Chevrolet tests mild hybrid technology for Sonic crossover

General Motors is testing a 48-volt mild hybrid system for the Chevrolet Sonic in Brazil. The testing, which involved a partially camouflaged vehicle pulling a trailer, aims to integrate electrification into the B-segment crossover to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The proposed hybrid system would pair with the existing 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo engine, which produces 116 CV and 160 Nm of torque. While specific performance benefits remain undisclosed, the technology is expected to be available for the Sonic by 2027. This move is part of a broader regional strategy by Chevrolet to implement mild-hybrid technology across various models in its lineup.

In the current market, the Chevrolet Sonic RS competes with the Fiat Pulse. While the Sonic maintains steady sales of approximately 2,500 units per month, the Fiat Pulse, which already offers a mild-hybrid version, sells nearly double that amount, averaging around 5,000 units monthly.