BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – General Motors will relocate its Performance Build Center, which allows engine aficionados to build their own specialty engines, from Michigan to the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, home of the Chevrolet Corvette.
The move, backed by a $3.5 million investment and slated for the first quarter of 2014, was part of a consolidation of GM Powertrain engineering sites.
The Performance Build Center has been the source for the 6.2L LS3 V8 engine, which powers the Corvette Grand Sport Coupe manual version; the 7.0L LS7 V8 engine for the Corvette Z06 and the 6.2L Supercharged LS9 engine for the Corvette ZR1.
The move will eventually allow Corvette customers to combine the experience of watching their Corvette being assembled with participating in the build of their vehicle’s high-performance engine. Details on which engines would be available for customer assembly will be announced in the future.
“This is exciting news for the Corvette Assembly Plant and the community of Bowling Green,” said plant manager Dave Tatman. “We host thousands of guests each year, many of whom are here to see their Corvette being built. Bringing the Performance Build Center here simply adds to the thrill of purchasing a Corvette and increases satisfaction for our customers and employees."
In 2011, GM announced a $131 million investment for Bowling Green Assembly, including construction of a new body shop and renovations and upgrades throughout the facility. The improvements support production of the next-generation Corvette, which Chevrolet unveiled on Jan. 13, just before the opening of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
“The fine work by the dedicated members of UAW Local 2164 has been proven in building these sports cars. We are pleased with the investment and the resulting transformation of our plant,” stated Joey Cato, UAW Local 2164 shop chairman.
The final economic impact for the Bowling Green community is yet to be determined but will include approximately 20 created or retained jobs, specifically for the Performance Build Center. In the past year, more than 150 jobs have been added to Bowling Green Assembly and more growth is expected as production of the 2014 Corvette begins.
“General Motors is an important key to the continued economic growth of South Central Kentucky,” said Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear. “This latest investment into the Bowling Green Corvette Assembly plant will not only enhance GM’s commitment to the region but will provide added appeal to the many visitors they host each year. It is beneficial to the local community, the state of Kentucky and all involved.”
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Chevrolet Supports Project to Help Truckers Avoid Idling
DETROIT – Chevrolet is supporting a project to help long-haul truckers avoid idling during rest breaks at truck stops through a technology that maintains a comfortable cabin temperature and powers a TV, laptop or microwave without emitting the carbon dioxide emissions that come from engine idling.
The IdleAir project is one of many innovative carbon-reduction projects across America where Chevrolet is making an impact on local communities, jobs and the environment. The brand is supporting various energy efficiency, renewable energy and conservation initiatives in its goal to prevent up to 8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from entering the earth’s atmosphere. To date, it has secured commitments for nearly 7 million metric tons.
With Chevrolet’s help, IdleAir can further expand availability of its engine-idling alternative. With the service, a driver pulls into an IdleAir space and installs a reusable plastic window adapter that accepts a unit connecting his or her cab to a heating and cooling air vent, TV, power outlets, internet and other conveniences. The truck engine can then be turned off, saving fuel, reducing emissions and keeping power on to the big rig’s amenities.
“IdleAir enables drivers to enjoy a better environment inside and outside of the cabin, without the noise, vibration, and exhaust fumes from idling,” said IdleAir CEO Ethan Garber. “By expanding access to this option throughout America, communities experience cleaner air, reduced noise pollution, local job creation, and an increased tax base for the local economy.”
IdleAir users save a gallon of diesel fuel per truck per hour. Drivers typically rest at night, so IdleAir uses off-peak power and has begun installing solar panels on some of its overhead trusses to provide solar-powered electricity.
“Chevrolet’s significant investment is driving innovation and encouraging unique ways for the country to sustain cleaner energy and, ultimately, reduce the effects of climate change,” said Mark Kenber, CEO of The Climate Group.
Chevrolet was the largest corporate buyer of voluntary carbon reduction credits in the United States by volume for 2011 as tracked by Forest Trends’ Ecosystem Marketplace, a nonprofit source of environmental news and data.
“If we want to leave the world a better place, we need to change the way we do things,” said David Tulauskas, GM sustainability director and manager of the Chevrolet carbon-reduction initiative. “Climate change, population growth, urbanization and other issues require our industry to transform itself. We are going beyond our traditional scope of responsibility – building efficient vehicles – into these community-based carbon-reduction projects to help demonstrate our commitment.”
Other recent project investments include:
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
The IdleAir project is one of many innovative carbon-reduction projects across America where Chevrolet is making an impact on local communities, jobs and the environment. The brand is supporting various energy efficiency, renewable energy and conservation initiatives in its goal to prevent up to 8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide from entering the earth’s atmosphere. To date, it has secured commitments for nearly 7 million metric tons.
With Chevrolet’s help, IdleAir can further expand availability of its engine-idling alternative. With the service, a driver pulls into an IdleAir space and installs a reusable plastic window adapter that accepts a unit connecting his or her cab to a heating and cooling air vent, TV, power outlets, internet and other conveniences. The truck engine can then be turned off, saving fuel, reducing emissions and keeping power on to the big rig’s amenities.
“IdleAir enables drivers to enjoy a better environment inside and outside of the cabin, without the noise, vibration, and exhaust fumes from idling,” said IdleAir CEO Ethan Garber. “By expanding access to this option throughout America, communities experience cleaner air, reduced noise pollution, local job creation, and an increased tax base for the local economy.”
IdleAir users save a gallon of diesel fuel per truck per hour. Drivers typically rest at night, so IdleAir uses off-peak power and has begun installing solar panels on some of its overhead trusses to provide solar-powered electricity.
“Chevrolet’s significant investment is driving innovation and encouraging unique ways for the country to sustain cleaner energy and, ultimately, reduce the effects of climate change,” said Mark Kenber, CEO of The Climate Group.
Chevrolet was the largest corporate buyer of voluntary carbon reduction credits in the United States by volume for 2011 as tracked by Forest Trends’ Ecosystem Marketplace, a nonprofit source of environmental news and data.
“If we want to leave the world a better place, we need to change the way we do things,” said David Tulauskas, GM sustainability director and manager of the Chevrolet carbon-reduction initiative. “Climate change, population growth, urbanization and other issues require our industry to transform itself. We are going beyond our traditional scope of responsibility – building efficient vehicles – into these community-based carbon-reduction projects to help demonstrate our commitment.”
Other recent project investments include:
- Bethlehem forest management in Pennsylvania – Collaborating with The Nature Conservancy to manage about 20,000 acres of forest to improve forest ecosystem habitats and produce a long-term supply of timber for local mills.
- Dempsey Ridge wind farm in Oklahoma – Investing in a 132MW project featuring 66 wind turbines on 7,500 acres of agricultural and grazing land.
- Gualala River improved forest management projects in California – Managing a 13,913 acre tract by avoiding commercial timber harvesting and allowing existing trees to grow.
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
Monday, January 28, 2013
CHEVY GRAND-AM AT ROLEX 24: Three Corvette DP Drivers Qualified in Top-10 to Set Starting Field for 51st Running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona
Daytona Beach, FL (January 24, 2013) – Richard Westbrook led the Corvette Daytona Prototype (DP) entries in qualifying for the 51st running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The Englishman, who won the first-ever race for the Corvette DP, put the No. 90 Spirit of Daytona Corvette DP in the fifth starting position for the legendary race that begins Saturday at 3:30 p.m. E.T.
Additionally, Alex Gurney qualified the No. 99 GAINSCO/Bob Stallings Racing “Red Dragon” Corvette DP in the eighth starting position, and Stephane Sarrazin was ninth in the final order behind the wheel of the No. 3 8 Star Motorsports Corvette DP.
The remaining Corvette DPs qualified as follows: Christian Fittipaldi, No. 5 Action Express Racing Corvette DP – 11th; Max Angelelli, No. 10 Velocity Worldwide Corvette DP – 12th and Joao Barbosa, No. 9 Action Express Racing Corvette DP – 13th.
In the Grand Touring (GT) class for the GRAND-AM Rolex 24, Robin Liddell qualified the No. 57 Stevenson Camaro GT.R in eighth position in-class. The No. 31 Marsh Racing Corvette, qualified by Eric Curran, will start 23rd in-class.
Matt Bell, No. 9 Stevenson Camaro GS.R, led the Team Chevy contingent in the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge with an eighth-place qualifying effort.
Other Camaro GS.R qualifying results for the BMW Performance 200 2.5-hour race on Friday afternoon beginning at 1:45 p.m. E.T. were: Bob Michaelian, No. 00 CKS Autosport Camaro GS.R – 22nd; Lawrence Davey, No. 6 Mitchum Motorsports Camaro GS.R – 23rd and Eric Curran, No. 01 CKS Autosport Camaro GS.R – 24th.
Scott Pruett (BMW) won the pole for the Rolex 24. Nick Tandy (Porsche) was the fastest GT qualifier, and Jade Buford (Aston Martin) won the pole for the BMW Performance 200.
Connect with Team Chevy on social media. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TeamChevy, follow us on Twitter @TeamChevy, and add+TeamChevy into your Google+ circles.
TEAM CHEVY DRIVER POST QUALIFYING QUOTES:
RICHARD WESTBROOK, NO. 90 SPIRIT OF DAYTONA CORVETTE DP – QUALIFIED FIFTH
HOW WAS YOUR QUALIFYING RUN?
“It’s a 24 hour race so qualifying is not as important as it normally is. The car felt really good. We are no match for the BMW’s at the moment, but I think we will be a lot closer in the race. It’s nice to be the first Corvette and it’s just good to start a 24 hour race at the right end. We didn’t really know where we were going to be after practice, but really happy. Really happy for our new sponsor Visitflorida.com and to be the first Chevy is good.”
HOW HARD IS IT TO GET YOUR CAR SET-UP FOR A 12-TURN ROAD COURSE LIKE THIS?“The main problem is getting it set up for a 24 hour race because you need a car that is good over a distance not just for one lap. That is why qualifying you shouldn’t really take too much notice of the positions because it doesn’t necessarily mean that is the race is going to pan out. We are pretty confident.”
ROBIN LIDDELL, NO. 57 STEVENSON AUTO GROUP GT.R – QUALIFIED EIGHTH
TALK ABOUT QUALIFYING OUT THERE TODAY:
“Well it’s never easy qualifying here at Daytona in this car. At the end of the day we kind of set the car up very heavily towards the race. When we put new tires on we typically struggle with a lot of understeer in the infield. We are quite a long wheel based car, so we struggle with getting the car rotated and powered down. But then the car is very good in the fast section through the bus stop and through the kink on the infield, so we made some time up there and braking into (turn) one. Overall the car felt pretty good. It was pretty much what we expected. Not the fastest car for a qualifying situation, but over the race distance it’s pretty much what we are looking for. I was quite fortunate to get a good tow, a good draft, so I was able to pick up a few spots. I think without the tow we probably wouldn’t have been where we are. I think we are happy because at the end of the day there are a few cars behind us that probably on our right pace should be ahead of us. Right now we are happy, but obviously going into the race the car I think we are in good shape for the 24 Hours we have a good reliable car, a good crew, good teammates, nobody is slow to put in the car. I think in the end that will all play to us over the course of the race.”
MATT BELL, NO. 9 STEVENSON AUTO GROUP GS.R – QUALIFIED EIGHTH
HOW WAS QUALIFYING OUT THERE?
“Well…short (laughs). I think considering our car is pretty much new from the driver’s seat forward, the car was really close to what we need. Maybe not for qualifying, but for the race, we are probably not going to do a lot of changes to it. It was a little bit pushy in certain places. I never really got loose so it’s stable and that is kind of what you want in a race car for an endurance race. I think we are in a pretty good position. We would have liked to have used this session a little bit more for some tuning and tweaking because we haven’t had too many laps in the car. Again, considering what the car has been through and what the team has been through, they really nailed it on set up. Kind of a shot in the dark, but they got it right.”
IS THIS A REALLY TOUGH TRACK TO GET THE CAR WHERE YOU WANT IT ALL THE WAY AROUND IT?“It is a pretty difficult track. It’s a complex place. There is an oval, not a lot of people tune for the oval here, but there are still a lot of high speed sections. The high speed bus stops, high speed braking, high speed into turn one that goes down to a very slow corner. There are the two horseshoes that are very low minimum speed so it can be tricky. Our Camaro is usually very good in the infield. We are a little bit off there we are going to nail it tomorrow I’m sure. That is our cars kind of high point is braking for the infield and pretty much the whole infield. The problem is these newer cars; especially the European imports are just so fast in a straight line that we really have a hard time. It’s a lot easier to make passes with your foot pinned to the floor than it is to try to dive bomb into the bus stop or into turn one. It’s complicated to set up the car, but I think we are pretty close.”
Additionally, Alex Gurney qualified the No. 99 GAINSCO/Bob Stallings Racing “Red Dragon” Corvette DP in the eighth starting position, and Stephane Sarrazin was ninth in the final order behind the wheel of the No. 3 8 Star Motorsports Corvette DP.
The remaining Corvette DPs qualified as follows: Christian Fittipaldi, No. 5 Action Express Racing Corvette DP – 11th; Max Angelelli, No. 10 Velocity Worldwide Corvette DP – 12th and Joao Barbosa, No. 9 Action Express Racing Corvette DP – 13th.
In the Grand Touring (GT) class for the GRAND-AM Rolex 24, Robin Liddell qualified the No. 57 Stevenson Camaro GT.R in eighth position in-class. The No. 31 Marsh Racing Corvette, qualified by Eric Curran, will start 23rd in-class.
Matt Bell, No. 9 Stevenson Camaro GS.R, led the Team Chevy contingent in the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge with an eighth-place qualifying effort.
Other Camaro GS.R qualifying results for the BMW Performance 200 2.5-hour race on Friday afternoon beginning at 1:45 p.m. E.T. were: Bob Michaelian, No. 00 CKS Autosport Camaro GS.R – 22nd; Lawrence Davey, No. 6 Mitchum Motorsports Camaro GS.R – 23rd and Eric Curran, No. 01 CKS Autosport Camaro GS.R – 24th.
Scott Pruett (BMW) won the pole for the Rolex 24. Nick Tandy (Porsche) was the fastest GT qualifier, and Jade Buford (Aston Martin) won the pole for the BMW Performance 200.
Connect with Team Chevy on social media. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TeamChevy, follow us on Twitter @TeamChevy, and add+TeamChevy into your Google+ circles.
TEAM CHEVY DRIVER POST QUALIFYING QUOTES:
RICHARD WESTBROOK, NO. 90 SPIRIT OF DAYTONA CORVETTE DP – QUALIFIED FIFTH
HOW WAS YOUR QUALIFYING RUN?
“It’s a 24 hour race so qualifying is not as important as it normally is. The car felt really good. We are no match for the BMW’s at the moment, but I think we will be a lot closer in the race. It’s nice to be the first Corvette and it’s just good to start a 24 hour race at the right end. We didn’t really know where we were going to be after practice, but really happy. Really happy for our new sponsor Visitflorida.com and to be the first Chevy is good.”
HOW HARD IS IT TO GET YOUR CAR SET-UP FOR A 12-TURN ROAD COURSE LIKE THIS?“The main problem is getting it set up for a 24 hour race because you need a car that is good over a distance not just for one lap. That is why qualifying you shouldn’t really take too much notice of the positions because it doesn’t necessarily mean that is the race is going to pan out. We are pretty confident.”
ROBIN LIDDELL, NO. 57 STEVENSON AUTO GROUP GT.R – QUALIFIED EIGHTH
TALK ABOUT QUALIFYING OUT THERE TODAY:
“Well it’s never easy qualifying here at Daytona in this car. At the end of the day we kind of set the car up very heavily towards the race. When we put new tires on we typically struggle with a lot of understeer in the infield. We are quite a long wheel based car, so we struggle with getting the car rotated and powered down. But then the car is very good in the fast section through the bus stop and through the kink on the infield, so we made some time up there and braking into (turn) one. Overall the car felt pretty good. It was pretty much what we expected. Not the fastest car for a qualifying situation, but over the race distance it’s pretty much what we are looking for. I was quite fortunate to get a good tow, a good draft, so I was able to pick up a few spots. I think without the tow we probably wouldn’t have been where we are. I think we are happy because at the end of the day there are a few cars behind us that probably on our right pace should be ahead of us. Right now we are happy, but obviously going into the race the car I think we are in good shape for the 24 Hours we have a good reliable car, a good crew, good teammates, nobody is slow to put in the car. I think in the end that will all play to us over the course of the race.”
MATT BELL, NO. 9 STEVENSON AUTO GROUP GS.R – QUALIFIED EIGHTH
HOW WAS QUALIFYING OUT THERE?
“Well…short (laughs). I think considering our car is pretty much new from the driver’s seat forward, the car was really close to what we need. Maybe not for qualifying, but for the race, we are probably not going to do a lot of changes to it. It was a little bit pushy in certain places. I never really got loose so it’s stable and that is kind of what you want in a race car for an endurance race. I think we are in a pretty good position. We would have liked to have used this session a little bit more for some tuning and tweaking because we haven’t had too many laps in the car. Again, considering what the car has been through and what the team has been through, they really nailed it on set up. Kind of a shot in the dark, but they got it right.”
IS THIS A REALLY TOUGH TRACK TO GET THE CAR WHERE YOU WANT IT ALL THE WAY AROUND IT?“It is a pretty difficult track. It’s a complex place. There is an oval, not a lot of people tune for the oval here, but there are still a lot of high speed sections. The high speed bus stops, high speed braking, high speed into turn one that goes down to a very slow corner. There are the two horseshoes that are very low minimum speed so it can be tricky. Our Camaro is usually very good in the infield. We are a little bit off there we are going to nail it tomorrow I’m sure. That is our cars kind of high point is braking for the infield and pretty much the whole infield. The problem is these newer cars; especially the European imports are just so fast in a straight line that we really have a hard time. It’s a lot easier to make passes with your foot pinned to the floor than it is to try to dive bomb into the bus stop or into turn one. It’s complicated to set up the car, but I think we are pretty close.”
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Chevrolet Goes to Bat for Tigers Fans, Military Families, PAL
DETROIT – For true baseball fans, January means a new season is near. Chevrolet will spread spring fever at the North American International Auto Show, the General Motors Heritage Center and GM’s Renaissance Center headquarters when members of the American League Champion Detroit Tigers visit with fans, employees and customers this week.
The visits, part of the team’s annual Winter Caravan, begin with an invitation-only stop on Thursday at the GM Heritage Center. Tigers players and members of the military and their families will be hosted by Metro Detroit Chevrolet dealers, tour the facility and see GM’s classic and retired concept cars.
On Friday, the Caravan will stop at the North American International Auto Show, where players will participate in a question-and-answer session at the Chevrolet display.
Later that afternoon, the players will travel to the Wintergarden in the GM Renaissance Center where they will be introduced by Tigers broadcasters Mario Impemba and Rod Allen, be welcomed by a GM employee rally and host a question-and-answer session with fans. Employees will collect and donate gently used baseball and softball equipment to benefit Think Detroit PAL, which organizes youth sports programs in the city. Donations to Think Detroit PAL can be made by texting DPAL to 80888 or by visiting www.thinkdetroitpal.org
“As the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball, we began our countdown to Opening Day in Detroit right after the World Series ended last fall,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “We’re glad to be able to share our love of baseball with fans and our customers as we launch our own all-star lineup of 13 new or significantly enhanced models in 2013.”
Chevrolet’s participation in the Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan schedule for Jan. 24 and 25 is:
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About The Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers, Inc., a charter member of the American League in 1901, have won four World Series and 11 American League pennants. The team is owned by Michael Ilitch who purchased the ballclub in 1992. Michael and his wife, Marian, jointly own other companies in the food, sports and entertainment industries include: Little Caesars Pizza, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, the Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, Olympia Development, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program, Champion Foods, Uptown Entertainment and Ilitch Holdings, Inc. Marian Ilitch is the sole owner of Motor City Casino Hotel. For more information, visit www.tigers.com.
The visits, part of the team’s annual Winter Caravan, begin with an invitation-only stop on Thursday at the GM Heritage Center. Tigers players and members of the military and their families will be hosted by Metro Detroit Chevrolet dealers, tour the facility and see GM’s classic and retired concept cars.
On Friday, the Caravan will stop at the North American International Auto Show, where players will participate in a question-and-answer session at the Chevrolet display.
Later that afternoon, the players will travel to the Wintergarden in the GM Renaissance Center where they will be introduced by Tigers broadcasters Mario Impemba and Rod Allen, be welcomed by a GM employee rally and host a question-and-answer session with fans. Employees will collect and donate gently used baseball and softball equipment to benefit Think Detroit PAL, which organizes youth sports programs in the city. Donations to Think Detroit PAL can be made by texting DPAL to 80888 or by visiting www.thinkdetroitpal.org
“As the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball, we began our countdown to Opening Day in Detroit right after the World Series ended last fall,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “We’re glad to be able to share our love of baseball with fans and our customers as we launch our own all-star lineup of 13 new or significantly enhanced models in 2013.”
Chevrolet’s participation in the Detroit Tigers Winter Caravan schedule for Jan. 24 and 25 is:
- Jan. 24: At 1 p.m., the Caravan kicks off with an invitation-only visit to the GM Heritage Center, where players will meet with service members from the Selfridge Air National Guard Base, the National Guard and their families
- Jan. 25: Two stops:
- 11:30 a.m. at the North American International Auto Show, where players will answer fans’ questions in the Chevy display (an auto show ticket is required for entry)
- 2:30 p.m., GM employee rally at the GM Renaissance Center Wintergarden. Shannon Hogan of Fox Sports Detroit will host a “pre-game” show.
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About The Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers, Inc., a charter member of the American League in 1901, have won four World Series and 11 American League pennants. The team is owned by Michael Ilitch who purchased the ballclub in 1992. Michael and his wife, Marian, jointly own other companies in the food, sports and entertainment industries include: Little Caesars Pizza, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, the Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, Olympia Development, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program, Champion Foods, Uptown Entertainment and Ilitch Holdings, Inc. Marian Ilitch is the sole owner of Motor City Casino Hotel. For more information, visit www.tigers.com.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Performance Chevys Raise $2.14 Million in Charity Auctions
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Five Chevrolet performance cars, including the first retail production model of the 2014 Corvette Stingray, raised a combined $2.14 million at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auctions that concluded Sunday.
Proceeds benefit the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Habitat for Humanity Detroit, the American Heart Association, the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination and the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans.
The all-new Corvette Stingray – Vehicle Identification Number ending in 0001 – sold Saturday to businessman and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick for $1.05 million just days after the Stingray’s world debut preceding the North American International Auto Show. The money will go the College for Creative Studies, one of the world’s premier institutions for industrial and transportation design. Corvette goes on sale later this year.
Earlier, an autographed press kit for the Corvette – numbered No. 1 of 2014 – sold on eBay for $4,300 to the Bowling Green, Ky. Chamber of Commerce; proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. The Corvette is built in Bowling Green.
Four other unique Chevys got bidders rolling at Barrett-Jackson, including:
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
Proceeds benefit the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, Habitat for Humanity Detroit, the American Heart Association, the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination and the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans.
The all-new Corvette Stingray – Vehicle Identification Number ending in 0001 – sold Saturday to businessman and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick for $1.05 million just days after the Stingray’s world debut preceding the North American International Auto Show. The money will go the College for Creative Studies, one of the world’s premier institutions for industrial and transportation design. Corvette goes on sale later this year.
Earlier, an autographed press kit for the Corvette – numbered No. 1 of 2014 – sold on eBay for $4,300 to the Bowling Green, Ky. Chamber of Commerce; proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. The Corvette is built in Bowling Green.
Four other unique Chevys got bidders rolling at Barrett-Jackson, including:
- GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson’s Regal Turquoise 1958 Corvette sold for $270,000; funds benefits Habitat for Humanity Detroit’s efforts to improve the city’s Morningside Commons neighborhood.
- A 2012 COPO Camaro Convertible sold for $400,000 aiding the American Heart Association. It is the final of 69 COPO Camaro factory drag-race cars built for 2012. It is one of two convertibles built and the only one painted Inferno Orange Metallic.
- Celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s personalized 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition sold for $270,000 and benefits Cooking With Kids, a program by the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination. Powered by a 505-hp LS7 engine, the 427 Convertible is black with custom yellow stripes – a twist on the yellow-and-black color scheme of his other Chevys.
- A 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible, the third Camaro ZL1 and first Convertible off the assembly line – sold for $150,000. One-hundred percent of the winning bid goes to the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans, which helps injured veterans compete in mainstream athletics, including marathons. It’s powered by a 580-hp supercharged 6.2L LSA small-block engine.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Return of the Stingray: The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette
DETROIT – Chevrolet is redefining modern performance with today’s debut of the all-new Corvette Stingray. And only a Corvette with the perfect balance of technology, design and performance can wear the iconic Stingray designation.
The 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). It is also the most capable standard model ever, able to accelerate from 0-60 in less than four seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip. It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, exceeding the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model.
“Like the ’63 Sting Ray, the best Corvettes embodied performance leadership, delivering cutting-edge technologies, breathtaking design and awe-inspiring driving experiences,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “The all-new Corvette goes farther than ever, thanks to today’s advancements in design, technology and engineering.”
The all-new Corvette Stingray shares only two parts with the previous generation Corvette. It incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new exterior and interior designs. Highlights include:
The new Corvette Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant, which underwent a $131-million upgrade, including approximately $52 million for a new body shop to manufacture the aluminum frame in-house for the first time.
“We believe the Corvette represents the future of modern performance cars because it delivers more power, more driving excitement and better fuel efficiency,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “The result is better performance by every measure. The 2014 Corvette delivers the fastest acceleration, the most cornering grip, the most track capability, the best braking performance and what we expect to be the best fuel economy ever for a standard Corvette.”
The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe goes on sale in the third quarter of 2013.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
The 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). It is also the most capable standard model ever, able to accelerate from 0-60 in less than four seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip. It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, exceeding the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model.
“Like the ’63 Sting Ray, the best Corvettes embodied performance leadership, delivering cutting-edge technologies, breathtaking design and awe-inspiring driving experiences,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “The all-new Corvette goes farther than ever, thanks to today’s advancements in design, technology and engineering.”
The all-new Corvette Stingray shares only two parts with the previous generation Corvette. It incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new exterior and interior designs. Highlights include:
- An interior that includes real carbon fiber, aluminum and hand-wrapped leather materials, two new seat choices – each featuring a lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional support – and dual eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens
- Advanced driver technologies, including a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to the fit the driver’s environment and a new seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching that anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
- An all-new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine combines advanced technologies, including direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system that delivers more power while using less fuel
- Lightweight materials, including a carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel; composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels; carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance that supports a world-class power-to-weight ratio
- A sculptured exterior features advanced high-intensity discharge and light-emitting diode lighting and racing-proven aerodynamics that balance low drag for efficiency and performance elements for improved stability and track capability
- Track-capable Z51 Performance Package including: an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.
The new Corvette Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant, which underwent a $131-million upgrade, including approximately $52 million for a new body shop to manufacture the aluminum frame in-house for the first time.
“We believe the Corvette represents the future of modern performance cars because it delivers more power, more driving excitement and better fuel efficiency,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “The result is better performance by every measure. The 2014 Corvette delivers the fastest acceleration, the most cornering grip, the most track capability, the best braking performance and what we expect to be the best fuel economy ever for a standard Corvette.”
The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe goes on sale in the third quarter of 2013.
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Chevrolet Expands Global Reach with Record 2012 Sales
DETROIT – Chevrolet, the world’s-fastest growing major automotive brand, sold more than 4.95 million vehicles in 2012, setting a global sales record and driving General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) global sales to more than 9.2 million vehicles, a 2.9 percent gain compared with 2011.
While the United States was the largest individual market for Chevrolet with total vehicle sales of 1.85 million, more than 60 percent of the brand’s sales came from other markets including Brazil (643,000), China (627,000), Russia (205,000), South Korea (125,000) and India (92,000). All posted strong sales due to new vehicle entries.
“ Chevrolet is in the midst of the most aggressive rollout of new products in its history, which helped us deliver our ninth-consecutive quarter of record global sales,” said Don Johnson, Chevrolet vice president of U.S. sales and service.
Guided by a new global vision, ‘Find New Roads,’ that is rooted in the brand’s legacy of ingenuity, Johnson said Chevrolet is poised for continued growth in 2013 with 13 new or significantly redesigned products being launched in the United States, including the all-new Corvette Stingray, Silverado and Impala , and 12 additional product launches around the world.
Chevrolet is building its global presence by delivering small cars like the Cruze , Sonic/Aveo and Spark , the midsize Malibu , and crossovers and trucks like the Spin , Trax , Orlando and Colorado that are designed for the varied driving conditions and customer preferences around the world.
The Cruze compact sedan led the brand with global sales of more than 755,000 in 2012, making it the best-selling Chevrolet nameplate around the world with nearly 1.9 million sold since its launch in 2009. In the United States, Chevrolet will launch a diesel engine- powered Cruze in the second quarter.
The top 10 Chevrolet sales markets in 2012 were:
On a corporate basis, GM sales in North America were up 3.2 percent and 10.1 percent throughout its International Operations over 2011.
General Motors Global Sales Summary
GM North America = United States, Canada, Mexico and other North American markets
GM in Europe = Western, Central and Eastern Europe plus Russia/ CIS
GM International Operations = Asia-Pacific, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East
Note: Iran, North Korea, Syria and Sudan are excluded from sales volume and market share calculations; * 4,053,550 including Russia/CIS
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About General Motors
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.
While the United States was the largest individual market for Chevrolet with total vehicle sales of 1.85 million, more than 60 percent of the brand’s sales came from other markets including Brazil (643,000), China (627,000), Russia (205,000), South Korea (125,000) and India (92,000). All posted strong sales due to new vehicle entries.
“ Chevrolet is in the midst of the most aggressive rollout of new products in its history, which helped us deliver our ninth-consecutive quarter of record global sales,” said Don Johnson, Chevrolet vice president of U.S. sales and service.
Guided by a new global vision, ‘Find New Roads,’ that is rooted in the brand’s legacy of ingenuity, Johnson said Chevrolet is poised for continued growth in 2013 with 13 new or significantly redesigned products being launched in the United States, including the all-new Corvette Stingray, Silverado and Impala , and 12 additional product launches around the world.
Chevrolet is building its global presence by delivering small cars like the Cruze , Sonic/Aveo and Spark , the midsize Malibu , and crossovers and trucks like the Spin , Trax , Orlando and Colorado that are designed for the varied driving conditions and customer preferences around the world.
The Cruze compact sedan led the brand with global sales of more than 755,000 in 2012, making it the best-selling Chevrolet nameplate around the world with nearly 1.9 million sold since its launch in 2009. In the United States, Chevrolet will launch a diesel engine- powered Cruze in the second quarter.
The top 10 Chevrolet sales markets in 2012 were:
Market
|
Total 2012 Sales
|
United States
|
1.85 million
|
Brazil
|
643,000
|
China
|
627,000
|
Russia
|
205,000
|
Mexico
|
179,000
|
Canada
|
139,000
|
Argentina
|
134,000
|
South Korea
|
125,000
|
Uzbekistan
|
123,000
|
India
|
92,000
|
On a corporate basis, GM sales in North America were up 3.2 percent and 10.1 percent throughout its International Operations over 2011.
General Motors Global Sales Summary
Units 2012
|
Units 2011
|
% Change
|
% of Industry 2012
|
% of Industry 2011
|
Point Change
| ||
| North America |
3,018576
|
2,925,256
|
3.2
|
16.9
|
18.4
|
(1.5)
| |
| Europe |
1,607,176
|
1,750,599
|
(8.2)
|
8.5
|
8.7
|
(0.2)
| |
| South America |
1,046,594
|
1,066,402
|
(1.9)
|
18.0
|
18.8
|
(0.8)
| |
| International Operations* |
3,615,931
|
3,281,245
|
10.1
|
9.5
|
9.5
|
0.0
| |
| Total Global |
9,288,277
|
9,023,502
|
2.9
|
11.5
|
11.9
|
(0.4)
|
GM North America = United States, Canada, Mexico and other North American markets
GM in Europe = Western, Central and Eastern Europe plus Russia/ CIS
GM International Operations = Asia-Pacific, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East
Note: Iran, North Korea, Syria and Sudan are excluded from sales volume and market share calculations; * 4,053,550 including Russia/CIS
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About General Motors
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.
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