The 2010 Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid is the latest addition to an ever-growing, fuel-efficient Cadillac fleet. Even through periods of $4.00 per gallon fuel prices, the demand for full-sized, full-powered SUVs remained strong. Americans love big, powerful and luxurious vehicles and the Escalade has long been a favorite. However, even the most fuel-consuming Americans must agree that the Green philosophy makes sense for all of us. So with that, Cadillac continues to evolve into a more environmentally-friendly entity. Enter the Platinum Hybrid Escalade.

With prices nearing the $100,000 mark, the 2010 Escalade Platinum Hybrid features a 6.0L 332hp 367 lb-ft Gen IV LIVC Atkinson V8 gasoline engine controlled by the Active Fuel Management system. This system, along with the Atkinson combustion cycle, closes intake valves late and reduces losses brought on by inefficient pumping. This powerful V8 works in conjunction with two separate electric motors, and an EVT (electronically variable transmission), to form the foundation of the GM two-mode hybrid system.

The innovative hybrid technology system of the 2010 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid stores its power in a 300-volt NiMH (nickle-metal-hydride) Energy Storage System (ESS). A system for regenerative braking captures the energy generated during deceleration periods. That energy is stored in the 300-volt battery. It is then directed towards the electric motors to capacitate soft acceleration. When hard acceleration is required, the gasoline engine will kick in to help. Conversely, anytime the speedometer reaches 0 miles per hour, the V8 will shut off automatically leaving the vehicle to operate on electrical power alone. The result is big V8 power with V4 efficiency and quietness.

The 300-volt air conditioning system on the 2010 Escalade Hybrid from Cadillac is driven by stored electricity as well. This greatly reduces the vibrations produced and also enables the vehicle to remain cool without running the gasoline engine. To further smooth out the ride quality, a 42-volt variably assisted electrical power steering unit is utilized. It reduces the parasitic losses commonly caused from hydraulic systems that are belt-driven.

2WD-configured versions of the 2010 Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid demonstrate a towing capacity of 5800 pounds while 4WD versions can pull up to 5600. And of course, you can expect a comprehensive list of standard safety, comfort and luxury features. Nothing is forgotten. Test drive a full-powered Escalade Platinum Hybrid today and expect to be thoroughly impressed.