chevrolet Archives | Page 10 of 11

Official: Chevrolet Volt production begins November 11

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, Electric

General Motors confirmed this morning that November 11, 2010 has been set as the official Job 1 date for the Chevrolet Volt. The news initially reported by Translogic was verified to AutoblogGreen by GM spokesman Rob Peterson. November 2010 has always been the targeted production launch timing for the Volt, but a specific day couldn’t be set until other development milestones were met.

Now that development and testing is virtually complete and certification testing is underway, production and customer deliveries will soon start unless there are any showstopping issues. Generally, dealer deliveries start about three to four weeks after Job 1, so those early models should be rolling off trucks and onto dealer lots in early December.

However, with California being one of the launch markets for the Volt, we would be surprised if GM doesn’t hold some kind of event to deliver the first customer car in conjunction with the press days for the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 17-18. Between now and November, the Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant will continue building the pre-production units that are going into GM’s captured test fleet for use by employees for real-world evaluation.

[Sources: Translogic, General Motors]

Official: Chevrolet Volt production begins November 11 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Official: Chevrolet Volt production begins November 11”

Chevrolet Suburban celebrates 75 years, Autoblog drives every generation

Filed under: Classics, SUV, Chevrolet

Chevorlet Suburban 75th Anniversary

Chevrolet Suburban 75th Anniversary Event – Click above for high-res image gallery

Quick, what’s the longest-running nameplate in the car business?

If you said Honda Civic, you deserve to be smacked upside the head with a four-inch exhaust tip – it’s merely 37 model years old. The vehicle we’re talking about is positively prehistoric by comparison. The Porsche 911? Wrong again, as it only predates the Civic by a decade. You’re getting closer if you said the Ford F-Series, but still, FoMoCo didn’t launch its best-selling pickup until 1948.

You’ve got to go all the way back to 1935 for the launch of the auto industry’s Methuselah, the Chevrolet Suburban. That makes 2010 the 75th anniversary of the full-size SUV archetype. To celebrate, Chevy opened its vault on one of the Dog Days of August to let journalists drive a handful of vintage models.

It was something of a belated party, as GM stopped building 2010 model year Suburbans in June, including the special Diamond Edition model. But we’re not going to complain about being given the opportunity to get seat time in eight of the ten historic “Caryall” generations. Model years 1936, 1946, 1951, 1966, 1972, 1990, 1999 and 2002 were on hand, most thanks to GM’s Heritage Center.

We decided that the only proper way to approach the task was to drive back in history. This served well to highlight not just how much the Suburban has changed in recent model years, but how much the auto industry has evolved since the pre-war era. But it also showed how consistent the Suburban has been over all these years, offering eight-passenger capability in a roomy wagon body mounted on a heavy truck frame since its inception. History has shown this formula’s a winner; Chevy estimates it has built between 2.25-2.4 million Suburbans in total.

Follow the jump for a taste of our experience driving the Suburban back in time to its beginning.

Continue reading Chevrolet Suburban celebrates 75 years, Autoblog drives every generation

Chevrolet Suburban celebrates 75 years, Autoblog drives every generation originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Chevrolet Suburban celebrates 75 years, Autoblog drives every generation”

Chevrolet Orlando production version unveiled ahead of Paris

Filed under: Europe, Paris Motor Show, Crossover, Chevrolet, GM

Chevrolet Orlando – Click above for high-res image gallery

Chevrolet Orlando rear view General Motors has released official details on the production 2011 Chevrolet Orlando MPV, which will make its first public appearance at this year’s Paris Motor Show. As we reported earlier and confirmed again today, GM has no plans to offer the Orlando in the United States – a shame, too, since this would indeed be a fitting replacement for the aging, less-attractive Chevrolet HHR.

Inside, the Orlando offers seating for seven, though we imagine it’s a bit cramped when fully loaded with people since this new MPV shares a platform with the smaller Chevrolet Cruze sedan. Nevertheless, GM says that there will be plenty of family-friendly interior amenities, including a hidden storage area behind the audio system’s front fascia, first seen on the Orlando concept back in 2008.

European customers will be able to choose from three different powertrains – a 1.8-liter gasoline four-cylinder that produces 141 horsepower, and two 2.0-liter diesel units that offer 131 and 163 horsepower. We don’t have official word yet but suspect that all of these powertrains will be coupled to six-speed automatic transmissions and that power will only be delivered to the front two wheels. Speaking of wheels, customers will be able to choose from a variety of alloy options, ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter.

As we’ve said before, it’s easy to understand why GM wouldn’t want to offer the Orlando in the States. The HHR is hanging in there in terms of sales, and folks looking for something larger are easily stepping up into the Chevrolet Equinox crossover. That said, neither of those vehicles are able to seat seven. You can read GM’s own words about the Orlando in the press release, available after the jump.

Gallery: Chevrolet Orlando

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Chevrolet Orlando production version unveiled ahead of Paris

Chevrolet Orlando production version unveiled ahead of Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Chevrolet Orlando production version unveiled ahead of Paris”

Chevrolet Corvette headed back to UK?

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, UK, Luxury

Corvette ZR1 and Jeremy Clarkson

Chevrolet is air-dropping the Corvette and Camaro back into the UK retail market next year. Corvette supplies dried up in 2009 when the importer closed its doors, and it’s been 34 years since the mothership last sold the Camaro in Britain. Autocar reports that Chevy UK is seeking approval for the entire Corvette lineup, while Camaro buyers will be limited to the SS model in coupe or convertible body styles.

Pricing hasn’t been finalized, but in 2008 (when Corvettes were last offered in the UK) a standard C6 cost £39,999 ($62,117 U.S.) and the Z06 was £54,995 ($85,405 U.S.). The new pricing is expected to be in the same ballpark, with additional cars like the Grand Sport and ZR1 factored into the mix. Shoppers should see the American sports cars in UK showrooms next May, but in the meantime, Chevy UK would like to interest you in an Orlando MPV, which goes on sale in early 2011.

[Source: Autocar]

Chevrolet Corvette headed back to UK? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Chevrolet Corvette headed back to UK?”

Report: Chevrolet considering twin-turbo V6 for next Corvette

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet, GM, Rumormill

Chevrolet 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

Fans of classic Americana, here’s yet another anniversary to keep in the back of your mind: 2013 marks the 60th anniversary of the Chevrolet Corvette. And, while we don’t have to tell true Corvette aficionados this, here’s another interesting little nugget of knowledge: the original version of Chevy’s iconic sportscar came equipped with a six cylinder engine.

Where are we going with all of this? According to Autoweek, there is a distinct possibility that a downsized six cylinder engine will be offered in the next generation (C7, for those keeping track) of the Chevrolet Corvette, and there’s an apparent push to try and get the car out the door in time to celebrate the car’s 60th anniversary.

Yes, we know a downsized engine for the Corvette isn’t exactly the newest rumor ’round the block – we’ve been hearing whisperings about the C7 ‘Vette since before the C6 model went public – but with the recent revelation that Saab had been working on a transmission for a twin-turbo V6-powered Corvette, it’s worth sharing once again.

Gallery: Chevrolet 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept revealed again

[Source: Autoweek]

Report: Chevrolet considering twin-turbo V6 for next Corvette originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Report: Chevrolet considering twin-turbo V6 for next Corvette”

How the British Pay Homage to 50’s America: Chevrolet Spark woody

Filed under: Aftermarket, Budget, Europe, Hatchback, Chevrolet, UK, Design/Style

Chevrolet Spark Woody art car – Click above for high-res image gallery

At some point in history, the notion of having a wood-lined automobile went from the pinnacle of awesome to the depths of loathsome. We’re guessing that demarcation falls at about the same point in time when automakers stopped using real wood and started gluing vinyl recreations to the sides of vehicles that were an affront to cool to begin with. If you need proof, please direct your attention to any number of woody Chrysler PT Cruiser models or, if you’re of stouter stomach, the self-proclaimed Chevrolet Spark Woody Wagon art car pictured above.

Chevrolet UK decided to wrap one of the company’s diminutive people movers in wood-grained Di-Nocto harken back to the company’s American, youthful roots – or at least that’s what the press release says. If that’s not enough to send your head spinning, take a good close look at those tires. Yup, they’re wide whitewalls.

The company has rolled out a few different one-off art Sparks so far, and plans to keep it up with a new British Touring Car Championship inspired version set for an unveil later this month. We’re guessing that one will strike our fancy a bit more than the trans-generational pastiche above. Hit the jump for the press release and make sure to check out the large high-res gallery below – but perhaps you’ll want to pop a few Tums first.

Gallery: Chevrolet Europe Spark Woody Art Car

[Source: Chevrolet UK]

Continue reading How the British Pay Homage to 50’s America: Chevrolet Spark woody

How the British Pay Homage to 50’s America: Chevrolet Spark woody originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “How the British Pay Homage to 50’s America: Chevrolet Spark woody”

2011 Chevrolet Volt has knock sensor, can run on regular gas

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevrolet Volt – Click above for high-res image gallery

When General Motors announced pricing for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt last week, one new technical detail grabbed some attention. Vehicle line director Tony Posawatz was apparently the first exec to mention to the press that the range-extending engine in the Volt had been calibrated to run on premium gasoline.

There have been some question about what happens if you put regular gas in the tank and whether that would damage the engine. GM powertrain spokesman Tom Read confirmed to Autoblog that the Volt’s 1.4-liter inline-four is equipped with a block-mounted knock sensor like virtually every other modern engine. The engine is calibrated for premium with extra spark advance to optimize the efficiency and output of the engine. If regular gas is used, the knock sensor will adjust the spark advance to prevent engine damage. Premium gas also reportedly has a longer shelf life than regular, which could be an issue for Volt drivers who maximize their plug-in’s electric capability by using as little gasoline as possible.

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Facebook, General Motors]

2011 Chevrolet Volt has knock sensor, can run on regular gas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “2011 Chevrolet Volt has knock sensor, can run on regular gas”

Report: Chevrolet dealer ready to charge $20,000 over MSRP for Volt… will more follow?

Filed under: Car Buying, Hybrid, Sedan, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevrolet Volt – Click above for high-res image gallery

Researchers from Edmunds decided to drop their local Chevrolet dealer a line to inquire about staking a claim for one of the first available Volts, and the response was shocking at best and galling at worst. Here’s the email, sans names:

Hello *****

Thank you for your online request, as you know the Volt is going to be a very limited production vehicle for the first 2-3 years. Demand is going to far exceed supply for this vehicle, initially our asking price for the Volt is going to be MSRP plus $20,000, we are expecting only receive 9 Volts all of next year.

I will keep you in my customer base for when the Volt comes out and I will contact you with any information as I receive it. We are taking orders right now for the Volt, if you would like more information, please let me know and I will be more than happy to help you. Thank you.

***** *****, Internet Specialist
******* Chevrolet
********, CA

You read that right. A $20k markup over MSRP for a 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

As Edmunds’ AutoObserver points out, this email exchange took place before General Motors announced its plans to increase Volt production by 50% for 2011, churning out approximately 45,000 units in its first year. But even with that knowledge, would the unnamed dealer still avoid bilking early adopters? We doubt it.

While it’s not clear if any other Chevy dealers plan to follow suit, history would suggest that big markups are likely – the Corvette ZR1 initiated this sort of fervor when it was announced, too. On the flip side of the coin, AO sites a report from GM-Volt.com this past June, in which a GM spokesperson is quoted as saying: “We also aren’t expecting our dealers to overcharge anyone for this vehicle, either, and will monitor the situation closely when we launch,” adding, “we’ll be paying close attention when the vehicle launches and do our best to strongly discourage this kind of behavior, as we always do with any GM-branded vehicle.”

GM is allowing Volt buyers to lease the plug-in hybrid for $350 a month (with a $2,500 down payment) when sales begin later this year, so it strikes us as odd that someone would choose to purchase a Volt outright if the dealer would tack on such an astronomical amount to the MSRP. Then again, there’s the possibility that dealers might only allow purchases, negating the option to lease.

With so much riding on the Volt’s success – from GM’s long-term environmental program to the political pressures over the federal bailout – the General better get its dealers in line post-haste. If not, the fallout has the potential to stymie the Volt’s success before the first owner takes delivery.

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Volt

[Source: AutoObserver]

Report: Chevrolet dealer ready to charge $20,000 over MSRP for Volt… will more follow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “Report: Chevrolet dealer ready to charge $20,000 over MSRP for Volt… will more follow?”

First Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sails into new era of small cardom

Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Chevrolet, First Drive

2011 Chevrolet Cruze – Click above for high-res image gallery

Until now, General Motors hasn’t exactly taken the small-car market seriously. While Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai and Kia have built their empires on the hoods of pint-sized, fuel-efficient transportation, history has shown the captains of Detroit tend to offer up parts-bin afterthoughts. Cars like the Chevrolet Cavalier and Cobalt have left a sour taste in the mouths of buyers thanks to noisy and de-contented cabins, rough engines and build quality that would make a Yugo blush. As a result, Americans have developed a sort of Pavolovian retch when we hear the term “compact car.”

But a new dawn may be approaching – one heralded by a rash of new straw-weight fighters that aim to bring a global small car philosophy to the U.S. GM intends to be part of that party with the introduction of the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, a sedan that, for all intents and purposes, is more of a landmark model for the company than the endlessly-hyped Chevrolet Volt. To get our meaning, you’ll need to throw all of your heinous memories about American-built small cars out the window beginning… now.

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze: First Drive

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sails into new era of small cardom

First Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sails into new era of small cardom originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “First Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sails into new era of small cardom”

2011 Chevrolet Volt requires… premium gas?

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Chevrolet, GM, Electric

As we’re sure you’ve noticed by now, General Motors has been making lots of waves over the past few days with the pricing announcement (finally!) of its 2011 Chevrolet Volt. And, as you’re surely aware, GM’s plug-in hybrid is capable of traveling at least 40 miles per charge without using a single drop of gasoline. But what happens when the time comes to pump some good ol’ crude into the tank? You’ll be using premium.

Yes, you read that right. Premium gasoline only in GM’s mostly gasoline-free automobile. It seems a bit odd that The General would force its customers into using higher-priced gasoline if there wasn’t a good reason for it, but it certainly wouldn’t seem that the engine is highly stressed – 80 horsepower from 1.4 liters isn’t exactly bleeding edge.

There is a possibility, however, that the car’s engineers were able to wrestle a bit more efficiency from its constant-load engine/generator setup by using higher octane fuel. In any case, the automaker has not offered up any specific explanations on why premium is required or, for that matter, what kind of fuel mileage the Volt will attain when the gasoline-powered engine is in operation.

We feel compelled to point out that it probably doesn’t matter much that the Volt requires premium fuel considering how little gasoline the average user is likely to go through any given month. But naturally, your mileage will vary.

Gallery: 2011 Chevy Volt

[Source: The Truth About Cars]

2011 Chevrolet Volt requires… premium gas? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Continue reading “2011 Chevrolet Volt requires… premium gas?”