Silverado’s Pick-up Box Makes Tough Jobs Easier

Silverado’s Pick-up Box Makes Tough Jobs Easier
DETROIT – When it comes to pickup trucks, the usability of the back end is just as important as the power under the hood. Customer-focused innovations to the cargo box of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado were designed to make it easier to see, secure and access what’s back there.
“Silverado owners are the doers of the world,” said Lloyd Biermann, Silverado marketing manager. “Our goal when designing the Silverado’s pickup box was to create something that was stronger, more durable and versatile to help our owners get their toughest jobs done.”
Owners says they most frequently use their trucks for everyday projects. Two out of three use their truck for hauling. Seasoned truck owners want a pickup that makes loading and securing cargo as simple as possible. Making it easier to climb into the truck bed and retrieve items is a bonus.
“For the real truck buyer, they want a pickup that puts up with their abuse without making any compromises from the back end of the truck,” said Mark Williams of PickupTrucks.com. “The whole point of having a pickup is about solving problems, not creating them."
From design to functionality, the Silverado pickup box is engineered to be the most innovative cargo box in its segment with these features:

• LED Box Lights – Located in the cargo box, under the side rails, the available lights turn on with the standard overhead box lamp and make it easier to find cargo in the bed, even under a tonneau cover.
• EZ Lift & Lower Tailgate – An internal torsion bar reduces the effort to raise the tailgate while a rotary damper allows for a controlled and more gradual lowering motion when opening it.
• CornerStep Bumper – Unique steps incorporated into the corners of the rear bumper are designed to accommodate work boots and can be used with the tailgate up or down.
• Hand Grip Pockets – Located within the rails, at the rear of the cargo box, they provide easier access into the cargo box and work in tandem with the CornerStep Bumper.
• Removable Upper Tie-Down Hooks – Allow maximum flexibility to secure cargo of varying shapes and sizes and can be placed in several locations around the cargo box.

“Every time we get into a new Silverado and fill the bed with payload, we're reminded just how much thought their truck engineers put into, what we believe is, the most important part of a pickup – the bed," said Williams.

All-New 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Redefines Midsize Trucks

All-New 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Redefines Midsize Trucks
LOS ANGELES – Chevrolet today unveiled the all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, which will redefine the midsize truck and offer real truck capability and versatility to customers who don’t require a full-size truck.
The new Colorado is built with the DNA of a true Chevy truck, expected to deliver class-leading power, payload and trailering ratings. Colorado goes on sale in fall 2014 as a 2015 model.
“Our strategy is simple: meet the needs of the broadest possible customer base, and let them choose precisely the right truck to meet their needs,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors executive vice president and president of GM North America. “The all-new Colorado benefits from the solid foundation established by the Silverado, and it reinvents the midsize truck while reinvigorating the segment at the same time.”
The new Colorado was developed for the North American truck customer, with distinctive design, comfort and connectivity features, including segment firsts such as available forward collision alert and lane departure warning.
Chevrolet expects Colorado to be the most powerful truck in the segment, allowing owners to haul and tow more. A 2.5L I-4 is standard, and a 3.6L V-6 is available. Each engine is tuned, tested and validated for truck use, and each features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Each is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the 2.5L is available with a six-speed manual transmission on extended cab 2WD Work Truck models.
When properly equipped, the Colorado is expected to offer class leading payload capacity and trailering capacity of more than 6,700 pounds (3,039 kg). That is more than enough capability to throw a weekend’s worth of camping gear in the bed and tow a boat to a favorite lake.
Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year – a proven Duramax 2.8L I-4 turbodiesel already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs.
“We designed the Colorado to be the most versatile and most capable in its segment, bar none,” said Jeff Luke, executive engineer, GM Trucks. “Not everyone needs full-size capability, but they still deserve the strength and true-truck attributes that come in larger models. The Colorado delivers capability with confidence – and a fun-to-drive spirit that complements active lifestyles.”
Designed with a zeal for adventure
The Colorado’s North American design is unique, with a confident stance and a sporty demeanor. Taller bedsides, for example, are exclusive to North America and match the aggressive, raked belt line of the cab, creating a distinctive proportion that reinforces the truck’s athleticism while better securing items stored in the bed.
The 2015 Colorado’s configurations are an extended cab model with a 6-foot bed, a crew cab with a 5-foot bed and a crew cab with a 6-foot bed. With the tailgate down, the 6-foot bed allows hauling of 8-foot-long items.
“The new Colorado’s design brings a youthful breath of fresh air to the midsize truck segment and puts a progressive spin on Chevrolet’s true-truck styling,” said Ken Parkinson, executive director of Chevrolet Design. “It’s like the younger, more eager brother of the Silverado – a Chevy truck through and through, with great zeal and a spirit of adventure.”
WT, LT and Z71 trims are available, all in 2WD or 4WD. The off-road-inspired Z71 is the brawniest of the bunch. It also features a gunmetal grille surround – a change from the chrome standard on the other models – projector headlamps and unique 17-inch aluminum wheels.
The Colorado features triple-sealed doors inlaid in the body sides, like the 2014 Silverado, for improved aerodynamic performance and a quieter interior.
To help keep overall mass down and improve the front-to-rear weight balance, the Colorado features a segment-first aluminum hood. It also features the segment’s only active aero grille shutters, which close at certain highway speeds to enhance aerodynamics.
And because it’s a true Chevy truck, the Colorado leaves nothing on the table when it comes to innovative solutions for hauling and accessing cargo:

• Standard CornerStep rear bumper design pioneered on the 2014 Silverado
• Available EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate that uses an internal torsion bar to make raising the tailgate easier with one hand, and a damper for more-controlled lowering   
• Standard two-tier loading that allows a platform to effectively split the bed into upper and lower sections, making it easier to haul, store and conceal items such as tools
• Thirteen standard tie-down locations throughout the bed for use with available, movable cargo tie-down rings
• Standard bed rail and tailgate protectors
• Available factory-installed spray-in bed liner.

An interior for work, recreation and everyday comfort
Blending cues from Silverado with a style all its own, the interior of the 2015 Colorado is designed to be comfortable, is cleverly equipped and well connected. A bold, upright instrument panel with large instruments and a central driver information center is similar to Silverado, while featuring a center console with a floor-mounted shifter similar to those found in midsize cars and crossovers.
Colorado cabin designers paid exceptional attention to detail and premium appointments, including a sculpted headliner that enhances headroom, halo lighting on key controls for easier view and an open area at the front of the center console for easier phone charging. The Z71 model features exclusive color and trim details, including embossed seatbacks and contrast stitching.
“We took the best attributes of full-size trucks and midsize cars to develop a passenger space that delivers a balance of unmatched functionality and comfort,” said Parkinson. “It’s designed to be as useful as possible, with storage compartments and clever features throughout, for owners who will use the Colorado as their daily driver and for weekend getaways.”
Interior details include:

• Sculpted door panels that make it easier to enter/exit the vehicle
• Upper-instrument panel storage bin (when not equipped with the uplevel audio system) and large glove box
• Standard center console with room to store a tablet
• Rear under-seat storage.

Dual-firmness foam helps Colorado’s seats wear for long-haul comfort with high-wear, stain-resistant cloth seating trim. Leather-appointed seating is available.
Connectivity, control and safety technologies enhance Colorado’s driving experience
The new Colorado’s technologies are aimed at complementing owners’ lifestyles with connectivity and other features that support their daily and recreational lives – and help keep them safe, including:

• Eight-inch diagonal color touch screen (LT, Z71) and multiple USB drives
• A 3.4-inch diagonal driver information screen in the instrument cluster
• Available next-generation OnStar and MyLink enhancements with gesture recognition and natural language voice recognition
• Available navigation

Standard and available features designed to keep the Colorado’s occupants safe before, during and after a crash include:

• Six standard air bags, including head side curtain air bags designed to help keep occupants from being ejected in a crash
• Large rearview mirrors and standard rear-vision camera system for greater visibility
• Available segment-first application of forward collision alert
• Available segment-first application of lane departure warning
• Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation, trailer sway control, hill start assist and hill descent control (Z71).

Chevy truck DNA supports leading capabilities
The Colorado delivers the capability expected of a Chevy truck – including segment-leading payload and trailering. Like the Silverado, the Colorado has a fully boxed perimeter frame, which provides the strength to support its capabilities, as well as a confident, smooth and quiet ride.
A coil-over-type front suspension features aluminum knuckles that are low in mass and high in strength, contributing to a more responsive, immediate feel to driver inputs, as well as efficiency. Colorado also features the segment’s first application of electric power steering, which enhances efficiency by avoiding the energy used by what conventionally is an engine-driven feature.
The Colorado has a short turning radius of about 41 feet (12.5 meters), enabling easier turning in tight areas such as city streets or backing a trailer into a camping spot.
Four-wheel disc brakes, with four-piston front calipers, are standard and feature Duralife™ brake rotors – also pioneered on the 2014 Silverado. They offer up to double the service life, which can save money on maintenance.
Another Chevy truck feature offered on the Colorado is the G80 automatic locking rear differential. Introduced by Chevy more than 40 years ago, it gives drivers a traction advantage when needed. It is standard on Z71 and available on WT and LT.
Truck-tuned powertrains designed for work, efficiency
The 2.5L and 3.6L engines offered in the Colorado are based on proven designs found in other Chevrolet vehicles, but tuned uniquely for truck duty – including more torque at lower rpm – for a more confident feeling of power when the Colorado is loaded or pulling a trailer.
The 2.5L four is estimated at 193 horsepower (146 kW) and 184 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm), with approximately 90 percent of the peak torque available from 2,000 rpm to 6,200 rpm. The 3.6L engine is estimated at 302 horsepower (224 kW) and 270 lb-ft of torque (366 Nm). SAE certification of the power ratings is pending.
Aluminum blocks and forged-steel crankshafts, along with dual-overhead camshafts with variable valve timing, direct injection and jet-spray piston cooling are features shared on both engines. A number of extended-life components can help reduce maintenance intervals and reduce the cost of ownership.
All models are matched with a six-speed automatic that complements the truck-tuned engines with features that make hauling and trailering easier and more comfortable, including auto grade braking and a tow/haul mode. Extended cab 2WD WT models equipped with the 2.5L engine are also available with a six-speed manual transmission.
Chevrolet will continue to work on and develop the Colorado until the start of production in 2014. The content of this release is based on current GM testing and is subject to change.

Chevrolet COLORADO Reveal November 20th

It’s almost here! The all-new 2015 Colorado will be unveiled at 9:30 AM PST on November 20th at the LA Auto Show. SEE IT LIVE via the link below and watch as Chevrolet redefines what a midsize pickup should be with the most capable, infinitely versatile, and technologically advanced midsize pickup ever!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XkUGs-OEE4

2014 Silverado Comparison

         

Here’s a fighter who shows how less can be more. The 2014 Chevy Silverado crew cab 5.3L V8 with 4-wheel drive weighs in in at 5,200 pounds, a modest hundred pounds less than the Chrysler Ram 1500. But when compared to the heavyset Ford F-150 or Toyota Tundra at 5,600 pounds apiece it’s easy to see who’s sneaking cupcakes at midnight. Typically, the lighter the truck, the higher the payload—and the 2014 Silverado is no exception. The same 4×4 V-8 holds just shy of 2,000 pounds of people and cargo. The comparable F-150 can only handle 1,700 pounds, the Tundra manages 1,575 pounds, and the Ram just 1,490 pounds. Time to put the cupcake down.

Less weight also means more efficiency, and the 5.3L V8 Silverado achieves 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The EcoTec3 aluminum engine block is rated at 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, which sets the 2014 Silverado well ahead of its predecessor. Active fuel management is seamlessly converts the V8 to a V4 to save fuel when the extra power isn’t needed. Direct injection and variable valve timing also made their way into the 2014, making this the smartest Silverado ever.

With bold updates to the exterior, a whisper-quiet interior that shames many luxury vehicles, and engine technology that sets it ahead of the competition, it’s pretty  clear that the 2014 Chevy Silverado means business. Perhaps more surprising fact is that even with all the upgrades and additions, the MSRP hasn’t changed from last year’s model.

We’ve got them in—visit Ryan Chevrolet and check out the all-new 2014 Chevy Silverado today.

Introducing the 2014 Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel

How do you say “move over” in German? Better yet, who cares? The 2014 Chevy Cruze Diesel brings German diesel technology to the land of the free, and with it the highest non-hybrid fuel efficiency available on the market at 46 mpg on the highway. The Volkswagen Jetta? Nice try, 42 mpg. Chevrolet’s Cruze Diesel can travel over 700 miles between fill-ups–maybe the real question we should be asking is “how long can you hold it?”

The diesel engine adds another versatile choice to the Cruze’s existing engine options so you can drive off our lot in a compact car designed specifically for your needs. Chevrolet combined 15 years of European diesel technology with sound and vibration deadening features perfected within the General Motors line. What you get is V6 power with 4-cylinder efficiency, produced by a turbocharged 2.0L clean diesel engine rated at 151 horsepower and 264 lb.ft. of low-end torque. To meet our strict emission standards, the Cruze implements exhaust gas recirculation, selective catalyst reduction, and particulate filtration to generate over a 90% reduction in Nitrogen Oxide emissions that older diesel engines have a reputation for. We believe in this engine, and stand behind it with a 100,000 mile/5-year Powertrain Warranty.

Sure, it looks good on paper. But driving is all about feel, and the Cruze Diesel feels great. Rack-mounted Electric Power Steering and an available Z-link rear suspension responds confidently to driver input even in hostile environments. We’ve tested the Cruze in the searing heat of the Arabian desert, the frigid heights in the Alps, and humidity you can swim through in Thailand. And in Germany, on the famous Nürburgring, the Cruze proved it can handle a track typically reserved for high-performance racing vehicles.

Seat yourself in the cabin, and you might begin to wonder if it’s fair to call this a compact car. The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze has more passenger and cargo room than the Ford Focus sedan or Toyota Corolla. With 60/40 split-folding rear seats, this is a compact car that knows how to hold large cargo without sacrificing passenger comfort. And the MyLink 7-inch color touch display offers a host of technologies in one convenient place, from music streaming to hands-free calling and texting.

The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze has more standard safety features than any other car in its class, including an industry-leading 10 standard airbags. Options like Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert set it clearly ahead of the competition, which simply doesn’t offer these state-of-the-art safety features. It comes as no surprise that the 2012 Cruze was an IIHS 2012 Safety Pick and the 2013 Cruze received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The 2014 Cruze is even safer than its predecessors–you don’t have to compromise on safety in a compact car.

If you’ve never experienced the exhilarating ride that diesel offers, there’s no better time than now. Check out the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel at Ryan Chevrolet and see what it feels like to have power and efficiency all in one.

What Would You Pay For A 100-MPG Via Full-Size Pickup Truck?

This is a perfectly serious question.


A basic 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 full-size pickup truck starts around $23,000, and the rear-wheel drive XFE model is rated by the EPA at 18 mpg combined.

The Silverado Hybrid model, a 1500 twin-cab, starts at around $40,000, and the RWD model is rated at 21 mpg.

So how much would you pay for a 100-mpg Silverado pickup?Via Motors, a company that plans to convert GM pickup trucks, full-size sport-utility vehicles, and vans to plug-in hybrid powertrains, has a number in mind. The company debuted its products, sold under the Vtrux model name, at the Detroit Auto Show 10 days ago. Bob Lutz, not only a Via board member and industry eminence grise but also a plug-in vehicle convert, shared presenting duties with Via COO Alan Perriton. The company has arranged to buy "glider" trucks from Chevrolet, which it will then fit with a range-extended electric powertrain.

400 horsepower
The wheels are powered by a rear-mounted 300-kilowatt (402-hp) electric motor, powered by a liquid-cooled 24-kilowatt-hour battery pack that sits between the frame rails and contains lithium-ion cells provided by A123 Systems. This gives the pickup an electric range of up to 40 miles using no gasoline at all. Once the pack is depleted, a 4.3-liter V-6 engine kicks in to power a generator that feeds electricity to the drive motor for an additional 400 miles of range.

100 mpg for 60-70 miles
That 100 mpg, by the way, assumes daily use of no more than, say, 60 or 70 miles: 40 on electric, the other 20 or 30 miles covered using 1 gallon of gas. More gas-fueled miles lowers the effective mileage. That electric traction motor, incidentally, weighs only 108 pounds, leading to photos of Via executives holding it in front of them to show just how compact it is. Total added weight of the entire drivetrain is about 300 pounds over an equivalent gas-engined truck.

Power takeoffs appealing
One added feature of the Via electric conversions is a set of 110-Volt power takeoffs provided as standard.
These allow workers to run electric tools, light work sites, and even export 15 kilowatts of power to a house if the utility grid is down. Electric, water, gas, telephone, and cable-TV utilities, Via said, find it appealing that they won't have to use a gasoline-fueled generator or keep a diesel truck running--removing a source of customer irritation.

Military too
Another potential customer: the various branches of the U.S. military, which is working hard to reduce its fuel consumption with prototype plug-in tanks, development of a clandestine extended-range vehicle, and even a hybrid Humvee. Via's first vehicle will be an extended-cab pickup truck, set to begin production this summer. A large sport-utility based on the Chevy Tahoe (or Suburban) is to follow, with full-size vans after that. So far, Lutz said, the company has built seven prototype trucks. Via is targeting production of 20,000 conversions a year once it's up and running, meaning it may well offer the first plug-in pickup truck to go into (low-volume) production.

All about fleets
"We're getting lots of orders from the nation's largest vehicle fleets," Lutz said in his presentation. Those are not only utilities, but also businesses that make routine light deliveries, including Verizon, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Frito-Lay.

GUESS WHAT WE GOT!!

This one isn't going to last long at all. We traded for it yesterday and I am already getting calls on it. EVERYONE in the market for a diesel Duramax better take a long close look at the shape of this one. Bought here - serviced here - maintained like no other. This one truly looks like it has about 30,000 miles on it. But it doesn't. If you have even thought about a Duramax, then you know how hard they are to find. Ford's diesel just cannot keep up with the Duramax and we all know what kind of trouble the 6.0L has been for them. Enough about that, let's talk about this one! It's a 4x4 with leather and heated seats. Equipped with Bose too! Back seat looks almost new and the common area on the driver's seat is hardly worn. I took a few pics for you to enjoy!



Seats in GREAT shape!



Let's cut to the chase with questions I am bound to get:
HOW MUCH? That's easy - $27500. Bet your saying "What?!" Well, let's look at that for a minute. I did an online search for 2007 Duramax Diesel Crew Cab 4X4's within 100 miles of my dealership, guess what I came up with? Exactly 8. Average mileage was 127K, this one has 96,343. Good news? HECK YES!! Still has Powertrain Warranty!! Check this out......

Anyone shopping for a Duramax knows how hard they are to find. And in this good of shape - being a CarFax Certified ONE OWNER?? That's does it all right there. Check it out -

Will the bank loan me that much? YES. We can (based on your good credit of course) get it done right here at Ryan Chevrolet. You can get great terms and rates without having to run all over the place.

What's the loan value? Can't buy this truck at loan. Just cannot be done. Bottom line. If we could buy them at loan, we would have a hundred ready to sell. What you really need to ask is "What's the bank going to carry on this?" That (again) depends on your credit - but I can tell you that the Retail Value set by NADA (which nearly all the banks use) is a whopping $29875! We won't try that one...but considering the condition, mileage, warranty, and extras - $27500 is a great deal on the most sought after Diesel truck on the market.
 

Chevy Equinox tops rival small crossovers in Cars.com SUV Shootout

The new "family car" star of the auto showroom is technically not a car. It's a compact crossover SUV. By Ian Merritt, Cars.com

 

The Lawrence family, Chandie, Joey (not pictured) and daughter Charli are part of our USATODAY/ MotorWeek/ Cars.com SUV Shootout.

 

No. 1 2011 Chevrolet Equinox; 797.3 points

(See the scorecard or Monroney sticker)

GM's most recent SUV (along with its GMC Terrain sibling), the Equinox wowed both our experts and our family. "The Equinox is the clear winner in my book," Varela wrote, "seemingly belonging to a completely different category of cars: the luxury category." Even a mildly sluggish engine couldn't slow down the praise.

Pros: "For $28,500, this car is loaded with family-friendly features," Newman wrote. Among them were dual fold-up DVD screens, a backup camera that could be viewed in the rearview mirror and the only powered liftgate in the group. "There's a real premium feel throughout the interior," Robinson wrote. Varela agreed: "The fit and finish go way above and beyond the others." "The Equinox is one of the most comfortable of the bunch from the driver's seat," Thomas wrote. "For a four-cylinder, it's great," Lawrence said. "It's so much more substantial."

Cons: Given its high EPA-rated 32 mpg highway estimate, it was no surprise that acceleration was where the Equinox, er, lagged. "There's a real delay when you press on the gas pedal that I find incredibly annoying," Robinson wrote, and it "felt a little boaty at times,"

 

Key Equinox Points

• As-tested price: $28,560
• 22/32 mpg city/highway, 26 mpg combined
• IIHS Top Safety Pick
• Leather seating
• Industry Exclusive Turn-by-Turn directions through OnStar
• Rear DVD system
• Backup camera
• Bluetooth connectivity

Sales are booming for small-to-midsize vehicles that have the space of a truck but the driving ease and lighter weight of a car. They are roomy but not gargantuan. Engines are peppy but not guzzlers. "Small crossovers are becoming the new family car," says Alexander Edwards, president of consulting firm Strategic Vision. "With strong styling cues and added innovative features ... it is definitely a segment of vehicles here to stay and one that will continue to grow."

That's why we picked the segment for our latest family-focused vehicle showdown:the $29,000 SUV Shootout, sponsored by auto information site Cars.com, USA TODAY and PBS' MotorWeek automotive magazine program.

The testing by experts and a family aimed to see which compact crossover offers the best value — the best package of convenience, features and performance at a price within reach of middle-class families of no more than $29,000.

That's a higher window sticker than a typical midsize sedan, but families seem to be voting with their wallets for the added space and features. The goal in the $29,000 SUV Shootout was to pit nine of the most popular models against each other to see which one has the best combination of ride, room, family-friendly features and handling. The scoring was tight, but the top scorer was the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, followed by the Dodge Journey, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4.

General Motors says compact crossover sales industrywide rose 74% last year. The segment's best seller, the CR-V, has broken into the top 10 U.S. sales list over the past few months. Crossovers overall have risen in sales share from 14.2% in 2007 to 21.2% last year, IHS Automotive says. "The vehicle itself is what Americans are looking for because they can carry people, carry stuff, have good visibility and versatility," says Charlie Vogelheim, executive editor for IntelliChoice.com. Surprisingly, at that price they came with a variety of family-friendly features previously found only on larger vehicles. Many had backup cameras. Four had back-seat DVD systems for kids.Becaue they weigh less than traditional SUVs, smaller crossovers don't need big power. Eight of the nine crossovers tested had four-cylinder engines.

Violence in OPEC Nation Libya Pushing Oil Prices Up

Violence that is tearing apart Northern African nation of Libya has devastating humanitarian implications – and causing oil prices to soar . BP Chief Executive Bob Dudley is watching this very closely, as petroleum futures surged to record levels in mid-2008. Oil market could easily jump another $10 in the short term if violence continues, said David Cohen, director of Asian Economic Forecasting at Asian Economics

Libya is 1st OPEC member state to be struck by wave of populist uprisings that has spread through Mideast. It is also 1 of biggest petro-exporters, w/ single largest oil reserves in all of Africa. W/ much of country in turmoil, and militias opening fire on anyone moving in capital of Tripoli, experts predict could be disruptions in production and delays in oil shipments Disruptions and delays quickly being factored in as everyone from oil producers down to local service stations start setting prices


Already up about 20% across most of US when compared with what gallon of regular unleaded went for year ago. AAA reports the average pump price is $3.17 gallon, though some markets are already nudging $3.50. Oil Price Information Service predicts the national average could be $3.75 by Memorial Day. Industry officials, including former Shell Oil chairman, have forecast that $4 and even $5 gallon could be coming — even w/out push of political revolt in Mideast. Oil is being bought on risk contagion will spread through Middle East, said Jonathan Barratt, managing director of Commodity Broking Services, in Sydney.

Complete ZL1 Camaro Information - Pics, Vids, TONS of Info !!

Below is what we KNOW of the 2012 CAMARO ZL1. Included is validated information from GM, but final details have not been set in stone. GM reserves the right to make changes at their discretion. All features are to be considered standard unless otherwise noted.

Stay up-to-date - straight from GM here on our Blog!

General Overview:

• CAMARO ZL1 will be the most powerful and highest performing production CAMARO in history
• Performance data will be given around the summer of 2011
• Testing venues include: Nurburgring, extensive Autobahn testing, VIR track testing, Spring Mountain, Beaver Run, Milford and Yuma Proving Grounds
• A deliberate effort was made to control mass (i.e. wheels/tires are 22 pounds less than those on SS)

• 1/3 of the SS was upgraded for ZL1
• Look for some "purposeful features" in the DIC and HUD
• Hours of actual wind tunnel-testing for front splitter and rear spoiler nets downforce
• The Ford Mustang Cobra GT500 is the primary competitor - anything with 550 horsepower is also a consideration

ZL1 content builds on 2SS package  

• Team CAMARO continues to look into configurations
• Built on the same production line as SS/LT/LS & convertible
• Color palette to be the same as the rest of the models
• Automatic tranny and convertible are being considered based off input from customers
• CAMARO Facebook listed as a great place for input

Drivetrain and Performance:

• A minimum of 550 horsepower and 550 foot pounds of torque
• 6.2L supercharged V8 LSA engine from CTS-V, with minor changes specific to ZL1
• Eaton TVS 1900 rotors with unique black upper plenum with ribbing for noise control and cowl clearance
• Cast stainless steel exhaust manifolds for enhanced thermal management
• Active exhaust (with dual modes - similar to Corvette ZR1 & Z06)
• Upgraded TR6060 6 speed manual transmission with dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch & factory short throw shifter with improvements to efforts and gates (MG9)
• Additional coolers for high performance and track driving (including a differential cooler)
• Larger lower front grille opening contributes to aid cooling, work with the hood extractors to increase downforce, and house integrated front brake cooling ducts
• Upgraded driveshaft
• Upgraded limited-slip differential, iron housing, and axle shafts (patent pending)

• 3.73 rear gear ratio
• 52/48 weight distribution
• 7mm lower ride height than SS
• Next Generation Dual-Mode Magnetic Ride Control Suspension (MR) introduced on ZL1 (a generation after current MR on ZR1/CTS-V)
• Redesigned rear stabilizer bars now have drop links placed on the outside-end of the control arms for "crisper" control
• Vairable Electric power Steering (EPS), next generation  
• Brembo brakes - F: 6-piston 14.6" 2 piece rotors / R: 4-piston 14.4" rotors
• Light weight forged aluminum wheels - F: 20"x10" / R: 20"x11"
• Goodyear Supercar F1 G2 tires - F: 285/30/20 / R: 305/35/20 (specific to ZL1)
• Functional front lower splitter and underbody tray
• Front fender wheel opening and rear facia air deflectors manage air flow around the wheels and tires

Appearance Details:

• ZL1 badging on grille, hood, brake calipers, decklid, instrument panel, headrests, and sill plates
• HID headlamps
• Functional front bumper facia with upper DRLs and lower projector HID fog lamps
• FUNCTIONAL raised vented-aluminum hood with a carbon fiber air extractor "Mowhawk"
• Functional rocker extensions that aid in managing air-flow and deflect stones thrown off the front tires

• Functional rear spoiler works in conjunction with the front splitter
• Functional rear diffuser
• Black center stripe will be optional
• Quad stainless steel exhaust tips

Interior Details: 

• ZL1 logo stitched into headrests
• Standard interior is black and lined in leather
• Optional micro-fiber suede accents in seats, dashboard, steering wheel, and shifter (similar to CTS-V)
• Alloy pedals make heal-and-toe shifting easier
• Dual 6-way power seats
• Door and dash inserts are Carbon Flash with Red accent lighting
• New steering wheel that's smaller in diameter and has a flat bottom
• Premium Boston Accoustics audio system
• ZL1-specific door sill plates
• Parking Assist
• Rear camera in rearview mirror
• DIC/HUD will include helpful additions including boost pressure
• 4-Pack now includes a boost guage
• Wireless PDIM and USB-port

Price and Ordering Details:

• Ordering information will be available in 4th Quarter 2011
• Production will begin in 1st Quarter 2012
• Pricing has yet to be determined

ZL1 Camaro...Video!

This is the first Camaro ZL1 promotional video clip and the video that was played at the Camaro ZL1 press conference at the Chicago Autoshow, right as the ZL1 was officially introduced onto stage.

Kelly Blue Book discovers GAS prices effect Vehicle selection.....Really??

According to the latest Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence survey concerning gas prices, the current economic situation coupled with concern over the potential rise in gas prices has caused new and used car shoppers to change their vehicle consideration criteria. Nearly three-quarters (70 percent) of car shoppers say that gas prices have influenced vehicle considerations, or the type of vehicle they are considering. Almost half (43 percent) of car shoppers report delaying the purchase of a vehicle due to economic concerns and gas prices, and more than half (51 percent) report reducing or stopping entirely behaviors such as vacationing, going out to eat, shopping and engaging in activities for entertainment, among other things.


Moreover, 75 percent of kbb.com survey respondents said they expect gas prices to rise in the next 30 days, and data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration reveals that gas prices are projected to rise throughout 2011 and into 2012.
In addition, 61 percent of kbb.com survey respondents say that they have changed their driving habits as a result of rising gas prices, and many indicate they are considering making trade-offs on their next vehicle choice to save money on fuel. Nearly half of car shoppers (48 percent) said they would be willing to change engine size (i.e. choosing a four-cylinder versus a V6 or V8), 36 percent said they would change vehicle size (i.e. mid- size sedan versus large sedan), and 31 percent said they would change vehicle category (i.e. sedan versus SUV).

Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence employed the Van Westendorf pricing model as a research strategy to understand consumers' price sensitivity toward gas prices and discovered that the current optimum price point for gasoline per gallon is $3.00 (with the acceptable range of pricing from $2.75 - $3.25), meaning that if prices remain around $3.00 per gallon, car shoppers likely will not make major changes in vehicle consideration criteria. However, at the $3.50 per gallon price point, more than half of consumers feel that gas is so expensive that it will affect their vehicle consideration, and at $4.00 per gallon, 80 percent of consumers say their vehicle consideration will be affected. At a price point of $5.00 per gallon, almost all car shoppers (95 percent) reveal that gas prices will affect vehicle consideration.
In addition, Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence performed an analysis of trended data from its EcoWatch(tm) study and discovered a clear relationship between gas prices and alternative-fuel vehicle consideration, revealing that as gas prices increase, consideration of alternative-fuel vehicles also increases. Conversely, as gas prices decrease, consideration of alternative-fuel vehicles also decreases. When gas prices remain relatively stable, interest in alternative-fuel vehicles is unaffected. The analysis also determined that consumers can become acclimated to semi-static price points over time, but the speed and amount by which gas prices increase also affects the changes in interest of alternative-fuel vehicles. Given that the current national price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the United States is $3.12 (according to AAA), kbb.com's analysis reveals that if gas prices were to reach $4.00 per gallon by Summer 2011, interest in alternative-fuel vehicles would double in that timeframe.

"The uncertainty of gas prices combined with the government- mandated increase in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) have most automakers preparing both small and fuel-efficient vehicles for their future lineups," said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "It is clear from the latest Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence data that gas prices have a definite impact on the vehicle choices made by new-car shoppers in the United States, and it seems that the price of gas also will help determine the success or failure of many new alternative-fuel vehicles now set for production."

The latest Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence survey about gas prices was fielded to 1,127 in-market new- and used-car shoppers on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com from January 8-11, 2011.

Ford To Recall Nearly 281,000 F-150 Trucks.

Ford is recalling certain model-year 2009 and 2010 F-150 pickup trucks to fix or replace their interior door-handle assemblies. According to a defect notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects trucks with chrome interior door handles that were built from Jan. 18, 2008, through Nov. 30, 2009. The recall affects 280,946 vehicles. The company says a part called the housing embossment that retains the door-handle spring can break during everyday use. If that happens there will not be enough spring force to return the door handle to its normal stowed position. Because of this condition, the door latch could open during a side-impact crash.

Owners will be told to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer if any interior door handle is loose or fails to return to the stowed position after use. A second notification will instruct owners who haven’t noticed any problems to bring their vehicles in to have the handle’s checked and possibly replaced.

In a statement Ford said it is ”committed to safety and is quickly working to address this matter with our customers. We are not aware of an accidents related to the matter.”

Sudden acceleration in Toyota vehicles not an electronic issue, U.S. study finds

Sudden acceleration in Toyota Motor Corp. vehicles is caused by mechanical rather than electronic systems, a federal study found, but regulators said they are considering requiring automakers to install a trio of safety systems designed to reduce the risk on future vehicles.

Transportation Department Secretary Ray LaHood asserted that a 10-month probe conducted primarily by NASA engineers found no evidence that electronic defects or software code errors could account for the thousands of reported cases of sudden acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles over the last decade.

The study concluded the only defects that could cause sudden acceleration involved floor mats that could jam the gas pedal and accelerator pedals that could become stuck. Toyota has already recalled 8 million vehicles in the U.S. to fix those problems.

Even so, consumer complaints of sudden acceleration affect vehicles from all manufacturers and as a result, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has begun taking steps to write new standards that could improve safety, LaHood said at a news conference Tuesday.

The auto safety regulator will begin consideration of a rule to require so-called brake override systems, which cut off engine power when a motorist puts a foot on the brake pedal. It is designed to stop a car, even if the gas pedal is jammed.

The agency also will consider standardizing push-button start systems, which can confuse motorists trying to shut off a runaway engine. In other cases, vehicle owners have accidently let engines with push-button starts continue to run after parking.

Finally, the agency wants to require all new cars to be sold with event data recorders, or black boxes, which could help determine the cause of many crashes.

Separately, the agency also is beginning research to determine whether certain pedal designs and placements can reduce the tendency of drivers to hit the wrong pedal.

NHTSA senior officials said the NASA study closely examined 58 cases of sudden acceleration in Toyota and Lexus vehicles and found about two-thirds appeared to involve a driver accidently hitting the wrong pedal.

The results of the study, which was assisted by a team of engineers from NASA Langley Research Center, is good news for Toyota, which has contended for more than year that there is no defect in the design or performance of engine systems that have for the last decade relied on a high degree of electronic control.

"We believe this rigorous scientific analysis by some of America's foremost engineers should further reinforce confidence in the safety of Toyota and Lexus vehicles, " said Steve St. Angelo, Toyota's chief quality officer for North America.

The $1.5-million study, launched last March, examined nine vehicles that Toyota repurchased from owners after sudden acceleration reports. They were inspected and later subjected to electromagnetic radiation at a special Chrysler testing chamber. The NASA team reviewed 280,000 lines of software code, looking for glitches that could trigger the engine to unexpectedly go to full power.

"The jury is back, the verdict is in: There is no electronic-based cause for unintended high-speed acceleration in Toyotas, period," LaHood declared.

Nonetheless, the sudden acceleration problems have blemished Toyota's once-sterling reputation for quality. Along with floor mats and gas pedals, the Japanese automaker has been plagued by defects in steering components, structural parts, brakes and engine control circuit boards, leading to recalls of millions of other vehicles.

The company has also been slapped by regulators for not disclosing problems when it became aware of them. In December, Toyota agreed to pay $32.4 million in fines for failing to promptly notify regulators and issue a recall when it knew of defects involving the potential for floor mats to entrap pedals and for another defect that could cause a total loss of steering.

And last April, the company agreed to a record $16.4-million fine for delaying notification to regulators about the sticky pedal problem. The fines were the largest ever levied against an automaker.

Complaints about sudden acceleration from Toyota and Lexus owners surged after the automaker adopted the so-called drive-by-wire system starting in 2001. For some Toyota models, reports of unintended acceleration increased more than fivefold after drive-by-wire systems were adopted, according to a Times review of thousands of consumer complaints filed with regulators. Transportation Department officials attributed the surge to publicity, even though it wasn't until 2009 that sudden acceleration became a buzzword.

Toyota said Tuesday that its fiscal third-quarter profit dropped 39%, mostly because of the strong value of the Japanese yen, though company officials also acknowledged they have not fully recovered from a string of recalls and regulatory fines in the U.S. market. Toyota was the only major automaker to report a U.S. sales decline in 2010.

Some Toyota drivers who had reported experiencing sudden unintended acceleration said they had not changed their minds about the possibility of a hidden defect, rejecting LaHood's assertion that only floor mats, sticky pedals or driver error could cause the problem.

"It doesn't resolve my concerns," said Jeffrey Pepski, a suburban Minneapolis financial consultant who complained to NHTSA after his Lexus ES suddenly accelerated on a Twin Cities freeway. During the 2007 incident, which occurred long before sudden acceleration became a national buzzword, Pepski said he put his foot under the gas pedal and attempted to lift it, eliminating the possibility of pedal entrapment or a sticky pedal.


"Just because they couldn't reproduce the problem doesn't mean it didn't happen," Pepski said. "All it means is that they couldn't reproduce it. I stand by my story."

Rhonda Smith, who testified before Congress last year that her Lexus ES accelerated on its own and almost killed her, called the NASA report "very upsetting" and said she still believes the vehicles have some other defect.

"There's still something else out there," said Smith who claimed that during her acceleration event she was able to look at her feet and see that they were correctly placed and that the floor mat was not interfering with the gas pedal.

NASA engineers were somewhat more guarded in describing their findings than LaHood. "Our detailed study can't say it's impossible, but based on the testing and analysis performed, we find that the malfunctions in electronics are an unlikely cause of large and unintended acceleration," said Michael T. Kirsch, the leader of the NASA study. The formal language of the report was even more equivocal, acknowledging that it is "not realistic" to prove that Toyota's electronics can not cause sudden acceleration and that "the absence of proof … does not vindicate the system."

The consideration of new regulations announced by LaHood is a victory for those who have argued that today's high-tech autos need electronic safeguards. When an off-duty California Highway Patrol officer and his family were killed in August 2009, Toyota acknowledged the Lexus ES did not have a brake override system that many other manufacturers had adopted.

Shutting down the engine with the vehicle's push-button start system was considered potentially confusing. And Toyota, unlike other manufacturers, long refused to provide tools for outsiders to download the information on its event data recorders.

Don Slavik, a Milwaukee lawyer representing a sudden acceleration victim, has been coordinating the work of plaintiff attorneys preparing to argue that there is in fact an electronic problem in Toyota vehicles. He and other attorneys have hired a team of engineers and scientists to conduct their own investigation into Toyota electronics, and believe they have found significant problems in the throttle system.

"The fact that NASA didn't find anything doesn't mean there's nothing there," Slavik said. "Toyota is going to walk in the courtroom and say 'we've been exonerated' and we'll say 'no you haven't." The NASA report won't be the last word on the subject. The National Research Council is conducting a larger and more comprehensive study of sudden acceleration involving the auto industry, and is expected to release its findings in July.

Ferrari vs Ford in the F150 name war. One can only imagine...

Situation

Ferrari will use full name of "Ferrari F150th Italia" Formula One car from now on after Ford sued Italian automaker over use of abbreviation "F150". Ferrari's F150 logo was too similar to Ford's F-150 pickup truck, Ford said in complaint filed at US District Court in Detroit. Ferrari has misappropriated F-150 trademark in naming new racing vehicle in order to capitalize on and profit. From substantial goodwill Ford has developed in F-150 trademark, Ford said in complaint. Ford is asking the court to bar Ferrari from using name and is also seeking unspecified damages. Including damages of $100K under Anticybersquatting Consumer Protection Act Significant Points. Ferrari hit back saying very difficult to understand Ford's viewpoint. Because car for this season's F1 world championship was given name to celebrate 150 years of Italian unity and is not commercially available. Ferrari believes its own contender in forthcoming F1 championship cannot be confused w/ other types of commercially available vehicle of any sort whatsoever. Nor can it give impression that there is link to another brand of road-going vehicle. To further prove acting in good faith, Ferrari has decided abbreviated version will be replaced at all times w/ full version, Ferrari F150th Italia. Ford's rival Fiat SpA has 85% stake in Ferrari, and management control of Chrysler Group, in which it has 25% stake.

The Chevrolet Volt has been named the 2011 North American Car of the Year.

The North American Car of the Year is selected by a jury of 49 automotive journalists from Canada and the United States, representing newspapers, magazines, websites, television and radio shows.
For 2011, the Volt garnered more juror votes than the Nissan Leaf or Hyundai Sonata, which were also finalists.

This is the third time Chevrolet has won the North American Car of the Year, and the fourth time for General Motors. Most recently, the Chevrolet Malibu was the 2008 North American Car of the Year.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized as the North American Car of the Year,” said GM CEO Dan Akerson. “Since development began, we believed the Volt had the potential to transform the automotive industry.

Today, the Volt is the first electric vehicle to win the prestigious North American Car of the Year award, and the first vehicle ever to receive the industry’s highest automotive, technology, and environmental recognitions.”

The North American Car of the Year is the latest in a series of major awards presented to the Volt, which previously was named:

■Motor Trend 2011 Car of the Year

■Green Car Journal 2011 Green Car of the Year

■Car and Driver 10Best for 2011

■Ward’s AutoWorld 10 Best Engines for 2011

■AUTOMOBILE Magazine 2011 Automobile of the Year

■2010 Breakthrough Technology, by Popular Mechanics

“Such recognition provides customers with credible, expert endorsement of new models,” said Akerson. “This is particularly important for vehicles like the Volt that feature significant new technologies. Being named the North American Car of the Year will help convince customers that the Volt is truly a breakthrough vehicle, delivering the benefits of electric driving without the range anxiety associated with pure electric vehicles.”

The Volt is an electric vehicle that can operate under a range of weather climates and driving conditions with little concern of being stranded by a depleted battery. The Volt has a total driving range of up to 379 miles, based on EPA estimates. For the first 35 miles, the Volt can drive gas- and tailpipe-emissions-free using a full charge of electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank.

In December, the first Volts were delivered to retail customers in California, Texas, Washington D.C. and New York. Due to strong public interest, Volt U.S. production is being raised to 45,000 Volts in 2012 from 30,000.

Award-Winning Safety Reinforces Chevrolet Best-in-Class Value

DETROIT – The Chevrolet Cruze offers buyers more value for the dollar than any compact car along with more standard equipment, more miles per gallon, and award-winning safety ratings.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze recently earned the highest-possible 5-Star overall vehicle safety score from the revised New Car Assessment Program conducted by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Cruze also received the best possible “Good” ratings in front, side, rear and rollover crash protection tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which recognized Cruze as a 2011 Top Safety Pick.

Combined with the most standard equipment in its class and class-leading fuel economy with the Eco model, these top safety ratings reinforce that Cruze offers unparalleled value for compact car buyers, said Cruze Marketing Director Margaret Brooks.

Model Top Fuel Economy Standard Air Bags IIHS Top Safety Pick 2011 NHTSA Crash Safety Ratings

2011 Chevrolet Cruze 28 city / 42 hwy 10 Yes 5-Star

2011 Honda Civic 25 city / 36 hwy 6 No NA

2011 Toyota Corolla 26 city / 35 hwy 6 No NA

2012 Ford Focus TBD city / 40hwy 7 NA NA

2012 Hyundai Elantra 29 city / 40 hwy 6 NA NA

“No matter how you look at it, Cruze is a car that delivers a lot for the money,” Brooks said. “It’s also one of the safest cars in its class.”

Unmatched Crash Safety Ratings
The Cruze was tested under NHTSA’s new rating system, implemented for the 2011 model year. It is based on more rigorous frontal and side crash tests along with rollover resistance testing. Under the new system, the three test conditions are combined mathematically into an Overall Vehicle Score. The Cruze is the first vehicle tested under NHTSA’s new rating system to achieve five stars in each of the individual crash impact conditions leading to an overall vehicle score of five stars – the highest rating possible.

More Miles Per Gallon
Cruze achieves up to 42 mpg on the highway – the segment’s best fuel economy – with the Eco model arriving in January. That efficiency that beats most hybrids on the market without the cost of a hybrid. Cruze LS offers up to 35 mpg on the highway and Cruze LT and LTZ models are rated at 36 mpg on the highway.

More Standard Features
Cruze starts at an MSRP of $16,995 including destination, with the most standard equipment in its class.
All Cruze models are equipped with comfort and convenience features, including: air conditioning, power locks with remote keyless entry, OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, XM Radio with three-month trial subscription, AM/FM single-CD radio, six-speaker stereo system, passenger seat height adjustment, and a 60/40 split folding rear seat.
All Cruze models also feature the most standard safety features in its class, each contributing to Chevrolet’s goal of protecting passengers before, during and after a crash. Standard features on all models include:
• 10 air bags including front knee air bags – a first for the segment
• Front passenger seat occupant sensing system
• Panic Brake Assist and Enhanced Smart Pedal
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control
• Rollover sensing technology that enables timely head curtain side air bag deployment
• Three-point safety belts in all five seating positions
• Safety belt retractor pretensioners and lap pretensioners in the driver and front-passenger positions
• Safety belt load limiters (with pretensioners) in the front safety belt retractors
• Child seat latching system in the rear seat
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Daytime running lamps and automatic headlamps

The Cruze has a strong, unitized body structure that incorporates high-strength steel (HSS) in key areas to enhance strength and crash protection. It is used to help prevent intrusion into the passenger compartment. The Cruze also features underbody main rails that extend from the front of the structure all the way to the rear, further enhancing the body’s strength and stiffness. A cross-structure beam behind the instrument panel anchors some vehicle features, while supporting the body during side-impact crashes.

Finally, Cruze is equipped with standard OnStar 9.0 that includes Automatic Crash Response and its latest enhancement, Injury Severity Prediction. This feature helps OnStar advisors alert first responders when a vehicle crash is likely to have caused serious injury to the occupants. With Automatic Crash Response, OnStar uses data from a collection of built-in vehicle sensors that can signal an advisor for help if the vehicle is involved in a moderate to severe frontal, rear or side-impact crash, regardless of whether an air bag deploys.

Support Homes of Hope for Children

We are proud to announce our partnership with Homes of Hope for Children. During the month of December, we will make a donation for every new and used vehicle sold.

Homes of Hope for Children is a wonderful local charity organization serving children in crisis (Boys and Girls ages 4-18 years of age). They provide a strong Christian home, love, and encouragement to every child that lives on campus. Homes of Hope for Children receives referrals by the state, by private referrals from community partners, or from families themselves. The children that do come to Homes of Hope for Children will not be there because of any wrongdoing on their part but because of their circumstance in life. Join us at Krispy Kreme for Breakfast with Santa!!

2011 Chevrolet Volt: constructed from start to finish in two mind-melting minutes

It took half a score to actually get real, but did you know that it takes but two minutes to construct a 2011 Chevrolet Volt? Okay, we lied -- one minute, fifty-five seconds. Hit play below to enter what Kenny Loggins would describe as "The Danger Zone."

Heads-Up Display (HUD) Retrofit DIY for 2010 Camaro

The 2011 Camaro does not feature many new upgrades over the 2010 Camaro, but one of most desired is the heads-up display (HUD) feature. There may now be a retrofit DIY for 2010 Camaro owners who are interested in this extremely convenient function. Member sponsor 2SSRS from Camaro5 has put together an HUD Retrofit DIY. The final results are not yet in, but make sure to subscribe to the thread for updates and the final product. View the HUD DIY at the following LINK.