H2-Oh! The "little Hummer" combines the best of GM's T800 parts bin and sourcing with lean manufacturing

Automotive Industries, Dec, 2001 by Gerry Kobe

Similarly, some existing components that would have seemed a no-brainer for H2 will not be offered because they compromised the capabilities of the vehicle. A case in point is the engine, which will initially be limited to GM's 6.0L Vortec V-8, even though the Duramax diesel seems to be an obvious option.

"The Duramax would have required four more inches of front overhang," says program manger Lindensmith. "That would have compromised H2's off-roadability and turning circle -- important metrics for us. Someday, maybe 112 will get a smaller Duramax, maybe a 6-cylinder."

What H2 does get in its first iteration is an electronically-controlled, 2-speed full-time 4WD system by Borg Warner that can reduce gear ratios by 2.64:1 for serious rock crawling. Complimenting that is an ABS/traction control system from Bosch that adjusts braking characteristics for rough or off-road conditions and also allows more wheel slip in traction control mode for sand conditions. For the really serious off-roader, an optional rear air suspension is included in the off-road package.

On the civilized side, H2 borrows the comforts of the T800 series using its excellent dual-zone HVAC system, audio components, premium seating, OnStar system and even luxury touches like triple door seals, sunroof and leather options.

H2 is the first of a new line of Hummers, including a Chevy Avalanche-like SUV/truck hybrid concept that was shown at the 2001 New York Auto Show. Officially it has not been confirmed for production, but the program is definitely a "go." Hummer targets both coasts as major sales territories, with early-40s males as the primary buyers. 112 launches in April 2002 with the sport truck due a year later.

Specifications: 2003 Hummer H2

GENERAL


Body style                 4-door, five passenger,
                           body-on-frame SUV
Where made                 Mishawaka, Ind. (AM
                           General Plant)
Capacity                   40,0000/yr. (two shifts)
Price (est.)               $45,000 to $50,000

POWERTRAIN


Engine type                6.0L Vortec ohv V-8
Block/head                 Cast iron/aluminum
Horsepower(est)            325 @ 5,200 rpm
Torque (est)               385 @ 3,600 rpm
Transmission               4L65-E 4-speed automatic
4WD system                 Full-time 4WD, 2-speed
                           electronically-controlled
                           locking transfer case and rear axle
Final drive ratio          4.10
Crawl ratio                33:1

BODY/CHASSIS (in inches)


Overall length             189.8
Overall width              81.2
Wheelbase                  122.8
Track (f/r)                69.4/69.4
Height                     77.8 (without roof rack)
Weight (Ibs)               6,400
Brakes                     4-wheel disc with 4-channel ABS
Front suspension           Torsion bar
Rear suspension            5-ink coil w/solid axle
                           (std) air spring (opt)
Approach angle             39.8 degrees (std) 43.6
                           degrees (opt)
Departure angle            35.9 degrees (std) 39.7
                           degrees (opt)
Ground clearance           9.0 (minimum)

MAJOR SUPPLIERS


Transfer case              Borg Warner
Locking rear differential  Eaton
Tires                      B.F. Goodrich
Axles                      American Axle
Frame                      Magna (Formet Division)
SMC Hood                   Meridian
Interior integrator        Venture
Seats                      Lear Corp.