GM's Saturn division already offers a 4-cylinder Vue Green Line, but at the 2008 NAIAS, the automaker introduced an all-new model that combines a 3.6L V6 with an electric drive system. At idle, the gasoline engine is turned off. The vehicle takes off and maintains a low cruising speed by using electricity only.

Thusly equipped, this Saturn Vue becomes a serious threat to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. GM answers back to the critics and shows its arch nemesis just how technologically advanced it can be. The Saturn Vue Green Line Two-Mode Hybrid is a front-wheel drive vehicle that can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kilos) while delivering pretty good accelerations.

2009 Saturn Vue Green Line Two-Mode Hybrid

A plug-in variant was also introduced. Featuring the same hybrid system, this Vue can be plugged into any 115-volt outlet. Recharging the batteries takes about 4 to 6 hours. The available range is still unknown since the quality and reliability of said batteries have not been confirmed yet. More information will be made public later this year.

Saturn Flextreme Plug-In Concept
As an advanced plug-in vehicle, GM claims this car will offer a range of up to 54 kilometers thanks to its fully-electric drive system. Developed by Saturn and Opel, this concept's lithium-ion battery takes less than 3 hours to recharge when plugged into a 115-volt outlet.

In order to make the Flextreme that much efficient, designers gave it sleek, aerodynamic lines and used ultra-lightweight materials. For example, all windows are made of polycarbonate. Also included in the Flextreme concept are honeycomb structures that offer low weight and high rigidity, not to mention safe operation of the two butterfly-style FlexDoors.

Saturn Flextreme Concept

Photo Credit : Sébastien D'Amour