B-Segment Surprise 2011 Chevrolet Viva

General Motors said Friday morning, 10 days after President Obama announced new fuel mileage standards and three days before the automaker declares bankruptcy, that it will build a new small car in an idled U.S. plant.

Thursday afternoon, retiring GM Vice Chairman/Product Chief Bob Lutz showed the Automotive Press Association a chart with recently produced and near-future product names in tiny letters. Most were known to the automotive press. One was not: Chevrolet Viva.

And on Friday, Forbes columnist Jerry Flint wrote of how the United Auto Workers has destroyed Detroit. Factories here are closing, even as import manufacturers open non-union shops, mostly in the South.

2009 Chevrolet Colorado V-8

These days, there aren’t many compact trucks for those with a lead foot. Yes, the Dodge Dakota is available with a V-8, but it’s a lot bigger than a true compact truck-it’s somewhere between a compact and a midsize. There are some high-performance dealer-installed or specialty options (such as adding a supercharger), but for red-blooded American compact-truck performance, there’s really only one choice: the Chevrolet Colorado V-8. And the notion of dropping a V-8 in a compact truck is truly appealing on paper — big power in a small vehicle is always tempting — even if the reality isn’t quite what we’d hoped.

While a basic Colorado comes with a choice of a 2.9L I-4 or 3.7L I-5, GM has made V-8 power available in its smallest pickup, providing a truly tantalizing weight-to-power ratio. In this case, it’s 13.6 lb/hp, which is nearly as good as that of an Acura TL or John Cooper Works Mini Clubman. The truck we tested, a two-wheel-drive crew cab, weighs 4073 lb as equipped and uses a 300-hp, 320-lb-ft version of the company’s 5.3L V-8 backed by a Hydra-Matic 4L60 four-speed auto (that same engine puts out 320 hp in the Tahoe).

Camaro, Corvette remain in GM’s future, all Volt models will be produced in U.S.

Many are worried how much say the U.S. government will have in future General Motors’ products since it will be a major shareholder of the new restructured company. Speaking at the Automotive Press Association luncheon, Bob Lutz confirmed that GM will still be making vehicles like the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, Corvettes and full-size pickup trucks alongside the Chevy Volt and future hybrid models.

Lutz said that the new GM will ditch a lot of huge baggage and will emerge as a “smaller but leaner” company that will remain “a powerhouse” that is very profitable.

Lutz said that production of all the Chevrolet Volt-type vehicles, including the Opel Ampera, will take place in Michigan.

So hopefully, if GM files for bankruptcy on Monday, the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible and the Cadillac CTS Coupe will still make it to the market. Speaking of the CTS Coupe, Lutz said that the car had even impressed Obama’s auto task force. He said the auto task force members were asking when the CTS Coupe is going on sale and how much it would cost.

Source: Inside Line

GM to add another fuel-efficient, domestically produced car to the mix

Is the Chevrolet Spark GM's next compact to be made in the U.S.A.?

(Credit: GMC)

General Motors announced today plans to build a small, fuel-efficient car at an idled UAW manufacturing plant in the United States.

The news tempers previously announced plans to import 17,300 small vehicles from China in 2011, which probably didn't go over well with the UAW.

Currently, about 67 percent of GM cars and trucks sold in the U.S. are built in the U.S. By producing another car domestically, GM anticipates that U.S. production levels will increase beyond 70 percent by 2013.

The proposed car was not announced, but an article from Automotive News speculated that the Chevrolet Spark is one of three small cars that General Motors could export from China to the U.S. The Chevrolet Lova and Aveo were also named as import possibilities.

The U.S. automaker already has the Chevrolet Cruze and Volt slated for production next year to help it comply with increased efficiency requirements of a fleetwide fuel economy of 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016.

B-Segment Surprise: 2011 Chevrolet Viva

GM Ponders U.S.-Built Fiesta Rival

General Motors said Friday morning, 10 days after President Obama announced new fuel mileage standards and three days before the automaker declares bankruptcy, that it will build a new small car in an idled U.S. plant.

Photo Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Viva - Motor Trend Auto News

GM Bankruptcy Edition

With GM’s June 1 government-imposed deadline just around the corner, we’ve been hearing a lot about the struggling Detroit automaker’s road to bankruptcy. The pending Chapter 11 filing is considered to be the largest bankruptcy ever for a U.S. industrial company so there is no surprise that we’ve been getting bombarded with news related to the subject.

So instead of bothering you every 5 minutes with bankruptcy talk we thought we’d gather it all up in our today’s edition of Miscellaneous Thoughts.

Updates: So far we’ve heard the following: 
GM bondholders reject offer, bankruptcy preparations are now on
U.S. to inject and additional $50 billion in GM
German officials end Opel talks without a deal
Major GM bondholders agree to a new sweetened deal
Warren offers GM long-term tax incentives to move headquarters

Government to swap $40 billion for GM Stock: A government official said that the $17.4 billion given to GM in the first three months of 2009 “unfortunately didn’t accomplish anything.” Nonetheless, the government is still going to exchange about $40 billion in loans to GM for company stock. The U.S. Treasury is expected to lose $7 billion in loans it made to Chrysler as well. - Detroit News

GM pays workers early to ease bankruptcy fears amongst employees: The General handed out 90,000 U.S. employees their paycheck three days earlier this week reassuring them that bankruptcy wouldn’t hurt their wage payments.  ”It was done to reassure employees worried about bankruptcy,” said spokesman Tom Wilkinson said. - Reuters

GM declines to name dealers on the cut list: GM has declined to identify the 1,124 dealerships whose contracts it does not intend to renew when they expire Oct. 31, 2010. However, others are doing all they can to expose the list. Edmunds has complied its own list which you can check out here.

Chevrolet Corvette GT1 Championship Edition : 2009

Chevrolet introduced the limited production GT1 Championship Edition Corvettes at Sebring International Raceway. The GT1 Championship Edition (Regular Production Option GT1) commemorates the success of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C6R.

Camaro ragtop production starts in 2011

(Credit: Automotive News)

DETROIT--The Chevrolet Camaro convertible will go into production in early 2011.

Despite some media reports, General Motors spokesman Terry Rhadigan said, "The convertible was never canceled. It was retimed. It will be the first quarter of 2011 for the start of production."

Rhadigan said the original plan ...

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible entering production in early 2011

Earlier this year, there were reports about the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible being canceled due to supplier trouble. After that, we heard reports that GM finally worked out its supplier problems and that the Camaro Convertible was back in the product plans and will arrive in early 2010.

Well, 2010 may be too soon. GM spokesman Terry Rhadigan confirmed today that the Camaro Convertible will go into production in early 2011.

“The convertible was never canceled. It was retimed. It will be the first quarter of 2011 for the start of production,” Rhadigan told Automotive News.

Rhadigan said that GM originally planned to introduce the convertible in early 2010. He confirmed that both V6 and V8 models will feature a fabric top

GM won’t make Indy 500 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS replicas

If you watched the Indy 500 over the weekend, then you most likely saw the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Pace Car take the track. The Indy 500 is no new territory for the Camaro - the model has paced the race give times since its introduction in 1967.

Although, for the first time, GM will not offer a Indy Camaro Pace Car replica for the street model. Each previous model of the Camaro has seen anywhere between 100 to 6,000 replicas of the Indy Camaro Pace Car for collectors.

“The new Camaro has and will pace a lot of races including Indy and Daytona,” Chevrolet spokesman Terry Rhadigan told Inside Line. “In order to keep special editions special, we can’t go to that well too often. Plus, sales of the new car are phenomenal.”

8 Second Chevy Corvette C6 Z06

The latest Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is truly a remarkable car and what most car enthusiasts would consider “fast”. The video that we found today redefines “fast” for the Z06 putting it in another class as it is able to run the quarter mile (1/4 mile) in 8.8 seconds at 154mph. That would make it the world’s fastest C6 Vette… that is until you find a faster one and post it in our comment section below!

Germany to announce Opel decision this week, bankruptcy may still be a better option

According to Chancellor Angela Merkel, the German government is expected to decide on the final bidder for GM’s Opel by the middle of the week. Merkel told reporters that pressure is mounting on as GM’s June 1 U.S. government-imposed deadline nears.

While GM will have the final say on who the bidder will be, the German government has a huge say in the decision since it is likely to provide billion of euros in loans and guarantees.

As reported last week, there are three main bidders including Fiat, Magna International and Belgian holding group RHJ International.

Separately, Germany’s Economy Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg said that all three bids for Opel have shortcomings and a bankruptcy filing might still be a better option for the brand.

Source: Reuters / Detroit News

Cruisin’ in the Chinese Chevrolet Cruze

Our European editor, Paul Horrell, got behind the wheel of Chevy’s Next Big Thing in Spain a couple of months ago. His verdict? The Chevy compact is good in parts. And after time behind the wheel of a pair of Chinese-spec Chevrolet Cruzes during my three-day road trip from Shanghai to Hangzhou and back, I’d have to agree. There’s a lot to like about the Cruze, including the distinctive styling, roomy packaging, tight structure, and competent chassis. But the car needs work before it’s ready for prime time here in the United States.

I drove an entry-level 1.6 SE with a five speed manual, and a top of the range 1.8 SX with the six-speed automatic transmission. The SX comes with sat-nav, climate-control air-conditioning, central locking, a sunroof, and power fore-aft adjustment on the driver’s seat. The seats are leather trimmed, as are the steering wheel and the contrasting colorway that stretches from the doors across the dash fascia.

Corvette Z06 by GeigerCars

Who ever had the possibility to drive a Corvette Z06 never complained about the engine power for sure. After all, the US- American sport-car-icon is already powered by a series seven-liter-V8 engine with 512 hp. Even expert drivers should be careful behind the wheel of this steam hammer, novice drivers should definitely not get behind the wheel of the Z06.

What happened to GM's promised 5-door microcar in Detroit?

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Chevrolet Beat Groundhog Day edition

Earlier this week, when General Motors rolled out the very same 3-door Chevrolet Beat concept that it showed back in 2007, we were a bit confused. After all, GM's Ed Welburn teased all of America when he pulled back the tarp on a related (but clearly different) subcompact during NBC's Today Show (video here), only to trot out the same vivid green three-door that has been steadily making the show circuit rounds for some time now.
Well, Kicking Tires has unearthed the back story, and evidently the tarp-pulling session with Matt Lauer revealed a foam model of the production Spark five-door. Understandably, GM couldn't very well drive a foam block up the ramp and onto the stage, so it simply left it out of its press conference and substituted the old concept. We thought GM might quietly put the five-door out on the floor later, so we checked back at their display during yesterday's supplier days, and unfortunately Chevrolet's stand never did get the mockup.
Kicking Tires evidently had to place repeated calls to GM's communications team in order to get them to admit that they had pulled a switcheroo. Eventually, GM's Klaus-Peter Martin noted that: "...any misunderstanding was unintentional, and that the company had always intended to reveal the production Spark in Geneva." That may be true, but we have trouble understanding why the car was teased on national television and a press shot of the five-door was circulated with the Detroit Auto Show press release.
Regardless of GM's intent, we look forward to seeing the production Spark in March, and eagerly await its arrival on America's roads in 2011.

Chevrolet Orlando : 2009

The Chevrolet Orlando show car made its North American debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The compact, seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle has the versatile attributes of a sport-utility, a family van and a wagon.

Michael Bay releases three new Transformers 2 trailers

This week is turning out to be pretty exciting for us Transformers fans. Linkin Park released their new single, ‘New Divide,’ for the Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Soundtrack; GM announced it will be offering a limited edition Bumblebee 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Package; and now, director Michael Bay has just released three TV spots for the new sequel.

For those of you wondering, there are just 33 days (June 24) until we can rush into theaters to watch Transformers Revenge of the Fallen.

Click through to see all three trailers.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen “It’s on”:

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen “Greatest

2009 Chevrolet Traverse - Video

The latest entry brings GM’s full-size crossover quotient to four.

The Traverse brings with it a direct-injected V-6 for the full Lambda crossover lineup.

Keep Reading: 2009 Chevrolet Traverse - Video

2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T - Video

It took 40 years, but this Big-Three rematch proved almost as interesting as the first one.

Keep Reading: 2010 Chevy Camaro SS vs. 2010 Ford Mustang GT, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T - Video

2012 Chevrolet Spark - Car News

WHAT: Slightly smaller than the Aveo, the Spark is designed, engineered, and built in Korea. The price should start below $12K.

WHY: If gas prices surge, GM will need fresh and attractive small cars to lure fuel-frightened buyers. Also shows GM’s commitment to building cars for all markets.

Keep Reading: 2012 Chevrolet Spark - Car News

Video: HPE550 2010 Camaro SS runs quarter-mile in 11.67 at 121 mph

When Hennessey Performance Engineering first received their 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS, they did what every muscle car owner should would do - a burnout followed by a quarter-mile run.

Now, before Hennessey threw in their 562-hp HPE550 upgrade, the stock 2010 Camaro SS ran the quarter-mile test in 13.6 seconds at 107.9 mph. After throwing in their HPE550 upgrade, which will cost those interested $18,950 plus shipping ($24,950 installed), Hennessey has reported a quarter-mile run in an outstanding 11.67 seconds at 121 mph.

If you wish to purchase the HPE550 upgrade, you can call Hennessey Performance Engineering at 979-885-1300 or visit them at http://www.HennesseyPerformance.com.

Mitsubishi bringing new plug-in hybrid concept to Tokyo in Oct.

While the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is still far off, Mitsubishi has announced that it will unveil a new plug-in concept in Japan that will be based on an upgraded version of the Concept cX. Following the i MiEV, the new concept its Mitsubishi’s next step in its green strategy.
According to AutoCar, the new concept [...]

While the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show is still far off, Mitsubishi has announced that it will unveil a new plug-in concept in Japan that will be based on an upgraded version of the Concept cX. Following the i MiEV, the new concept its Mitsubishi’s next step in its green strategy.

According to AutoCar, the new concept has been re-badged as the zC and hints at a future model that will compete with the production Nissan Qazana recently seen at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Sources familiar with the project said that the production version of the zC has a rear end that resembles the Lance Sportback with raised ground clearance. The production model, which is still three years away, will be built using the GS platform from the Lancer and Outlander.

Source: AutoCar

Auditors give GM substantial doubt, GM talks back

General Motors independent auditor said yesterday that there is “substantial doubt” about the company’s viability plan, outlining a number of scenarios that could lead to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
GM is currently waiting on hearing back from the government on a request of up to $16.6 billion in federal aid. Top executives said yesterday that if GM doesn’t [...]

General Motors independent auditor said yesterday that there is “substantial doubt” about the company’s viability plan, outlining a number of scenarios that could lead to a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.

GM is currently waiting on hearing back from the government on a request of up to $16.6 billion in federal aid. Top executives said yesterday that if GM doesn’t receive $2 billion by the end of this month, it will run out of cash. They said the company needs another $2.6 billion in April to stay afloat.

The auditor rating of “substantial doubt” has led to some very scary headlines for GM, but the executives are talking back. CFO Ray Young said that GM is very carefully monitoring its global liquidity. The Detroit automaker lost $30.9 billion last year and ended 2008 with $14 billion in cash. That is about $3 billion more it needed to pay all of its bills.

Young said that the U.S. Treasury has not hinted on whether they will provide additional funding.

Steve Rattner and Ron Bloom, advisers to Obama’s auto task force will be heading to Detroit on Monday to meet with GM, Ford and Chrysler executives. The two will have a hand in helping the U.S. Treasury decide whether GM and Chrysler should get another $21.6 billion in aid.

Yesterday, Steve Harris, Vice President of Global Communications, also wrote on GM’s Fast Lane Blog about the matter. You should read it if you’re interested in GM’s future. Click here to read it.

Source: Detroit News

Chrysler’s SRT operation won’t get the ax

While General Motors is disbanding its High Performance Vehicle Operations to focus more on mass-produced cars and Ford continues its SVT operations, Chrysler has confirmed that is SRT department will not get the cut.
“SRT is sticking around and we have to make final calls on the lineup,” said Chrysler’s vice president for global product planning, Steve [...]

While General Motors is disbanding its High Performance Vehicle Operations to focus more on mass-produced cars and Ford continues its SVT operations, Chrysler has confirmed that is SRT department will not get the cut.

“SRT is sticking around and we have to make final calls on the lineup,” said Chrysler’s vice president for global product planning, Steve Bartoli. “We are big fans of SRT, what it does for us and our customers.”

Bartoli would not comment on what Chrysler model SRT is currently working on but said that the division “will weather the storm” and “will not sit around and await fate” He said that the department is currently working on a sedan.

Hummer HX Concept

Original post by geognerd

Original post by freerainbow

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Original post by jalopnik

Obama’s auto task force to test drive Volt prototype today

As we told you last week, President Barack Obama’s auto task force will be headed to Detroit today to meet with executives from General Motors and Chrysler. Advisers Steve Rattner and Ronald Bloom will visit GM’s technical center in Warren and will also pay a visit to Chrysler’s truck assembly plant. They will also hold [...]

As we told you last week, President Barack Obama’s auto task force will be headed to Detroit today to meet with executives from General Motors and Chrysler. Advisers Steve Rattner and Ronald Bloom will visit GM’s technical center in Warren and will also pay a visit to Chrysler’s truck assembly plant. They will also hold a meeting with UAW President Ron Gettelfinger.

According to White House officials, the trip will also include a trip to GM’s test lab where the Volt is being developed. GM has also set up a test drive in the Volt prototype hoping to impress the auto task force. We wonder if Chrysler will setup a test drive of their 200C EV.

So far the advisers have spent more than two weeks (allegedly working day and night) holding meetings with industry executives and analysts.

GM and Chrysler are seeking up to $21 billion in additional aid. The two have already received a total of $17 billion in government loans. On March 31, President Barack Obama will decide to approve or reject restructuring plans that the two companies submitted in February.

Source: Detroit News

What's This Engine Bay - 2010 Hennessey HPE550 Camaro ?

Test out your automotive intellectual fortitude by figuring out what car this is before you click through. Sure, you'll say you got it right in the comments, but you'll know the truth.

If you guessed the 2010 Hennessey HPE550 Camaro — good for you. Now take a gander at the official specs below.

2010 HPE550 Camaro

Specifications, Options & Pricing

Power:
* 562 bhp @ 6,200 rpm
* 557 lb-ft Torque @ 4,200 rpm

Performance (estimated):
* 0 - 60 mph: 3.9 sec.
* 1/4 mile: 11.9 @ 119 mph

2010 HPE550 Camaro Package (available for 6sp & auto) Includes:

* Magnuson / Hennessey Supercharger System
* Corsa Stainless Steel Exhaust System
* Hennessey Air Induction System
* Hennessey High Flow Fuel Injectors
* Hennessey Engine Management Calibration
* Hennessey Aluminum Wheel Upgrade (uses factory tires)
* Hennessey Cam-Aero™ Urethane Body Components: Rear Lip Spoiler, Front Splitter & Side Rocker Panels
* Hennessey Exterior Graphics Package (rear quarter panels)
* Hennessey Premium Floor Mats
* Hennessey & HPE550 Exterior Badges
* Serial Numbered Plaque in Interior & Engine Compartment
* Parts Cost: $18,950 US Dollars plus Shipping
* Installed Cost: $24,950 plus Vehicle Shipping

Options:
* Hennessey Front Brake Upgrade $4,500
4-Piston Calipers with 14 inch Rotors
* Hennessey Coilover Suspension Upgrade $3,500
* 15 inch Brakes with Carbon Rotors $19,500
* 5-Speed High-Performance Automatic Transmission $6,500
* Torque Converter Upgrade $2,500
* Differential Cooler $3,500
* Connolly Leather Interior with Custom Colors $8,500
* 705 hp LS9 Engine Upgrade $39,500
* 850 hp Twin Turbo Upgrade $54,500
* 1000 hp Twin Turbo Upgrade $59,500

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS In Jay Leno’s Garage - Video

Jay Leno is always driving the newest toys. The latest Jay Leno’s Garage video showcases the new 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS. This is the car that Jay says will save GM. I thought it was the Volt that was suppose to do that??? Oh well, Jay is still cool as ever in my opinion, heck, who else has a such a vast collection of cool cars?

Below is the video of Jay Leno checking out the new 2010 Chevy Camaro SS. Enjoy!

2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Specs:

• Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe or convertible
• Estimated base price: $25,000
• Engines:
  DOHC 24-valve 3.6-liter V-6, 300 hp, 273 lb-ft;
  Pushrod 16-valve 6.2-liter V-8, 400–422 hp, 395–408 lb-ft
• Transmissions: 6-speed automatic with manumatic shifting, 6-speed manual
• Dimensions:
  Wheelbase: 112.3 in Length: 190.4 in Width: 75.5 in Height: 54.2 in
  Curb weight: 3750–3900 lb
• Performance (est., V-8 Engine):
  Zero to 60 mph: 4.6–5.1 sec
  Standing ¼-mile: 13.2–13.9 sec

Projected fuel economy (est.):
EPA city driving: 15–17 mpg
EPA highway driving: 23–26 mpg

All Eyes on GM Following Chrysler's Bankruptcy...Will GM be Next?

Following the announcement of Chrysler's bankruptcy yesterday, attention is now focusing on what will happen to GM at the end of this month.

GM has a deadline of June 1st to convince 90 percent of its bondholders to swap $27 billion in debt for a 10 percent stake in the company. If the United Auto Workers and bondholders cannot agree to money-saving concessions by the end of the month, GM could also be forced to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

"When there is a lot of bluffing going on in any negotiation, this shows the government is serious," said Jeremy Anwyl, chief executive officer of Edmunds.com

Earlier this week GM announced an updated Viability Plan that announced the death of Pontiac, more plant and dealer closures and more job cuts in an effort to qualify for more government aid.

Currently GM and its bond holders remain far apart on an agreement to swap debt for stake in the company. GM originally offered a 10 percent stake in exchange for $27 billion in debt, but the bond holders quickly counter offered with a deal that would give them a 58 percent stake in the company.

GM's current exchange offer expires on May 26.

Lingenfelter Tuning Package Details for 2010 Camaro Released

Long-time GM tuners Lingenfelter Performance Engineering have released full details for their 2010 Camaro performance and body kit. A maximum 800 hp is possible!

Fesler-Moss Camaro SS with Corvette ZR1 Power

Muscle car impresario Chris Fesler and GM special vehicles expert Jon Moss have teamed up to produce a limited edition 2010 Camaro.

2011 Pontiac Firebird Trans AM by ASC: New Camaro-Based Proposal

We've seen some obnoxiously modified Rolls Royce cars but we think this Phantom Drophead Coupe with its Louis Vuitton outer skin and larger than life alloy rims is so vulgar that it deserves to be ranked amongst the worst. Goes to show you that bad taste has no limits nor boundaries, it knows no rules or classes...
via:carscoop

The Best Way To Display A New Camaro

Lou Fusz Chevrolet received their very first Camaro over the weekend, apparently following their recall bulletins to the letter by displaying it on the back of this flatbed tow truck. Guys? You're doing it wrong.

(Hat Tip To The Kellys!)

Video: Jay Leno drives the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS

While the Chevrolet Camaro SS we were going to get next week suffered a broken windshield while in transit from Detroit, Jay Leno had the privilege to get behind one in California.

Of course, Jay loved everything about the new Camaro SS and thinks that this is the car that will save GM.

Refresher: The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS carries a 6.2L LS3 V8 making 422-hp and 408 lb-ft of torque when mated to a 6-speed manual and 400-hp and 395 lb-ft of torque when mated to a 6-speed automatic. 0-60 comes in 4.6 seconds. Pricing for the 2010 Camaro SS starts at $30,995.

Camaro SS with new twin-turbo kit

Hot on the heels of the 800hp (597kW) tuned Camaro from Lingenfelter comes another hotted up version of the rejuvenated muscle car that's set to do battle on the black top this June. The latest tuned Camaro is based on the range-topping SS and picks up a pair of GTK350 turbochargers for an estimated output of 600hp (448kW) – at the wheels.
The car is being developed by Artisan Performance in conjunction with Turbochargers.com, and the completed car will be sold as a ‘turn-key’ package for $69,000. You may remember Artisan as the company behind last year’s turbocharged IS-F SEMA show car, and the plan is to use the same tuning principles on the Lexus for the new Camaro SS.
Some of the upgrades include a high-flow exhaust system with a race-spec catalytic converter, a custom intercooler and wastegate, and an obligatory ECU upgrade to handle the fuel mapping and boost control necessary for turbocharged cars.
To make sure its package really stands out from the crowd, Artisan will also be adding pumped guards both front and rear, 21in forged alloy wheels (optional 22in wheels will be offered too), 14in SSBC brakes, a new lip spoiler and an integrated rear diffuser

Henessey’s HPE550 supercharged 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS on dyno

Hennessey Performance Engineering just received their 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS last month. After taking it to the drag strips and doing a burnout, Hennessey decided to throw in its new HPE550 Supercharged package into their latest creation and took it on a dyno run. Check out the video of it after the jump.

Hennessey will be selling its HPE550 package for $18,950 plus shipping if you’re the do-it-your-self type. If you’re not a really good handyman, Hennessey will install the package for you for $24,950 (of course you’d have to provide your $31,000 Camaro SS).

GM to Cancel Some Chevy, Pontiac and Cadillac Models

GM will be killing the Pontiac G6 GXP sedan and coupe, the Chevrolet Impala SS, Cobalt SS sedan and the Cadillac STS-V, all by the end of the 2009 model year.

Chevy will be competitive, top-quality brand in two years

General Motors is in the middle of a massive restructuring, and if it manages to escape catastrophe without going belly-up, good news could be in store for the Chevy brand. GM CEO Fritz Henderson told AutoWeek that the bowtie will emerge as the big winner in two years, with great quality and plenty of new product. The 2011 model year will (assuming there are no changes to the product calendar -- something that's hardly guaranteed) bring a variety of fuel-efficient vehicles to the Chevy brand with the arrival of the Cruze, Spark, Volt, and Orlando.
The Volt, with its purported extended-range electric capability, will get the limelight. But the Cruze, Spark, and Orlando are likely to be more impactful, since they're designed to be high-volume sellers with very competitive fuel economy figures. The new cars, combined with the drop-dead gorgeous Camaro (29 mpg hwy), the new Equinox (32 mpg hwy), and the Malibu, give Chevrolet a a significantly transformed, far more efficient product lineup.
With four new Chevys set to hit production in the next 19 months, the future of the brand looks bright... as long as GM can survive the tumultuous present.

GM Drops SS Versions of the Chevy Impala and Cobalt Sedan

GM has dropped the SS versions of the Chevy Impala and Cobalt sedan for the 2010 model year.

The news came from GM's 2010 Online Order / Reference Guide for dealers. The death of the Impala SS is not that great of a loss, but the Cobalt SS sedan was a decent competitor with its 260-hp, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine.

2010 Chevy Corvette Grandsport

Chevrolet is bringing the Grandsport Corvette back as a 2010 model, after a break of 15 years. The Corvette Grandsports have held their own position in the market and you can catch a bit of their history by going through these pictures of the 1964 Chevy Gransport that Anthony recently captured.

The Grandsport gets wider, grippier tires and rims (18 in-19 in front-rear), revised shocks, a new stabilizer bar and spring specifications. This should go a long way in improving the handling characteristics. The result of these modifications - cornering forces of 1.0g! better have that neck restraint ready. The engine remains the same LS3 V8 with 430 bhp (321kW) and 424lb-ft (575Nm) of torque but get the additional two mode exhaust system and you can get 436hp (325kW) and 428lb-ft (580Nm). As a result of all these, the Grandsport reaches 62 mph a whole 0.2 seconds faster than the standard model.

With the advent of the Grandsport, Chevy has ditched the Z51 package. The body kit includes front splitter, rear spoiler and brake ventilation ducts behind the doors. The Grandsport is available in either a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a no-nonsense manual to enjoy the driving experience. the manual version also comes with dry-sump lubrication, differential cooler and rear-mounted battery that gives better weight distribution and low centre of gravity.

The Grandsport is available in coupe and convertible body styles. Don’t let that Coupe name fool you - even the coupe models come with removable roof. It is available in 4 trim levels (1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 4LT). All of the Corvette’s exterior colors are offered on the Grand Sport and an available ‘Heritage’ package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. The new Grand Sport is being announced at the 12th annual C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky as we speak. Pricing has not been announced yet but it should be a small price to pay for what you get.

PRESS RELEASE
CHEVROLET ANNOUNCES NEW 2010 CORVETTE GRAND SPORT

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Grand Sport. It’s one of the most storied monikers in Corvette’s illustrious racing heritage and it is returning the lineup. Chevrolet announced the new, 2010 Corvette Grand Sport at the 12th annunal C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash, held at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

The new Grand Sport model combines the Corvette’s LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a racetrack-bred suspension for a distinctive, starting grid-ready performer. It is offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm).

The Grand Sport replaces the Corvette’s previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models.

Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely outfitted for racetrack competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery.

The complete list of content and special features for the Grand Sport includes

* Wider front and rear fenders – including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges
* Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler
* Functional brake ducts and extra cooling
* Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional
* Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear
* Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers
* Specific manual transmission gear ratios
* Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped modles

With its special equipment, the Grand Sport offers a unique blend of performance and amenities. Its suspension package approaches that of the Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and, of course, the availability of a convertible body style. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06.

All of Corvette’s exterior colors are offered on the Grand Sport and an available Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. The Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages, too.

Grand Sport history
Envisioned by legendary Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov as a factory-built, lightweight and race-ready production model that would trump domestic and foreign road-racing competitors, the original Corvette Grand Sport was a promising idea stymied by GM’s agreement to stay out of manufacturer-backed motorsports.

The planned 125 production models required for racing-class homologation were never built, but five prototypes based on the styling of the 1963 Corvette were hand-assembled under Duntov’s watchful eye. And while they looked like production models, the prototypes were purpose-built racecars that shared little with their assembly-line cousins. Duntov also oversaw the Grand Sport engine program that featured a special, 377-cubic-inch small-block V-8 and used side-draft carburetors.

Although never officially sanctioned by General Motors, the five Grand Sport prototypes saw extensive racing experience throughout the 1960s in the hands of “private” racers who had strong contacts within Duntov’s engineering circle. All five original cars are accounted for today and are among the most valuable in the collector market.

Chevrolet offered a limited-edition Grand Sport production model in 1996, commemorating the original racing cars and marking the end of the C4 era in Corvette production. All of the 1,000 examples were painted Admiral Blue and featured a white center stripe and red “hash mark” graphics on the left front fender, a graphic scheme that mimicked the look of some of the original racecars.

[Source: MotorAuthority.com]