Crain Chevrolet Blog

When it comes to fleet vehicles, the Chevrolet Impala definitely plays an important role for General Motors, and it looks like GM is hard at work developing the next-gen Impala for bulk-buying businesses. The Motoring Journal recently spotted a handful of Impalas testing in Colorado with minor camouflage, but upon closer inspection, these appear to be test mules for a new compressed natural gas (CNG) model – a powertrain combination far more likely to find favor with fleet buyers than everyday consumers.


Aside from the obvious “CNG” stickers affixed to the decklid, these cars also have different exhaust outlets than what we saw on the V6-equipped Impalas during our first drive of the sedan back in March. Images also show under the hood with a different engine cover and plenty of exposed wiring as the CNG system continues testing. There was also an electrical connector poking out of the front fascia, and at least one of the sedans had a receiver-style trailer hitch.

During the launch of the 2014 Impala, Chevrolet said that it is looking to flip the current fleet-to-retail from 70:30 to a more profitable and resale-friendly 30:70 ratio, and this new CNG Impala could be a good way to retain some of that 30-percent fleet business. We reached out to GM for word on when a CNG Impala might arrive, and received this response:

We do offer a CNG van and a bi-fuel pickup truck, but still studying the demand for CNG powered passenger cars. Infrastructure is a consideration for anyone buying these types of vehicles. Unfortunately, there’s nothing to announce today on this front.

The best guess is that it could debut for the 2015 model year, since the ninth-generation model is carrying over for fleet-only sales as the 2014 Impala Limited.

via AutoBlog

Ever since gasoline prices first soared past $4 per gallon, international auto shows have been increasingly dominated by so-called green themes and green vehicles – hybrids, plug-in hybrids, electrics, extended range electrics, and hydrogen-based fuel cell machines.

While fuel prices still straddle the $4 threshold, nudging over $5 in certain regions, and the Environmental Protection Agency has mandated stiff new fuel economy standards, four major shows of 2013 — Detroit, Chicago, New York and Geneva, Switzerland — displayed a surprising revival of high performance vehicles.

Geneva, in particular, stood out for spring heat. To be sure, the Swiss show saw a number of eco-oriented fuel-sippers. But the greens were totally upstaged by the red-hots.

Kelly Blue Book has put together a selection of “hotties” from the spring shows. Among the 11 vehicles selected were the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and the Stingray Convertible. While there were many more from the concept and tuner car categories, KBB confined themselves to production models.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Unveiled January 13 for a cheering crowd of current owners and journalists, the seventh-generation Corvette went on the next day to steal the 2013 Detroit auto show. The dramatic new shape, which inspired revival of the Stingray name, speaks for itself. But the story goes well beyond the visible. An all-new chassis. Extensive use of carbon fiber. Upgraded interior appointments, including long-awaited and much-needed new seats. And the latest update on Chevy’s small block V8, with direct fuel injection. The yield: an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, making this the Corvette’s most powerful standard engine ever. Yes, the Camaroesque taillights are square. Get over it. On sale in October. Base price: $55,000.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible

Though upstaged by some of the high-dollar exotics, the Stingray convertible made its expected debut at Geneva, a follow-up to the Stingray coupe. It shares the coupe’s billing as the most powerful standard Corvette. It also shares the coupe’s 50-50 weight distribution and extensive use of carbon fiber. More remarkably, it duplicates the coupe’s rigidity specs — 57 percent stiffer, with an aluminum chassis that’s 100 pounds lighter, according to Chevy engineers. Ragtops usually weigh more than their coupe counterparts — unless the design begins with the convertible, as this one did. The Stingray’s power top can be operated at speeds up to 30 mph, and can also be operated remotely, via the key fob, sure to astonish folks passing by. October on sale, from $57,500.

When it comes to driving a Sonic, Spark or Spark EV, spontaneity comes with the calling. Now you can finally navigate the adventure without the added distractions through the BringGo smartphone app that delivers plenty of easy-to-use, instant-access navigation features that you can experience when connected through available Chevrolet MyLink on Sonic, Spark and Spark EV models (2013 or later).

It begins when you sync your compatible smartphone to your Chevrolet MyLink touch-screen. The app then streams to the touch-screen where you can conveniently view and control how you navigate your trip.

Simplify your drive with features such as turn-by-turn directions, an Eco driving profile, 3-D maps featuring lane suggestions, route information that includes alternate map views, estimated time of arrival, remaining distance and fuel cost.

The most affordable in-dash navigation system in its class doesn’t just get you from Point A to Point B. It also comes with you to Point C. BringGo lets you stay in the loop through a Where Am I? locator, local search via Google^TM, instant access to emergency locations and thousands of points of interests. The app also conveniently provides live traffic data that gives you the inside scoop on crash reports, lane closures and alternate routes.

It all starts when you bring your 2013 Sonic, 2013 Spark or 2014 Spark EV (equipped with Chevrolet MyLink) to your local Chevrolet dealer for a free quick radio software update. You can then install BringGo on your iPhone^®, Android or other compatible smartphone. And then finally you can enjoy taking charge of your next destination with less worry and even more confidence.

After installing BringGo on your iPhone^®, Android or other compatible smartphone, bring your 2013 Sonic, 2013 Spark or 2014 Spark EV (equipped with Chevrolet MyLink) to your local Chevrolet dealer for a free quick radio software update. Then enjoy taking charge of your next destination with less worry and even more confidence.

You can try BringGo for only $0.99 through a 30-day trial which offers most of the features included in the full version. The full app can be purchased and downloaded for $49.99 without map updates or $59.99 with map updates in years 2 and 3 (data plan charges may apply). Because BringGo uses GPS, you must enable Location Services for the app in your phone settings to use it. The BringGo app, if downloaded with all maps, requires about 3.5 GB of internal memory. If you wish to reduce this amount, you may choose to individually download maps for the states/provinces relevant to you. Unnecessary maps may be removed at a later date or additional maps may be downloaded as required through the map manager in the app.

Via Chevy Culture

Via Chevy Culture

Electric motors and drive units – the heart and soul of electric vehicles – have traditionally been imported from other countries to be used in American-made vehicles. This all changed when General Motors became the first U.S.-based automaker to manufacture these key parts in America for the new Chevrolet Spark EV earlier this month.

“The era of using electricity to help improve performance and fuel economy is already here and the trend is only going to grow,” said Mike Robinson, GM vice president of Sustainability. “Today is further proof GM is leading in the development of electric vehicles that will improve America’s energy security.”

GM engineers designed and developed the Spark EV’s motor and drive unit to provide maximum efficiency and power with world-class reliability.  The motor’s unique design provides precise delivery of its 30 horsepower, enabling the Chevrolet Spark EV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than eight seconds.The permanent magnet motor features a unique design to provide precise delivery of power

Production of the electric motors began at the Baltimore Operations facility in White Marsh, MD. Employees completed an intensive training course to operate the machinery required to build the parts of the electric motor and drive units. Even now, gas-powered vehicles use electric motors to power seats, windows, and windshield wipers, among other functions, so the jump from building an electric motor that moves a small part of the vehicle to one that moves the entire vehicle was not too difficult.

“In Maryland, innovation is something we do well and with our world class work force, we’re in a position to grow Maryland’s Innovation Economy so we can create even more jobs for our hardworking families,” said Gov. Martin O’Malley. “Thanks to the leaders at General Motors, the first electric motors and drive units will be manufactured right here in Maryland. Together, with companies like General Motors leading the way, we must make the better choices to invest in a stronger future: more job creation, more opportunity, and a stronger, growing middle class.”

About General Motors Baltimore Operations: Highly Green and environmentally friendly. We continue to be Land fill free, recycling 100% of our waste. The campus is powered in part by a 1.23 megawatt rooftop solar array, generating about 9 percent of our annual energy consumption. Also, a certified Wildlife Habitat resides on plant property promoting native to Maryland flora and fauna.

Spark, Sonic and Cruze: three technologically advanced wonders that pack a powerful punch in their own big way. Outside, they have aesthetics that turn heads and get people talking. Inside, they’re set to spoil any driver with ridiculous amounts of entertainment and fun. The only downside? Trying to choose just one.

SPARK 

Hop in and own the city as you conquer commutes and tight parking spaces with a vengeance. And color choices? The more the better. Retina-pleasing hues like Lemonade, Denim and Jalapeño are just a few of the vibrant shades that are bound to make a statement. And just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected. Since Spark is packed with cool gadgets, you’ll never get bored. With available Chevrolet MyLink, your 7-inch diagonal color touch-screen feels like your own personal command deck. Take calls, make calls, get directions or listen to your favorite tunes on Pandora Internet Radio as you dominate the streets of your city. And for an electric  alternative, check out Spark EV.

SONIC

Undeniably the most fun you’ll ever have on four wheels. Should you have any doubts, just hit the accelerator and brace yourself. It’s the only car in its class with an available turbocharged engine offering up to 40 MPG highway. Plus, Sonic impresses onlookers with its sporty, aggressive stance and dynamic lines. And to top it all off, Sonic interior has all the technology you could ever want right at your fingertips, like available Siri Eyes Free. Chevrolet is the first vehicle manufacturer to offer Siri Eyes Free technology, now available in Sonic and Spark. With Siri you can compose a text message, listen to jokes and check sports scores all with one touch of a button. Just connect your iPhone 4S or iPhone 5 with available Chevrolet MyLink via Bluetooth then use the steering wheel voice activation button to begin.

CRUZE

Simply put: Cruze offers drivers what they want. Whether it’s efficiency or safety, features or styling, Cruze has it all. Even its good looks serve an important functionality. Those dynamic lines and angles improve aerodynamics; in the end optimizing fuel efficiency and helping you get the most out of every dollar you spend on gas. And for even more efficiency, go with Cruze Eco and get an impressive 42 MPG highway. Whichever Cruze you choose, you can keep in touch while you’re on the go with available Chevrolet MyLink. This infotainment system can be paired with your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone with Chevrolet MyLink and you’re set up for voice command controls, so you can make and take calls effortlessly while you drive.

http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/small-compact-cars.html

Chevrolet Volt owners are always getting their money’s worth out of their EPA-estimated 98 MPGe*.  Many are making it even farther, contributing to an out worldly total of 150 million electric-powered Volt driving miles. That’s roughly the distance from Earth to Mars!

“We’ve seen and heard from our Volt owners that they are achieving fantastic performance numbers with their vehicle as many are beating the EPA label estimates,” said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet Volt marketing director. “Our Volt owners are showing the performance potential of driving electric, and having fun doing it.”

The typical Volt owner who regularly charges the vehicle is going 900 miles between fill-ups of the gasoline engine that powers the Volt’s on-board generator. That avoids about $1,300 a year at the pump.

“I have driven more than 23,500 miles in my Volt in 21 months, and have been to a gas station twice,” said Brent Waldrep of Auburn Hills, Mich. “The last time, was in August (2012), and I still have about 65 percent of that tank left. I go about 9,000-10,000 miles between fill ups.”

Volt owners remain the most satisfied of any in the entire industry for the past two years with more than nine in 10 telling a major consumer publication they would buy another Volt.

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

*MPGe is a measure of the average distance traveled per unit of energy consumed. The EPA uses it to compare the consumption of alternative fuel vehicles, plug-in electric vehicles and other advanced technology vehicles with the fuel economy of conventional internal combustion vehicles expressed as miles per U.S. gallon of gasoline.

While most automotive infotainment systems get a lot of flack for being slow and clunky, the latest evolution of Chevrolet MyLink has earned praise from CNET by setting itself apart from the pack with its smooth, seamless interface inspired by smartphone design.

The latest incarnation of Chevrolet MyLink showcased in the 2014 Impala was recently unveiled at the CES 2013 (Consumer Electronics Show), which celebrates the best in technology. Chevrolet MyLink left an impression with technology insiders by earning rave reviews for serving up technology that’s cutting-edge, yet simple to use.

Taking most of its cues from a smartphone interface, Chevrolet MyLink lets you easily access a wide array of your phone, entertainment and navigation applications through the 8-inch color touch screen right at the driver’s fingertips. Innovative perks of MyLink include storing up to 60 favorite contacts, radio stations, destinations or songs straight to your homepage with their own dedicated button. And that’s just the beginning.

Chevrolet MyLink has been streamlined for a more intuitive experience in which most tasks can be accomplished in a quick, simple swipe. With all the sleek ingenuity of MyLink, it’s only fitting that this refined piece of technology be premiered in the new 2014 Impala, a vehicle that has evolved to merge forward thinking innovation with a classically imaginative design.

http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/cnet-praises-mylink.html

Chevrolet has announced the kickoff of their 2013 Fuel Economy Campaign, Chevy MPG INGENUITY! The campaign features 11 models that offer an EPA-estimated 30 MPG HWY or better as well as 4 models that offer an EPA-estimated 40 MPG HWY or better.

The 2013 Chevy Fuel Economy lineup offers features, such as the Malibu’s Aero Grille Shutters or the aerodynamic design of Equinox, which can take you anywhere, upping your fuel economy so you can up your adventures.

See below for some of Chevy’s amazing deals from this fuel-efficient lineup!

Click here for more details from fueleconomy.gov

General Motors today announced a broad global strategy to deliver a new generation of connected cars and trucks with embedded 4G LTE mobile broadband, the largest deployment in the automotive industry to date.

The first GM cars, trucks and crossovers to get 4G LTE will be most 2015 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models available in 2014 in the United States and Canada delivered through AT&T. GM will announce more carrier and supplier relationships in coming months to expand 4G LTE capabilities in markets around the globe.

With mobile data speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G technologies, increased responsiveness, and the ability to support simultaneous voice and data connections, a built-in 4G LTE connection will enable advances in a wide range of in-vehicle communications and entertainment capabilities. Expected benefits for GM customers could include in-vehicle Wi-Fi hot spots, new infotainment options like streaming video entertainment in the back seat, real-time updates and faster application downloads. These enhancements build on OnStar’s existing portfolio of built-in connected services, first introduced in GM vehicles in 1996.

The built-in 4G LTE structure is specifically designed for in-vehicle use as it is integrated into the vehicle’s electrical system and includes an external antenna to maximize coverage and connectivity. Customers will not be required to have a smartphone to use connected services.

“In addition to allowing consumers to bring in and connect to personal mobile devices, the vehicle will also act as its own mobile device, enabling embedded vehicle capabilities,” said Mary Chan, president, Global Connected Consumer, General Motors. “Turning this vision into a reality starts with enabling fast, reliable and responsive connectivity within the vehicle. Through this built-in 4G LTE connection we have the opportunity to reinvent the mobile experience inside a vehicle.”

Over time, applications of widespread in-vehicle 4G LTE connectivity will enable vehicles to interact directly with their environment to enhance safety, efficiency and convenience for drivers and passengers. 4G LTE will make services such as real-time traffic and navigation updates possible, pulling information from the cloud.

GM and AT&T will immediately begin work to develop 4G LTE connectivity for GM vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. AT&T’s 4G LTE network is expected to reach 300 million people in the U.S. by the end of 2014, and its network performance and deployment strategy have been lauded by industry analysts and other experts.

GM and AT&T will also work together on a broad ecosystem focused on developing new communication applications to enhance the driving and riding experience.

“While our 4G LTE network will provide fast, reliable mobile broadband for GM’s connected vehicles, we’re also looking forward to working directly with GM researchers and engineers as well as the developer community to invent new in-vehicle applications that will take full advantage of our powerful network,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility.