GM EN-V Concept, 2010

GM EN-V Concept, 2010

 

 By 2030, urban areas will be home to more than 60 percent of the world's 8 billion people. This will put tremendous pressure on a public infrastructure that is already struggling to meet the growing demand for transportation and basic services.

General Motors and its strategic partner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. Group (SAIC), share a common vision for addressing the need for personal mobility through a radical change in personal urban transportation. They are exploring several solutions for tomorrow's drivers. Among the most promising is a new vehicle form called EN-V.

A Promising Solution
EN-V, which is short for Electric Networked-Vehicle, maintains the core principle of personal mobility - freedom - while helping remove the motor vehicle from the environmental debate and redefining design leadership. EN-V is a two-seat electric vehicle that was designed to alleviate concerns surrounding traffic congestion, parking availability, air quality and affordability for tomorrow's cities.

Three EN-V models were unveiled in Shanghai. They represent three different characteristics that emphasize the enjoyable nature of future transportation: Jiao (Pride), Miao (Magic) and Xiao (Laugh). The concepts will be showcased from May 1 through October 31 at the SAIC-GM Pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai. Shanghai is expected to become one of the epicenters for the establishment of personal mobility solutions for the future.

Breakthrough Technology
GM EN-V Concept's platform has evolved from the platform of the Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility (P.U.M.A.) prototype that was developed by Segway and debuted in April 2009. Segway has worked collaboratively with GM to develop and deliver multiple copies of the drivetrain platform that seamlessly connect to and power the various EN-Vs.

GM EN-V Concept is propelled by electric motors in each of its two driving-mode wheels. Dynamic stabilization technology empowers EN-V, giving it the unique ability to carry two passengers and light cargo in a footprint that's about a third of a traditional vehicle. It can literally "turn on a dime" within its own operating envelope. In addition, everything in EN-V is drive-by-wire, supporting its ability to operate autonomously or under manual control. The motors not only provide power for acceleration, but also bring the vehicle to a stop.

Power for the motors is provided by lithium-ion batteries that produce zero emissions. Recharging can occur from a conventional wall outlet using standard household power, allowing EN-V to travel at least 40 kilometers on a single charge. EN-V can also improve the efficiency of the public electric infrastructure since the vehicle can communicate with the electric grid to determine the best time to recharge based on overall usage.

By combining the Global Positioning System (GPS) with vehicle-to-vehicle communications and distance-sensing technologies, the EN-V concept can be driven both manually and autonomously.

Its autonomous operating capability offers the promise of reducing traffic congestion by allowing EN-V to automatically select the fastest route based on real-time traffic information. The concept also leverages wireless communications to enable a "social network" that can be used by drivers and occupants to communicate with friends or business associates while on the go.

This combination of sensing technology, wireless communication and GPS-based navigation establishes a technology foundation, pieces of which could migrate from the EN-V concept and potentially lead the way to future advanced vehicle safety systems.

The ability to communicate with other vehicles and with the infrastructure could dramatically reduce the number of vehicle accidents. Using vehicle-based sensor and camera systems, EN-V can "sense" what's around it, allowing the vehicle to react quickly to obstacles or changes in driving conditions. For example, if a pedestrian steps out in front of the vehicle, EN-V will decelerate to a slower and safer speed and stop sooner than today's vehicles.

GM has been a leader in developing autonomous vehicle technology, having worked alongside students and faculty at Carnegie Mellon University in the U.S. city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This collaboration created "The Boss" Chevrolet Tahoe, which brought autonomous vehicle operation to life in 2007. EN-V takes the lessons learned in "The Boss" and offers mobility to people who could not otherwise operate a vehicle.

GM EN-V Concept has been designed for the speed and range of today's urban drivers. It weighs less than 500 kilograms and is about 1.5 meters in length. By comparison, today's typical automobile weighs more than 1,500 kilograms and is three times as long. In addition, today's automobiles require more than 10 square meters of parking space and are parked more than 90 percent of the time. EN-V's smaller size and greater maneuverability mean the same parking lot can accommodate five times as many EN-Vs as typical automobiles.

Smaller, Smarter Design
While EN-V leads the way in terms of efficiency and technology, it also sets a new benchmark for vehicle design. For its debut, GM had design teams around the world provide their vision of what future mobility will look like. Xiao (Laugh) was designed by GM Holden's design team in Australia, while the look of Jiao (Pride) was penned by designers at GM Europe and Miao (Magic) was designed at the General Motors Advanced Design Studio in the U.S. state of California.

Each EN-V has a unique design theme to showcase the flexibility of the propulsion platform. The design gives each EN-V its own personality, with a unique opening, elegant interior and innovative color, lighting and seat technology. Xiao offers a more lighthearted appeal, with its "gumball blue" paint and nautical-inspired design. Miao takes most of its design cues from the consumer electronics industry, as evidenced by its sleek, masculine looks. Designers also used Miao to display innovative lighting solutions, including extensive use of LED accent lighting. With its clean lines and bright paintwork, Jiao takes its design influence from bullet trains and Chinese opera masks.

The body and canopy of GM EN-V Concept are constructed from carbon fiber, custom-tinted Lexan and acrylic, materials that are more commonly used in race cars, military airplanes and spacecraft because of their strength and lightweight characteristics. The ability to work with such innovative materials provided a learning opportunity for GM's design teams to study the feasibility of future traditional automotive applications.

EN-V's compact size makes it ideal for use in densely populated cities thanks to its use of advanced safety and propulsion technologies. But good things come in small packages, as witnessed by EN-V's innovative interior design, which provides maximum visibility to the world outside. A simple interface for activating Wi-Fi-based technologies keeps occupants connected to the outside world.

Motor Trend Truck of the Year? The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD

Make that two wins for General Motors and Chevrolet this year. The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD joins the Motor Trend Car of the Year - 2011 Chevrolet Volt as this year's Motor Trend Truck of the Year. We just had the Silverado's sibling, the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali HD in for review... and we can understand Motor Trend's sentiment towards this brute of a hauler.

The first three trucks that MT tested are three-quarter-ton, single-rear-wheel HDs with gasoline engines, including the 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500 and GMC Sierra 2500 twins powered by GM's 6.0-liter V-8 and the 2011 Ford F-250 Super Duty with the all-new 6.2-liter V-8 under its hood. The second set of trucks are one-ton dual-rear-wheel rigs, including the 2011 Chevy Silverado 3500 and GMC Sierra 3500 with the updated 397 horsepower, 765 pounds-feet of torque 6.6-liter LML Duramax V-8 and the 2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty with the all-new "Job 2" 400/800 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8.

“On the outside the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD appears to have been given a subtle makeover, but it’s what’s under the skin that makes this truck a winner,” said Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Angus MacKenzie. “Chevy engineers focused on three key areas – powertrain, frame, and suspension – to deliver a truck with significantly improved capability and more refinement.”

The truck award was presented to GM CEO Dan Akerson before the 111th Army-Navy Game at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field. Chevrolet is the Official Vehicle of the Army-Navy Game.




Press Release

Silverado HD Named 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 11, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chevrolet Silverado HD is the 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year, completing a rare same-year sweep of the prestigious car and truck awards. Chevrolet also earned the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year award.

The truck award was presented to GM CEO Dan Akerson before the 111th Army-Navy Game at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field. Chevrolet is the Official Vehicle of the Army-Navy Game.

"On the outside the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD appears to have been given a subtle makeover, but it's what's under the skin that makes this truck a winner," said Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Angus MacKenzie. "Chevy engineers focused on three key areas – powertrain, frame, and suspension – to deliver a truck with significantly improved capability and more refinement."

The new 2011 Silverado HD built in Flint, Mich., and Fort Wayne, Ind., was introduced this summer, featuring new frame and suspension designs, and a more powerful Duramax diesel engine with 397 horsepower, 765 lb.-ft. of torque, and 11 percent better fuel-economy. As a result, the 2011 Silverado HD is capable of towing up to 21,700 pounds, or carrying 6,635 pounds of payload. The new Silverado HD also offers available confidence- and control-related features specifically for towing including electronic trailer sway control, hill start assist and smart exhaust brake system.

"With more capability and technology than ever before, we believe the Chevrolet Silverado HD sets the bar for heavy-duty trucks," said Akerson. "It's a great honor to have such a respected authority as Motor Trend agree."

The full report from Motor Trend appears in the February issue of the magazine (on newsstands in early January) and online at www.motortrend.com. Chevrolet also earned the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year award for the Volt, the industry's first electric car with extended-range capability.

It is the first time since 2006 that one brand has won both Motor Trend Car and Truck of the Year awards in the same year. Chevrolet and Buick won both awards in 1979.

GM PUMA Concept, 2009

GM PUMA Concept, 2009

 

Dubbed Project P.U.M.A. (Personal Urban Mobility and Accessibility), GM and Segway are developing an electrically powered, two-seat prototype vehicle that has only two wheels. It could allow people to travel around cities more quickly, safely, quietly and cleanly - and at a lower total cost. The vehicle also enables design creativity, fashion, fun and social networking.

GM and Segway announced their collaboration, while demonstrating the Project P.U.M.A. prototype in New York City.

Trends indicate that urbanization is growing, and with that comes increased congestion and more competition for parking. Cities around the world are actively looking for solutions to alleviate congestion and pollution. Project P.U.M.A. addresses those concerns. It combines several technologies demonstrated by GM and Segway, including electric drive and batteries; dynamic stabilization (two-wheel balancing); all-electronic acceleration, steering and braking; vehicle-to-vehicle communications; and autonomous driving and parking. Those technologies integrate in Project P.U.M.A. to increase mobility freedom, while also enabling energy efficiency, zero emissions, enhanced safety, seamless connectivity and reduced congestion in cities.
 

Project P.U.M.A. vehicles will also allow designers to create new fashion trends for cars, and to focus on the passion and emotion that people express through their vehicles while creating solutions that anticipate the future needs of urban customers.

The Project P.U.M.A. prototype vehicle integrates a lithium-ion battery, digital smart energy management, two-wheel balancing, dual electric wheel motors, and a dockable user interface that allows off-board connectivity. The result is an advanced and functional concept that demonstrates the capabilities of technology that exists today.

Built to carry two or more passengers, it can travel at speeds up to 35 miles per hour (56 kph), with a range up to 35 miles (56 km) between recharges.

Since the introduction of the Segway Personal Transporter (PT), Segway has established itself as the leader in the small electric vehicle space. Its approach to congestion and environmental challenges is balanced with a strong understanding of the functional needs of its customers, enabling them to do more with less. Segway has delivered more than 60,000 lithium-ion batteries to the market.

GM has been a leader in "connected vehicle" technologies since it introduced OnStar in 1996. Today, this on-board communications package connects six million subscribers in North America to OnStar safety and security services. GM has also pioneered vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications systems and transponder technology. These and additional connected vehicle technologies could ultimately enable vehicles that don't crash and drive themselves.

GM HydroGen4 Concept, 2008

GM HydroGen4 Concept, 2008

 

The GM HydroGen4 the goal of achieving sustainable mobility with zero emissions came a step closer when GM announced the European part of its biggest ever test programme for fuel cell vehicles.

Nine companies will be the first to operate GM's HydroGen4 zero-emission vehicles in the Berlin area as they go about their day-to-day business: ADAC, Allianz, Coca Cola, Hilton, Linde, Schindler, Axel Springer, Total and Veolia. This real-world road test will run under the umbrella of the Clean Energy Partnership (CEP), a German Federal Department for Transport, Building and Urban Development funded project focused on proving the day-to-day suitability of hydrogen as a fuel for road transport.

GM HydroGen4 on the RoadAs an integral part of GM's overall advanced technology strategy towards further electrification of the car, this fourth generation fuel cell vehicle is the culmination of more than 10 years development work with hydrogen and fuel cell technology. The HydroGen4 features improvements in everyday usability, such as performance and durability. Globally, GM deploys more than 100 vehicles of this type in its Project Driveway testing programme in the U.S., Japan, Korea, China, and Germany. In the U.S., more than 100,000 people have applied as mainstream drivers for the market test. To date, 3,400 people have driven the vehicles and 30 families have used the vehicle on a daily basis over a period of around three months. In total, the vehicles were driven almost 435,000 miles. Feedback from these demonstration activities not only gives GM engineers essential validation data, but also provides a valuable insight into the likely ownership and driving experience of future customers.

The vehicles are equipped with a wireless data transfer system that assists engineers by uploading vehicle performance data to a company server. Maintenance of the vehicles deployed in Berlin will be done at a regular Opel dealer equipped with the personnel and tools necessary for servicing fuel cell vehicles.

HydroGen4's fuel cell stack uses 440 single cells which combine hydrogen and oxygen from the air to produce electricity, with water vapour as the only by-product, and therefore zero emissions. The fuel cell stack provides the electric energy for the 73kW-synchronous electric motor, delivering acceleration of 0-62mph in around 12 seconds and a top speed of 100mph.

The electric motor's instant torque characteristics also give the vehicle an excellent pick-up from low speed. The GM HydroGen4 is fitted with a 1.8 kWh buffer battery to store energy from the vehicle's regenerative braking system and cover peak electrical loads. The three carbon-fibre composite tanks hold 4.2 kg of hydrogen at a pressure of 700 bars, sufficient for an operating range of up to 320 kilometres.

GM HydroGen4 can start and run in sub-zero temperatures, a considerable advance over the previous generation technology and an important benefit for everyday usability. It is designed to be as safe as conventional vehicles and includes unique hydrogen safety features in each of its major systems.

2011 Opel Antara

The new Opel Antara some sports, off-road capability, and looks stylish integrated high functionality and security. With the improvement in style powertrain line-up outside and comfort inside, the Opel Antara now considered a new competitor in the growing SUV segment .

The new Antara also benefits from a new center console with extra storage solutions, new materials and added interior and exterior colors, as well as an optimized instrument graphic and effective interior lighting. In terms of features, the only things worth mentioning are standard electric parking brake and the Hill Assist System.

The engine line-up includes a newly-developed 2.2 CDTI Turbo diesel offered in two versions: 163 HP and 184 HP and a 2.4 liter, four-cylinder engine with 170 HP. All engines are offered in in front-wheel or all-wheel drive and comes as manual or automatic six-gear transmission. The model also gets re-worked chassis that offer dynamic handling and excellent traveling comfort.




Press Release

The new Opel Antara pairs sporty, off-road capabilities and urban-chic looks with high functionality and safety. With improvements to its powertrain line-up, exterior styling and interior comfort, the Antara can now be seen as a new competitor in the growing SUV segment.

The most notable changes in the Antara’s mid-cycle enhancements, which will be introduced at the end of this year, are in the powertrain. The fully re-worked engine line-up, all Euro-5 compliant, now offers improved driving performance as well as significantly reduced consumption and emissions. Even the two available transmissions – a six-gear manual and automatic – have undergone completely new developments to improve efficiency and dynamics.

The latest entry to the engine range is a newly-developed 2.2 CDTI Turbo diesel, which comes with two outputs. The 120 kW/163 hp offers 36 hp more than its predecessor model. The 135 kW/184 hp version offers 34 hp more power.

The 163 hp variant is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive as well as with manual or automatic six-gear transmissions. The 184 hp also offers a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, and comes with all-wheel drive as standard.

The gasoline line-up, too, offers more power. The 2.4 liter, four-cylinder version now comes with 125 kW/170 hp, or, 30 hp more power. Like the diesel variants, this engine is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive and comes as manual or automatic six-gear transmission.

The engine variants come with variable camshaft phasing for the inlet and exhaust, which optimizes the torque and performance characteristics as well as lowers fuel consumption and emissions. Naturally an active, re-worked chassis fits nicely to the new Antara, offering dynamic handling and excellent traveling comfort.
Strong presence through accentuated front design

On the street, the Antara turns heads with its chic, upscale look. Its new, front grill with bold logo makes it immediately recognizable as a member of the new Opel design family. The fog lights together with chrome bezels and a well-blended pedestrian protection lends the vehicle a harmonious look with a strong presence. Modified rear lights and optional 19-inch light-metal wheels
round out the robust look.

The chic, sporty SUV look comes about from a new center console with extra storage solutions, new materials and added interior and exterior colors. An optimized instrument graphic and effective interior lighting underscore the prestigious ambiance.

Opel has improved safety and comfort features in the Antara as well. This includes a standard electric parking brake and the Hill Assist System. With these changes, the market segment of the compact SUV has a new competitor in the ring.

Cadillac Aera Concept wins LA Auto Show Design Challenge

The Cadillac Aera concept vehicle won the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge, tying with Smart and besting entries from seven other automakers including Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Nissan, Toyota and Maybach. GM Advanced Design has now won the honor more times than any other design team; this is its third victory since 2005.

Like other concepts of this year’s challenge, the Aera focus on weight. The concept is a an efficient four-passenger vehicle that maintained comfort, safety, driving performance and style while not exceeding the “1,000 lb. car” weight limit.

Aera's body utilizes a 3D lattice, mono-formed frame that was designed to be similar to configurations found consistently in nature. The structure is formed from unique, alloy-utilizing, semi-solid freeform manufacturing, creating a naturally strong, extremely lightweight frame. All major body parts, including interior components, are essentially "grown" into a single part lattice structure.

The interior is crafted with an ultra-light recyclable polymer that allows for HVAC channels, fully adjustable seating, storage and comfort features all in one mono-form structure. Generous storage space accommodates luggage for two people.

The concept was conceived in GM's North Hollywood Advanced Design Studio by Frank Saucedo, director; Phil Tanioka, vehicle designer; Brent Wickham, concept strategist; Shawn Moghadam, layout designer, and Timonen, the project manager. Earlier this week, GM commemorated 10 years of advanced design at the L.A. area studio.




Press Release

LOS ANGELES : November 20, 2010 – The Cadillac Aera concept vehicle won the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge, tying with Smart and besting entries from seven other automakers including Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Nissan, Toyota and Maybach. GM Advanced Design has now won the honor more times than any other design team; this is its third victory since 2005.

This is the seventh year for the contest, and this year designers were asked to envision the “1,000 lb. car” and tasked to imagine an efficient four-passenger vehicle that maintained comfort, safety, driving performance and style while not exceeding the weight requirement.

"The Cadillac Aera concept was designed to continue the forward-thinking imagination of Cadillac’s ‘art and science’ philosophy,” explains Jussi Timonen, lead designer for the project. “It's designed as a small city urban vehicle, but we approached this 2+2 touring coupe very much from the brand's luxury perspective. Every detail of the Aera was conceived to minimize the vehicle’s environmental impact without sacrificing the style, comfort and attention to detail that are hallmarks of the Cadillac brand.”

The Aera is powered by compressed air via a highly efficient Pneumatic Drive System that has a 10,000-psi composite air storage tank with capacity for a 1,000-mile range. Flexible, pressurized air cells in the exterior skin, similar to material developed for the NASA Mars Rover airbags, enhance passive safety and interior comfort. The flexible polymer skin optimizes aerodynamics and functions as an ultra-lightweight alternative to conventional body panels and glass.

Aera’s body utilizes a 3D lattice, mono-formed frame that was designed to be similar to configurations found consistently in nature. The structure is formed from unique, alloy-utilizing, semi-solid freeform manufacturing, creating a naturally strong, extremely lightweight frame. All major body parts, including interior components, are essentially “grown” into a single part lattice structure.

The interior is crafted with an ultra-light recyclable polymer that allows for HVAC channels, fully adjustable seating, storage and comfort features all in one mono-form structure. Generous storage space accommodates luggage for two people.

Additional technologies include an all-in-one wheel system that combines rotary actuator propulsion, steering and suspension functions. A drive-by-wire system decreases the mass of electrical components, while vehicle-to-vehicle communication promotes active safety.

The concept was conceived in GM’s North Hollywood Advanced Design Studio by Frank Saucedo, director; Phil Tanioka, vehicle designer; Brent Wickham, concept strategist; Shawn Moghadam, layout designer and Timonen, the project manager. Earlier this week, GM commemorated 10 years of advanced design at the L.A. area studio.

“This year’s design challenge was extremely difficult to judge because of the quality of all of the entries, but I believe that the executions that won exemplified everything that we were trying to achieve with this competition,” said Stewart Reed, chair, Transportation Design, Art Center College of Design. “The concepts that won were really spot on for their brands, which was one of many reasons for the victory.”

The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers’ conference and has evolved into an integral element of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Design Los Angeles connects those working in the design industry with well-known automotive design industry leaders. Los Angeles is home to the world’s largest concentration of manufacturer design studios, representing automakers from North America, Europe and Asia. It is also the home of Art Center College of Design, one of the world’s foremost transportation design institutions where many of today’s leading automotive designers began their careers.

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Jake Edition

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Edition Jake present at SEMA 2010. The Jake Edition Chevrolet Corvette is a Grand Sport coupe designed around Corvette Racing’s skull mascot, known as Jake.

With its inmistakable matte Jake hood graphic known from the famous GT1 model, the custom Corvette makes an immediate visual statement, while its sleek set of Z06 wheels with Competition Gray finish and other exclusive accessories round out uniquely the supersports machine’s masculine visual impact.

At the interior the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Jake Edition received automaker's Accessory kit, with racing pedals, logoed floor matts and console lid, plus ebony leather and titanium stitching.

Under the hood of the new 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Jake finds Edition 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine connected to a transmission Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual.




Press Release

2011 CHEVROLET CORVETTE JAKE EDITION CONCEPT

He started off as a discreet logo in 2005 that symbolized a tenacious attitude of the Corvette Racing team and ever since, the skull mascot known as Jake has grown to embody the determination and triumphs of the team. Now, Chevrolet designers have created the Corvette Jake Edition Concept, a special Grand Sport convertible concept vehicle that celebrates Corvette’s racing spirit.

The Corvette Jake Edition is a Grand Sport Coupe, with Z06 wheels featuring the Competition Gray finish. The matte Jake hood graphic from the GT1

commemorative model adds a subtle visual statement, while a host of other accessories round out the car’s unique appearance. Most of the parts added to this special Grand Sport are available today as Genuine Corvette Accessories or through any Chevrolet dealer’s parts department.

“Jake is more than the mascot for Corvette Racing, he personifies the Corvette spirit,” said Dave Ross, design manager. “We designed this concept to demonstrate how any enthusiast could create his own Jake special model with parts available from any Chevrolet dealership.”

Some of the accessories used to create the Corvette Jake concept are not currently available, but are planned for future release, including Jake-logo floor mats, console lid, wheel center caps and more. Other parts, including the hood graphic and Z06 wheels, are offered as Genuine Corvette Accessories.

“The Corvette has long inspired car enthusiasts to personalize it. The Jake concept shows one very unique way to do it,” said Ross. “With the great variety of accessories and other parts available, there’s virtually no limit to how you can make your Corvette stand apart from all others.”

VEHICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Exterior:

Black color
Corvette Z06 wheels in Competition Gray
“Corvette”-logo windshield header graphic (concept)
GT1 Championship Edition Jake-logo hood graphic
Jake-logo wheel center caps (future)
Jake-logo fender badge (concept)
Jake-logo underhood blanket and lighting package (future)
Chevrolet Accessory full-width rear spoiler in Cyber Gray

Interior:

Ebony leather with titanium stitching and red accents on the seats
Chevrolet Accessory interior trim kit
Chevrolet Accessory racing pedal kit
Chevrolet Accessory “Jake” floor mats (future)
Chevrolet Accessory “Jake” console lid (future)

Performance:

LS3 6.2L V-8 with Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission
Chevrolet Accessory Tech-pattern engine cover

No future for the mid-engine Corvette

With GM facing well-publicized challenges — along with just about everyone else who needs a little thing called money — certain high-profile and expensive programs are crowding up on the back burner. Even America’s sports car, the Corvette, is not exempt, with CAFE regulations clouding the view inside the ‘Vette Nation’s crystal ball. Motor Trend, commenting on the C7 Corvette’s delayed arrival,

GM launches Cruze in South Korea as Lacetti Premiere

The Chevy Cruze era has begun in South Korea, except the sedan will be badged as the Lacetti Premiere. General Motors partner Daewoo is producing the fuel efficient sedan for Korea, the first market to get one of GM’s most important future vehicles. The Cruze is the first truly global vehicle that the General will produce, with a keen eye on fuel economy and scalability. The Lacetti Premiere will

Holden Commodore

Australian tuner Walkinshaw Performance has unveiled a project with a supercharged engine as part of the opening of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The showcar is based on a Holden Commodore Series II SS, fitted with the all-new WP 230 supercharger sourced from supplier, Edelbrock.

This 2010 Holden Commodore Series II SS by Walkinshaw Performance package has again Walkinshaw 6.0 liters V8 engine found in the original vehicle and concluded that the Edelbrock 230 compressor exit, take challenging 617hp and 780 Nm of torque.

The car also features uprated brakes, in the form of 378mm disc rotors up front and 365mm disc rotors on the rear. These are clamped by six-piston calipers front and rear. Other hardware changes include specially tuned Bilstein suspension, bespoke WP interior and embroidered seats, a Rockford Foscate audio system, and a body kit package including a carbon fibre rear lip spoiler.

The WP Series II comes with a six-piston brake package, a suspension package developed with Bilstein, a specially commissioned Rockford Fosgate audio system and a 1987-style body kit.

Packages, including the cost of a Holden Series II Commodore SS will begin at $ 99,990 Australian Dollars.




Press Release

Walkinshaw Performance (WP) today unveiled a totally new and integrated product – with a unique supercharged engine – to be known as the WP Series II Supercar, as part of the opening of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

The showcar is based on a Holden Commodore Series II SS, fitted with the all-new WP 230 supercharger sourced from leading US auto supplier, Edelbrock.

When combined with the existing Holden V8 engine this car develops 460 kW of power and 780 Nm of torque.

“We’re celebrating the release of the WP Series II Supercar by producing just 23 examples, finished in Panorama Silver, the same colour which adorned the original ‘Walky’ when it debuted at the Sydney Motor show 23 years ago”.

The WP Series II Supercar features;

• Edelbrock E Force supercharger.
• An all new front and rear brake package; six piston 378mm rotors at front and six piston 365mm rotors at the rear.
• Upgraded and recalibrated suspension package developed with Bilstein.
• A specially commissioned audio upgrade package from Rockford Fosgate,

finished in Panorama Silver.

Packages, including the cost of a Holden Series II Commodore SS will begin at $99,990

Walkinshaw Holden Commodore Specs

SERIES 2 SUPERCAR - SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Specifications 6.0L 90-degree OHV V8. Cross flow cylinder heads. Twin knock control sensors.

On-board diagnostics. Central plenum with individual symmetrical runners
Walkinshaw Performance WP230 Supercharger
Capacity (cc) 5967
Compression ratio (:1) 10.4
Power 460kW @6000rpm (ECE, kW)
Torque 780Nm @ 3450rpm (ECE, Nm)
Figure quoted using 98 RON (PULP)
Transmission 6-speed manual transmission
Gear Ratio 1st 3.01
Gear Ratio 2nd 2.07
Gear Ratio 3rd 1.43
Gear Ratio 4th 1
Gear Ratio 5th 0.71
Gear Ratio 6th 0.57
Final Drive Ratio 3.45
Recommended petrol octane rating 98 RON PULP. Note that using 95RON (PULP) or lower will not cause any problems, but will result in
slightly less engine performance and economy.

Fuel tank capacity (L) 71
Exhaust Hi-Flow 3” CatBack exhaust with 3” Bi-Modal Mufflers
Unique WP Stepped design Steel Cat Header
Walkinshaw Quad Billet Alloy Tips Exhaust Outlets
Brakes Front - 378mm ‘S’ groove – deep annulus ventilated discs with WP 6-piston caliper
Rear - 365mm ventilated disc with WP 6-piston caliper
WP Braided Brake Line package
Suspension - Front Bilstein mono tube inverted technology. 40mm outer tube. 36mm diameter digressive rate piston. Unique valve
code. 10 independent deflection discs for bump and rebound. Separate bleed shims, check valves and support
shims. Floating dividing piston providing physical separation between gas and oil. Damping forces generated
within 1mm of deflection. Fully serviceable. Front suspension: Direct acting stabiliser bar. Coil spring.
Suspension - Rear Bilstein mono tube technology. 50mm outer tube. 46mm diameter digressive rate piston. Unique valve code.
11 independent deflection discs for bump and rebound. Separate bleed shims, check valves and support shims.
Floating dividing piston providing physical separation between gas and oil. Damping forces generated within
1mm of deflection. Fully serviceable. Rear suspension: Multi-Link Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). Coil spring.
Stabiliser bar.
Steering Variable ratio rack and pinion
Wheels 20” x 8.5” Walkinshaw Performance limited edition front alloy wheel with 245/35 R20 95Y tyre
20” x 10.0” Walkinshaw Performance limited edition rear alloy wheel with 275/30 R20 97Y tyre
Exterior Colour Panorama Silver
WP Power Scoop
Colour Coded Grille Insert
Carbon Fibre Mirror Caps
Carbon Fibre Lip Spoiler
Interior Leather wrap premium multifunction steering wheel
Touch-screen Holden-iQ System
Walkinshaw Performance Embossed Front Headrest Covers
WP 4piece floor mat set
WP Embossed centre armrest
WP door sills
Limited Edition Build Badge Numbered 1-23
Entertainment Walkinshaw Performance Rockford Fosgate Limited Edition Premium Audio Upgrade
Limited Edition WP Multi Channel Amplifier
Limited Edition WP Remote Subwoofer Control
Limited Edition WP Grille and 500 Watt Dual Voice Coil 12” Subwoofer
Limited Edition WP Custom Tuned Subwoofer Enclosure
Limited Edition WP High Performance 6” Full Range Speakers in all doors
VL SS GROUP A SV - SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE Configuration: V8
Displacment (cc): 4987 \
Bore x Stroke (mm): 101.6 x 76.8
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Power (kw): 180kw (Flywheel) @5200 rpm
Torque (Nm): 380Nm (Flywheel) @ 4000 rpm
ENGINE BLOCK Reinforced cylinder block
4 bolt main bearing caps
CYLINDER HEADS High flow intake ports
Large intake & exhaust valves
Sequenced intake / exhaust valve
VALVE TRAIN Roller rocker arms
Large diameter push rods
Cast aluminium rocker covers
Large diameter valve lifters
CAMSHAFT New profile camshaft, driven by a double row timing chain
AIR INTAKE Bonnet-top air intake
Dual, progressively-linked throttle bodies
High rise intake manifold with tuned length ram tubes, as designed for Group A racing
FUEL SYSTEM Port fuel injection, Bosch injectors
High pressure electric fuel pump
IGNITION Electronic, controlled by a Delco engine management system
Anti-knock sensor
EXHAUST Extractor system, with tubular stainless steel manifold
TRANSMISSION Borg Warner BT5G 5 speed manual gearbox
Heavy duty clutch
DIFFERENTIAL Final drive ratio: 3.08:1
Limited slip diff with shot peened gears
STEERING Variable ratio rack & pinion
Variable assist power steering system
SUSPENSION Sports suspension, including Bilstein ear gas pressure shock absorbers
Bilstein front suspension strut inserts
WHEELS & TYRES 16 x 7” alloy wheels, designed by Holden
205x55 VR 16” Bridgestone RE71 tyres
BRAKES Heavy duty four wheel disc brakes, using ventilated front disc with finned alloy caliper
FUEL TANK Capacity: 83 litres
Stone shield
BODY Front air dam
Bonnet - heat extractor vent & cold air intake
Raised bonnet centre to accomodate higher engine profile
Slotted side skirts to help remove air lift pressure from below body
Revised rear deck lid, fenced by wrap around spoiler
Front & rear fender flanges have been reworked for tyre clearence
One colour Panorama silver body paint, including body colour bumper facias, door handles & side mouldings
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION SS Group A decals
SV badging
Limited edition vehicle number on ID plate
Decal with Build number on dash (Passenger side)
LUXURY FEATURES Air conditioning
Central locking
Power windows
Cobra anti theft alarm with remote radio key
AM / FM stereo system with electronic tune radio / cassette
Four speakers
Power Antenna
Momo leather bound steering wheel
Full instrumentation
Digital clock
New sports seats designed in Australia
Tweed cloth & velour upholstery
Drivers seat height adjuster
Rear seat centre arm rest
Rear seat reading lamps
Cut pile carpet
Tinted windows
Centre console with 3 compartments & armrest
Remote electric boot release
Manual remote control exterior mirrors
Driver’s left foot rest

GM Sequel Concept, 2005

GM Sequel Concept, 2005

GM Sequel Concept, 2005

The Sequel is a hydrogen fuel cell-powered concept car and sport utility vehicle from General Motors, employing latest generation HydroGen3 technology developed by Opel. The Sequel uses a drive-by-wire system. It has a range of three hundred miles, and its only emission is water. It debuted at the 2005 North American International Auto Show and is now being shown at the 75th international car show in Geneva, Switzerland.

The vehicle can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than ten seconds. It provides a high level of control on bumpy terrain, snow, and ice. 42 percent more torque and quicker deceleration when braking are additional benefits of some of the new technologies used in the Sequel.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Price Starts at $16,995

GM announced today(June 3) the prices and detailed the trim levels in which the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will be available starting this September, The USA market version of the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze comes in four different trim levels: LS, LT, Eco and LTZ.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will replace Cobalt as the compact car from General Motors' volume division. Cruze is a 4-door sedan that comes in LS, LT, LTZ, and fuel-economy-oriented Eco trim levels. The LS has a 136-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. The LT, LTZ, and Eco use a 138-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine.

A 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission is available on all. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags.

The LS and LT have 16-inch wheels; 17-inch wheels are standard on the LTZ and Eco; and 18-inch wheels are optional on the LT and LTZ. Among the available features are a wireless cell-phone link and navigation system. Cruze Eco models have ultra-low-rolling-resistance tires and other aerodynamic tweaks designed to increase fuel economy. Available on the LT and LTZ is an RS Appearance Package, which includes specific wheels and exterior trim.


The Chevrolet Cruze US price starts at 16,995 USD for the LS model and goes up to 22,695 USD for the top of the range model.
For the Eco trim level, the Chevrolet Cruze US price starts at 18,895 USD. The manufacturer believes the Chevrolet Cruze Eco will offer a 40 miles per gallon fuel economy on the highway. Also for an improved efficiency, the Chevrolet Cruze Eco is fitted with low-rolling resistance tires and an enhanced aerodynamic performance package.


Press Release:

Starting at $16,995, Chevrolet Cruze Offers Midsize-car Presence at Compact-car Price

DETROIT, MI – The all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will begin arriving in U.S. dealerships this September, starting at $16,995, including destination. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze offers more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features than any of its competitors.

"We believe the Cruze can redefine the expectations for compact-car owners and shoppers who are new to the segment," said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing. "For the price of a compact car, Cruze offers the styling, safety features, roominess, amenities, and refinement of a much more expensive car."

The 2011 Cruze will be offered for retail sale in four models:

Cruze LS starting at $16,995, including:

• Standard 1.8L Ecotec engine and six-speed manual transmission
• The most standard safety features in the segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system, power rear-door child safety locks
• Standard OnStar, with a six-month subscription including Turn-by-Turn navigation
• Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, driver information center, and XM Radio with three month trial subscription

Cruze LT starting at $18,895, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
• 16-inch wheels

Cruze Eco starting at $18,895, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed manual transmission
• Segment-leading expected 40 miles per gallon highway
• Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with ultra low-rolling resistance tires, and enhanced aerodynamic performance package

Cruze LTZ starting at $22,695, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
• Standard six-way power driver seat, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Standard cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and remote vehicle start
• Standard automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, and ultrasonic rear-parking assist
• 18-inch alloy wheels

Major available options features on Cruze include:

• In-dash navigation system with 40-gigabyte hard drive, enabling pause-and-play radio, downloading of audio CDs, or transferring MP3 files from a USB memory device
• Pioneer Audio system, with nine speakers and 250-watt amplifier
• Heated leather seats
• Ultrasonic rear park assist
• RS Appearance package, including rocker moldings, unique front and rear fascias, front fog lamps, and rear spoiler

"Cruze is a truly global car that leverages Chevrolet's design and engineering capabilities. As a result we can offer customers more standard safety features, more miles per gallon, and more upscale features than our key competitors," Campbell said. "That formula made Cruze a hit overseas, with more than 200,000 customers choosing Cruze since it went on sale in 2009."

Cruze will offer customers more standard equipment and amenities than the competition. "While some of our competitors may have a lower starting price, Cruze wins on value once these competitors are optioned up." said Campbell.