Live from Boise following the Idaho Erben's one post at a time…

Keeping up with the Hagmans

After years of wintering with the Hagmans and their luxurious ride, we jettisoned the Tahoe yesterday for a near clone of Laura's Escalade. John and Karen tracked down a 2009 last week that was a GM buy-back, but sitting at only 3800 miles, that had our wish list items -- Hybrid, Sunroof, DVD system, 4WD. John flew out to Chicago this weekend, and worked his way across Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and then dropping into Idaho on Wednesday. We signed the papers, and loaded him up last night, and he began the trek east to Laramie with the Tahoe, destined for Becky's in Laramie will the Tahoe will remain in the family, toting around grandkids instead of "the kids".

We took it for a few quick spins last night, and we will be writing more about the adventures in Hybrid land. There is a bit of difference...it will usually run on battery power as you sit at stop lights, and start moving. Around the 20-25MPH range in switches into Hybrid mode, quietly and seamlessly (there is a slightly noticeable action) starting the engine and switching into partial engine, partial electric power. Depending on the charge of the batteries, we noticed it running in Hybird mode in the 40-45MPH range. From the mileage John logged, it ran about the 19.5 to 20 MPG range on its journey to Idaho. Quick glances at the current MPG while toting around town looks to be quite a boost over the ole Tahoe.

The most unusual feel is the brake pedal, and the actions when you are slowing down. With the regenerative braking, the brake pedal does not need much action, but when you near a stop, the pedal becomes more active as regeneration eases off. Things are pretty quiet, although there is a cooling system with a fan that is noticeable when the engine is off.

The kids enjoyed it, they sat in the third row of seats (which we had on the Tahoe, but never had them installed) and thought it was the coolest thing ever, wanting to always sit there. Then they began spitting at each other and fighting like good little kids spoiled by weeks of the grand parents.

Snapped a few pictures last night of the departing Tahoe and the new ride. Also, congratulations to the Hemstreet's of Redmond for their new vehicle purchase, as unplanned as it was.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/livefromboise/sets/72157624326385963