Classic Chevrolet Commercial (Aired 1956)

2013 Chevrolet Malibu: Now a Winner

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is faith rewarded. It is the belief that excellence in automotive engineering and design can be found in any car company, including General Motors.

It is a simple faith, the genesis of this holiday season: Most of us, given a chance, can step up after we’ve messed up.

General Motors, maker of all things Chevrolet, has stepped up. The proof is in the product — amply represented by the 2013 Chevrolet LTZ front-wheel-drive sedan driven for this column.

This is the eighth generation of the Malibu, a car whose name is derived from the swanky California beach-front town. But since its inception as a model line in 1978, the Malibu has been anything but swanky or otherwise emotionally appealing.

It’s been an also-ran, a “renter car,” a “this’ll do.” It’s been clobbered in the marketplace by other mid-size sedan favorites: the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord and, lately, the Ford Fusion.

The Malibu mostly has been reliable. But reliability alone is not an adequate customer draw. A motorized celebration of the ordinary, the Malibu did not have the swagger to compete.

Consider that history . . . history.

In exterior sculpture and interior appeal, the 2013 Malibu looks better than the Toyota Camry and the new Honda Accord. It has a more aggressive stance. That’s not “aggressive” as in “bully.” The new Malibu simply seems more likable, more confident, and very proud of what it is — an affordable, attractive family sedan. It is more concerned about safety, overall quality, comfort and fuel economy than it is about moving from zero to 60 miles per hour in record times.

That means that not everyone will like it. Equipped with its standard 2.5-liter, inline four-cylinder gasoline engine (197 horsepower, 191 foot-pounds of torque), the new Malibu can feel like a slug if you are trying to blitz from a stoplight in nanoseconds. (My average zero-to-60 time was nine seconds. Maybe that’s just me.)

None of that really matters in real-world driving, anyway. Traffic in the Washington area, where I spent most of my time with the Malibu LTZ, seemed forever congested. By the time I consistently moved at 60 miles per hour in any direction, the car was humming along.

That is, I was humming. The Malibu LTZ is super-quiet, I wonder if GM/Chevrolet got carried away with sound-deadening engineering. I could barely hear any outside noises — and absolutely no vehicular squeaks or rattles — sitting in the Malibu LTZ’s tufted cabin.

The Malibu truly honors its geographical namesake. It’s pretty. It’s swank: two-tone leather seat coverings with piping and contrast stitching; subtle blue mood lighting encircling the car’s interior at night; one of the mid-size car segment’s most appealing instrument panels, this one highlighted by a seven-inch touch screen using Chevrolet’s trademarked MyLink communications technology.

Through voice commands or touch-screen controls, you can use MyLink to tune into Stitcher Smart Radio or Pandora, listen to commercial-free radio on Sirius XM (the Malibu comes with a three-month trial subscription) or install your own music via a flash drive or MP3 player in an available USB port.

This, finally, is a no-excuses Chevrolet Malibu, easily competitive with anything in its size segment or price category.

Courtesy of AutoBlog

2014 Corvette Trailer: Craft

Cruze Debuts Industry-First Flexible Venting Driver Air Bag

The 2013 Chevrolet Cruze introduces an industry-first driver-side air bag that uses a flexible venting technology designed to deploy more efficiently while providing equivalent crash protection to more expensive and complex air bag systems.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently tested the 2013 Cruze with the new air bag technology under its New Car Assessment Program. The Cruze received NHTSA’s maximum 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, the same rating it received in 2011 and 2012 when the small car used a dual-stage air bag system.

Unlike more complex dual-stage air bags that use one inflator for low-speed crashes and another for high-speed crashes, the Cruze’s new single-stage “smart air bag” uses one lower output inflator to manage both low-speed and high-speed crash forces. The more compact, lighter weight system’s flexible vent reduces the risk of inflation-induced injury by allowing the driver’s forward momentum to effectively push the air out and away.

GM testing shows the single-stage driver air bag provides excellent cushioning for drivers of varied sizes in both low-speed and high-speed crash events.

“This new air bag technology is a smart way to manage crash forces, and is an integral part of Cruze’s continued success in safety testing,” said Gay Kent, GM general director of vehicle safety and crashworthiness. “The latest safety rating reflects the confidence we have in its new and carry-over safety technologies and overall crashworthiness.”

Cruze’s flexible venting driver air bag is the second new air bag technology General Motors has announced for 2013. The new Chevrolet Traverse crossover helped introduce the industry’s first front center air bag, an inflatable restraint designed to help protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle.

GM and safety restraint supplier Takata co-developed the flexible venting driver-side air bag and the front center air bag.

The 2013 Cruze continues to offer more standard safety features than many vehicles in its class and represents Chevrolet’s commitment to continuous safety – before, during and after a crash. Standard features include StabiliTrak electronic stability control, Panic Brake Assist and Enhanced Smart Pedal / Brake Override. When it was introduced, the Cruze was the first car in its class with 10 standard air bags, including front knee air bags – a segment first. OnStar safety and security is standard for six months as part of the Directions and Connections package. 

The 2013 Cruze also maintains the highest-possible ratings of “Good” in front, side, rear and rollover crash protection tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which recognized Cruze as a 2011 and 2012 Top Safety Pick.

Courtesy of GM Media

Maintenance Monday! The Truth About Antifreeze

Antifreeze: this is many people’s first thought when it comes to winter car care. "Flush and fill" promotional signs abound at service stations as the weather cools.

But chances are good your engine coolant (a better name for it) is just fine for the winter ahead. If you've followed your car's service schedule regularly, give this pitch a pass. Most newer cars have been fitted with coolants that can last as long as five years or 150,000 miles. Read your owner's manual.

If you’ve missed a service interval or have another reason to doubt your coolant, go ahead and have it "flushed and filled." Just make sure your mechanic uses a compatible coolant to refill your car. Some coolants, such as Prestone's Extended Life, work for any car.

If your car has moved to a much colder climate and you’re concerned that your coolant might not be up to the deep freeze, you can check its effectiveness with a simple, under-$10 tester from the car-parts store.

Courtesy of KipLinger

All-New 2014 Silverado Testing!

All-New 2014 Silverado Testing!

Schedule a Service Appointment Today!

Take advantage of our special offers and everyday value pricing on our most popular vehicle services- including oil changes, brake services, tire services, vehicle repair services, and much more! To view all the details click here.

Chevrolet Volt Owners Surpass 100 Million Electric Miles!

Chevrolet Volt owners collectively have driven more than 100 million all-electric miles since the vehicle went on sale two years ago this month. The average Volt owner travels more than 65 percent of the time in pure electric mode as the car was designed – only using the gasoline-powered generator for longer trips.

By charging regularly, Volt owners drive approximately 900 miles, or a month and a half, between fill-ups.  However, many Volt owners quickly exceed that average, based on an EPA-estimated 98 MPGe that puts electric-only range at 35 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway. Andrew Byrne from Los Angeles is one of these drivers.

“Since my daily driving is all electric, I only really need to buy gas for long road trips,” Byrne said. “I drove over 1,900 miles on my last tank of gas.”

With each avoided trip to the gas station, Volt drivers continue to increase their return on investment. Based on EPA estimates and compared to the average new vehicle sold in the United States, Volt owners are saving about $1,370 a year in fuel costs.

“The best sign of a great product is when your customers are the most satisfied in the industry,” said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet Volt marketing director. “Volt owners have found the Volt is not only fun to drive, but provides technology and performance where consumers need it most.”

This is the second year in a row the Volt has topped the satisfaction survey of one of the leading consumer testing organizations in the United States.

“My commute is 55 miles round trip, but with the Volt I use 80 percent less gas and save over $150 each month,” said Farris Khan from southeastern Michigan. “Plus the Volt is really fun to drive because of its instant torque; driving anything else feels like yester-tech!”

For the typical driver, the average Volt savings equates to:

• Nine weeks of groceries at $151 per week
• 228 car washes at $6 per car wash
• 137 movie tickets at $10 per ticket

The 5 million gallons of gas saved is equivalent to $21 million in gasoline costs averted overall based on $4 per gallon of premium, or more than two supertankers of gas.

For the first 38 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its 16.50-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank.

Courtesy of GM Media

Chevrolet's Year End Sales Event!

Why should St. Nick have all the fun around the holidays? This year Chevy is giving more. We're giving more savings, more cash back and more great deals on the cars that offer more. Like the Silverado which is the most dependable, longest lasting, full size pickups on the road. Or the Sonic with the most available horsepower and torque in its class. Whichever vehicle you choose, you're getting more with Chevy. Read more about what amazing specials are going on now. You will want to head on down now before time runs out!

Is It Time To Replace Your Air Filter?

A new study shows that replacing a clogged air filter on cars with fuel-injected, computer-controlled gasoline engines does not improve fuel economy but it can improve acceleration time by around 6 to 11 percent. This kind of engine is prevalent on most gasoline cars manufactured from the early 1980s onward.

Tests suggest that replacing a clogged air filter on an older car with a carbureted engine may improve fuel economy 2 to 6 percent under normal replacement conditions or up to 14 percent if the filter is so clogged that it significantly affects drivability.

The effect of a clogged air filter on diesel vehicles will be tested in the near future

Courtesty of FuelEconomy.gov

Chevrolet Unveils Hot New 2013 NASCAR Chevy SS Race Car!

Thursday during Champions week in Las Vegas, Chevrolet unveiled their new race car for the 2013 NASCAR season: The Chevy SS.

The Chevy SS is Chevy’s “6th generation” race car – replacing the Impala as the company’s race car for the NASCAR Sprint Cup series and will make its official debut during SpeedWeeks beginning in February leading up to the 2013 Daytona 500.

The Chevy SS  race car is also the “street version” of the car; the 2014 Chevy SS will hit showrooms in late 2013, and be sold in limited quantities.

“With the SS, Chevrolet is delivering a true rear-wheel-drive NASCAR race car that is very closely linked to the performance sedan that will be available for sale, ensuring that our most loyal enthusiasts will have the opportunity to experience the same thrill every day on the open road that our race car drivers enjoy on the track on race day,” Mark Reuss, General Motors North America president, said in a statement.

Chevy was the last of the manufacturers to reveal their new look, but follow suit of Dodge (who will not be in NASCAR next season), Toyota and Ford. The Impala had 152 wins from 1959-64 and 2007-12.

Courtesy of Tireball

Chevrolet Spark and Sonic Drive with Siri!

Early next year, the Chevrolet Spark (1LT, 2LT) and Sonic LTZ and RS will integrate Siri, the intelligent assistant that helps get things done just by asking. Chevrolet made the announcement today at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.

Through the cars’ standard Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, customers with a compatible iPhone* running iOS 6 can direct Siri to perform a number of tasks while they safely keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. To further minimize distraction, Siri takes hands-free functionality even further with an Eyes Free mode that enables users to interact with their iPhone using nothing more than their voice while keeping the device’s screen from lighting up.

Owners simply connect their iPhone with the MyLink radio via Bluetooth, pair with the system, and use the steering wheel voice activation button to begin and end sessions with Siri in Eyes Free mode.

In the Spark and Sonic RS, owners can use Siri in Eyes Free mode to:

• Make voice-activated, hands-free calls to Contacts on their iPhone
• Play songs in the iTunes library, and even switch music sources automatically from AM/FM/XM radio to iPod mode
• Listen to, and compose and send an iMessage or text message to a phone number or anyone in saved Contacts
• Access Calendar and add appointments
• Minimize distraction even more by keeping the screen of the iPhone from lighting up, even when Siri answers simple questions such as game scores or the dates of national holidays
• While in Eyes Free mode, Siri will not provide answers to complex questions that require displaying a web page.

“It says a lot about our commitment to small-car customers that Chevrolet has announced that Siri Eyes Free capability will be available in the Spark and Sonic well before the luxury brands,” said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet marketing director for small cars. “Safe, easy, reliable and portable connectivity is a top priority for our customers, and Siri complements MyLink’s existing capabilities to help deliver an incredible driving experience.”

Both the Spark and the Sonic also come with six months of OnStar’s premium Directions and Connections service. OnStar brings added safety, security and connectivity to these vehicles, including services such as Automatic Crash Response, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics and Roadside Assistance.

Most smartphone owners can also download the RemoteLink Mobile App, which allows OnStar subscribers to control and manage certain vehicle functions from their phone. For more information on OnStar’s services, visit onstar.com.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Courtesy of Chevrolet News

2014 Chevrolet Corvette: The Next Generation

Chevrolet and Disney Inspire Design Innovation with Test Track

Chevrolet designers and Walt Disney Imagineers have joined forces to give Walt Disney World Resort guests a deep look inside a professional design studio creating a first-of-its-kind multi-sensory virtual experience in automotive design.

Chevrolet and Disney tapped their best design talent with expertise ranging from industrial and automotive design to architecture and animation. The design collaboration began 18 months ago with a few guiding principles – create an experience that is personal, future-focused and optimistic.

The two teams met regularly throughout the development process in both GM’s Design studios in Warren, Mich., and at Test Track in Epcot in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The collaboration allowed for the greatest level of innovation yet ensured the values of both brands were accurately represented in the new attraction, while allowing both teams to learn from each other’s expertise. 

“At Chevrolet, the diversity of talent on our team allows us to consistently produce sophisticated, refined and detailed design – but we don’t typically design through the eyes of a 12-year-old,” said Jeff Mylenek, GM Design manager, Global Exhibit and Merchandising Design. “Working with Walt Disney Imagineering, we were inspired to see our brand story from a more youthful perspective and really opened the parameters on how to approach this design challenge.”

The result is a unique experience that gives an authentic, inside-the-studio look at the actual automotive design process, while empowering guests themselves to create their own designs, possibly inspiring the next generation of automotive designers.

“The re-imagined Test Track portrays an optimistic view of the future, and reflects the deep collaboration between Disney and Chevrolet on both the design and the overall experience,” said Eric Jacobson, senior vice president, Walt Disney Imagineering. “It’s a thrilling attraction supported by rich exhibit displays and interactive elements that bring guests directly into the design process – with a few surprises thrown in.”

The teams used multiple mediums throughout the re-imagined attraction for storytelling, including:

• Visual cues inspired by Chevrolet’s expressive vehicle design language throughout the architectural elements in the space as well as in the interactive displays; speed forms and concept vehicle displays, like EN-V and Miray, provide a glimpse into the future of Chevrolet design.
• Advanced computer technology – similar to that used by Chevrolet designers every day – powers the guest design experience, while radio frequency technology allows them to take their unique vehicle design with them through the entire ride.
• A thrill-ride that provides the test experience where each guest’s vehicle design is evaluated.
• Social media sharing extends the experience beyond the day at the park.
• Test Track Presented by Chevrolet offers Disney guests a three-part experience:
• First, guests will have the opportunity to design their own vehicle – car, truck or crossover – with some helpful hints from the Chevrolet designers built into the process.  “Designing a successful vehicle requires some careful thought about how to balance capability, efficiency, responsiveness and power – some of the key elements that Chevrolet designers must consider with every new vehicle they imagine,” said Mylenek.
• Next, they will have the chance to test drive their vehicle design, through the ride, on track surfaces that simulate the actual vehicle validation process that Chevrolet engineers use to ensure every new vehicle meets the highest performance standards.  Each guest’s vehicle design will be evaluated and scored based on how well their design balanced the core attributes. 
• Finally, guests have the opportunity to race their vehicle over changing terrain and extreme conditions on a digital driving table, produce and share a TV commercial starring their custom vehicle and pose for action shots in front of their design.

Courtesy of Chevrolet

The Greatest Malibu Ever, Drive Happy!

What One Car-Pooling Roller Derby Mom and a Chevy Aerodynamics Engineer Have in Common

After a few short seasons of carting my daughter to local soccer games, she abruptly decided competitive sports just weren’t her thing. She cited “too scary” and “too dangerous” as reasons for retirement from her short stint on the field. Instead, she focused her sights on more gentle, less competitive activities like knitting, horseback riding and guitar lessons. Naturally, when she came to me and asked to join the new Junior Roller Derby group that was forming, I was stunned. I had friends who played derby, but the idea of my tiny 11-year-old flying around roller rinks with bigger, more aggressive girls blocking and trailing her was nerve-wracking, to say the least.

And although it’s thrilling to watch a bout, I wasn’t sure I understood what Roller Derby really was. After some quick research, I learned the basics of the game:

Two teams of (mostly) women tie up their roller skates, buckle on helmets and whiz around roller rinks, trying to score points. Each team consists of jammers, skaters who attempt to lap the other team, thereby scoring points by finishing before the other team’s jammer; blockers, who assist the jammers in getting through the other team members’ pack and block the other team’s jammer from passing; and pivots, who not only serve as blockers but can also act as jammers if needed.

Now that I knew what derby entailed—in addition to transporting my daughter to practice every week—I still needed reassurance that my wee one would not be crushed by a hoard of thug-like skaters. I needed to talk to another mom with Roller Derby know-how and maybe some on-the-rink experience herself. I wanted to hear the pros and cons of the sport first hand.

One such mom with a unique connection to all things derby is Michigan’s Bath City Derby Girl, Suzy Cody.

“Parents can have great conversations with their kids about doing what they want to do, not conforming to the norm, accepting all shapes and sizes and backgrounds” says Cody from her home in Michigan. “And also just general self-esteem.”

Cody, known on the rink as “Shovey Camaro,” not only gets a work-out and active bonding time with her teammates through playing this sport on wheels; it also influences her career as an aerodynamic development engineer for General Motors.

“When I’m skating, I frequently think about my equipment—including my body—and ways I can reduce the amount of energy I use,” says Cody. “I’m a jammer, so speed and agility are important. The right wheels, good bearings, mass reduction and the proper tuck position all come into play. In my job I’m focused on designing and engineering an energy-efficient vehicle, so it’s natural for me to apply some of that knowledge to saving energy on the track.”

Cody is also quick to correct any misconceptions people like myself have about the sport.

“There are rules—a lot of them! You can’t punch, elbow, hit anyone in the face or in the back,” says Cody. “There’s quite a bit of strategy and teamwork involved, too—it’s one of the few sports were everyone is playing offense and defense at the same time. We also don’t want anyone to get hurt!”

It was partly this advice from “Shovey Camaro”—a moniker inspired by that oh-so-sleek Chevy sports (and race) car—that quelled my reservations. But mostly it was watching my daughter’s confidence swell as a result of her time rolling with her teammates. I soon discovered that convincing her to slow down long enough to drink water and stay hydrated was the only facet of derby I needed to worry about.

Courtesy of Chevrolet

Wipers for Winter

Fog, snow and rain will cut down your visibility in winter.

Check your wiper blades, which have a lifespan of about a year. If your car doesn't have the newer "beam blade" style wipers, consider a pair, especially for the winter months. The beam style blades don't have an external spring to freeze up.

When snow or other freezing precipitation threaten, make sure you turn off the wipers when you park so that the next time you turn on your car, the wiper motor's not fighting to get frozen wipers moving. This can burn out the motor.

Some folks pop their wipers up so they're not touching the windshield. This little trick will make it easier to scrape your windshield. Some folks believe this wears out the spring that keeps the blade on the glass. And some folks think it's an affectation. We'll leave it to you.

Courtesy of Kiplinger

Chevy presents Hot Wheels Camaro at SEMA!

Chevrolet Donates 50 Trucks to Red Cross for Storm Relief

Chevrolet today donated 50 Silverado full-size pickup trucks and Express cargo vans to the American Red Cross for use in relief and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy and other storms buffeting the Eastern seaboard and nearby states.

“It is during disasters like this that we all need to pull together as a country and Chevrolet has a role in that,” said General Motors Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson. “Making these vehicles available quickly where they can do the most good is something we can do right now.”

GM’s OnStar subsidiary is also supporting the initiative by providing each of the donated vehicles with 300 OnStar Hands-Free Calling minutes of hands-free cellular and three months of its Directions and Connections plan which includes turn-by-turn navigation services. Service available via Advisor or by download. The trucks are being pulled from existing inventory at dealerships closest to where they are needed.

In addition to the vehicle donation, the GM Foundation earlier donated $250,000 to the Red Cross Disaster Responder Program, which enables the agency to be ready to provide immediate disaster relief anywhere in the country.  The money is used to shelter, feed and meet emotional needs of disaster victims. The money also helps feed emergency workers, handle inquiries from concerned family members outside the disaster area, provide blood and blood products and help disaster victims access other available resources.

“The impact of Hurricane Sandy is being assessed up and down the East Coast and even further west, and the road to recovery will be long for many families,” said Neal Litvack, Chief Development Officer of the American Red Cross. “GM’s generous donation of vehicles and the GM Foundation’s donation of finances will help the American Red Cross to respond with shelter, food and care, aiding affected residents now and after the storm, as they move toward recovery,”

Anyone interested in providing support to hurricane victims are encouraged to call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make a donation.

SOURCE: GM News

Tip of the Week: Don't fill up if you see the tanker

 

4. Don’t fill up if you see the tanker
If you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. When the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment which can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors when put in your car. This can cause poor performance and possibly force repairs

COURTEST of RD.com

Ok, our interest is piqued! Counting down the days until January 13th!

Test drive a 2012 Chevy Cruze today; drive home in it tomorrow!

There's not a single way to describe what it feels like to be behind the wheel of a this Chevy. You absolutely have to try it out for yourself. Schedule a test drive today with a click of your mouse, and enjoy the ride!

Thumbs Up To The Winner!

Congratulations, Kimberly Garcia, for winning the $500 American Express Gift Card. Lunch is on you!

 

 

We 'heart' Mother-in-Laws!

See the full gallery on Posterous

We know what you’re thinking:  holidays = a drive to the in-laws. If that makes you feel anxious, let us help. Check out our website for our current service specials. A smooth drive is good for the nerves.

Traction Control That Dares To Take On Any Road Condition

It's Chevy Truck Month!

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE It’s Chevy Truck Month and we’re celebrating BIG! Get ready to sit behind the wheel of the truck of your dreams, and drive away in style.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu-Inspired Skinny Jeans Debut

See the full gallery on Posterous

Just the Facts:

• The Isaac Mizrahi clothing line inspired by the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu debuted on Wednesday, featuring items for the "smart, stylish woman."
• The items are noteworthy because they include poppy red skinny jeans designed to "conform to any body type."
• While many automakers roll out clothing linked to their cars, it is probably the first time one has gone the skinny-jeans route.

 The Isaac Mizrahi clothing line inspired by the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu debuted on Wednesday, featuring items for the "smart, stylish woman."

The items are noteworthy because they include poppy red skinny jeans designed to "conform to any body type." The jeans are priced at $73. There is also a $140 Malibu blouse, a $298 Malibu leather jacket and a $110 Malibu boyfriend watch.

While many automakers roll out clothing and accessories linked to their cars, it is probably the first time one has gone the skinny-jeans route. High-end automakers like Land Rover, Maserati and Mercedes-Benz often feature clothing and watches or links to designers or celebrities such as Victoria Beckham.

However, it is fairly unusual for mass-market manufacturers to hook up with designers and offer more than T-shirts and baseball caps. The move is a clear signal from GM that it is targeting women in its marketing push for the Malibu.

The Malibu clothing line is set to go on sale on October 16 on LivingSocial's Shop in limited quantity, said GM in a statement.

"The 2013 Malibu is a beautifully designed car," said Mizrahi in a statement posted on the GM Web site. "Each piece of my capsule collection was inspired by the features of the car, from the leather seats that feel like they are hugging you, to the ice-blue interior lighting."

The watch's blue face is inspired by the Malibu's interior light.

Edmunds says: You were expecting Chevrolet Malibu mommy jeans?

 

**Courtesy of Edmunds Inside Line

A Disount For Our Military

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Americans have heroically answered the call to protect our nation and our way of life and we want to honor them by offering a military discount to Active Duty members, Reserves, Veterans— including their spouses — of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, National Guard and Coast Guard. Visit us today and let us honor you! http://bit.ly/R7aj0e

The Spark lets you watch movies from your USB port. Beware of over-the-shoulder window watchers

The Spark lets you watch movies from your USB port. Beware of over-the-shoulder window watchers... they could be anywhere.

Amazing pre-owned specials going on this month at Tom Bell Chevrolet!

Now is the time to upgrade to that model you have had your eye on. Click on the link below to view the current pre-owed vehicle specials and then come on by and take a test drive! http://bit.ly/QbCuLg

Chevrolet Test Drives Will Help Combat Breast Cancer

Consumers who test drive a new Chevrolet car, truck or crossover on Saturday, Oct. 6 will help the American Cancer Society fight breast cancer and support families affected by the disease.

Chevrolet will contribute $10 to the Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program for each test drive taken at a Chevrolet dealer, up to a total of $130,000. All Chevrolet models are eligible for the test drive contribution.

“By visiting a Chevrolet dealer on Oct. 6, consumers can see and experience for themselves why we sold a record number of cars, trucks and crossovers last year, and help the American Cancer Society fight for more birthdays,” said Don Johnson, vice president, Chevrolet Sales and Service.

To participate, a consumer must have a valid driver’s license.

October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Last year with Chevrolet’s support, the American Cancer Society raised $1,079,633 in contributions to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. The money helps fund research, wellness and breast cancer awareness education, and support for breast cancer patients and their families.

*Courtesy of Chevrolet USA Newsroom

This video explains how the Volt is different from hybrid, pure electric and gas-powered cars on the road.

What is the Chevrolet Volt exactly? This video explains how the Volt is different from hybrid, pure electric and gas-powered cars on the road.

Time to bring your car or truck in for an oil change? You're in luck!

Time to bring your car or truck in for an oil change? You're in luck! Follow the link to claim a coupon from Tom Bell Chevrolet. This is a limited time offer, so you better act fast! http://on.fb.me/QchBO4

Time to bring your car or truck in for an oil change? You're in luck!

Time to bring your car or truck in for an oil change? You're in luck! Follow the link to claim a coupon from Tom Bell Chevrolet. This is a limited time offer, so you better act fast! http://on.fb.me/QchBO4

GM Sells 2-Millionth Vehicle in China in 2012

General Motors and its joint ventures sold their 2-millionth vehicle in China this year on Sept. 21, the earliest date in the calendar year they have reached the milestone and the third time in GM’s history in China.

On Nov. 4, 2010, GM became the first global automaker in China to reach 2 million annual sales. Last year, it achieved the milestone on Oct. 17.

“This is another important accomplishment for General Motors in the world’s largest vehicle market,” said Kevin Wale, president, GM China, and chief country operations officer, China, India and ASEAN. “Despite the temporary slowdown in sales growth in China, GM has continued to experience strong demand for our unequalled lineup of passenger and commercial vehicles.”

Earlier this month, SAIC-GM-Wuling, which builds and sells vehicles under the Wuling and Baojun brands, reached 1 million unit sales for 2012. Shanghai GM, which offers vehicles from the Buick, Chevrolet and Cadillac brands, is expected to soon hit 1 million unit sales for 2012.

In the first eight months of 2012, GM and its joint ventures in China sold 1,837,546 vehicles, an increase of 11.2 percent year on year and a record for the period.

*Courtesty of GM USA Newsroom

Chevrolet Trucks: Building America for 95 years

It started with a simple idea – a few car chassis fitted with hand-built beds to help carry materials around a booming car factory. Before long, millions of Chevrolet pickups were woven into the fabric of a fast-growing country. Chevy trucks tackled the toughest jobs on farms and in the fields, hauled tools and lumber to the burgeoning suburbs and carried families and friends into the wilds for well-earned vacations.

“The legacy that Chevrolet trucks have built over the last 95 years is important to protect,” said Don Johnson, Chevrolet vice president of Sales and Service.  “The best way for us to do that is by delivering the capability and technology our customers have grown to expect, in both our current trucks and in our next generation of full-size pickups."

Here are some Chevy truck highlights:

1918 Chevrolet Four-Ninety Half-Ton Light Delivery “Cowl Chassis”

Although there are indications that some Four-Ninety based trucks were built for internal use in 1916, and that a few even earlier chassis may have been converted to ambulances and sent to France in 1914, the first customer chassis appears to have been built in Flint, Mich., on Nov. 22, 1916, and shipped from the factory on Dec. 2 that year.

Two four-cylinder models marked Chevrolet’s formal entry into the truck market for the 1918 model year. Both were cowl chassis units that came from the factory with only frontal sheet metal. It was customary at the time for buyers to obtain a wooden cab and cargo box or panel van body to suit their purposes.

Priced at $595, the half-ton Light Delivery cowl chassis was essentially a bodyless Chevrolet Four Ninety car equipped with stronger rear springs. Mounted with a pickup box or panel body, it provided an agile and economical light-delivery truck for small businesses popping up across America in the boom following the First World War.

The second model, a 1-ton capacity 1918 Chevrolet “Model T” (presumably for “Truck”) cost $1,125 without a body.  It was based on the FA-series car, and was built on a truck frame that was longer and stronger than the half-ton model.  A 37-horsepower engine gave the larger truck the power to haul heavier loads at a governor-limited top speed of 25 mph.

1930 Chevrolet Pickup

The simple cowl chassis models were replaced in the 1930s by factory-built pickups, which initially came with roadster and closed bodies.  Chevrolet bought the Martin-Parry body company in 1930 and quickly began selling steel-body half-ton pickups complete with a factory-installed bed.

At the heart of these new pickups was a new Chevy inline six-cylinder engine, which soon earned names like “Cast Iron Wonder” and “Stovebolt” for its rugged design.  First produced in late 1928, the new engine had a modern overhead-valve design.  Inline six-cylinder engines became a mainstay in Chevrolet cars and trucks for decades to come.

By the mid-1930s, half-ton pickups with factory-installed steel boxes had become the lifeblood of the truck market, with brands like Mack, Studebaker, Reo, and International competing with Chevy, GMC, Ford and Dodge.

1937 Chevrolet Half-Ton Pickup

In the mid-1930s, as the U.S. economy began to recover from the Great Depression, Chevrolet pushed for leadership in a reviving truck market with what were designed to be some of the strongest, most innovative models produced to that point.

For 1937, Chevrolet introduced new trucks with streamlined styling that many still consider the best designs of the era. The ’37 also featured a sturdier body and a larger and more powerful 78-horsepower engine, among other improvements.

A 1937 Chevrolet half-ton pickup was sent on a 10,245-mile drive around the United States that was monitored by the American Automobile Association (AAA).  Carrying a 1,060 lb. load, the truck averaged 20.74 miles per gallon.

1947 Chevrolet Advance-Design Half-Ton Pickup

In early 1947, Chevrolet introduced its Advance-Design trucks, the first completely redesigned GM vehicles to appear following World War II. Owners of earlier pickup models had asked for a roomier, more comfortable cab with improved visibility and a wider pickup box. They got all of that and more.

Designers sought to make the truck’s styling clean, brisk and attractive. Headlamps were now set wide apart in the front fenders and five horizontal bars made up the grille. The design was produced with few major changes from 1947 through 1953, and was then continued with a new frontal appearance into early 1955.

During the Advance-Design trucks’ run, there was a measurable shift among Chevrolet customers to trucks. Prior to World War II, the production ratio of the brand’s cars to trucks had been about 4:1. By 1950 – the year Chevrolet became the first brand to sell more than 2 million vehicles in a single year – the ratio of cars to trucks was closer to 2.5:1.

1955 Chevrolet Task Force Pickup

By the mid-1950s, the post-World-War II boom was under way, and customers were looking for style and performance even in pickup trucks.  In mid-1955, Chevrolet introduced the all-new Task Force trucks, which shared design language with the 1955 Bel Air, and also offered the new small-block Chevy V8 as an option.

Also new to the 1955 truck line was the Cameo Carrier, a high-styled gentleman’s pickup more at home in a trendy suburban California bungalow driveway than on a farm or in a factory yard.  The Cameo Carrier was only produced through 1958, but it set the stage for new generations of well-equipped personal use pickups, including the El Camino, Avalanche, and Silverado crew cab.

A major engineering advance with tremendous future implications was announced for 1957, when a factory-installed 4-wheel-drive system became available for the first time on select models.

Chevrolet continued to offer the Task Force trucks with annual updates through 1959. During 1958, a new slab-sided Fleetside box option provided an alternative to Chevrolet’s traditional step-side pickup box.

1959 Chevrolet El Camino

The original El Camino introduced for 1959 combined the dramatically finned styling of that period’s Chevrolet cars with half-ton pickup utility. But the excitement was short-lived. After 1960, the El Camino went on a three-year hiatus.

Chevrolet revived the El Camino “personal pickup” concept for 1964, with a new version based on that year’s new mid-size Chevrolet Chevelle. During the ‘muscle car’ era that followed, El Camino buyers could order their truck with a Chevrolet high-performance big-block V-8 powertrain, creating a sport pickup that could “haul” in more ways than one. By 1968, a complete Super Sport package was available.

The Chevelle El Camino enjoyed a devoted following and was produced through two more styling generations (1968-1972 and 1973-1977).  For 1978, the El Camino was successfully transitioned to that year’s new, smaller Malibu platform. The final El Caminos were 1987 models.

1961 Corvair Pickup

Although there had been a number of small pickups prior to the 1960s, the compact car boom that kicked off the decade brought with it a new crop of forward control trucks, including the Corvair 95. With its unitized body structure and rear-mounted engine, the 95 offered a lot of cargo space in a compact maneuverable package. The Rampside model offered a side gate on the right side of the vehicle, which allowed easy access to the low load floor at the front of the bed.  Although clever in design, the Corvair 95 never caught on in the showroom, and in the final model year of 1964, only 851 were sold.

1967 Chevrolet C-10 with Custom Sport Truck Package

It took only one glance at any of the 35 Chevrolet C/K models for 1967 to see that Chevy trucks had a new look that year. The exterior profile, which would characterize Chevrolet C/K models through 1972, featured a lower-silhouette cab and large, rounded wheel openings. The new chassis had coil springs front and rear.

A new-for-1967 Custom Sport Truck package was a trend-setting option that included deluxe, car-like upgrades inside and out. The package could even be ordered in combination with bucket seats.

By 1967, the Federal Interstate Highway System was giving Americans unprecedented access to the nation’s natural wonders and recreational areas. Customers who enjoyed such pursuits appreciated the small-block and big-block V-8 power choices that gave Chevrolet trucks the torque needed to pull trailers up grades, and horsepower to cruise comfortably with a camper at Interstate speeds.

1972 Chevy LUV

In spring of 1972, Chevrolet started selling the LUV pickup on costal markets.  Built by GM partner Isuzu, the LUV featured a 75-horsepower four-cylinder engine and four-speed manual transmission.  Although the specs were modest, the LUV was a fully functioning pickup, with a ladder-style frame, a six-foot bed, and a payload of 1,100 pounds, plus room for two passengers.  Within a few years, soaring gas prices would make compact pickups like the Chevy LUV a major factor in the U.S. truck market, and it wasn’t long before Chevrolet started work on a home-grown small truck.

1982 Chevrolet S-10

The Chevrolet S-10 was the first domestically produced compact pickup, larger than the imported Chevy LUV but smaller than the full size C/K model.  An 82-horsepower four-cylinder engine was standard, with an available 110-horsepower V6 – the only one in the class.  Properly equipped, the S-10 could haul 1,500 pounds, and tow 4,000. The roomy cab and high levels of standard and optional equipment gave the S-10 a broader appeal than that of earlier, bare-bones small trucks, and it quickly became a mainstay of the Chevrolet lineup, appealing to everyone from young customers looking for a first set of wheels to businesses seeking a rugged work truck.

1988 Chevrolet Pickups

Pickup trucks had been slowly migrating from the worksite to the suburbs, and the 1988 Chevrolet C/K pickup accelerated that trend, bringing the aerodynamics, electronics and materials that had revolutionized the automobile over the past decade to the full-size pickup.  Extensively tested to make sure it met the high bar for dependability set by previous Chevy pickups, the new truck also featured advanced aerodynamics for improved fuel economy, including a narrower cab for lower drag, flush side glass, and a sleek front end with integrated lamps.

A full range of powertrains was offered, from a 4.3-liter V6 through a 6.2-liter diesel V8.  To enhance durability, the trucks featured extensive use of galvanized steel for corrosion resistance, and a full welded frame with a boxed front section for strength and rigidity.   Civilized driving characteristics and styling moved full-size pickups closer to being the family vehicles they are today.

1999 Chevrolet Silverado

Chevrolet’s all-new 1999 full-size pickups were the first to carry the Silverado nameplate.  The new trucks resulted from the most intensive development program yet undertaken by General Motors and they arrived just in time for a boom in truck sales.  The styling of the new Silverado pickups built on the purposeful design that characterized the preceding C/K pickups. Interiors had all the comfort and convenience features personal-use customers were starting to expect.  Power came from a new generation of V8 engines.

2004 Silverado 1500 Crew Cab

The 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche pioneered the idea of a light-duty pickup that could comfortably accommodate the family, and the 2004 Silverado took this idea and ran with it. In less than eight years, light-duty crew cabs would dominate the full-size pickup market, accounting for more than two-thirds of all sales, and transforming pickups into a true multi-purpose vehicle for both work and family. Available creature comforts included dual-zone climate control, Bose sound systems, a rear-seat DVD player, OnStar and XM radio. Even with the creature comforts, Silverado maintained the Chevy truck capability.

2007 Silverado

The all-new 2007 Silverado provided significant improvements in performance and fuel economy, while strengthening the capability and dependability Chevy pickups were known for.  It featured a new fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering for improved ride and handling, while new Gen IV small-block 5.3L and 6.0L V-8 engines could deactivate four of the eight cylinders when not needed to save fuel.  Safety advances included StabiliTrak electronic stability control and head-curtain side airbags for enhanced occupant protection.

2013 Chevrolet Colorado

Just as full-size pickups have become the lifeblood of the American economy, midsize pickups are important vehicles for businesses and families in many countries outside the United States. Chevrolet’s new global mid-size Colorado pickup is designed to help expand the Chevrolet brand into many of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

Developed under the direction of a truck-savvy team from GM do Brasil, the inaugural version of the global Colorado was launched in Thailand, the world’s largest market for midsize pickups, in November, 2011.  Over the next several years, Colorado will be introduced into many global markets, including the United States, where it will offer a more fuel efficient alternative for customers who don’t need all of the capability of a full-size pickup.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality.

*Courtesy of Chevrolet USA Newsroom

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Chevrolet Volt Owners Get Plugged-In

Chevrolet Volt owners from across United States gathered at nine Chevrolet dealerships Saturday to celebrate going electric.

During the event, Chevrolet hosted an online live-broadcast where the Volt’s chief engineer, Andrew Farah, who answered owner questions and discussed topics ranging from the electrification of the Volt to the future of the electric vehicles.

“Our Volt owners are our best brand ambassadors, and we wanted provide them the unique opportunity to interact with and have their questions answered, and who better to do that than the chief engineer of the Volt,” said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet small cars marketing director. “With our Volt owners having driven approximately 80 million miles on electricity alone, National Plug in Day was the perfect time to say ‘thank you’ for their support.”

Participating dealerships include:

• Capitol Chevrolet – San Jose, Calif.
• Capitol Chevrolet – Austin, Texas
• Ferman Chevrolet – Tampa, Fla.
• Harry Criswell Chevrolet – Gaithersburg, Md.
• Hendrick Chevrolet – Cary, N.C.
• Jimmie Johnson Chevrolet – San Diego, Calif.
• Keyes Chevrolet – Los Angeles
• Phillips Chevrolet – Frankfort, Ill.
• Serra Chevrolet – Southfield, Mich.

National Plug in Day was created to bring attention to the environmental, economic and other benefits of plug-in electric vehicles.

For the first 38 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its 16.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank. Volt owners have travelled more than 65 million miles since the vehicle launched late 2010. Roughly two-thirds of those miles were powered by grid electricity.

*Courtesy of GM News United States

GM set to unveil 9 new or redesigned Buick, GMC models by 2013

General Motors executives said today they will reveal nine all-new or redesigned Buick and GMC models by the end of 2013.

The automaker separately said that it would soon introduce a new version of the GMC Canyon mid-size truck.

The all-new or redesigned models included the already introduced 2013 Buick Encore crossover, which will be priced at $24,950 with combined average fuel economy of 28 miles per gallon, GM said today. The other models: Buick Enclave, Buick Regal, Buick Lacrosse, GMC Acadia, GMC Sierra, GMC Sierra HD, GMC Yukon and GMC Yukon XL..

“Our dealers have a lot momentum in the marketplace right now,” Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of marketing for Buick and GMC, said in a conference call. “During the next 12 months we’ll continue to give them new reasons for customers to visit their showrooms.”

GM’s decision to produce a new version of the GMC Canyon reflects a commitment to the mid-size truck segment, which some analysts believe is losing ground to the full-size segment.

But GM said it believes the Canyon will fill a niche in the market.

“We know there’s a group of customers that want the functionality of a truck but may not need a full-size pick,” DiSalle said.

DiSalle declined to provide timing or other details on the Canyon, but he said it would be produced at GM’s assembly plant in Wentzville, Mo.

After 2013, the GMC Terrain and recently introduced Buick Verano will be the oldest models in the brands’ lineups, reflecting an increased pace of new product introductions, the automaker said.

GMC attracts the youngest average buyer of GM’s four brands, and its larger vehicles deliver big profits for the automaker in the U.S. For both brands, 40% of sales are so-called “conquest” purchases, industry jargon for vehicle buyers who previously owned a different brand.

GM is also investing in showroom renovations to attract customers. The two brands often share a roof.

*Courtesy of Detroit Free Press

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General Motors Named Green Corporate Citizen

General Motors was named a Green Corporate Citizen Wednesday for its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. The recognition by Waste & Recycling News and Republic Services in the large company category came at the annual Corporate Recycling & Waste Conference.

 “Forward-thinking companies realize that sustainability and ‘being green’ aren't just ways to market their brands; they are ways to cut costs, boost profits and help the environment along the way,” said John Campanelli, editor of Waste and Recycling News. “GM continues to lead in waste reduction and creative recycling in a way that benefits their business and inspires other companies and suppliers.”

 All of GM’s global facilities combined recycle or reuse more than 90 percent of the waste they generate and 102 of them are landfill-free. In 2011, the automaker recycled or reused 2.5 million metric tons at its facilities worldwide – equivalent to the contents of more than 38 million trash bags. GM recycles more waste from its worldwide facilities than any automaker. Last year, its recycling and reuse efforts last year avoided 10 million metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions.

“We look at how we can effectively design out waste first, and then seek out direct reuses and innovative recycling projects,” said John Bradburn, manager of waste-reduction efforts at GM. “Whether it’s repurposing shipping crates into urban garden beds or generating revenue from recycling our scrap, our efforts often result in significant community and bottom-line impact.”

GM strives for continuous improvement. It committed to achieve 25 more landfill-free sites and reduce total waste another 10 percent by 2020.

GM also demonstrates environmental progress in resource preservation and energy efficiency:

• Received ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award for energy management.
• Earned ENERGY STAR certification for superior energy efficiency at two facilities.
• Developed 21 habitat programs around the world certified by the Wildlife Habitat Council — more than any other automaker.
• Matches 8,500 students each year with mentors from all U.S. GM manufacturing facilities in its GM GREEN watershed education program, now in its 23rd year.
• Hosts nearly 30 megawatts of solar power, with plans to double it by 2015 and further increase renewable energy use to 125MW by 2020.

For more information on GM’s environmental commitment, visit its sustainability report and environmental blog.

*Courtesy of GM USA Newsroom

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Chevrolet IndyCar V6 Teams and Drivers Ready for Season Finale at Auto Club Speedway

After 14 races; 14 battles for wins – it comes down to this weekend’s MAVTV 500 at Auto Club Speedway for Chevrolet IndyCar V6 teams and drivers to settle both the IZOD IndyCar Series coveted Driver’s Championship, as well as the Oval Track Championship. 

“It is hard to believe that we are heading to the final race of the 2012 season,” said Chris Berube, Chevrolet Program Manager, IZOD IndyCar Series. “It has been an extraordinary year for Chevrolet as we made the return to IndyCar competition with the all new 2.2 liter twin turbo Indy V6 engine. The results stem from the passion, skill and experience applied via the collective effort of the Chevy Teams, our technical partners and internal resources.  But, there remain a couple pieces of unfinished business as we prepare for the weekend at Auto Club Speedway - the driver's championship and the oval track championship.  We feel very fortunate that there are Team Chevy drivers mathematically in the mix for both titles.  We wish all of the Team Chevy drivers and teams the best of luck this weekend in Fontana. It is sure to be a nail-biter.”

The top-three drivers in the battle for the Driver’s Championship are all members of Team Chevy. Team Penske’s Will Power heads to the two-mile oval track with a 17 point lead over Andretti Autosport’s Ryan Hunter-Reay. Helio Castroneves, also from Team Penske, sits 35 points behind Hunter-Reay. 

Tied atop the standings for the Oval Track Championship are Hunter-Reay and KV Racing Technology driver and former Series Champion (2004) Tony Kanaan.  James Hinchcliffe, Andretti Autosport, is sitting in third position in the Oval Track Championship standings.

"Having a 500-mile race as the season finale is a great way to close out the IndyCar season,” concluded Berube.  “It requires a significant effort from everyone involved; the race teams and drivers, Firestone tires, Sunoco fuels, the Somatro safety team and countless others that make the race a show of skill, strategy and grit.  It is also good practice for another piece of unfinished business - that other 500-mile race in May."

Chevrolet clinched the Series Manufacturers’ Championship following the 13^th race of the season at Sonoma Raceway.  That same weekend, Power was crowned the Road Course Champion for the third consecutive season.

Saturday night’s 250-lap/500-mile race will be the first appearance for IndyCar at the Fontana, California track since 2005.  Chevrolet competed previously in Indy-style competition as an engine manufacturer in 1986-93 and 2002-05 with V-8 engines, winning 105 races which included two victories at Auto Club Speedway, 2002 and 2003.  The wins powered Chevrolet to six driver champions, and included seven Indianapolis 500 victories.

The IndyCar season finale is scheduled to start at 5:45 p.m. PT (8:45 p.m. ET) Saturday night with live television coverage on NBC Sports Network.

The live radio coverage will air on the IMS Radio Network on SiriusXM (XM 94 and Sirius 212). In addition, IndyCar live timing and scoring with the radio broadcast can be found at www.indy.car.com.

*Courtesy of Chevrolet USA Newsroom

Today we remember those we lost 11 years ago today and all of those who gave their lives to protect ours.

Zora Arkus-Duntov’s racing-bred development legacy continues to improve Corvette

It’s been said that racing improves the breed, and when it comes to the Chevrolet Corvette, nearly six decades of checkered flags are the proof. As Corvette marks its 60th anniversary in 2013, the design of the chassis, suspension and other drivetrain features are rooted in the rigors of competition.

“Candidly, Corvette was not a high-performance car until Zora Arkus-Duntov fitted it with a V-8, and began campaigning Corvettes in racing,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette’s vehicle chief engineer. “Today, the Corvettes competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans use many of the same components as Corvettes rolling off the assembly line at Bowling Green.”  

The Corvette C6.R is built on the same aluminum frame rails that underpin production Corvette Z06 and ZR1 models. Other production chassis structures in the race car include the windshield frame, the hoop around the rear of the passenger compartment, the door hinge pillars, the drivetrain tunnel, the firewall and the floor pan. Corvette C6.R also uses the production steering column out of the ZR1, with a fully adjustable steering wheel, as well as production rack-and-pinion steering.

For the production Corvette ZR1, the racing influence is also evident in the rear transaxle design that helps achieve a near-perfect 51/49 weight distribution, as well as the racing-developed carbon ceramic brake rotors and Michelin^® Pilot^® Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires (developed by the same Michelin engineers who developed tires for Corvette Racing in the American Le Mans Series). These features contribute to the ZR1 running Germany’s legendary Nürburgring in 7:19.63.

Here’s an overview of the chassis technologies that have shaped Corvette performance on and off the track:

C2: Independent suspension, disc brakes and aluminum wheels
First-generation (1953-62) Corvettes used a modified passenger car frame and live rear axle, which worked well with the cars’ comparatively modest performance output. Substantially greater power was on the horizon for the second-generation Corvette and racing-derived development spearheaded by the legendary Zora Arkus-Duntov – Corvette’s first chief engineer – highlighted the need for a dedicated chassis system.

When the “C2” (Corvette second generation) launched in 1963, it featured a sturdy, ladder-type frame design that was 90 percent stiffer than the sedan-based “X”-frame of the first-generation models. It also featured an independent rear suspension held in place by a unique transverse leaf-spring design. Besides offering greater handling capability, the independent rear axle was lighter than the previous solid axle design.

The C2 also introduced disc brakes and aluminum wheels, based on designs Duntov refined on Corvette race cars.

“Duntov pioneered the model of technology transfer by applying what was learned on the race track to improve the production cars,” said Juechter, “That philosophy continues to play an integral role in vehicle development at Chevrolet.”  

C4: Unitized structure, composite springs, antilock brakes and traction control
The C4 generation (1984-96) represented an even bigger leap in chassis technology than the C2. The ladder frame that had served the Corvette for about 20 years was replaced by a unitized “backbone” chassis that, again, was inspired by racing cars. It eliminated several cross members, allowing direct mounting of the rear differential and other components, which enabled greater interior room. It was also lighter than the previous ladder frame.

Integrated on the backbone chassis was a “cage” incorporating the windshield frame, door frames, rear wall of the “cockpit,” rocker panels and more. The Corvette’s body panels were attached to the chassis and cage, marking the first time in the car’s history that it didn’t use a conventional body-on-frame design.

When it came to the suspension, the C4 again used unequal-length upper and lower A-arms in the front suspended by a new, transverse spring design similar to the rear suspension. At the rear was another transverse composite spring, but used with a new five-link independent suspension design vs. the previous three-link setup. The reinforced fiberglass springs were exceptionally strong yet compliant, and they worked in two ways: They flattened as they flexed, but when the vehicle rolled in a turn, they effectively formed an S shape. That added roll stiffness, which minimized the size – and weight – of the stabilizer bars.

Additional C4 chassis/drivetrain innovations included rack-and-pinion steering (1984), aluminum driveshaft (1984), aluminum disc brake calipers (1984), antilock brakes (1986) and traction control (1992).

The C4 was an unqualified success on the track. In its first year of competition, the C4 Corvette went undefeated and captured the SCCA Showroom Stock GT-class championship. That launched a renewed effort on racing and the benefits of technology transfer.

C5: Hydroformed rails, rear transaxle, magnetic ride
The C5 generation (1997-2004) built on the success of the C4 with a new, unitized backbone chassis design, but it was lighter and stronger. Its construction employed a comparatively rare process called hydroforming, which used water pressure and heat to turn six-inch steel tubes into side rails for the Corvette chassis. Each tube replaced what formerly had comprised 36 separate, welded components in the C4 chassis.

The other big advancement with the fifth-generation Corvette was the use of a rear transaxle, which moved the transmission to the rear of the vehicle rather than the traditional position directly behind the engine. The tunnel between the engine and transaxle was enclosed with a panel that contributed to the chassis’ strength and rigidity.

“Weight distribution was a primary motivator,” said Juechter. “We were trying to get to 50/50, balancing the work load on the front and rear tires, which is extremely challenging to do with the front-engine, V-8 powered car. Moving to a rear transaxle dramatically improved the weight balance, as well as enabling a smoother ride and greater interior space.”

Additional C5 chassis/drivetrain innovations included run-flat tires (1997), Active Handling System (1998), magnesium wheels (2002) and Magnetic Selective Ride Control (2003).

The strength and performance capability delivered by the C5 chassis paid huge dividends on the race track. During six years of competition, Corvette Racing – the first factory-backed Corvette team in the car’s history – led the C5.R to an overall victory at the Daytona 24-hour race and three 1-2 finishes in the GTS class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. During the 2004 season, Corvette Racing won every race the team entered and captured every pole position in the American Le Mans Series.

C6: Aluminum and magnesium structure
The success of the C5.R racing program directly influenced the design of the C6 Corvette (2005 – 2013) as designers and engineers further strengthened but lightened the proven backbone design.

At a glance, the C6 chassis looks similar to the C5, but it was shortened slightly and strengthened in key areas to enable greater performance and to enhance crashworthiness. And while it retained the same basic suspension design as the C5 – short/long arm front suspension and multi-link rear suspension with transverse composite springs – all of the components were redesigned. No C5 suspension parts were carried over to the C6. 

For the first time, different chassis were available with different Corvette models. The higher-performance C6 Z06 and ZR1 models received a unique, aluminum-intensive backbone structure rather than the steel backbone used on other models. It was developed as a lighter foundation, featuring a magnesium roof structure and engine cradle, and weighed only 278 pounds – 49 percent less than the steel backbone’s 414 pounds. Like the steel frame, the aluminum chassis was created via hydroforming.

Corvette Racing immediately employed the C6 chassis with its C6.R race cars. Corvette Racing has won the 24 Hours of Le Mans seven times since 2001, most recently beating Ferrari to the checkered flag in 2011.

*Courtesy of Chevrolet Newsroom USA

Harlan Charles, Corvette Product Manager, discusses everything important about the first generation of Corvette -- from the 1953 Corvette show car

Chevrolet Racing Revs Up Breast Cancer Fight

Chevrolet Racing will renew the brand’s fight against breast cancer this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway where every lap run under the caution flag will lead to a $200 contribution by Chevrolet to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative.

“For our 100^th birthday in 2011, Chevrolet began its support of the American Cancer Society, and the generous response from our dealers, employees and customers told us we needed to help the Society fight for more birthdays,” said Don Johnson, vice president of Chevrolet Sales and Service. “At Chevy, we believe everyday heroes can accomplish extraordinary things, and it is in this spirit that we work to achieve a world without breast cancer.”

On Friday, 30 breast cancer survivors and their guests will spend the day at Atlanta Motor Speedway and participate in Chevrolet Camaro SS pace car rides around the historic track with Team Chevy NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jamie McMurray and four-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Champion Ron Hornaday Jr. NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Danica Patrick also will visit with survivors for photos and autographs.

On Sunday, Chevy will donate $200 for every caution lap run during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series AdvoCare 500, paced by the pink Camaro SS featuring the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer logo. In 2011, 64 caution laps at Atlanta generated $12,800 for the American Cancer Society.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In September, Chevrolet will announce additional brand, dealer, employee and consumer activities in support of the American Cancer Society and Making Strikes Against Breast Cancer.

“Last year, contributions of more than $900,000 supported the American Cancer Society's mission to save lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against this disease,” said Roshini George, national vice president of health promotions for the American Cancer Society.  "As we approach National Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, we want thank the Chevrolet family for its support and remind everyone to take the steps that make a difference in our fight against breast cancer.”

*GM Newsroom United States