Jun 5th, 2008 by RJ Menezes
General Motor’s 2007 Saturn Aura and Vue hybrid models have slowed production and sales due to the recent discovery of a battery problem that affects a lot of the companies hybrid models.
Production of the 2008 Saturn Vue, Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Malibu hybrids has fallen behind schedule because GM has to replace over 9,000 nickel-metal-hydride batteries found in all of last year’s Vue and Aura hybrid models. “Over time, some of the batteries developed internal leaks. This caused the power-surge capability of the battery to drop,” said GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson.
The lower production rate has drastically curtailed Saturn hybrid sales this year. In May, Saturn sold only 36 Aura hybrids and 340 Vue hybrids. This is bad news for GM, especially in this critical time when hybrid sales are strong due to the ever rising gas prices. GM expects it to take a couple of months before the problem is fully resolved.
Protect your vehicle with an extended warranty! Get a fast free quote on affordable extended warranties for used and new cars here! 
Don't forget to factor insurance costs into your research. Get accurate insurance rate information on any vehicle and shop for the best deal.
Get real price quotes from local dealerships. Don't buy a car without checking the price first! Pit dealers against each other to get the best deal possible!
{/literal}