2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible and Camaro 1LE price announced

Chevrolet has announced prices for the 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible and for the 2013 Camaro 1LE in the United States.

The 2013 Chevrolet ZL1 convertible uses the same 580-hp, 556-lb-ft supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 of its fixed-roof stablemate, and also gets the same Magnetic Ride Control suspension system. In addition to this equipment, the convertible model receives chassis bracing components like an underhood strut tower brace, front suspension “X” brace, and rear “V” braces to stiffen the drop-top version.

The ZL1 convertible is meant to be more of a cruiser and less of a hard-core track car than the coupe, so instead of the 5-mode electronic stability control system in the hard top, this version gets a single "Competetive" mode. (Chevy also expects a higher take rate on automatics -- a whopping 70% of ZL1 coupes have manual transmissions, but Chevy expects a 50/50 split for the convertible.) They've also made a few interior improvements, including a stereo with touch-pads in place of buttons (like the ATS, but better) and a slick new frameless rear-view mirror. But most important part -- the lusty and loud 580 hp supercharged V8 -- remains the same, as does the car's overall attitude.

the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible has a starting price of 60,445 USD over-seas, while the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE will set you back for 37,035, with both prices including the $900 destination charge.




Press Release

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is an everyday supercar. Motivated by the supercharged LSA small-block V-8 producing 580 horsepower (432 kW), it is the fastest, most capable Camaro ever, with performance credentials that include:

0-60 mph in four seconds
Top speed of 184 mph
11-second quarter-mile ETs (11.93 with the automatic / 11.96 with the manual transmission)
Lapped the Nürburgring in 7:41.27.
Few production cars can match the ZL1's performance, and all of its high-velocity achievements were conducted with a stock test vehicle wearing all the street-legal, factory-issued components - and no time-consuming equipment adjustments at the racetrack.

More than just power and raw numbers, the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems. They help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output, and include third-generation Magnetic Ride Control.

"The ZL1 is great at everything and we're very proud of that," said Tony Roma, Camaro ZL1 program engineering manager. "You can take it to the drag strip and run 11-second quarter-miles all day long. You can also take it to a road course, where it's balanced, handles well, and does exactly what you want - including lapping Virginia International Raceway's Grand Course in under three minutes - and yet the ZL1 is sophisticated enough to use as a daily driver. It's a supercar you can drive every day."

The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they've achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance - until the new ZL1 was introduced.

For 2013, the ZL1 rushes into its second year with the addition of an all-new convertible model, as well as a new color touch radio with Chevrolet MyLink - including available navigation - a frameless inside rearview mirror and a new exterior color: Blue Ray Metallic.

Camaro ZL1 convertible details

Like the coupe, the Camaro ZL1 convertible powered by the 580-hp/432-kW LSA engine, as well as the same advanced powertrain and chassis technologies. And because the architecture for the fifth-generation Camaro was designed to accommodate a convertible model, it gives the ZL1 convertible coupe-like driving dynamics. Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to quell the cowl and steering wheel shake common in convertibles. They include:

A tower-to-tower brace under the hood
A transmission support reinforcement brace
Underbody tunnel brace
Front "X" brace and stiffer cradle as well as rear underbody "V" braces.
Additional structural reinforcements in the ZL1 convertible are designed to improve noise and vibration characteristics, while also reducing unwanted ride and body motions. They include a hydroformed tube in the A-pillars, an inner reinforcement bracket in the windshield header, a reinforced front hinge pillar and reinforcements inside the rockers.

The bottom line is a convertible designed to preserve nearly all the acceleration, road-holding and performance capabilities of the Camaro ZL1 coupe.

MyLink details

Camaro ZL1 includes new Chevrolet MyLink, which seamlessly integrates online services such as Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio® using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth-enabled phones. MyLink adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles.

MyLink features a high-resolution, full-color touch screen display designed to manage the number of steps required to complete a task. It also retains all the capabilities of conventional entertainment features, including AM/FM/Sirius XM tuners, CD player with MP3 playback, auxiliary and USB inputs.

Camaro ZL1's downforce-optimized design

Most production cars are designed with some lift at speed slip through the air for improved fuel economy - but to maintain stability and steering response at the speed the Camaro ZL1 is capable of achieving, it features an aerodynamic design that generates downforce to press the tires against the track.

The aerodynamics helped refine the exterior design to generate downforce for improved handing at speed while minimizing the amount of increased drag that could reduce fuel economy and the vehicle's top speed. With the computer-assisted design recommendations, full-scale clay models and full-size prototypes were tested in the General Motors' wind tunnel.

Outside of the aerodynamics laboratory, engineers tested the ZL1's aero aids on GM's Milford Road Course, other race tracks and the unique "rolling road" wind tunnel at the Auto Research Center in Indianapolis. When the dust settled and the wind-tunnel blades came to a stop, the Camaro ZL1 produced 65 pounds of downforce at an equivalent 150 mph (241 km/h) - compared to 200 pounds of lift in a Camaro SS - which was offset by an increase of only 40 counts of additional aerodynamic drag.

Seven elements contribute to the downforce of the ZL1:

1. Front fascia - The front fascia channels air for engine and brake cooling. The corners of the front fascia were shaped to minimize lift, while brake-cooling ducts in the outer corners of the lower grille opening provide a direct, high-flow path to the brake rotors.

2. Hood - The ZL1's hood has a vented, carbon fiber insert, contributing to both engine cooling and aerodynamic downforce. The specially shaped vents draw air up through the engine bay - allowing a significant volume of air flow while keeping the front tires firmly connected to the pavement.

3. Front splitter - Instead of a traditional front air dam, the ZL1 incorporates a racing-style splitter to help create downforce.

4. Front tire deflectors - The deflectors push airflow around the rotating wheels and tires more efficiently, reducing lift and drag.

5. Belly pans - The ZL1 has two of them: one beneath the engine cradle and one at the rear of the engine assembly, just in front of the transmission. They minimize airflow turbulence under the car. NACA-style ducts are incorporated into the rear belly pan for transmission cooling.

6. Rocker panels - Although subtle in appearance, the carefully shaped rocker panels help reduce lift and drag, while also contributing to stability during high cross winds. They also provide stone protection with the ZL1's wider tires.

7. Rear spoiler - The ZL1's rear spoiler, which contributes approximately 150 pounds of down force at the cost of only one count of drag. It is taller and wider than the Camaro SS spoiler and incorporates the center high-mounted stop lamp.

In addition to the functional design elements, the Camaro ZL1 offers several aesthetic options, including a bright-finish wheel package, exposed-weaver carbon fiber hood insert and a stripe package.

Exterior colors include Summit White, Black, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Victory Red, Rally Yellow, Inferno Orange Metallic, Ashen Grey Metallic and Blue Ray Metallic. The convertible top color choices include black or beige.

Supercharged LSA powertrain

Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine, which is rated at 580 horsepower (432kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro.

The all-aluminum engine is part of GM's legendary small-block engine family. For a solid foundation, the engine's bottom end uses six-bolt main bearing caps that clamp and lock in the forged steel crankshaft to a deep-skirt cylinder block. Additional features include:

Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly
High-strength hypereutectic pistons
Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors
Piston oil squirters.
A 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads. The engine also draws its breath through a unique induction system, with a low-restriction air filter, dual inlet paths and enhanced airflow through the supercharger housing.

Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. This enhances performance, because no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley.

The ZL1 is offered with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tremec TR6060 "MG9" manual features 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS. The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing. The MG9 has also been tuned for improved shift feel, with a dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch, and triple synchros for smooth, precise shifts.

Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small-block. It features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset. To make the ZL1 perform equally well on street and track, the 6L90 features three distinct drive modes:

Drive: The shift pattern is calibrated for optimal fuel economy, including second-gear starts, while the shift feel is tuned for a smooth driving experience. Engaging the tap-shift feature on the steering wheel or shift lever engages temporary manual mode.
Sport: The shift pattern is calibrated for more aggressing driving, including first-gear starts for maximum performance. The shift feel is also more aggressive, with a performance algorithm that holds the transmission in lower gears during aggressive driving.
Manual: Here, the 6L90 offers the driver true manual control, with no automatic up shifts, and staged upshifts for incredibly fast shifts and maximum performance.
Track-ready features of the ZL1's powertrain include:

An engine-oil cooler, identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1. The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that both the manual and automatic transmissions are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package.
A high-performance fuel system delivers fuel to the LSA engine under any performance driving condition. For example, the system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-g cornering under low fuel conditions.
The Camaro ZL1 is also equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm and throttle position.

Chassis and drivetrain details

The drivetrain is unique to the Camaro ZL1 and is composed of a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger, stronger 9.9-inch cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1's tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground. A rear-differential cooler reduces temperatures in the differential by more than 100 F.

Asymmetrical half-shafts - a 60mm hollow shaft on the right and a 33mm solid shaft on the left - offer different torsional stiffness rates, which work with the limited-slip differential to minimize the chance of wheel hop on hard launches. Also, the rear stabilizer bar has drop links positioned outboard of the control arms, for more effective body roll control in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.

Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with Brembo. Large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers.

ZL1-specific 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar G:2 tires developed specifically for the ZL1.

Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride Control

Performance Traction Management (PTM) is standard on the Camaro ZL1 coupe. It integrates the exclusive third-generation magnetic ride control - with driver-selectable Tour and Sport modes - launch control, traction control, electronic stability control and electric power steering response to enhance performance.

With PTM, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best-possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 1,000 times per second to maximize the available traction. Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and Performance Traction Management will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.

Five PTM performance levels or modes are available to accommodate the given ambient and track conditions, driver experience/vehicle familiarity and driver comfort levels. They include:

Mode 1 - Traction control set for wet conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 2 - Traction control set for dry conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 3 - Traction control set on Sport 1, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 4 - Traction control set on Sport 2, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 5 - Traction control set on Race, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Track. Launch control tuned for VHT-prepped drag strips.
Interior features

ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving and is offered solely with a black interior. Heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front head restraints are comfortable and deliver the support required in high-load turns on a racetrack. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior.

Additional interior features include a thick, flat-bottom steering wheel, alloy pedals, head-up display with unique performance readouts, a "four-pack" auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout, as well as:

Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates
Short-throw shifter
Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability
Rear parking assist
Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror)
Remote vehicle starter (available with automatic transmission).
A suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob and shift boot, is available, along with a power sunroof.

Safety and crash-avoidance features

The Camaro ZL1 is designed to help drivers avoid crashes, while protecting occupants in the event a crash occurs. A strong body structure is designed to absorb crash energy and provide a protective "safety cage" around occupants. In fact, the 2012 Camaro was the first passenger car to receive NHTSA's revised quadruple 5-star safety rating.

Additional features include:

Six standard air bags include side curtain air bags, which provide head protection for outboard passengers in the event of a side-impact or rollover crash
Rear Vision Package includes a rearview camera system to complement the rear park assist feature
StabiliTrak electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver's intended path by applying throttle, braking or a combination of both
Standard four-wheel disc brake system featuring smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation
Pretensioners minimize forward movement during a collision, and are standard on the front safety belts. Load-limiting retractors cinch the belt more tightly
Standard tire pressure monitoring system
Standard remote keyless entry (RKE) system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can use it to locate their cars without sounding the panic alarm.
Camaro ZL1 and OnStar

Six months of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on Camaro ZL1. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology.

OnStar's RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. A new, opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts.

Camaro ZL1 also features new OnStar button icons. Drivers will notice an updated look for the Hands-Free Calling button, blue OnStar button and red Emergency button.

Chevrolet Miray Concept Unveiled In Korea

The GM Korea births revealed the Chevrolet Miray (pronounced Mi-ray) concept at the latest 2011 Seoul Motor demo – a mid-electric hybrid-powered boasts example.

The concept's powertrain consists of two front-mounted electric motors, each producing 15 kW (20 bhp / 20 PS) of power for the front axle, coupled with a 1.5 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit mounted mid-rear which drives the back wheels. Current for the electric motors comes from a 1.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that is recharged through regenerative braking.

Styling elements include a new interpretation of the Chevy dual-port grille, scissor doors, LED headlamps, and what the designers call Corvette front and rear fenders. Jet aircraft are also cited as inspirations. Aluminum wheels are 21 inches in diameter at the rear, 20 inches in front.

The Miray is capable of running on electric power alone and the petrol engine kicks in with his gearbox with double clutch change faster when extra power is needed. Chevrolet did not provide performance numbers, or range for the concept.

Chevy to debut MyLink infotainment system

Chevrolet Announces MyLink Infotainment System, Puts it in 2012 Equinox and Volt

The MyLink system, which was previewed earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show, includes a 7-inch color display, but the majority of the system’s features are designed to give drivers additional in-car media choices. Perhaps the most significant option lies with audio streaming — after pairing a smartphone to the system via Bluetooth, drivers can use the data connection to stream music or talk radio via Pandora and Stitcher, respectively.

The voice-activated technology of Sync made it an instant front-runner in the ever-evolving in-vehicle infotainment environment when Ford introduced it in early 2007 — eons ago in electro-tech years. Ford has adopted upgrades and improvements for Sync — including the divisive new MyFord Touch interface — but Bly told Inside Line that while Sync was and is a formidable achievement, Chevy's new MyLink technology is vastly better to use.




Press Release

Chevrolet MyLink Creates Smartphones on Wheels

Smart interface design allows drivers to take advantage of mobile communications technology while the phone remains safely stowed

NEW YORK - Consumers who seek a higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, plus the unmatched safety and security of OnStar need look no further than the 2012 Chevy Volt and Equinox.

When these vehicles go on sale later this year, they will be the first to offer Chevy MyLink - an in-car infotainment package that builds on the safety and security of OnStar and seamlessly integrates online services like Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio® using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth device connectivity.

"There is a new generation of car buyers who don't want to settle for mass market radio," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. "They want to create their own individual stations and have access to them wherever they are. Chevrolet vehicles have offered customers the ability to use portable media devices since 2006 and the introduction of MyLink takes media personalization to a new level. "

MyLink adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles. MyLink also includes a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch screen display that makes media selection easy to navigate.
"Chevrolet MyLink is the next logical step for in-vehicle connectivity," said Karl Stracke, vice president for Global Product Engineering. "MyLink leverages the mobile broadband capability and the sophisticated, online services made possible by today's smart phones."

MyLink retains all the capabilities of today's entertainment units, including AM/FM/XM tuners, CD player with MP3 playback, auxiliary and USB inputs. But, Stracke says, "These are the essentials and we're building from there."

Among the new benefits provided by MyLink:

• Enhanced hands-free voice control system powered by Nuance®, which allows simple voice commands to initiate phone calls and select radio stations or media from portable MP3 players and smartphones. A tap of a button on the steering wheel enables intuitive verbal control of smartphone applications like "play (artist name)" or "call (name of contact)" to keep the driver's hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
• Pandora® internet radio allows users to create personalized radio stations based on favorite artists or genres and Stitcher SmartRadio® enables access to thousands of audio programming choices allowing customers to build a personalized listening experience. MyLink integrates control of both of these apps for a driver directed listening experience.
• Gracenote®: identifies the music collection on the driver's smartphone or MP3 player and presents information such artist name, genres and album cover art on the MyLink screen and enables users to select similar music to the tunes they love. Gracenote also improves the accuracy of MyLink's voice activation system by allowing users to access music using artist nicknames, such as "The Boss," "G.N.R," or "The Fab Four" simply by using MyLink's touch-screen or steering wheel buttons and voice control interfaces.
• Upgraded USB connectivity: While Chevrolet has offered auxiliary device connectivity since 2006, MyLink adds flash memory capability to its USB device connections. This provides users with the ability to access approved applications that will make their MyLink system even more functional, while assuring that driver's maintain eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

The debut of Chevy MyLink extends the OnStar experience from safety and security to information and entertainment by seamlessly integrating the capability of a smartphone into the vehicle so that hand-held phones may be safely stowed while driving.
When OnStar debuted in 1996, it pioneered in-vehicle connectivity with the auto industry's first embedded telematics system. It has grown from primarily offering automatic crash notification and security features to include remote vehicle diagnostics, turn-by-turn navigation and the ability to slow down stolen vehicles.

In November 2010, OnStar released a smartphone application for all 2011 Chevy vehicles that incorporated remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle status checks as well as battery management functions for Volt owners. Volt owners also have the MyVolt.com website to provide those remote management features and other Chevy owners soon will have access to similar web-based OnStar services.

The combination of MyLink and OnStar will soon be joined by the integration of the Powermat® charging system - eliminating the need for charging cords. Chevrolet MyLink will be available beginning with the 2012 Chevrolet Volt and Equinox this fall before expanding to other vehicles in the Chevy lineup over the next 18 months.

GM to offer wireless in-car phone charging pads

GM announced this week that their venture capital arm called GM Ventures will invest $5 million in a small company called Powermat. The company makes a charging system that uses wireless technology to charge smartphones and other devices, and is considered a pioneer in the filed.

What is Powermat? If you’ve recently visited your local Best Buy, you’ve probably seen the Powermat product in the ‘Mobile’ section. The product allows you to place your cell phone and other mobile technology on a mat and charge them without having to plug them into the wall.

The new technology is said not only to eliminate the need for charging cords, but, according to Powermat CEO Ran Poliakine, it’s also safer and more efficient.

Powermat already sells wireless charging devices for the home to consumers at major U.S. retail outlets such as Wal-Mart and Best Buy.

Source: GM





Press Release

GM, Powermat to Put Added ‘Charge' in Chevy Volt

Automaker Invests in Start-Up to Do Away With Charging Cords

LAS VEGAS - General Motors and Powermat, a pioneer in wireless charging technology, announced a commercial agreement today that will eliminate the need for charging cords for personal electronic devices in many future Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac products beginning mid-2012.

GM Ventures, the company's venture capital subsidiary, will invest $5 million in Powermat to accelerate the technology's development and support efforts to grow Powermat's business globally.

Powermat's technology allows electronic devices - smart phones, MP3 players and gaming devices - to be charged safely and efficiently, according to Powermat CEO Ran Poliakine.

The Chevrolet Volt, conceived as a reinvention of the automobile that would help reduce America's dependence on oil, while providing the assurance of an extended driving range, will be one of the first GM vehicles to offer this technology. The technology is expected to revolutionize how electronic devices are charged in a car.

"Imagine a mat or shelf where you could put your iPhone, your Droid or other personal device and charge it automatically while you commute to work, run errands or as you're driving on a family vacation," said Micky Bly, GM's lead electronics executive, including infotainment, hybrids and battery electric vehicles.

"The Chevy Volt will be one of the first applications, but we intend to expand it across our vehicle portfolio," Bly said.

Powermat, a private firm, was founded in 2007 and offers wireless charging products for the home in a number of retail stores, including Best Buy, Target and Wal-Mart.

Poliakine is excited to start with the Chevrolet Volt, which has swept major Car of the Year awards to date.

"GM is among the rarest of giants in today's business climate: a forward-thinking innovator with the courage and good sense to care about the well-being of the consumer and the well-being of our planet," Poliakine said.

Jon Lauckner, who helped create the Volt concept and now is President of GM Ventures, has been dreaming about a technology like Powermat for years.

"We first developed the Volt concept car in 2006," Lauckner said. "The intent was to revolutionize every aspect of the car, not just the propulsion system. We had something like this in mind even then, and we think it will have widespread appeal."

About General Motors

General Motors Company (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM), one of the world's largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 209,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 31 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall, and Wuling. GM's largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and Russia. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services.

About Powermat

Powermat was the first company to perfect inductive-based wireless charging and to bring it to consumers in a widely available, meaningful way via mainstream retail channels. The undisputed leader in wireless charging, Powermat leads the category in all facets including technology, retail footprint, consumer experience, and brand. Powermat allows users to enable their electronic devices once with a Powermat receiver and then set down up to three devices on the charging mat for fast, safe and effective wireless charging. It's simple, effortless, and provides consumers with first-of-its-kind freedom from the need to constantly plug/unplug as well as the angst of running on empty.

Paris Preview: Opel Astra Sports Tourer

General Motors announced the 2011 Opel Astra Sports Tourer price for the European market.

The model will retail starting later this year from EUR18,000, with orders being accepted as of now. The entry level Sports Tourer is the 1.4 ecoFLEX engine that develops 74 kW/100 hp. The Opel Astra Sports Tourer will also be available with a 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine with either 120 hp, or 140 hp and with a 2.0 CDTI diesel developing 160 hp and 380 Nm of torque. Actually, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer range will include three diesel and five petrol versions.

The new unit is 1.4 turbo which develops 120 hp and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The Astra lineup will also be available with a start/stop technology, to be used on the 1.3l CDTI ecoFLEX engine.

The Opel Astra Sports Tourer price starts at 18,000 EUR for the entry level 100 hp version. The equipment list of the Opel Astra Sports Tourer
includes front ergonomic seats, an adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis, AFL+ adaptive forward lighting and the Opel Eye system.




Press Release

The Opel Astra Sports Tourer Priced at 18,000 euros

• Compact Wagon is dynamic, practical – and affordable
• World premiere at Paris Motor Show
• New Astra Hatchback already has 200,000 orders

Rüsselsheim. The Opel Astra Sports Tourer makes its debut at the Mondial de l’Automobile 2010 in Paris (October 2 – 17), but it can be ordered now. The athletic station wagon is as beautiful to look at as it is practical to use. And, it is eco-friendly and affordable to boot. The 1.4 ecoFLEX (74 kW/100 hp) starts at 18,000 euros in Germany. The compact wagon comes with a wide powertrain line-up of three diesel motors and five gasoline engines ranging from 100 to 180 hp.

An efficient trunk design and premium features enhance the functionality of this dynamic, beautifully sculptured wagon which has a load space between 500 and 1550 liters. With the seatbacks down, the cargo load length is increased to 1835 mm – 28 mm more than the current Astra wagon.

New in the compact segment is the FlexFold Rear Seat system, which allows each section of the 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks to be folded forward at the press of a button located in the side walls of the cargo compartment: A spring is electrically released, automatically activating swift, remote folding of the seatbacks. The Easy Access Cover slides upward and out of the way with a simple tap. The cover retracts with a quick hand motion.

Low cost of ownership is guaranteed due to the Astra Sports Tourer’s favorable insurance rating by the Gesamtverband der Deutschen Versicherungswirtschaft (GDV), an umbrella organization of German insurers. The Sports Tourer received the lowest insurance rating (fully comprehensive, or, “Vollkasko neu” rating 13) of all the compact class wagons the GDV has valued.

The Astra Sports Tourer incorporates exciting Opel innovations that make life more comfortable and driving safer. These include the only front ergonomic seats in the segment certified by independent back experts from the Aktion Gesunder Rűcken (AGR); the adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis, the AFL+ adaptive forward lighting and the Opel Eye.

Launched at the 2009 IAA, the Astra five-door has been very well received, with nearly 200,000 orders collected in less than one year.

GM Backtracks On Plan To Nix Chevy Nickname [Video]

General Motors Co. on Thursday backed off a "poorly worded" internal memo that asked employees to refer to the brand only as "Chevrolet" -- not its long-standing nickname -- in an effort to create consistency.

In the original memo, employees were discouraged from using the "Chevy" nickname for the Chevrolet brand. GM later issued a statement to clarify the intention of the memo, saying that it was only meant to help establish Chevrolet as a global brand and that employees needed to be more focused in their communications in referencing the brand.

General Motors said " 'Chevy' will continue to reflect the enthusiasm of customers and fans."
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The internal memo was part of an effort to develop a consistent brand name as it establishes a significant global presence.

In a video also issued by GM to correct itself, Alan S. Batey, vice president for Chevrolet sales and service, said, "Chevy is our nickname. It comes from selling vehicles here in the U.S. for 100 years. We love it when people call us Chevy." Batey was one of the two GM officials who signed the original memo.

On Facebook, brand pages include Chevy Camaro, Chevy Silverado and Team Chevy.

General Motors also stated that they were reconsidering resurrecting the talifin. A sudden resurgence of the love for the 1959 Chevrolet is rumored to be the reason.





Press Release

Statement on the use of Chevrolet and Chevy

"Chevy" will continue to reflect the enthusiasm of customers and fans

2010-06-10 DETROIT -- Today's emotional debate over a poorly worded memo on our use of the Chevrolet brand is a good reminder of how passionately people feel about Chevrolet. It is a passion we share and one we do not take for granted.

We love Chevy. In no way are we discouraging customers or fans from using the name. We deeply appreciate the emotional connections that millions of people have for Chevrolet and its products.

In global markets, we are establishing a significant presence for Chevrolet, and need to move toward a consistent brand name for advertising and marketing purposes. The memo in question was one step in that process.

We hope people around the world will continue to fall in love with Chevrolets and smile when they call their favorite car, truck or crossover "Chevy."