The electric traction system combines an electric motor, single-stage planetary gear reduction unit, and differential in one assembly. The hybrid power modules use generation III Advanced Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor technology. The engine never runs below 1500 rpm. The CIDI engine starts in any gear, and clutchless shifting is possible. The multi-purpose unit mates to the CIDI engine via the transaxle.
Electrical power feeds many of the accessories features.
The base design for the automatically shifted manual was the five-speed transaxle used in the Opel Astra. The transaxle is a brand new development. A power PC processor-based controller handles the entire hybrid propulsion system. Each of the seven modules has its own control and monitoring system. When possible, shortcuts to energy routing result in fuel dividends.