Hot! Propane Vue 2 Mode Hybrid

Billed as a “Cool to be Green” project, noted customizer Rick Bottom Design teamed with General Motors to create a 2009 Saturn Vue 2 Mode Hybrid that can run on either gasoline or propane (LPG). The concept expands the Vue 2 Mode Hybrid’s exceptional efficiency with the option of operating on clean, readily available LPG.

The propane conversion was provided by ICOM North America and CleanFUEL USA, which are collaborating with major automakers to bring more LPG engine platforms to market. The Propane LPI system in the Vue 2 Mode utilizes ICOM of Italy’s latest traction gas injection technology. The system is similar to the LPG conversion technology used in the Roush Ford F-150 propane pickup. This is a very sanitary conversion, with the only clue to its operation on this alternative fuel – other than the ‘Propane Powered’ lettering on the door – an LPG refueling fitting located just below the rear valance.

Propane delivers similar mileage to gasoline and burns quite cleanly. With an equivalent energy rating of 100 to 110 octane, performance on propane is not an issue, either. The 2009 Saturn Vue 2 Mode Hybrid in stock trim offers a seven-second 0-60 time and fuel economy estimated in the mid-30 mpg range on the highway. The combined output of two 55 kW electric motors and Saturn’s 3.6 liter direct injection V-6 deliver’s impressive performance. To improve both performance and economy, the stock exhaust was upgraded with a cat-back aftermarket system from Irmscher and a free-flowing air filter from Green Filter.

Rick Bottom Designs took the clean and green theme one step further by adding an array of three Solatec photovoltaic panels to the Vue’s roof. The panels are just 0.6mm thick and flexible enough to conform to the roof contour. In fact, they are so well integrated the PV panels are barely noticeable unless you’re viewing the Vue from above.

Even the paint is green. Well, okay, its hue is a custom metallic orange, but the paint is an environmentally friendly water-based process from BASF. To give the Vue a street-hugging look, Rick Bottom Designs added its own belly pan and a front fascia from Irmscher. The suspension is lowered with 35mm Irmscher springs, offering an aggressive stance that’s enhanced with 245R40/20 low rolling resistance Dunlop tires mounted on 20x8 inch lightweight Konig five spoke alloy wheels. Out back is a receiver hitch-mounted Freedom Grill for tailgating … presumably propane fueled.

The Vue 2 Mode’s interior is trimmed in leather and Raphia palm fiber upholstery to set it apart from the production model. As a high-tech custom, the auto/entertainment system has been upgraded with the latest hardware from Eclipse. The Eclipse head unit incorporates a GPS navigation system for the most direct routing, and a full complement of Eclipse amplifiers and speakers deliver exceptional sound quality. A Roadwire flip-down DVD monitor was also installed to keep rear seat passengers entertained.

Rick Bottom Design’s build quality is exceptional throughout the custom propane powered Vue 2 Mode, which had its debut in the GM display at the recent Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. Green Car will bring you more customized enthusiast vehicles in the near future as we follow this exciting emerging trend in the industry.