GM Motors to near 10 million sales for 2013, with the help of China and Europe.

General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 9,714,652 vehicles around the world in the 2013, up 4 percent compared with 2012. Among GM’s top five global markets by volume, China and the United Kingdom posted the largest year-over-year sales increases on a percentage basis, with each up 11 percent. GM’s China sales set a new full-year record. Sales in the United States increased 7 percent.

“A healthy auto market in the United States and China, and very successful product launches at all of our brands worldwide drove GM’s growth in 2013 and helped us navigate difficult conditions in Europe and parts of South America and Asia,” said Dan Ammann, GM executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Ammann, who has been named president of General Motors, will discuss the company’s outlook and strategy at the 2014 Global Auto Industry Conference hosted by Deutsche Bank on Wednesday, January 15, in Detroit. GM’s presentation will begin at approximately 7:30 a.m. EST followed by a Q&A session.

A live webcast of the presentation will be available here. Presentation materials will be posted in the Investor section of gm.com shortly before the webcast.

Going forward, GM plans to announce its global sales on a quarterly basis using this new template as part of the company’s effort to provide insightful and easily accessible information about its global growth strategy.

Highlights (vs. 2012)

• Chevrolet sold a record 4,984,126 vehicles in 2013, an increase of 19,304 from the previous record set in 2012. Key product launches included the Silverado, named the 2014 North American Truck of the Year, and the Corvette Stingray, named the 2014 North American Car of the Year.   
• Cadillac’s global sales were up 28 percent. The brand ended 2013 as the fastest-growing full-line luxury brand in the United States, with sales up 22 percent following the introductions of the all-new XTS and ATS. In China, Cadillac’s sales grew 67 percent to a record 50,005 vehicles. Cadillac broke ground on a new assembly plant in China last year and plans to add one new model per year in the country through 2016.
• Buick’s global sales were up 15 percent as it introduced redesigns of the LaCrosse and Regal in all of its major markets and added new models in North America, including the Encore crossover. Dealers delivered 1,032,331 vehicles for the best year in the brand’s 110-year history. The previous record of 1,003,345 vehicles sold was set in 1984, before the brand entered the China market.
• Opel/Vauxhall sold more than 1 million vehicles globally and delivered a slight increase in European market share to the mid-5 percent range, its first in 14 years, following the successful launches of the Mokka and ADAM.

USA - 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 most capable yet.

• Enters supercar territory with race-proven design, advanced technologies and world-class performance
• With track-focused Z07 performance package, 2015 Corvette Z06 delivers faster lap times than 2013 Corvette ZR1
• First Corvette Z06 to offer supercharged engine, removable roof panel and available paddle-shift automatic transmission

Chevrolet today introduced the most track-capable Corvette in the brand’s history – the 2015 Corvette Z06. It stretches the performance envelope for Corvette with unprecedented levels of aerodynamic downforce, at least 625 horsepower from an all-new supercharged engine, and an all-new, high-performance eight-speed automatic transmission – all building on the advanced driver technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray.

“The new Z06 delivers levels of performance, technology and design that rival the most exotic supercars in the world,” said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America. “And the Z06 leverages the engineering expertise of GM, offering the choice of two world-class transmissions, supercar performance without supercar fuel consumption and technologies that make it easier to fully enjoy the incredible experience of driving it.”

The 2015 model is the first Corvette Z06 to offer a supercharged engine, an automatic transmission and, thanks to a stronger aluminum frame, a removable roof panel. The new, supercharged 6.2L engine is expected to deliver at least 625 horsepower (466 kW), and can be matched with either a seven-speed manual or an all-new, high-performance eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for manual control. The aluminum frame carries over from the Corvette Stingray and will be used essentially unchanged for the Corvette Racing C7.R.

A track-focused Z07 Performance Package adds unique components for true aerodynamic downforce, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires for enhanced grip, and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors that improve braking performance and contribute to greater handling through reduced unsprung weight. Although development testing is ongoing, the Z07 package has already recorded some of the fastest lap times ever for a Corvette, surpassing even the ZR1.

“The Corvette Z06 is a great example of the technology transfer between racing and production Corvettes,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “First, we took what we learned on the Corvette Racing C6.R and applied that to the all-new Corvette Stingray. Then, using the Stingray as a foundation, the Z06 and C7.R were developed to push the envelope of performance on the street and the track.”

Supercharged, efficient performance

The heart of the 2015 Corvette Z06 is the all-new LT4 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine, expected to deliver an estimated 625 horsepower (466 kW) and 635 lb-ft of torque (861 Nm). To balance performance and efficiency, the LT4 leverages the same trio of advanced technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray: Direct injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, and continuously variable valve timing.

These technologies – combined with the fuel-efficient multi-speed transmissions, aerodynamic design and lightweight construction – help make the new Z06 surprisingly fuel efficient.

“The supercharged LT4 engine delivers the greatest balance of performance and efficiency ever in the Corvette,” said John Rydzewski, assistant chief engineer for Small-Block engines. “It is one of the world’s only supercharged engines to incorporate cylinder deactivation technology, enabling it to cruise efficiently on the highway with reduced fuel consumption, but offer more than 600 horsepower whenever the driver calls up its tremendous power reserve.”

To maintain the Z06’s mass and performance targets, the LT4 engine was designed with a more-efficient, more-compact supercharger. Even with its integrated supercharger/intercooler assembly mounted in the valley between the cylinder heads, the engine is only about one inch (25 mm) taller than the Corvette Stingray’s LT1 engine – while delivering nearly 37 percent more horsepower and 40 percent more torque.

The new 1.7L Eaton R1740 TVS supercharger spins at up to 20,000 rpm – 5,000 rpm more than the supercharger on the Corvette ZR1’s LS9. The rotors are shorter in length, too, which contributes to their higher-rpm capability – and enables them to get up to speed quicker, producing power-enhancing boost earlier in the rpm band. That boost is achieved more efficiently, thanks to a new, more direct discharge port that creates less turbulence, reducing heat and speeding airflow into the engine.

The LT4 engine also has several unique features designed to support its higher output and the greater cylinder pressures created by forced induction, including:

• Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads that are stronger and handle heat better than conventional heads
• Lightweight titanium intake valves and machined connecting rods for reduced reciprocating mass
• High 10.0:1 compression ratio – for a forced-induction engine – enhances performance and efficiency and is enabled by direct injection
• Forged aluminum pistons with unique, stronger structure to ensure strength under high cylinder pressures
• Stainless steel exhaust headers and an aluminum balancer that are lighter than their LT1 counterparts
• Standard dry-sump oiling system with larger cooler capacity than Z51; used with dual-pressure-control oil pump.

The LT4 will be built in Tonawanda, N.Y., and at the new Performance Build Center in Bowling Green, Ky.

Eight speeds, no waiting
The supercharged LT4 is offered with a standard seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match, or an all-new 8L90 eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission designed to enhance both performance and efficiency.

“Unlike most ultra-performance cars, the Corvette Z06 offers customers the choice between two transmissions to suit their driving styles,” said Juechter. “The seven-speed gives the driver the control of a true three-pedal manual transmission with perfect shifts enabled by Active Rev Matching. The new eight-speed automatic offers drivers the comfort and drivability of a true automatic transmission, as well as lightning-fast shifts and manual control for track driving.”

The seven-speed manual incorporates rev-matching technology for upshifts and downshifts. This driver-selectable feature can be easily engaged or disengaged via paddles on the steering wheel. The seven-speed is used with a new dual-mass flywheel and dual-disc clutch, which deliver greater shift quality and feel through lower inertia.

The eight-speed automatic is tuned for world-class shift-response times, and smaller steps between gears keep the LT4 within the sweet spot of the rpm band, making the most of the output of the supercharged engine for exhilarating performance and greater efficiency.

For performance driving, the transmission offers full manual control via steering wheel paddles, and unique algorithms to deliver shift performance that rivals the dual-clutch/semi-automatic transmissions found in many supercars – but with the smoothness and refinement that comes with a conventional automatic fitted with a torque converter.

In fact, the 8L90’s controller analyzes and executes commands 160 times per second, and wide-open throttle upshifts are executed up to eight-hundredths of a second quicker than those of the dual-clutch transmission offered in the Porsche 911.

“There’s no trade-off in drivability with the new 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission – it was designed to deliver performance on par with dual-clutch designs, but without sacrificing refinement,” said Bill Goodrich, assistant chief engineer for eight-speed automatic transmissions. “It is also the highest-capacity automatic transmission ever offered in a Chevrolet car.”

Featuring four gearsets and five clutches, creative packaging enables the GM-developed eight-speed automatic to fit the same space as the six-speed automatic used in the Corvette Stingray. Extensive use of aluminum and magnesium make it more than eight pounds (4 kg) lighter than the six-speed. Along with design features that reduce friction, the 8L90 is expected to contribute up to 5-percent greater efficiency, when compared with a six-speed automatic.

The eight-speed automatic will be built at GM’s Toledo, Ohio, transmission facility.

Designed for downforce
The performance targets of the Z06 also posed a challenge for the design team, which had to create a striking design that also contributed to increased capabilities.

“Practically every exterior change served a functional purpose, as this beast needed more of everything,” said Tom Peters, Corvette design director, “The flared fenders accommodate larger, wider wheels and tires for more grip. The larger vents provide more cooling air to the engine, brakes, transmission and differential for increased track capability. The more aggressive aerodynamic package generates true downforce for more cornering grip and high-speed stability.”

The design changes began not with the exterior panels, but the tires.

To deliver the levels of grip needed for the Z06’s performance targets, the Z06 was fitted with larger Michelin tires (Pilot Super Sport tires for the Z06; Sport Cup 2 tires with the Z07 package). The P285/30ZR19 front tires are 1.5 inches wider than the tires on the Stingray, while the 335/25ZR20 rear tires are two inches wider.

To cover the wider tire tread, the fenders of the Z06 were extended by 2.2 inches (56 mm) at the front, and 3.15 inches (80 mm) at the rear. These extensions give the Corvette Z06 a wider, lower appearance further emphasized by a unique rear fascia. It incorporates the same taillamp assemblies as the Stingray, but on the Z06 the taillamps are pushed approximately three inches farther apart, toward to edges of the body.

The tires are mounted on lightweight, spin-cast aluminum wheels that are also wider than the Stingray (19 x 10 inches in front and 20 x 12 inches in the rear). Their open, ultralight design showcases the massive Brembo brakes, which are part of the design aesthetic:

• The Z06 features two-piece steel rotors, measuring 14.6 x 1.3-inch (371 x 33 mm) front and 14.4 x 1-inch (365 x 25 mm) rear, with aluminum six-piston and four-piston fixed calipers, respectively
• The Z07 package adds larger, 15.5 x 1.4-inch (394 x 36 mm) front and 15.3 x 1.3-inch (388 x 33 mm) carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors for consistent performance lap after lap, and collectively save 23 pounds over the standard Z06 rotors.

To harness the cornering and braking grip afforded by the larger tires and brakes, the exterior of the Corvette Z06 is tailored to produce aerodynamic downforce that presses the tires to the ground at high speeds.

The Z06 will offer three, increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce:

• The standard Z06 features a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and the rear spoiler from the Corvette Stingray’s Z51 Performance Package
• An available carbon-fiber aero package - in either black or a visible carbon-fiber finish - adds a carbon fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill – a small, vertical tab at the edge of the spoiler that significantly increases downforce
• The available Z07 package add larger winglets to the front splitter, along with an adjustable, see-through center section on the rear spoiler for track use. With this package, the Corvette Z06 delivers the most aerodynamic downforce of any production car that GM has tested.

The exterior design also reflects the increased cooling required for the new Corvette Z06. For example, the mesh pattern on the front fascia was painstakingly designed to deliver the most possible airflow to the supercharger’s intercooler heat exchanger, so much that the mesh grill directs more air into the engine bay than if the grille was removed.

The unique grille also features dedicated brake-cooling intakes and wider grille outlets on the bottom serve as air diffusers. The grille is complemented with a larger hood vent, which vents hot air from the engine compartment and contributes to downforce by allowing air driven through the grille to exit through the hood rather than being forced under the car, which could create lift.

Additional cooling elements include larger front fender vents and unique air blades over the inlets on the rear fenders, which force about 50 percent more air into the cooling ducts for the transmission and differential coolers than those on the Stingray. To cope with the additional airflow, the Z06 has also has larger rear-fascia openings than the Stingray.

Standard front and rear brake-cooling ducts, including Z06-signature rear ducts integrated in front of the rear fender openings, are also part of the functional design changes.

Inside, the Corvette Z06 is distinguished from the Corvette Stingray by unique color schemes that emphasize the driver-focused cockpit, and a unique, flat-bottomed steering wheel.

Like the Stingray, the Z06 will be offered with two seating choices: a GT seat, for all-around comfort, and a Competition Sport seat with more aggressive side bolstering, which provides greater support on the track. The frame structure for both seats is made of magnesium, for greater strength and less weight than comparable steel frames. They’re also more rigid, contributing to the enhanced feeling of support during performance driving.

The Z06 also benefits from interior details designed for high-performance driving, first introduced on the Stingray, including a steel-reinforced grab bar on the center console for the passenger and soft-touch materials on the edge of the console, where the driver naturally braces during high-load cornering.

The performance-supporting elements inside the new Corvette Z06 are complemented by unprecedented attention to detail and build quality. All models feature a fully wrapped interior, where every surface is covered with premium, soft-touch materials. Available materials, depending on the trim level, include Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and micro-suede.

Track-proven technologies
The 2015 Corvette Z06 leverages the technologies introduced on the Corvette Stingray, including the strategic use of lightweight materials and advanced driver technologies, with unique features and calibrations tailored for its capabilities.

“Our mission with the seventh-generation Corvette was to make the performance levels more accessible, enabling drivers to exploit every pound-foot of torque, every “g” of grip and every pound of downforce,” said Juechter. “It’s a philosophy we introduced with the 460-horsepower Corvette Stingray – and one that’s even more relevant with an estimated 625 horsepower at your beck and call.”

For the first time ever, the Corvette Z06’s aluminum frame will be produced in-house at General Motors’ Bowling Green assembly plant. It’s the same robust, lightweight frame used on the Corvette Stingray and it will be used essentially unchanged for the C7.R race cars.

The stiffer design of the aluminum frame allows the Corvette Z06 to be offered with a removable roof panel for the first time. With the lightweight, carbon fiber roof panel removed, the new Corvette Z06 offers 20 percent more structural rigidity than the previous model’s fixed-roof design. It is 60 percent stiffer than the previous model with the roof panel installed.

The new Z06 retains the SLA-type front and rear suspension design of the Corvette Stingray but uniquely calibrated for the higher performance threshold. The third-generation Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers are standard on Z06. They can be adjusted for touring comfort or maximum track performance via the standard Driver Mode Selector.

Like the Stingray, the Driver Mode Selector tailors up to a dozen features of the Z06 to suit the driver’s environment, including:

• Launch control: Available in Track mode for manual and automatic transmissions, providing maximum off-the-line acceleration
• Active handling (StabiliTrak electronic stability control): A “competitive” setting is available in Track mode and is more suited for on-track conditions. It can also be disabled, giving the driver complete control
• Traction control: Weather mode tailors traction control and engine torque for driving in inclement conditions
• Performance Traction Management: Available in Track mode and offers five settings of torque reduction and brake intervention for track driving
• Electronic Limited Slip Differential: Adjusts the rate at which the limited slip engages, to balance between steering response and stability in different driving conditions with more aggressive performance in Sport and Track modes.

The smart electronic limited-slip differential, or eLSD, is standard on the Z06 to make the most of the torque split between the rear wheels. The system features a hydraulically actuated clutch that can infinitely vary clutch engagement and can respond from open to full engagement in tenths of a second. It shifts torque based on a unique algorithm that factors in vehicle speed, steering input and throttle position to improve steering feel, handling balance and traction.

The eLSD is fully integrated with Electronic Stability Control and Performance Traction Management systems. Its calibrations vary among three modes, based on the Drive Mode Selector setting:

Mode 1 is the default setting for normal driving and emphasizes vehicle stability
Mode 2 is engaged when electronic stability control is turned off in the Sport or Track modes. This calibration enables more nimble turn-in and traction while accelerating out of a corner
Mode 3 is automatically selected when Performance Traction Management is engaged. This calibration has the same function as Mode 2, but is fine-tuned to work with Performance Traction Management.
The new Corvette Z06 will be available in early 2015. Performance data and pricing will be announced closer to the start of production.

USA - New Corvette C7.R shares tech with new Z06

• Co-developed with 2015 Corvette Z06, sharing chassis, engine technologies and aerodynamics strategy
• Makes competition debut Jan. 25 at the 52nd Rolex 24 At Daytona
• Continues legacy of Corvette Racing, which includes 90 global victories and 10 manufacturer championships since 1999

Chevrolet today unveiled the Corvette C7.R race car, which was co-developed with the all-new 2015 Corvette Z06. They represent the closest link in modern times between Corvettes built for racing and the road, sharing unprecedented levels of engineering and components including chassis architecture, engine technologies and aerodynamic strategies.

“When it comes to endurance racing, Corvette has been the benchmark of success for nearly 15 years,” said Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president, Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “A great deal of the team’s success can be attributed to the symbiotic relationship between Corvette Racing and the production vehicles. The 2015 Corvette Z06 and new C7.R will be more competitive on the street and track due to successful design of the Corvette Stingray – which itself is heavily based on the C6.R race car.”

Corvette Racing will field two C7.R race cars in 2014, starting later this month at the 52nd Rolex 24 At Daytona on Jan. 25-26. The race kicks off the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship – a new series debuting this year after the merger of the American Le Mans Series and GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series. The C7.R will compete in the GT Le Mans class in 11 races around North America.

The team is also is expected to compete in June at the 24 Hours of Le Mans – a race Chevrolet and Corvette Racing have won seven times – in the GTE Pro class.

Since the team’s competitive debut in 1999 with the Corvette C5-R, Corvette Racing has earned unmatched success. The C5-R and C6.R led Chevrolet to 90 victories around the world and 10 manufacturer championships in the American Le Mans Series. In 2013, Corvette Racing won five races and swept the manufacturer, team and driver championships in the GT class for a second consecutive season.

A key part of the team’s success is the technology transfer between Corvette production cars and race cars.

“Corvette Racing sets the gold standard for technology transfer between the track and street,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “We are continually taking what we learn in competition, and applying it to improve production Corvettes – which then make better race cars. As a result, the new Corvette Z06 is the most track-capable production Corvette ever while the new C7.R is poised to be even more competitive on the race circuit.”

Many of the architectural and aerodynamic features of the C7.R are based on equivalent components and technologies from the 2015 Corvette Z06, including:

New, aluminum frame
As before, the race car and the Z06 will share the same, production-based aluminum frame. However, for the first time, the frames for the race car and production Z06 will be built in-house at the Corvette’s Bowling Green, Ky., assembly plant.

By leveraging advanced manufacturing materials – such as laser welding, Flowdrill-machined fasteners and a GM-patented aluminum spot-welding process – the production structure is significantly stronger than its predecessor. For Corvette Racing, this equates to a race chassis for the C7.R that is 40 percent stronger than the outgoing C6.R.

“In the first lap in the C7.R, the drivers felt the increase in chassis stiffness,” said Mark Kent, director of Racing for Chevrolet. “The drivers instantly noticed that the C7.R handling was better over changing surface features and rough track segments. This is important as our drivers don’t always stay on the smooth pavement, and are constantly driving over curbing at corner apexes.”

Direct-injected engine
The addition of direct fuel injection to the Corvette Z06 will enable the technology to return to a Corvette race car for the first time since the end of the GT1 era in 2009. It promises greater efficiency, which can make a significant difference in long-distance endurance racing such as Daytona and Le Mans through fewer time-consuming pit stops.

“Direct injection offers two advantages for the race team,” said Kent. “First, it offers drivers more precise throttle control, so that even the smallest changes in the driver’s throttle position delivers a proportional response from the engine. Second, direct injection typically improves fuel economy about 3 percent. That could be enough to bypass one fuel stop during a 24-hour race. Given that races are often won and lost in the pits, a 3 percent gain in fuel economy could translate to a significant advantage in track position.”

Aerodynamics
The aerodynamic strategies of the Corvette Stingray came directly from the Corvette C6.R – including the forward-tilted radiator, functional hood and front-quarter panel vents, and rear transmission and differential cooling intakes.

The Z06 and C7.R take that aerodynamic foundation to the next level, sharing aggressive strategies for increased cooling and aerodynamic downforce, including similar front splitters, rocker panels, and front- and rear-brake cooling ducts.

“We worked concurrently with the race team developing the aerodynamic packages for the Z06 and the C7.R,” said Juechter. “We even used the same modeling software to test both cars, enabling us to share data and wind-tunnel test results. As a result, the aerodynamics of the production Z06 produce the most downforce of any production car GM has ever tested, and we are closing in on the aero performance of a dedicated race car.”

There are, of course, differences between the race car and production Corvette Z06. For example, the C7.R carries over the powertrain for the C6.R, as the GT rules limit the maximum displacement to 5.5L, and prohibit forced induction. By comparison, the new Z06 boasts a supercharged 6.2L engine estimated at 625 horsepower. Both engines, however, are based on the historic small block architecture.

The suspension on the C7.R is modified to accommodate wider racing tires and larger brakes, again part of the GT regulations.

On the aerodynamic side, one major difference is the shift away from U.S. National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, or NACA, ducts on the C7.R. The C6.R used two NACA ducts, on top of the rear bodywork and near the position of the rear wheels, for cooling. For the new C7.R, there are now openings on each of the rear quarter panels, above the brake ducts, which will draw air to help cool the race car’s transaxle and differential.

Additionally, one of the primary results of the C7.R’s aero detail is making the rear wing a more-significant part of the car’s aero package. A larger radiator inlet has the added benefit of generating smoother airflow over the rear wing and making its use more efficient to the handling and stability of the race car at high speed.

Speedboys - part 1 - Larry Watson

Cool Larry Watson photo collection
Found on the amazing Speedboys blog

Wheels and Waves 2013 - Saturday - The Ride - part 3

New Corvette Stingray Coupe testing at the Nurburgring

Nürburgring is a name that evokes strong feelings in any motorsports aficionado and a place where racing history has been made and re-written time and again. It also is the location where the European model of the new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe is currently being tested, a few months prior to the start of sales in Europe.

"Nürburgring is renowned for its demanding race track and it is perfectly suited for our purpose, which is to fine-tune the ride and handling characteristics of the European Corvette Stingray," said Jim Mero, vehicle dynamics engineer at General Motors. "We are paying particular attention to the suspension set-up and the steering at Nürburgring. European roads are quite distinct and different from those in the U.S., and so are driving habits."

Chevrolet's technical experts are currently assessing two Corvette Stingrays in Europe, both of which are driven on a wide variety of roads. The testing procedures are part of the GM standard quality control program which is conducted for each new Chevrolet model before it goes on sale in Europe.

FRANKFURT - Chevrolet + Corvette

• World and European debut of Chevrolet Camaro convertible and coupe, respectively
• Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible celebrate German premiere
• New MyLink radios introduced on Cruze, Orlando, new Camaro and Corvette
• Chevrolet expands powertrain offer, introduces radar-aided warning system and advanced parking aid

The debut of the new Camaro convertible and coupe, the German premiere of the all-new Corvette Stingray, the expansion of the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio offering, as well as many new features for multiple passenger cars are Chevrolet's highlights at the 65th Frankfurt Motor Show.

Whether you are a sports car fan, an early adopter of new connectivity technology, or a driver intent on getting more value for your money, the Chevrolet stand (B03 in hall 9) at the IAA 2013 offers plenty of relevant themes and attractions. Spread over nearly 1800 square metres, it includes a store offering branded and product-specific merchandise as well as a meeting point where visitors can try out fun activities and obtain give-aways.

During the press days (September 10 and 11, 2013), representatives from Chevrolet's app partners TuneIn, Stitcher and BringGo will be available on site to explain the functionality and wide range of benefits their systems offer to drivers.

New Camaro features enhanced aerodynamics

Boasting a low-slung silhouette and Chevrolet's newest MyLink connected radio, the latest model of this famed American muscle car represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept vehicle in 2006.

It also features improved high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The front fascia has a wider lower grille and a narrower upper grille, while the functional hood vent helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. At the rear, a sculptural deck lid, horizontal lamps and a diffuser complete the new design.

Power is supplied by the proven 6.2L V8 engine which is mated to a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.The manual transmission version churns out 432 hp (318 kW) at 5,900 rpm and delivers a torque of 569 Nm at 4,600 rpm. 0-62 mph acceleration is 5.2 seconds for the manual coupe and 5.4 seconds for the manual convertible.*

Remote keyless entry is standard as are a new colour heads-up display, one of the two new Chevrolet MyLink connected radios and a rearview camera.  

Corvette Stingray takes performance and customisation to new level

Shown for the very first time at an auto show in Germany, the new Corvette Stingray will be equipped and tuned to meet the needs of customers in the highly competitive European market. It will feature the Z51 performance pack and the latest magnetic ride control suspensions as standard.

While sales of the Corvette Stingray will kick off in the U.S. shortly, select Chevrolet dealerships across Europe are gearing up for the arrival of the coupe toward the end of this year. In the UK, prices for the coupe and convertible variants start from£61,495 and £64,495,respectively. The convertible will be available in Europe as of early 2014.

The new 6.2L LT1 V8 engine provides 460 hp (343 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm with the performance exhaust system (SAE-certified data). In fact, the Corvette Stingray has achieved the highest standard power ratings ever for the Corvette; performance figures include 0-62 mph acceleration of 4.2 seconds and more than 1g in cornering grip.

The host of advanced technologies incorporated in the new Corvette Stingray includes:

• a new 7-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching which anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
• Active Fuel Management, which enables the Corvette Stingray to cruise on only four cylinders during light load conditions such as highway cruising
• an all-new aluminum frame that is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the steel frame used in the predecessor model
• dry-sump oiling system, differential and transmission cooling
• a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit the driver's environment
• launch control: available in Track mode, for maximum off-the-line acceleration
• an entirely new exterior design that boasts race-track-proven aerodynamics, a new interior offering genuine carbon fibre and aluminum trim, as well as hand-wrapped leather materials.
• A new tablet-inspired state-of-the-art Chevrolet MyLink connected radio allows drivers to personalise a host of their car's functions to match their ride every day, from relaxed highway cruising to high-performance laps at the track. The system consists of two eight-inch liquid crystal (LCD) display screens with a screen personalisation option, USB port, SD card as well a centre screen that lowers for device storage.

Chevrolet is one of Europe's most connected car brands

Its innovative technology and ease of use have won the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio many fans since it was introduced in Europe in summer 2012. This autumn, Chevrolet is bringing two new versions of the radio to market that will further evolve the system's capabilities and appeal to consumers.

Chevrolet MyLink technology has a lot to offer to modern connected consumers, whether these are drivers who want to mirror the functions of their smartphone in the car or tech aficionados who wish to customise their individual ride experience.

Built around a 7 or 8-inch high-resolution full-colour touch screen, Chevrolet's MyLink radios allow users to easily access media, including specialist apps, from their portable device. This includes phone books, personal playlists, photo galleries, and other stored data. Mass storage devices, including MP3 players, iPod, iPad can be connected through USB, Bluetooth or aux-in jacks.

The system currently on offer is available on select trims of the Chevrolet Aveo, and Trax. It has a 7-inch high-resolution full-colour touch screen and can store the pairing information of up to 5 smartphones at one time. Owners of a compatible iPhone are able to use Siri Eyes Free, an intelligent assistant that helps get things done just by asking. The radio also enables users to take advantage of three dedicated smartphone apps – BringGo, TuneIn and Stitcher.

The first of the two new Chevrolet MyLink radios will be offered to buyers of the latest models of the Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando family car, and the new Camaro. It features an enhanced icon-based navigation menu on its 7-inch touch screen. In addition to voice recognition for select languages, this system has text-to-speech capability, which allows users to listen to text messages from their smartphone**.

A rearview camera provides improved vision during parking maneuvers. Depending on the carline, trim level and market, the package may incorporate an integrated navigation system with coverage of all of Europe.

Owners of a Corvette Stingray will be able to use atablet-inspired state-of-the-art system featuring two 8-inch liquid crystal (LCD) display screens.

The screen above the integrated centre stack offers full capacitive control with an animated human machine interface. The liquid crystal display screen in the centre of the instrument cluster can provide up to 69 unique sources of information, ranging from an interactive performance timer to a tyre tread temperature display.

It is organized into sport, tour and track themes that can be changed using the Driver Mode Selector. Each display theme is designed for a specific driving scenario and can be configured through applications found in the “app tray.”

The Corvette Stingray's MyLink connected radio, too, enables voice recognition and text-to-speech**. Up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled devices can be paired and several of them connected at one time; connectivity is also possible through USB and aux-in jacks. A rearview camera is standard, and customers can opt to add an integrated navigation system.

As is the case for all Chevrolet MyLink connected radios, owners of the new systems will be able to upgrade their device with specialised apps once they become available.

More value for the money: fresh design, new powertrain options and enhanced safety

With the new model year, one of Chevrolet's most successful European cars, the Spark, will provide improved safety, thanks to standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and meet Euro5+ emission criteria. Inside, the instrument cluster and trims have been restyled. A new radio with Bluetooth connectivity, CD player, USB and aux-in jacks is standard on most trim levels.

In select European markets, customers can order the new Spark Bubble, a special edition of the popular city car. It carries a sporty bumper, side rocker moldings, 15-inch white painted alloy wheels as well as frisky white or pink-coloured Bubble decals on the front fenders.

Customers buying an Aveo with the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio will get a standard rearview camera. In addition, higher trims of the Chevrolet Aveo will have stylish LED turn signals mounted in the outside mirrors.

Starting this autumn, a choice of four petrol engines will be available on all body styles of the Cruze – a naturally aspirated 1.4L (100 hp/75 kW), a 1.4L turbo (140 hp/103 kW), a 1.6L (117 hp/86 kW) and a 1.8L (141 hp/104 kW) engine. The diesel line-up, currently consisting of a 1.7L (130 hp/ 96kW) and a 2.0L (163 hp/120 kW) unit, will be complemented by a 110 hp (81 kW) variant of the1.7L diesel. The latter has the smallest carbon footprint of all engines offered on the Cruze – with just 99 g of CO2 per km for the saloon body style.

The Cruze's outside rearview mirrors sport integrated LED turn signals. On higher trims of the Cruze family, Chevrolet is introducing Side Blind Zone Alert, a safety feature that spots approaching vehicles in the side blind zone by means of radar.

The Orlando is available with Side Blind Spot Alert and Advanced Parking Aid with the new model year. The former has ultrasonic sensors that detect approaching vehicles in the blind spot and warns the driver through an illuminated icon in the outside rearview mirrors. The Advanced Parking Aid identifies suitable parallel parking slots at low speeds and gives the driver instructions on how to steer the vehicle.

Changes to the exterior include LED turn signals in the outside rearview mirrors as well as new 16-inch wheel covers and 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels. Under the hood, the Orlando's proven 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine can be now matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The turbocharged petrol variant (1.4L) of Chevrolet's small SUV, the Trax, will become available with a front-wheel-drive layout as of this autumn. When matched to a six-speed manual transmission, this variant of the Trax is capable of 0 -62 mph acceleration in 9.5 seconds. Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is 47.1 mpg with Stop/Start, which translates into 139 g of CO2 per km. An automatic gearbox is also available for this powertrain option, in selected markets.

Chevrolet dealerships across Europe have started offering the upgraded version of the 2.0L diesel-powered Malibu. The manual transmission variant has standard Start/Stop and delivers a reduced fuel consumption of 60.1 mpg on a combined cycle. CO2 emissions are 125 g per km. Further enhancements include a rear view camera on upper trims as well as an emergency stop signal that is activated on all variants during emergency braking.

Trip to Wheels and Waves - Friday - The race - part 1

Thank you Southsiders for raising the bar
This was by far the coolest day of the year so far!
In the middle of nowhere, next to a sailplane runway in the hills there was a curly road with barbwire on both sides with loose gravel in the corners.
Perfect spot for hillbilly drag race, ha!