General Motors delivered on Thursday its first hybrid vehicles in the Middle East to the Government of Dubai and the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The vehicles, which include the Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, are part of a ground-breaking project that involves a 12-month trial using the vehicles as public taxis that could eventually lead to one of the largest hybrid fleets in the world. The trial is the first-of-its-kind in the region and firmly places Dubai among the world's leading cities in pioneering the use of environmentally-friendly public transportation. The agreement between the Government of Dubai and GM is a first step in the RTA's comprehensive plan to make all taxis in Dubai environmentally-friendly, and is in line with their vision to reduce vehicle pollution and ensure a clean environment for future generations. Terry Johnsson, president of General Motors - Middle East Operations, said: “When the Dubai government decided to investigate the feasibility of alternative propulsion systems in the Middle East, GM moved very quickly to support them. Naturally, we are very pleased to be part of such a historic and important project.” GM was the first automotive company to approach the Dubai government on this project. The rapid introduction of the Chevrolet hybrids was the result of close cooperation established between GM and the RTA and included training over 100 personnel, including first responders, in on the operation, safety protocols and maintenance of hybrid vehicles. The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid offers full-size SUV functionality with lower emissions and 50 per cent better fuel economy in city driving than its gasoline-only sibling. With 11.2 liters/100 km in city driving, the fuel efficiency of the world's first hybrid full-size SUV is similar to that of much smaller sedans. The Malibu Hybrid - Chevrolet's first production hybrid car - also delivers lower exhaust emissions as well as the highest fuel economy of any Malibu model. __
