into a generator during braking to help recharge the batteries.
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