Chevrolet Malibu Named 2008 North American Car of the Year

For the second consecutive year, a car from General Motors Corporation has taken top honors in the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) awards, as announced today at the opening of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

2008 Chevrolet Malibu

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was chosen by this year's media jury from a field of 15 cars and 13trucks. GM vehicles captured four of the final six candidate spots for the awards; last year the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Silverado were winners.

"This award is the result of our intensive efforts to put a renewed emphasis on design, execution and craftsmanship into our cars and trucks," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman. "We're honored that both automotive journalists and consumers are recognizing our efforts. The fact we had four of the six finalist vehicles is more than we could have hoped for."

The NACTOY awards are given annually by prominent automotive journalists who evaluate the vehicles on factors including value for the dollar, innovation, handling, performance, safety and driver satisfaction. This year's jury consisted of 45 automotive journalists from throughout the United States and Canada.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers strong performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in Chevrolet's global signature design. A broad range of detailed, well-appointed and efficient models is offered, including a fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid model. Sales of the new Malibu began last November.

"Our goal with the 2008 Malibu was to give customers a stylish, uncompromising package that can challenge even the most formidable competitors in the midsize segment," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Customers are getting that message, because the new Malibus are selling faster than we can put them on dealers' lots."

Starting at $19,995 in the U.S., the Malibu had a 99-percent increase in retail sales this past December. The 2008 Malibu was designed and engineered for sale not only in the U.S., but also in Canada, Mexico, Israel and the Caymen Islands.

Other 2008 Model Awards for Malibu:

In early December, Car and Driver magazine published its "10 Best Cars" for 2008, and the Malibu, along with the Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Corvette, all made the list. The Malibu was also chosen by Kelley Blue Bookas "Best Redesigned Vehicle for 2008."

AboutChevrolet

Chevrolet is one of America's best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

In the first nine months of 2007, sales of Chevrolet models around the world were up 3.2 percent. The Chevrolet brand grew by 17.3 percent in Asia-Pacific, 31.6 percent in Europe and 24 percent n Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. Chevrolet vehicles are sold in 133 countries. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

NACTOY Juror Quotes about the Chevrolet Malibu:

Matt DeLorenzo,Road & Track: "Fresh new styling, high quality materials and a silky smooth drivetrain give this family car the feel of an entry level luxurycar. The 6-speed automatic and V-6 power are standouts."

Michelle Krebs,Freelance: "The Chevrolet Malibu sets a new standard for the mid-size class."

Gary Witzenburg,Freelance: "This fine, affordable beauty brings Chevrolet - and General Motors - back big time into the volume mid-size sedan game. It's easily asgood as anything near its price, and better than most."

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General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 274,000 people around the world. Withglobal headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 35 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

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GM strives to ensure that all of the information contained in a press release is accurate at the time it is issued. However, changes in materials, equipment and specifications, prices, availability, etc do occur over time. For the most up-to-date information on currently available models, please visit GM.com/shop.

2008 Chevrolet Equinox Review

Introduction
With lots of functional cabin space for a vehicle of its size, the well-equipped Chevrolet Equinox has been a popular choice for a small SUV in recent years. Owners enjoy the Equinox's roomy cabin -- the rear seats slide fore and aft to boost cargo room or legroom when needed -- and often comment favorably about the vehicle's power and fuel efficiency.

For 2008, Chevrolet injects more style and performance into the Equinox. Leading the way is a new high-performance Sport model complete with lowered ride height and a new 3.6-liter V6 good for 40 percent more power over the standard 3.4-liter V6 engine. Chevrolet promises a 0-60-mph acceleration time under 7 seconds. The Sport's hydraulic power steering also addresses one of our Equinox criticisms that related to lackluster steering response on lesser versions. Like its stablemates, it offers the option of all-wheel drive.

For those who instead desire more refinement and luxury, the new Equinox LTZ is differentiated by bright exterior accents, heated leather seats, upgraded premium audio and head curtain side-impact airbags. The LTZ also benefits from the same enhanced ride and handling package as LS and LT models, consisting of retuned shocks, spring rates and hydraulic bushings.

Powertrains and Performance
All 2008 Chevy Equinox trim levels are available with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Non-Sport models are equipped with the standard 3.4-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. With 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, this engine offers respectable performance that should please most owners. The Sport model substitutes one of the most powerful engines for this class, a 3.6-liter V6 cranking out 264 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. It's hooked up to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control.

Full Test: 2008 Chevrolet Corvette

With all the feverish excitement surrounding the Corvette Z06 and the absurdly powerful Corvette ZR1, you'd almost believe that the standard Corvette had virtually ceased to exist.
Indeed, it has not. And the 2008 Chevrolet Corvette we've just tested proves that while the standard Vette might sit in the shadow cast by its more publicity-friendly brethren, it has received something more valuable than media attention: performance.And considering that Chevy sells roughly one Corvette for every 10 Accords that Honda sells (and 10 times the number of S-Types that Jaguar sells), we're talking about a pretty impressive automobile.

Small Block, No Extra Charge
And there would be no Corvette without the small-block V8. True, there have been moments of great embarrassment in the long history of the Corvette and its pushrod V8. There was the disgraceful 1970s small-block that wheezed out a total of 165 horsepower. And all by itself, the 1982 Corvette V8 represents some kind of low.

This 6.2-liter V8 constitutes the basis of the large explosive device called the LS9, which will power the forthcoming Corvette ZR1 with more than 600 hp. It's a sturdy, thick-wall block, nicely suited to the supercharging that will vault the ZR1 over the 600-hp barrier. But there we go talking about the ZR1 again. For good measure, Chevrolet has also added an intake manifold that flows more air and then rammed in a high-lift cam to actuate intake valves that are 9 percent larger in diameter (2.2 inches vs. 2.0 inches). The result is a "standard" engine that makes 25 more horses than the most powerful power plant of the last-generation Z06.

Some worthwhile side effects include a 4.5-second run to 60 mph and a quarter-mile pass of 12.8 seconds at 114.8 mph. And this car won't quit until you reach 190 mph. It simply humiliates would-be rivals. All right, "humiliate" might be too strong. But this Vette is slightly quicker to 60 mph and through the quarter-mile than a Porsche 911 Carrera S. It's also quicker than a Ford Shelby GT500, a Nissan 350Z and the last-generation Z06.

Full Test 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ

Ever experience the Law of Automotive Similarity? You know, whatever you drive, you'll see it in great numbers? Well, we've been driving a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ sedan around for a couple of weeks now, and we've not seen very many other examples of any Chevy Malibu from recent model years.

Just One Look
Sleek and handsome in the Dark Gray that Chevrolet has chosen as the car's signature color to help reinforce its upmarket aspirations, this car looks like the fitter, hipper younger brother when parked beside a dowdy '07 Malibu (still to be sold to commercial fleets as the 2008 Malibu Classic). And its straightforward design makes some of the Japanese competition seem downright quirky.

Drive Time
These and other basic dimensions come straight from GM's Epsilon chassis that the 2008 Malibu shares with the Saturn Aura. So it's no surprise that our top-level Malibu LTZ carries the same 252-horsepower 3.6-liter double-overhead-cam V6 with variable valve timing that we've seen in the Aura. Unencumbered by the low-revving pushrods and restrictive two-valve heads of last year's 3.5-liter GM V6, the LTZ sprints to 60 mph in an energetic 6.6 seconds, finishing the quarter-mile in 15.1 seconds at 92.9 mph.

Despite the best efforts of the transmission, the EPA-certified fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 26 highway remains a couple of points shy of the class-leading 2008 Honda Accord V6. We averaged 22.5 mpg over nearly 2,600 miles of combined driving, including a long-haul trip from Memphis to Los Angeles. Our Malibu weighed in at 3,643 pounds — within two or three bowling balls of an Accord V6.

Dollars and Sense
The price of the Malibu has gone up, but the overall design and quality impression has gone up more. Including destination charges, our test LTZ stickers at $27,245: $26,995 for the base LTZ plus $250 for a rear 110-volt power outlet.

2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer Review

What's New for 2008
The 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer carries over with minimal changes, most notably adding satellite radio and side curtain airbags to its standard equipment list.

Introduction
The Chevrolet TrailBlazer represents what one could consider to be the old guard of midsize SUVs. In the midst of a consumer shift to carlike crossover SUVs, the TrailBlazer maintains the traditional SUV trait of truck-based architecture. While this provides advantages in terms of off-road performance and towing capacity, it limits the vehicle's appeal to those mostly interested in responsive handling and a well-packaged and versatile interior.

The TrailBlazer was last redesigned in 2002, and its age is showing. Though performance and ride quality remain strong points, the Chevy's cabin design is dated and its handling, always circumspect, doesn't inspire much confidence. And unlike most rivals with optional third-row seating, the 2008 TrailBlazer makes do with just two rows and a passenger capacity limited to five.

The 2008 Chevrolet TrailBlazer could still be a fair choice for consumers wanting a vehicle for frequent towing or off-road use. Some might also find appeal in the high-performance TrailBlazer SS. But overall, we think there are plenty of better choices for a mainstream midsize SUV.

Powertrains and Performance
Chevy's TrailBlazer comes standard with a 4.2-liter inline-6 that generates 285 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque. A 5.3-liter V8 is optional, featuring 300 hp and 321 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are backed by a four-speed automatic transmission and a choice of rear-wheel or four-wheel drivelines.

Chevrolet Volt and Holden EFIJY - 2007 Concept Vehicle of the Year

The Chevrolet Volt concept was awarded today the 2007 North American Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year and the Most Significant Concept Vehicle of the Year at an awards ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn. The Holden EFIJY won the 2007 North American Concept Car of the Year Award.

The North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards is at its seix edition and recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. Bob Boniface, director, GM advanced design, and Chevrolet Volt lead designer, accepted the awards on behalf of GM.

"We appreciate this recognition from such a prestigious group of automotive journalists," said Boniface. "The Volt is an important vehicle for GM and for the world. Whether your concern is energy security, CO2 emissions or reducing our dependence on oil, it all leads to energy diversity. GM wants to be a part of the solution, that’s why we designed the Chevrolet Volt concept."

Other nominees from GM included the Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove, Chevrolet T2X, Chevrolet Trax, Chevrolet WTCC, Saturn Vue Plug-In Hybrid, and the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible.

Source: Internal

Chevrolet Volt Concept Electrifies Toronto

The revolutionary Chevrolet Volt Concept made its Canadian debut today at the Energy and Environment Conference (EECO) in Toronto. The technologically-advanced and stylish Volt has the potential to virtually eliminate the need for daily commuters to visit a gas station.

"If you are like most Canadians who live and work within a 64 kilometre round trip the Chevy Volt is a gas free, emission free car,” says David Paterson, vice president, corporate and environmental affairs, General Motors of Canada. “Drivers will simply unplug and go each morning - much as we do with our cell phones today."



The Chevrolet Volt Concept electric vehicle can be fully charged by plugging it into a 110-volt outlet for approximately six hours a day. When the lithium-ion battery is fully charged, the Volt can deliver 64 kilometres of pure electric vehicle range. If drivers need to travel more than 64 kilometres, a range extending power source (which creates electricity from gasoline, ethanol, hydrogen or biodiesel fuels) seamlessly kicks in to recharge the lithium ion battery pack when required, for an impressive driving range of more than 1,000 kilometres.

"At GM we believe that tomorrow’s automobile must be flexible to accommodate many different energy sources and choices for consumers, and a key part of that flexibility will be enabled by electrically driven cars" adds Paterson. "With battery contracts in place and a dedicated team of engineers, General Motors is moving to bring the Chevrolet Volt closer to reality."

The signing of advanced development battery contracts and our announcement to move fuel cell engineers from research and development work to our powertrain and engineering organizations for the E-Flex system are the latest proof points in GM's commitment to providing more green choices for consumers. Today GM offers:

o Canada’s most affordable hybrid SUV and mid-sedan - the Saturn Vue and Saturn Aura Green Line hybrids, and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, to be introduced later this year. GM has also announced two-mode hybrid versions of the new Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon arriving this fall and a two-mode hybrid version of the Oshawa-made Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups next year. GM’s new two-mode hybrid pickups will be the first hybrid vehicles ever built in Canada.

o GM is a world leader in the development of flex fuel vehicles that are capable of running on fuel containing up to 85 per cent ethanol (E85) or regular gasoline. Today 15 GM models are available with E85 Flex Fuel capability.

o GM is currently building the world’s largest fuel cell demonstration fleet at GM’s Canadian Engineering Centre in Oshawa, these 100 Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles will be placed with customers this fall.

o Active Fuel Management (or AFM) engines are available on 15 of our most popular cars and trucks. AFM seamlessly shuts down half the engine’s cylinders to conserve fuel when they are not needed – such as when you are cruising on the highway.

o GM provides more vehicles that achieve 7L / 100 km highway than any other manufacturer in the Canada.

General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles – more than any other auto company right here in Canada. Headquartered in Oshawa Ontario, GMCL employs more than 19,000 people nationwide. GM of Canada manufactures vehicles, vehicle powertrains, and markets the full range of General Motors vehicles and related services through 743 dealerships and retailers across Canada. Vehicles sold through this network include Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Saturn, Hummer, Saab and Cadillac.


Source: GM Canada

General Motors on Track To Build Chevrolet Volt

In this latest chapter of the saga of the Chevrolet Volt, the project is still alive and well. Speaking to the Society of Automotive Engineers earlier this week, GM engineering chief Jim Queen said the automaker is planning to build its Chevrolet Volt plug-in electric car in the future.

"We will get this into production," Queen said. "We are very, very serious about this."

However, Queen admitted that GM is still trying to figure out how to make the Volt provide "profit for the enterprise."

GM execs are making a considerable effort to reassure the public that the Volt is not being shelved. In a posting on the GM FastLane blog on March 24, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz insisted that "we're not unplugging anything," in reaction to the drumbeat in the media that the Volt is little more than an expensive science project.

"We are 100 percent committed to making this happen," Lutz wrote, adding that the Volt is "the toughest and most exciting effort GM has undertaken."

GM took the wraps off its plug-in electric concept in January at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, but noted that it needed to have suppliers more fully develop battery technology in order to make the Volt a reality.

"We are very optimistic about what we hear from the battery guys," said Elizabeth Lowery, GM's vice president of environment and energy in a recent interview with Inside Line. "We're doing architecture, while they're doing the batteries."

Chevrolet Volt E-Flex Concept at the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show

E-Flex Hydrogen Fuel Cell Continues Move Toward Electric Drive
General Motors Unveils Second Propulsion System for Chevrolet Volt

SHANGHAI - GM's global commitment to developing transportation that reduces oil use and promotes energy diversity continued today at the Shanghai Auto Show with the unveiling of the next iteration of the E-Flex electric architecture, configured with GM's newest, most efficient hydrogen fuel cell system to date.

This second variant of the E-Flex system uses GM's new fifth-generation fuel cell propulsion technology and a lithium-ion battery to provide up to 300 miles (483 km) of petroleum- and emissions-free electric driving. The fuel cell E-Flex is a true Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and operates all-electric from both hydrogen fuel cell-generated electricity and grid electricity. It is plug-in capable, adding up to 20 additional miles (34 km) each time it is charged, further reducing trips to the refueling station.

The E-Flex system is a flexible all-electric production vehicle architecture that can be configured to run on electricity from a number of sources. It was first shown in January at the North American International Auto Show in the Chevrolet Volt concept vehicle. The Volt is a battery electric vehicle with 40 miles of all electric-range and uses a small bio-fuel engine with a generator to extend its range to 640 miles (1030 km).

"The beauty of our E-Flex strategy is that it allows us to package various propulsion systems into the same space depending on what energy is available locally," said Larry Burns, GM's vice president of Research and Development and Strategic Planning. "It also provides flexibility in the sources of energy. We can obtain hydrogen or electricity from a myriad of renewable sources - wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and biofuels - or from traditional sources such as natural gas, clean coal, nuclear or even gasoline.

"E-Flex provides flexibility in two ways: in the propulsion systems that can be used, and in the sources of energy that can be commercialized to compete with oil and meet global transportation growth in a sustainable way."

Independent studies indicate hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer superior overall efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engines running on gasoline, when considering both the creation of the energy and its use in the vehicle.

GM's fifth-generation fuel cell system is half the size of its predecessor, yet it provides the same power and performance. The fourth generation currently powers the Chevrolet Sequel concept vehicle. The Sequel stores 8 kg of hydrogen and delivers a range of 300 miles (483 km). The fuel cell Volt will also deliver 300 miles of range, but with only 4.0 kg of hydrogen (75 miles / kg).

GM's advancements are a strong indication that our fuel cell technology has the potential to be a competitive alternative to the internal combustion engine - in size, performance, durability and cost.

"Our progress has made us increasingly confident that our fuel cell propulsion system will be automotive-competitive," said Burns. "But before this technology can be made widely available, governments, energy suppliers and infrastructure companies around the world need to collaborate with GM and the auto industry to develop a market for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen fuel."

A variety of technological advancements and lightweight materials contribute to the efficiency of the Volt. With an estimated curb weight of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), it weighs 30 percent less than the Sequel. The fuel cell propulsion system is packaged entirely under the hood and is equivalent in size to a four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. The Volt also features molded GE plastic panels on the fenders, window glazings, instrument panel and steering wheel, which offer between 30 percent and 50 percent weight reduction per part.

The E-Flex fuel cell variant also showcases GM's third-generation wheel hub motors, packaged inside the rear wheel to add considerable torque for all-wheel electric drive capability. The new coreless motor technology reduces mass and produces more power compared to the first generation shown in 2003.

2007 Chevrolet Beat Concept: More Photos!

(from General Motors Press Release) Chevrolet Beat Concept: Micro Import Tuner
NEW YORK – Injo Kim was inspired by everyday heroes when he led the team that designed the Chevrolet Beat concept, which debuts today at the New York Auto Show.

“Every morning when you wake up, you yearn to be a hero that day,” said Kim, assistant manager of the minicar exterior design team at GM’s Design Center in Inchon, South Korea. And in Kim’s mind, that hero is driving the Beat, Chevrolet’s concept interpretation of a micro import tuner that’s “simple, free and casual, with a strong heart.”

The Chevrolet Beat is a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback wrapped in a bright Vertigo Green exterior finish that exudes energy and extends into the interior. The overall mood of the exterior and interior design is that of a high-performance, high-tech micro tuner car, with fascias, rocker panels, lamps and wheels enhanced for personalization, a strong trend among buyers in this market.

The Beat exterior lines convey speed, with a fast, dramatic, sloping rake from the top of the rear spoiler down to the hood, and elongated front LED headlamps that seem to extend from the base of the twin-port grille to the A-pillar. Integrated door handles set flush within the B-pillar give the doors a clean, uncluttered look. Big, bold, 17-inch wheels are pushed to the corners, and brake calipers in matching Vertigo Green provide a dash of drama at the wheels. The rear fascia carries Chevrolet’s trademark twin taillamps; these LED lamps are set vertically, extending just under the rear glass.

The high energy continues inside the Tachyon Black/Titanium interior with a wraparound dash in Vertigo Green, and a dashboard that features color-coordinated fabric. The green is further pulled through with contrasting stitching on the fabric and mesh seats. The black headliner features fiber-optic lights that create a “star” effect.

Young buyers expect technology, and the Beat delivers, with a center stack that has a pop-up feature. When pushed up, the door reveals a navigation system and when pushed down it reveals a useful center storage compartment. The premium Alpine sound system features six speakers and a trunk-mounted subwoofer.

“The sound system and the pop-up juke box will always make you the life of the party,” said Sungtae Baek, interior designer for the Chevrolet Beat.

Keeping the Beat on the move is a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to an automatic transmission.

2007 Chevrolet Groove Concept

(from General Motors Press Release)
CHEVROLET GROOVE: PURE ‘FUNKASTALGIA’
NEW YORK – Inspired by a “half-soldier, half-modern” military helmet, the Chevrolet Groove concept is contemporary and funky, but evokes classic Chevrolet heritage design cues like an upright windshield and prominent fender flares that give the Groove a strong, sturdy stance reminiscent of a retro hot rod.

Groove lead exterior designer Jawook Koo, of the GM Design Center in Inchon , South Korea , was seeking a mini design that was big on presence.

“I wanted to get out of the mini vehicles stereotype that is characterized by a weak, insecure and ‘cute’ appearance, so that consumers can feel safe just by looking at the vehicle,” said Koo.

The Groove’s design conveys anything but weakness. The striking matte Lunar Quartz exterior finish contrasts with the strategic use of satin silver exterior chrome details. Big, five-spoke 17-inch wheels pushed all the way to the rear give the impression of a vehicle that’s much longer than it is, thanks to the short-but-pronounced hood and long, flat cabin, a design that provides for a roomy interior. Contrasting Vertigo brake calipers bring additional attention to the big wheels.

The front overhang includes open-air vents that are integrated into the front LED fog lamps, and the elongated front headlamps further “lengthen” the vehicle.

Getting this front-wheel-drive concept in the Groove is a highly efficient, 1-liter diesel engine.

Three Chevrolet Global Minicar Concepts Pack a Lot of Personality and Style Per Mile

2007 Chevrolet Global Concept Vehicles - Chevrolet Groove, Chevrolet Beat and Chevrolet Trax (L to R)

Three Chevrolet minicar global concepts designed to appeal to young car buyers in urban markets prove that art needn’t take a back seat just because the canvas is small. Revealed today at the New York Auto Show, the highly creative Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax concepts drive the energy, diversity and excitement of urban life into cars that deliver good-looking fun, fuel economy and value.

All three concepts were designed at GM’s Design Studio in Inchon, South Korea. One of GM’s 11 Global Design Studios, the designers in the Korean center are experts in small car product development. Built on GM’s global mini architecture, these concepts demonstrate the flexibility, creativity and innovative focus of design in GM’s Asia Pacific region. The Chevrolet Beat concept, a running prototype of a micro import tuner, was built in India; while the Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax micro urban crossover concepts were built at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Mich.

Democracy lovers will even get the chance to pick their favorite by visiting www.vote4chevrolet.com and casting their vote for the Beat, Groove or Trax. The results will help Chevrolet determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, and which design/capability package resonates best with potential buyers.

“The Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax concepts highlight the strength and diversity of GM’s Global Design capabilities, as well as the ability of our Global Product Development team to anticipate and quickly meet the evolving needs of our diverse markets around the world,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design.

"The design team was so enthused about being given the assignment to develop the perfect small car for urban commuters that they created not one, but three interpretations of how this car may be developed for Chevrolet customers around the world."

Chevrolet is one of four GM global brands, meeting diverse customer needs in 120 countries with vehicles that range from subcompacts and family sedans to full-size pickups and SUVs and iconic sports cars such as the Corvette. The concepts revealed in New York, for example, offer three different fuel-efficient engines, including a diesel.

“The Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax concepts have the potential to expand the reach of Chevrolet – already a beloved brand around the world – even further, connecting with young buyers on multiple continents who desire fun-yet-efficient transportation,” said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. “These are the same brand attributes that made Chevrolet a household name in the U.S.”

Here’s a look at Chevrolet’s three minicar concepts:

* Chevrolet Beat : Designed to evoke the mood of a speedy micro import tuner, the Beat is a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback concept built to be personalized, and powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine mated to an automatic transmission. It’s loaded with technology, including a navigation system and premium stereo.

* Chevrolet Groove: A “funkastalgia”-themed vehicle too tough-looking to be “cute,” the Groove concept is a retro-inspired vehicle with bodacious fender flares and an upright windshield. It looks much longer than it is, thanks to its short hood and long cabin. The front-drive Groove is powered by a small, efficient 1-liter diesel engine.

* Chevrolet Trax: An urban crossover concept that’s equally at home on the trails or in traffic, it gets a low-cost all-wheel-drive system and looks the part of a rugged SUV many times its size, thanks to a voluminous one-piece bumper and fender system in the front and back, a rear-mounted spare tire and a roof rack. Trax is powered by a 1-liter gas engine.


GM’s Global Product Development process

The Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax concepts were designed and built leveraging GM’s Global Product Development process, created from best practices around the world that integrate design, engineering, powertrain and manufacturing organizations to ensure each vehicle program meets its quality, timing and business targets, yet is responsive to the needs in regional markets.

As part of its global product development process, GM is growing the skills and capabilities of its design and engineering centers in several emerging markets, using key tools and technologies, such as a global virtual design and engineering network, that allows engineers and designers to collaborate with each other around the world.

Chevrolet’s global footprint

Chevrolet is one of the fastest-growing brands in the world, with a sales increase of 158 percent outside North America since 2001. Chevrolet sold 4.3 million vehicles worldwide in 2006, 2.8 million – or 65 percent – in the United States. From 2005 to 2006, Chevrolet’s sales grew 19 percent in the Latin America, Africa and the Middle East region; 19 percent in the Asia/Pacific region; and 15 percent in Europe.

The Chevrolet Aveo sedan and five-door subcompact, engineered and built in South Korea, is a strong contender in the very competitive global small car market.

About Chevrolet:
Chevrolet is America's No. 1-selling automotive brand. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevrolet is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $9,995 to $78,175. Chevrolet delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

About General Motors:
General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.

More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com

Source: GM

2007 New York Auto Show: Chevrolet Rolls Out Beat, Groove and Trax Minicar Concepts

NEW YORK — Saying "size doesn't matter," Chevrolet on Wednesday took the wraps off the three Korea-designed concepts that mark its foray into the global minicar arena.

The Chevrolet Beat, a front-wheel-drive three-door hatchback, is described as a "speedy micro import tuner." It is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gas engine mated to an automatic transmission. GM says the Beat is "loaded with technology, including a navigation system and premium stereo."

The Chevrolet Groove is called a "funkastalgia"-themed vehicle with retro cues that include oversize fender flares and an upright windshield. It is powered by a 1.0-liter diesel engine.

The Chevrolet Trax is an all-wheel-drive urban crossover concept that is powered by a 1.0-liter gas engine.

Chevrolet is testing the water with consumers by having Web viewers vote for their favorite of the three at a special Chevy Web site. The division says it will use the results to help determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, as well as which design appeals the most to potential buyers in America. The minicar platform was engineered in Korea by GM Daewoo, and the concepts were created at the automaker's design studio in Incheon.

The Beat was built in India, and the Groove and Trax were built at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan.

GM To Unveil "Next Iteration" of the Chevrolet Volt

SHANGHAI, China — In what may be an effort to finally put to rest rumors that GM will unplug the Volt, the automaker on Monday said it will roll out the "next iteration" of the electrically driven concept car at the upcoming Auto Shanghai 2007 show.

"That GM would choose Shanghai as the location to introduce the next iteration of the Volt is a reflection of how GM is contributing to the industry's long-term sustainable development by sharing its latest achievements and technologies with its friends and partners in China," said Kevin E. Wale, GM China Group president and managing director.

The automaker gave no more details about what to expect with the latest take on the Volt, but the announcement about the redone concept seems to underscore GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz's recent statements on the GM FastLane blog that the Volt is "no publicity stunt."

"We are 100 percent committed to making this happen," Lutz wrote on March 24.

GM said its new Buick concept car is a "precursor of future global Buick design language." It was developed at the automaker's Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center in Shanghai, "underscoring the automotive engineering and design center's growing capability and role with GM's engineering and design network." No further details were released about the Buick concept.

The Shanghai show will be held April 22-28.

source: insideline

Chevrolet HHR Panel Puts the Petal to the Metal in N.Y.

A Tale of Two Vehicles: A Fun, Fuel-efficient Delivery Vehicle Blooms With Business Possibilities, While a Student-Designed Treatment is Purely for Pleasure

College for Creative Studies Senior Jim McCammon's winning design on 2007 Chevrolet HHR Panel in the Chevrolet Wrap Contest. (Photo: GM)

NEW YORK, 2007-04-03 – What better way to illustrate the uses for the new Chevrolet HHR Panel than with the vehicles themselves? Chevy is doing exactly that at the New York Auto Show with two eye-popping wraps – one for business, the other for pleasure.

A delivery vehicle that looks like a bouquet on wheels shows how the HHR Panel can deliver the goods without draining the gas tank. A personal-use Panel, “Skull From Hell,” was designed by student Jim McCammon of Detroit ’s Center for Creative Studies.

The show opens to the public on Friday. HHR Panel will be offered in LS and LT trims, with 2.2L and 2.4L engines – both of which help deliver 30 mpg in highway driving.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit , GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.

More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com

Source: Chevrolet

Chevrolet Trax

DETROIT — Next week at the New York auto show, Chevrolet will pull the wraps off three new Korea-designed minicar concepts — and will ask Web viewers to vote for their favorite.

To be officially unveiled April 4 at the auto show are three design concepts based on General Motors' global minicar platform, including a tiny crossover called Chevrolet Trax. The minicar platform was engineered in Korea by GM Daewoo, and all three minicar concepts were created at the automaker's design studio in Incheon.

Chevy says the concepts are intended to appeal to "young car buyers in urban markets." After April 4, Web users can vote for their favorite at www.vote4chevrolet.com. The division says it will use the results to help it determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, as well as to learn which design appeals the most to potential buyers in the States.

The four-door Trax is powered by a 1.0-liter engine, with an orange exterior paint scheme.

source: insideline

Five Service Centers Say Yes to ACDelco's "HHR U Gonna Win?" Promotion, Win 2007 Chevrolet HHRs

2007 Chevrolet HHR

Recently, ACDelco asked its Total Service Support (TSS) automotive service centers: "HHR U Gonna Win?" Five service center owners said "yes" and now each is the proud owner of a 2007 Chevrolet HHR.

ACDelco launched "HHR U Gonna Win?" last fall at its National Sales Convention in Las Vegas; the promotion ran November 1 - December 31, 2006. Independent Service Centers (ISCs) that participate in ACDelco's TSS program were eligible to enter.

ACDelco TSS shops received an entry to win a 2007 Chevrolet HHR for each pre-determined volume of ACDelco automotive parts purchases they made; ACDelco awarded one HHR in each of its five U.S. regions. Additionally, ACDelco TSS shops received a framed, limited-edition Sam Bass poster featuring ACDelco's 10 years in NASCAR® Busch® Series racing for purchasing a certain volume of ACDelco parts.

"The Chevrolet HHR's bold design has made it a top market choice. And, technicians and consumers alike turn to ACDelco for our quality parts for almost all vehicle makes and models," said John Eck, ACDelco merchandising and promotions manager. "Pairing our popular products in the ACDelco 'HHR U Gonna Win?' promotion was a great way to reward shop owners for selling quality ACDelco parts."

ACDelco congratulates the following winners:

* Jay Billingsley, owner, Billingsley Amoco, 1725 South Franklin Street, Decatur, Ill.
* David Chau, owner, Alameda Auto Care, 2405 Eagle Avenue, Alameda, Calif.
* Tim Hamby, owner, Hamby's, Inc., 5790 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Ga.
* Costa Kouzounis, owner, Demo's Automotive Center, 2438 Tangley Street, Houston, Texas
* Jerald Schultz, owner, Schultz's Vestal Service Center, Inc., 320 Front Street, Vestal, N.Y.

ACDelco's TSS program is uniquely positioned in the industry. It offers exclusive access to a wealth of tools, training and benefits to enhance nearly every aspect of an ISC's business.

In addition to training, ACDelco's TSS program benefits include:

* Association with the ACDelco brand and image and corporate commitment
* World-class products and powerful e-Business tools
* Award-winning advertising
* The opportunity to participate in various exclusive promotions and programs

ISCs interested in ACDelco's TSS program are encouraged to visit www.acdelcotechconnect.com or call 1-800-ACDelco.

ACDelco markets quality parts for Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, GM and most vehicles on the road today. To find an ACDelco parts retailer near you, log on to www.acdelco.com or call 1-800-ACDelco.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 284,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.

More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com


Source: General Motors Corp.

Chevy Cobalt Has Healthiest Interior, According to New Study

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Chevrolet Cobalt earned top honors on Tuesday as the vehicle with the healthiest interior air space, according to the Ecology Center, an environmental group based here. The vehicles with the worst interior air quality included the Chevy Aveo, Nissan Versa, Scion xB and Suzuki Forenza.

The group has a full list of its results at its Web site. Many cars and trucks did well in the tests, including the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Honda Odyssey and Volvo V50. The Cobalt had the lowest level of toxic chemicals in its interior, but other Chevy products did not fare as well. The Aveo, Express van and Silverado placed in the bottom 10, according to the guide.

The group checked different interior parts, including steering wheels and seats, for chemicals that have been linked to everything from allergies to birth defects.

New Chevrolet Crossover Vehicle in the Pipeline for 2009

DETROIT — Industry sources tell Inside Line that the slow-selling Chevrolet Uplander's days are numbered and that a Lambda-based Chevrolet crossover vehicle is in the works for the 2009 model year.

Details on exactly when General Motors will pull the plug on the Uplander are fairly sketchy at this point. It could end production as early as the end of 2007, or it could be produced into early 2008 as a "bridge" vehicle as Chevrolet puts the finishing touches on the new model.

The Uplander, which is equipped with a 240-horsepower 3.9-liter V6 and a relatively old-fashioned four-speed automatic transmission, has not resonated with the buying public. The as-yet-unnamed Chevrolet crossover would be a sibling to the 2007 GMC Acadia, that brand's first crossover. The up-to-eight-passenger Acadia is equipped with a 275-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a more modern six-speed automatic transmission.

The upcoming Chevrolet crossover will be a seven-seater with unibody construction. Sources say the Uplander name will be dumped.

In addition, Buick is set to build the next-generation LaCrosse on General Motors' next-generation Epsilon platform for introduction in June 2009. The LaCrosse will share underpinnings with the next-generation Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra, as well as some of GM's Asian vehicles. Sources say GM is expected to keep the LaCrosse nameplate.

2009 Chevrolet Camaro

GENEVA — The 2009 Chevrolet Camaro, the latest version of the classic American muscle car, will be imported to Europe, the Detroit automaker announced on Tuesday at the 2007 Geneva auto show.

The rear-wheel-drive Camaro will be powered by a 400-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 engine linked to a six-speed manual transmission. The inclusion of the redesigned Camaro in Chevy's European lineup is part of a larger offensive that includes a major diesel component.

Chevrolet also announced on Tuesday at the Geneva show that it will offer the option of a diesel engine on five model lines starting this year. "We are now launching our diesel offensive on a broad front," said Chevrolet Europe CEO Wayne Brannon. "By the end of the decade, I expect that one out of every three Chevrolets sold in Europe will have a diesel engine under its hood."

The optional diesel will be available on the Chevrolet Lacetti/Nubira four-door, five-door and station wagon. Chevy said the new models will hit showrooms in March, with exact release dates dependent on the respective market. The diesel option is also available on the Chevrolet Captiva SUV and Epica sedan.

The automaker will offer two versions of its 2.0-liter four-cylinder common-rail diesel. A 150-hp unit will power the Captiva and Epica, and a 121-hp version will power the Lacetti hatchback and Nubira sedan and station wagon.

At the same time, Chevrolet rolled out its HHR wagon in Geneva. While the automaker is being coy about whether this model is also bound for Europe, insiders tell IL that it is all but a done deal.