Hybrid Drive Systems: Locations

Key Hybrid Components



This illustration shows the location of the hybrid components.




The 2007 Saturn VUE Green Line Hybrid uses a conventional internal combustion engine coupled with a generator with starter to efficiently power the vehicle.

Note: All intermediate voltage cables used on the hybrid model are colored blue for easy identification.




A 3-phase generator with starter, capable of creating up to 6,000 watts of power, starts the engine when the vehicle is in Auto Stop mode. The unit is mounted on the right side of the engine and replaces the standard generator used on non-hybrid models.

Intermediate voltage cables are routed through the back of the generator with starter. The cables carry 36-42-volts of electricity.

WARNING: Always use caution when you are near these cables until you are sure the hybrid electrical system is disabled!




The generator control module, which is mounted on the left side of the engine, manages the routing of the 36 volt electrical system.

A 36-volt cable from the hybrid battery and three 36-volt cables from the generator with starter enter the module at the top of the component. A protective plate covers the cables.

Two coolant hoses, attached to the back of the module, connect the generator control module with the engine's cooling system.

These hoses may contain hot coolant that could scald if they are disconnected or cut. Note that blue wiring is used to indicate intermediate voltage.




A Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) 36-volt hybrid battery is enclosed in a metal case located beneath the rear cargo floor.







A separate box, called the hybrid battery disconnect control module, is attached to the hybrid battery case.

Within the box are the negative and positive battery cables for the hybrid battery. Opening the hinged cover causes a spring-loaded disconnect switch to interrupt electrical flow from the hybrid battery to the generator control module.




A 12-volt battery provides power for the vehicle��s accessories such as the radio, HVAC, and lighting. It is also used during the initial start-up of the vehicle.

Two negative (-) cables attach to the negative (-) battery terminal. Note that the 12-volt battery is located beneath the Engine Control Module (ECM) in the engine compartment.




A hood ajar switch is mounted near the hood latch and prevents Auto Stop from functioning if the hood of the vehicle is open.

If the hood is opened while the vehicle is in Auto Stop, the tachometer will move to the OFF position and the engine will be disabled from restarting unless the ignition key is used.

Note: The hood ajar switch will not prevent current flow through the 36-volt electrical system.