A car-based Explorer? Ford is hinting at a new, more fuel-efficient direction of its iconic Explorer sport-utility vehicle with a concept car that will debut this month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The most radical change: The Explorer America concept is built on a more car-like unibody frame, rather than the traditional truck frame, to reduce weight by 150 pounds and improve drivability. But Ford said the Explorer America still is roomy enough for six passengers and gear.

The Explorer America improves fuel economy by 20 to 30 percent compared with today's Explorer.

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Saturn's second hybrid Vue Saturn, the General Motors brand that has carved out a green image, is trying to distinguish itself in the hybrid market with a compact SUV that gives consumers more choice.

The automaker this month will unveil the 2009 Vue Green Line two-mode hybrid, hoping to reach consumers by combining towing capacity with fuel savings. Saturn will be the first brand to offer two hybrid options on the same vehicle, building on a milder hybrid version of the Vue.

Saturn plans to start production in late 2008.

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