Chevrolet HHR Panel SS Turbo

At the 2007 SEMA Show, Chevrolet revealed the HHR Panel SS – a customised vision that previews a forthcoming production model differing only slightly from the stylised SEMA concept. The Panel SS fuses the production HHR SS's turbocharged powertrain and race track-bred suspension with the unique HHR Panel body style.

"It was natural that our designers and engineers brought up the 'what if' question when it came to the HHR SS and the HHR Panel," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "They were given the nod to pursue it and we think the result is fun and exciting; it amplifies the very best attributes that have made the HHR so popular with customers."

The HHR Panel SS concept combines production components with custom details. And while the concept vehicle will be shown at events around the country, the HHR Panel SS limited-edition production model will be offered at Chevy dealers starting in the 2009 model year.

The underpinnings and powertain of the HHR Panel SS concept include the production turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec engine that produces 260 horsepower (194 kW), unique exterior styling and an SS-specific interior. The exterior details include production SS front and rear fascias, rocker panels, a modified SS front grille and an SS rear spoiler. It also features polished metal body side trim and 20-inch wheels that are unique to the concept vehicle, while a "suede" paint scheme has a satin appearance that recalls classic hot rods.

Inside, SS-embroidered sport seats – with suede-like Ultra Lux inserts – a new gauge cluster with 140-mph speedometer, an A-pillar boost gauge and a new, driver-oriented steering wheel support the vehicle's performance capability. The cargo area – there is no rear seat – has been customised with billet aluminium tie-downs, floor strips and load brackets.

Underneath, a tuned suspension based on the production SS's FE5 Sport suspension enables sharp ride and handling, but was modified slightly for the SEMA concept vehicle to accommodate the larger-than-production 20-inch wheels and tyres. The FE5 suspension was developed and tuned at Germany's famed Nurburgring racing circuit and includes specific stabiliser bars, spring rates and damper tuning – all designed to complement the turbocharged powertrain. Along with its high-performance attributes, the HHR SS is equipped with a host of safety and convenience features, including the StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS.

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet Camaro Concept

Combining dramatic design and exciting performance, the Chevrolet Camaro Concept recaptures the spirit of one of the most popular sport coupes of all time and redefines the Camaro for new generations of fans.

The Camaro Concept embodies the performance and passion that have made first-generation Camaros some of the most sought-after collector cars, updating the formula with a fuel-efficient powertrain, sophisticated chassis and contemporary design execution. The goal is to make the sport coupe relevant to younger enthusiasts while retaining its appeal to its current fans.

"Millions of people of all ages fell in love with the Camaro for all of the right reasons," said Ed Welburn, GM vice president, global design. "Camaros were beautiful to look at and offered performance that could rival expensive European GTs. Yet they were practical enough to drive every day and priced within the reach of many new car buyers."

Though only a show car at this point, the Camaro Concept is intended to explore customer reaction to design and engineering elements that might lead to an all-new version of the Camaro.

The long hood, short deck and wide stance of the Camaro Concept leave no doubt that it is a serious performance car. Those looks are backed up by a 400-horsepower aluminum small-bock V8, a six-speed manual transmission, and a sophisticated chassis with four-wheel independent suspension.

Like its forebears, the Camaro Concept would be practical enough for everyday use. It features fuel-saving features like Active Fuel Management™ cylinder deactivation technology, yielding highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or better. Its overall size is a comfortable fit for city streets and suburban parking lots, and its back seat provides occasional seating for two adults.

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet WTCC Ultra Concept

The Chevrolet WTCC Ultra has got what it takes to be the star of the Paris Motor Show – and not just because its rear spoiler shoots so brashly up towards the heavens. The bold and aggressive design of the racecar study takes the Chevrolet body language to the extreme. "We wanted to explore the concept of a Chev-rolet muscle car reinvented for Europe," says David Lyon, Executive Director GM Asia-Pacific Design. "A concept that celebrates Chevy’s racing heritage with a very forward looking design."

The ready-to-drive concept car set to premiere in Paris was developed by a GM team around the globe. It is the vision of a new generation of touring car- a design icon that bends the present WTCC regulations. "In addition to the premiere of the Chevrolet WTCC Ultra, we are also celebrating our second victory in the World Touring Car Championship," says the boss of Chevrolet Europe, Wayne Brannon, referring to Rob Huff’s success in Brno in Czech Republic on September 3. "Our com-mitment to the WTCC is of enormous value for emotionalising the brand."

In line with Chevrolet's diesel offensive, the compact WTCC Ultra (length / width / height with spoiler: 4,324 / 1,906 / 1,569 mm, wheelbase: 2,650 mm) is equipped with a powerful 1,991 cm3 diesel unit generating 139 kW / 190 hp. The basic version of the four-cylinder engine is the common rail unit with four-valve technology and variable turbine blade geometry currently powering the Chevrolet Captiva and due to go into the Epica from spring 2007. The increase in performance was achieved by raising the turbo boost pressure.

The WTCC Ultra has a sophisticated independent wheel suspension on McPherson struts on both axles. The lower wheel control at the front is taken care of by an A-frame arm, while at the back, two additional wishbones and one trailing arm link the wheels precisely to the chassis.

To keep the unladen weight as low as possible, the designers of the WTCC Ultra have made plenty of use of modern lightweight materials. The body parts are finished in "Stealth Blue", a further development of the familiar Chevrolet blue, and are made of a glass fibre and carbon fibre laminate. The flat underbody of the fully functioning touring concept car, which also graphically divides up the vehicle because of its dark colour, and the front and rear spoilers are made of a plain weave carbon fibre composite. The window frames and the air inlet grilles at the front are finished in semi gloss dark grey. They make an attractive contrast with the glossy silver-painted wheels and the polished alu-minium door handles, number plate and centrally positioned tailpipes.

Another aerodynamic feature apart from the flat underbody and the spoilers is a rear dif-fuser to create additional downforce.

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet Silverado

The all-new 2007 Chevrolet Silverado pickup has arrived in the Middle East. The Chevrolet Silverado, which was named the North American Truck of the Year and Motor Trend's Truck of the Year earlier this year, is GM's best selling vehicle worldwide. The newest generation is the strongest yet, delivering segment leading capability, power and fuel economy.

Delivering on its reputation as the industry's strongest, most dependable and longest-lasting pickup truck, the highly-anticipated 2007 Silverado adds a new dimension to the Heavy Duty pickup segment with differentiated exterior designs, unique interiors and class-leading power and efficiency. Dependable and capable, the all-new Chevrolet Silverado has one of the broadest model ranges in the industry, with a diverse array of body styles and powertrains that combine to meet customer's needs.

From the first glance, it's clear that the Silverado has a powerful, muscular presence. Chevrolet designers got the Silverado's design spot on with its broad, chiselled face, accentuating its broad-shouldered stance. The emphasis on the exterior styling carries over to the inside as well, with more space, increased storage capacity and numerous features that provide drivers and passengers alike with a unique sense of refinement and comfort.

"The Chevrolet Silverado has always been the most dependable pickup truck and the 2007 line up extends that legacy with industry-leading advancements in capability, quality, safety and fuel economy," commented Samer El Khalil, Middle East marketing manager for Chevrolet SUVs. "Silverado owners form a partnership with their trucks; they value the durability and dependability of a Silverado to get the job done."

There are three cab styles – regular, extended and crew cab – and three cargo box lengths: 5 foot 8 inches (short), 6 foot 6 inches (standard) and 8 foot (long). The pickup is available in three trim levels: WT, LT1 and LT2, and is available in 2WD and 4WD. A line up of powerful, Gen IV small-block V8 engines complements the stronger chassis to deliver the light-duty segment's highest-rated towing capacity (4,763 kg), horsepower (355 hp) and fuel economy (11.7 litres/100km). Light-duty engine offerings include a 4.8 litre V8 with iron block rated at 335 hp and 441 Nm of torque and a 5.3 litre V8 with aluminium block and Active Fuel Management, rated at 355 hp and 504 Nm of torque. The engines are backed by proven Hydra-Matic electronically controlled automatic transmissions, including the proven 4L60 four-speed automatic.

Equipped to meet any personal requirement or professional demand, the Silverado's responsive ride and handling traits deliver a heightened feeling of control while supporting class-leading capability, including segment-best towing capacity of 4,763 kg and a maximum payload of 980 kg.

Silverado delivers 360 degrees of safety protection through a stronger frame and body structure as well as industry and segment leading technology. It is also designed to provide increased compatibility with other vehicles.

Now in showrooms across the region, the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado is offered Dark Blue Metallic, Desert Brown Metallic, Greystone Metallic, Black, Blue Granite Metallic, Summit White, Silver Birch Metallic, Victory Red and Sport Red Metallic.

Chevrolet is the largest division of General Motors. Founded in 1911, Chevrolet fulfils the transportation needs of millions of people daily around the world – one out of every 13 vehicles sold around the world today is a Chevrolet.

In the Middle East, Chevrolet has a strong heritage stretching back around eight decades. Today Chevrolet brings the most comprehensive range of value vehicles to customers across the region, offering superlative excitement, strong personality, value for money, safety and security from a brand that has long been a trusted partner in the region.

Chevrolet boasts the widest range of passenger cars in the Middle East, from the cost effective entry-level Spark, Aveo, Optra and Epica models to the iconic Corvette, full-size Caprice and Lumina sedans. Chevrolet also offers exciting and capable SUVs from the all new Captiva to the TrailBlazer, Tahoe, Uplander, Silverado and Suburban models, as well as the chassis for commercial applications.

In 2006, regional sales of Chevrolet were up by 30% over 2005 to 98,042.

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet Tahoe Z71

The powerful Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 takes the Tahoe to the next level with a redesigned front fascia featuring larger recovery hook openings, larger, more prominent rectangular fog lamps and specific grille texture and platinum chrome grille trim. Eighteen-inch wheels and on-road/off-road tyres also are part of the package.

For keen off-roaders, the approach angles of the popular Chevrolet Tahoe has increased to 24¡ and a skid plate added. This provides even better off road capabilities to this segment leading full-size SUV, which already delivers a sharp driving experience, increased interior refinement and segment-leading fuel economy.

"It is the first time that we offer the Z71 Off-Road package in the Middle East," said Samer El Khalil, Middle East marketing manager for Chevrolet SUVs. "The Z71 takes a vehicle that already delivers segment leadership in a number of areas and adds extreme off-road capability to safety, reliability, fuel efficiency and superior ride and handling."

The 2007 Tahoe Z71 is built on GM's new full-size SUV platform, which incorporates features such as a new, fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and an all-new, premium interior system that bolsters the vehicle's comfort, quality and capability. Wider front and rear tracks enhance handling for a more confident road feel.

The Tahoe Z71 also features details such as spray-in expanding foam, which helps reduce noise by filling in space to eliminate sound paths. Tahoe's quietness and smoothness are complemented by capabilities that full-size SUV customers depend on.

Offering more power than ever before, the Vortec 5.3-litre V8 engine is rated at 355 hp and 504 Nm of torque with Active Fuel Management. When combined with other features, including improved aerodynamics, the small-block V8 helps give the Tahoe the segment's best fuel economy – 11.7 litres/100 km – better than any other full-size SUV.

The Tahoe Z71 receives a unique cluster appearance with Z71 badging. New and substantially revised features include power-release fold-and-tumble second-row seats, a remote vehicle starting system, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist, a Rearview camera system, a touch-screen navigation system and a DVD rear-seat entertainment system with 8-inch screen and enhanced features.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 has a comprehensive package of standard and available safety features. New features, including roof-mounted head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows, complement the stronger chassis and body structures to provide excellent passenger protection. For further protection, the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with new roll-over mitigation technology is standard.

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet HHR Panel

The 2007 Chevrolet HHR Panel, designed for a myriad commercial and private uses, adds a new dimension of functionality to the popular HHR's line-up of stylish, efficient vehicles.

The HHR Panel features windowless side panels and rear cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors. A flat load floor provides more than 57 cubic feet (1,614 L) of cargo space, along with approximately 6 cubic feet (170 L) of additional covered, under-floor storage.

"The HHR Panel is a model unlike anything else in the segment, and it continues HHR's mission of offering customers a bold, expressive, functional and different vehicle," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "It's great for delivery companies and other small businesses, but we think auto enthusiasts will love it too, as it gives them a large canvas on which to express their individuality."

HHR Panel production is expected to start late in the first quarter of 2007. It will be offered in LS and LT trims, with 2.2L and 2.4L engines – both of which help the HHR deliver 30 mpg in highway driving.

"Business customers will see great value in the HHR Panel," said Peper. "There aren't many vehicles designed for commercial use that provide 30 mpg."

Source: GM Media Releases

Chevrolet Groove Concept

Inspired by a "half-soldier, half-modern" military helmet, the Chevrolet Groove concept is contemporary and funky, but evokes classic Chevrolet heritage design cues like an upright windshield and prominent fender flares that give the Groove a strong, sturdy stance reminiscent of a retro hot rod.

Groove lead exterior designer Jawook Koo, of the GM Design Centre in Inchon, South Korea, was seeking a mini design that was big on presence.

"I wanted to get out of the mini vehicles stereotype that is characterised by a weak, insecure and 'cute' appearance, so that consumers can feel safe just by looking at the vehicle," said Koo.

The Groove's design conveys anything but weakness. The striking matte Lunar Quartz exterior finish contrasts with the strategic use of satin silver exterior chrome details. Big, five spoke 17 inch wheels pushed all the way to the rear give the impression of a vehicle that's much longer than it is, thanks to the short but pronounced hood and long, flat cabin, a design that provides for a roomy interior. Contrasting Vertigo brake callipers bring additional attention to the big wheels.

The front overhang includes open air vents that are integrated into the front LED fog lamps, and the elongated front headlamps further "lengthen" the vehicle.

Getting this front wheel drive concept in the Groove is a highly efficient, 1 litre diesel engine.

Source: GM Media Releases