Chevrolet CR8: Middle East Gets 412 Hp Holden Commodore HSV

With petrol prices flirting with $100 a barrel, we’re guessing there’s big market for cars like the Holden Commodore based, HSV Clubsport R8 in the oil-producing areas of the Middle East. The Clubsport R8 will be exported to the Middle East in left-hand-rive form as the Chevrolet CR8 and that’s about all the differences between the two cars. The new CR8, which will be on display at the forthcoming Dubai Motor Show from 14-18 November, is equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 LS2 delivering 412 Hp. So, now that HSV has created a left-hand-drive version, what the excuse for not bringing it to the U.S.? -Continued after the jump

Press Release: GM Holden has teamed up with Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) to expand its range of exported vehicles to the Middle East.

The new export program, launched overnight in the Middle East, will see a version of HSV’s popular E Series ClubSport R8 model exported in LHD form and badged under the Chevrolet Special Vehicles logo.

The new high performance model will be known as CR8. It features the LS2 6.0-litre engine Generation IV V8 engine delivering 307kw of peak performance with 550 Nm* of torque.

With over 200,000 Holden-sourced short and long wheel based vehicles sold into the region since 1998, the Middle East has been Holden’s biggest and most enduring volume export market.

Currently Holden currently exports variants of the VE and WM sedan ranges which are sold in the region as Chevrolet Lumina and Chevrolet Caprice respectively. The Chevrolet Lumina ranges from the LS model (based on the VE Omega) up to the sports-based SS (based on the equivalent Commodore SS model).

Alan Batey, GM Holden Executive Director – Sales and Marketing comments, “This extension of our product range in the region illustrates the growing maturity of the Middle East market.

“Holden has been able to partner its expertise in tailoring vehicles for the Middle East with the high performance expertise of HSV to deliver a vehicle that will deliver a great driving experience.

“Local buyers appreciate the luxury brands but also seek great performance and handling from their vehicles. Both the Lumina and Caprice deliver that combination and with the introduction of the CR8, consumers will be offered another exciting option.”

Scott Grant, Managing Director of HSV, said “This announcement adds another important export market to the HSV portfolio, on top of our successful program with Vauxhall in the UK and long standing presence in New Zealand.

“HSV is already well known brand among car enthusiasts in the Middle East, many of whom are fans of the Aussie high performance cars and our racing activities.

“We have also been involved in the region through supply and preparation of 20 Clubsport R VZ models for the Lumina CSV Championship which is run by the Bahrain International Race Circuit and sponsored by Chevrolet.

“The initial response from dealers has been exceptional with the CR8 being praised for its aggressive stance, excellent acceleration and handling.”

Exports represent an increasingly important part of GM Holden’s current business model with total export sales for 2006 reaching 46,074. Of those, over 31,000 were for the Middle East in what was a record export year to the region for GM Holden.

Earlier this year, Chevrolet Caprice received its second major award in the Middle East as it was named Best Executive Sedan by Middle East Car magazine. In late 2006, it was announced as Luxury Car of the Year by Middle East Autocar magazine.

The launch of the new export program is timed to coincide with the Desert 400 V8 Supercar round in Bahrain this weekend where the CSV logo will feature prominently on Todd Kelly’s Chevrolet branded Holden Racing Team car.

The new CR8 will also be on display at a CSV stand at the forthcoming Dubai Motor Show from 14-18 November.

SEMA 2007: Chevrolet Silverado Major League Baseball

It’s big, it’s covered in baseball team logos and it has a power-lifting tonneau cover that rises to reveal a wide-screen television monitor connected to a Wii gaming console. And oh, it also features real baseball bat ash wood trim and trimmed leather seats that look like a baseball in the interior. Now, if only Chevy would hand us a bat and let us take a few shots on their SEMA Show Silverado, everything would be perfect… -Details and pics after the jump

Vehicle highlights:

• Silverado 1500 crew cab
• 6.0L V-8
• Multi-color, MLB-inspired paint scheme incorporating all team logos
• Power-lift tonneau
• Wide-screen TV with Wii gaming console
• Bose Surround Sound system
• Leather-trimmed interior with baseball stitching, color and feel
• Ash wood (baseball bat material) trim

GM Accessories features (production and concept):

• Chrome mesh grille
• Twenty-two-inch chrome wheels
• Hard shell tonneau cover
• DVD headrest system
• Ground effects kit

SEMA: Chevy Hot Rod Replica With A Flexfuel 500Hp 2.0L Turbo Engine

Instead of featuring a typical small-block V8, Chevy’s low-slung 1934 hot-rod replica is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine that runs on E85 ethanol. With the help of GM Performance Parts’ Stage III performance kit and a larger turbo, the alternative-fuel street rod pumps out a whopping 500 Hp to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. According to Chevy, the FlexFuel Hot Rod is more than just a conceptualized vision as GM’s Performance Division will put the concepy into service for a number of road events and tests. -Follow the jump for details & pictures

FLEXFUEL CHEVY HOT ROD DEMONSTRATES VINTAGE STYLE AND MODERN ALTERNATIVE-FUEL PERFORMANCE

With a 500-horsepower engine, a channeled body and a chopped top, GM’s custom street rod looks right at home on the salt flats of Bonneville. But instead of a traditional gasoline V-8, this ’34 Chevy replica rod sports a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec engine that runs on E85 ethanol. Appropriately, it has been dubbed the FlexFuel Chevy Hot Rod.

“Since the 1930's, hot rods have embodied American ingenuity, aesthetic flair and the quest for performance," said Bryan Nesbitt, vice-president of General Motors North American Design. "The ethanol Hot Rod is a modern statement that today's hot rodder can address energy concerns about the consumption of petroleum without sacrificing performance or style.”

The car’s low-slung stance and stripped-down essence suggests track cars and speed racers of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Open hood sides reveal the high-powered Ecotec engine, which has been pumped up with the help of GM Performance Parts’ Stage III performance kit and a larger turbo. The higher octane of E85 enabled engineers to tune the engine for more power. It is backed by a GM Powertrain 5L40 five-speed automatic transmission.

“The engine was built using the basic recipe that is available in the Ecotec performance book available from GM Performance Parts,” said Al Oppenheiser, GM Performance Division director of concept and vehicle integration. “Also, the E85 conversion is based on a kit that GM is exploring for regular production engines.”

True hot rod aesthetic

Like hot rods built for the last 60 years, the FlexFuel Hot Rod is built from an assemblage of factory and aftermarket parts. The frame and body are based on the 1934 Chevy, but both were fabricated by the craftsmen at the GM Performance Division (GMPD). The body has been sectioned and channeled to give the car its true hot rod aesthetic, while the frame is a one-off piece designed, engineered and built by GMPD. The slanted grille – with a unique chrome mesh pattern – and hood are integrated for a smoother look, which includes a sun visor characteristic of period hot rod racers.

Like any good rod worth its salt, there are no fenders or running boards; the 10-inch headlamps are mounted to the core support. The front suspension is all custom-built, complete with period-perfect lightening holes drilled in it.

A sturdy 8-3/8-inch Winters Quick-change rearend is suspended by a parallel four-link suspension. It is filled with 5.20 gears, which are used to generate brisk acceleration with 35-inch-tall, racing-type Excelsior rear tires and 29-inch-tall front tires. The tires are mounted on custom 18-inch front and 20-inch rear “kidney bean”-style wheels from Budnik.

Steering comes from a custom-fabricated linkage that is connected to a reversed Corvair steering box. The linkage is mounted to the outside of the frame rail.

Hand-crafted cabin

Inside, the FlexFuel Hot Rod maintains its racing-inspired minimalist theme, but with contemporary feel. Hand-formed sheet metal and earth-friendly materials were used to trim the cabin, as well as the racing-style aluminum seats. The dashboard was hand-finished, too, and filled with traditional-looking Stewart-Warner gauges.

One of the interior’s central points of interest is the racing-style driveshaft tube, which covers the custom driveshaft. It is a prominent fixture in the cabin because the body has been lowered around the chassis to achieve the streamlined appearance that was characteristic of old-school hot rods.

Road ready

More than just a conceptualized vision of an alternative-fuel street rod, the FlexFuel Hot Rod is a driver that GM Performance Division will press into service for a number of road events and tests.

“This thing is going to rack up a lot of miles,” said Oppenheiser. “With the FlexFuel conversion, it can run purely on E85, gasoline or any combination of the two. That means it can be refueled anywhere the road takes it.”

SEMA Show: 2009 Chevy HHR Panel SS 2.0L Turbo 260 Hp

Along with the 2009 Cobalt Coupe SS (see here) Chevy will also unveil the production version of the semi-commercial (and windowless) HHR Panel SS at the SEMA Show on Oct. 30. Equipped with the same 260 Hp strong turbocharged 2.0-litre Ecotec unit as the Cobalt SS, the HHR Panel SS will be available at Chevy showrooms as a 2009 limited edition model.

The HHR Panel SS (pictured above) will be accompanied at the Las Vegas tuning show by a customized SEMA concept version (grey colored van). The latter features a slightly modified suspension along with unique exterior and interior details like the polished metal body side trim and 20-inch wheels. -Details and images after the jump

Chevy HHR Panel SS Limited Edition

Chevy HHR Panel SS SEMA Show Concept

PRESS RELEASE - CHEVY HHR PANEL SS CONCEPT PREVIEWS LIMITED-EDITION PRODUCTION MODEL

At the 2007 SEMA Show, Chevrolet revealed the HHR Panel SS – a customized vision that previews a forthcoming production model differing only slightly from the stylized 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 customized with billet aluminum 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 tires. The FE5 suspension was developed and tuned at Germany’s famed Nürburgring racing circuit and includes specific stabilizer 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.

Vehicle highlights:

• HHR Panel SS
• 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and intercooled DOHC engine with 260 horsepower
• Electronically controlled automatic transmission
• HHR SS FE5 Sport suspension with modifications to accommodate concept 20-inch wheels and tires
• Enhanced brake system
• Production HHR Panel body with production and modified HHR SS exterior panels
• Satin paint finish
• Polished metal exterior trim
• Modified HHR SS interior, including SS-embroidered seats, specific gauges and A-pillar boost gauge
• Customized cargo area with billet tie-downs, rub strips and load brackets
• GM Accessories Personal Audio Link

2007 SEMA: Chevy Cobalt SS 2.0L Turbo 260 Hp

Chevrolet took the wraps off the Cobalt SS high-performance coupe today prior to the car’s official debut at the 2007 SEMA show on Tuesday, October 30. Developed by GM Performance Division (GMPD), the Cobalt SS is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit (the same engine is used in the European Opel GT) delivering 260 Hp, 55 Hp more than its predecessor did.

Power is transferred to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox with the SS delivering a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of approximately 5.7 seconds, and the quarter-mile in approximately 14.1 seconds. The top speed is more than 160 mph – 257 km/h. According to Chevy, the SS set a lap record for front-drive sport-compact cars at the “’Ring,” posting a time of 8:22.85 minutes – besting the previous record by more than 13 seconds. Powertrain aside, the Cobalt SS gets suspension and brake upgrades along with a subtle bodykit that doesn’t do much to get rid of the car’s “John Doe” looks. -Images and details after the jump

PRESS RELEASE - 2008 CHEVROLET COBALT SS FAST FACTS

• Engineered and developed by GM Performance Division
• 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and intercooled engine with 260 horsepower (194 kW)
• GM Powertrain Sweden five-speed transmission with short-throw shifter
• Nürburgring-tuned FE5 Sport suspension delivers 0.9 g grip
• Brembo fixed-caliper front discs and vented rear disc brakes
• SS-specific appearance with unique fascias and rear spoiler – including available high wing
• 18-inch high-polished forged aluminum wheels and Y-rated performance tires
• SS-specific interior with new sport seats, A-pillar boost gauge and more
• On sale: second quarter of 2008

TURBOCHARGED CHEVROLET COBALT SS GIVES A BOOST OF FUN TO THE COMPACT SEGMENT

LAS VEGAS – Celebrating the performance community that comprises SEMA, Chevrolet used the annual convention of all things high-performance to announce the 2008 Cobalt SS coupe. True to its legendary moniker, the Cobalt SS delivers a balance of track-proven performance capability, driving refinement and premium features – along with an undeniably fun and youthful character.

Developed by GM Performance Division (GMPD) and powered by a 260-horsepower (194 kW) turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec engine, the Cobalt SS delivers 55 horses (41 kW) more than the previous Cobalt SS Supercharged, and its driving experience was validated on racetracks throughout North America and Europe, including Germany’s legendary Nürburgring circuit.

“The Cobalt SS is the very essence of Chevrolet’s fun spirit and serious performance,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The horsepower will put a permanent smile on your face and you’ll find yourself wanting to turn around and zip through your favorite stretch of twisty roads again.”

The Cobalt SS coupe arrives in dealerships in the second quarter of 2008. A Cobalt SS sedan, with all of the same high-performance features of the coupe, follows a couple of months later.

Maximum performance – on the street or track

The Cobalt SS was developed by GM Performance Division (GMPD), with a team of engineers and designers dedicated to crafting high-performance vehicles. It features powertrain and chassis enhancements that are similar to the new HHR SS, but with larger Brembo brakes, a slightly “taller” final-drive ratio and other variances that emphasize the Cobalt SS’s pure performance ethic, as well as maximize its competitiveness on the track.

Engineered to offer more than merely a turbocharged rush of power, an all-new FE5 Sport suspension was developed and includes specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning – all designed to complement the high-output turbocharged powertrain and mitigate afflictions such as torque steer. Driver-selectable modes help maximize performance whether on the street or track. The unique “no-lift shift” feature enables manual-transmission-equipped models to achieve the best acceleration time via an algorithm in the engine controller.

Ensuring the car stops as confidently as it accelerates and corners are four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS. The front brakes are from Brembo and have a performance-oriented fixed-caliper design, which resist fade better than floating caliper designs; the rear discs are vented for better heat dissipation. Along with these high-performance attributes, the Cobalt SS comes standard with a host of safety features, including the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system and side-impact air bags.

With its balanced tuning, the Cobalt SS delivers a quick 0-60 time of approximately 5.7 seconds – thanks to the manual transmission’s “no-lift shift” feature – and a sports car-like maximum lateral grip of 0.9 g. This combination enabled the Cobalt SS to set a new class record while circulating the famed Nürburgring racing circuit, posting a time of 8:22.85 minutes.

Unmistakable style

The Cobalt SS is distinguished on the exterior with several unique features, including a distinctive, air dam-style front fascia with integrated projector-beam fog lamps. The new fascia’s grille and the Cobalt’s upper grille sport a new, SS-specific diamond-mesh appearance.

SS-specific rockers and badging adorn the body sides, while a standard deck lid spoiler adds the requisite sporty touch to the rear of the car. The standard spoiler can be replaced with an optional high wing-style aero enhancement that gives the Cobalt SS the look of a racecar. Also at the rear is a prominent, bright-tip exhaust outlet.

Large, five-spoke 18-inch polished forged aluminum wheels and performance tires are standard and are tailored with the specific body enhancements to give the Cobalt SS a lower, performance-oriented stance – while also showing off the large Brembo front brake calipers. They’re mounted on 225/40-series summer tires. Likewise, the available exterior colors enhance the sporty nature of the vehicle. They include Victory Red, Black, Ultra Silver Metallic, Imperial Blue, Rally Yellow, Sport Red Tintcoat and White.

Like the exterior, the interior is unique to the Cobalt SS, including SS-embroidered sport seats with suede-like UltraLux inserts, a specific gauge cluster, an A-pillar-mounted turbo boost gauge and a new shifter arrangement. Three interior color combinations are available: Ebony, Light Grey and Victory Red.

GERMANY’S NÜRBURGRING RACETRACK WAS THE PROVING GROUND FOR THE ’08 COBALT SS

DETROIT – The Cobalt SS is at home on the boulevard or starting grid, thanks to development at Germany’s famed Nürburgring racing circuit – a winding, undulated road course of approximately 14 miles in length (22 km) and with more than 170 turns. It is considered by many professional racers and auto manufacturers as the ultimate test of a car’s mettle.

In fact, the Cobalt SS set a lap record for front-drive sport-compact cars at the “’Ring,” posting a time of 8:22.85 minutes – besting the previous record by more than 13 seconds.

“The Cobalt SS delivers an integrated driving experience that balances a strong, satisfying feeling of acceleration with a precise, responsive chassis,” said John Heinricy, GM Performance Division executive. “It has been tuned to deliver confident handling and road manners, while also maintaining overall ride comfort.”

GM Performance Division (GMPD) is responsible for the “go, stop and turn” capability of Chevrolet’s high-performance SS models, and its team of enthusiastic engineers made sure that the new, 2008 Cobalt SS not only achieved stellar performance on the track, it delivered it with a grin-inducing level of driving satisfaction.

Specific performance features include:

• FE5 sport suspension
• Standard F35 five-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter
• Quicker-ratio steering
• Brembo fixed-caliper front disc brakes
• Vented rear disc brakes
• Eighteen-inch wheels and performance tires
• Driver Information Center “Competition” mode with launch control function
• Available limited-slip differential

Chassis tuning

Conveying the Cobalt SS’s turbocharged horsepower to the pavement is an FE5 sport suspension that includes a host of other chassis, steering and braking revisions – and a set of gorgeous, 18-inch forged aluminum wheels. The elements pull together to give the vehicle surprisingly agile ride and handling characteristics, as well as an enviable maximum lateral acceleration rate of 0.9 g – making it one of the best-handling cars in the segment.

“There was a concerted effort to tune the Cobalt SS for competitive track performance,” said Heinricy. “This makes the car not only formidable in sanctioned competition, but it puts a finer edge on street performance.”

The MacPherson strut independent front suspension uses SS-specific gas-charged twin-tube struts; unique steering knuckles with optimized geometry; 27 N/mm linear coil springs with specific damper tuning; stiffer control arm handling and stabilizer bar bushings; and a direct-acting, 24-mm solid stabilizer bar. At the rear, the SS’s semi-trailing twist beam axle uses monotube gas-charged shocks with specific damper tuning, a 24-mm solid stabilizer bar, stiffer axle bushings and multi-rate coil springs (28-40 N/mm). StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control are standard.

More than cornering capability, the Cobalt SS’s chassis – along with the available limited-slip differential – also is tuned to mitigate conditions often associated with high-performance front-wheel-drive vehicles, such as torque steer and axle hop. The result is smooth application of the car’s full performance potential, quickening acceleration and/or lap times and ensuring a smooth, comfortable driving experience on the way to the office.

Quicker steering

An improved electric power steering (EPS) system is tuned to match the SS’s handling prowess. The rack-and-pinion gear has a quick 14.8:1 ratio, which is 20-percent quicker than other Cobalt models, and the new EPS provides improved precision and a more viscous feel.

Brembo fixed-caliper brakes

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard. They consist of large, 12.4-inch-diameter (315 mm) Brembo front vented rotors with premium, high-performance, four-piston fixed calipers in the front and 11.5-inch-diameter (292 mm) rear vented discs with single-piston calipers.

During spirited drives, this gives the Cobalt SS a more precise and consistent braking feel that resists fading, even after repeated occurrences of hard braking, such as the driving experience on a racetrack.

The Brembo calipers are visible behind one of the Cobalt SS’s most distinguishing features: a set of 18- x 7.5-inch polished forged aluminum wheels. The wheels ride on SS-specific 225/40-series Y-rated summer tires.

The standard anti-lock brakes are connected to the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system to enhance stopping and handling in emergency driving situations.

TURBOCHARGER FORCE-FEEDS THE COBALT SS 2.0L ECOTEC ENGINE FOR 260 HP (194 kW)

DETROIT – The Cobalt SS is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec DI engine that delivers 260 horsepower (194 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm) with the standard five-speed manual transmission.

“Chevrolets are about fun and the SS models are the most fun of all,” said John Heinricy, GM Performance Division executive. “With the Cobalt SS, fun is balanced with a serious degree of capability, on both the street and racetrack.”

Features such as “no-lift shift” and other driver-selectable performance modes help the Cobalt SS achieve 0-60 mph performance in approximately 5.7 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in approximately 14.1 seconds, with minimal torque steer. The top speed is more than 160 mph.

2.0L Ecotec DI turbo engine details

The Cobalt SS’s Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine is the same that powers the recently introduced HHR SS. It produces 2.1 horsepower per cubic inch of displacement (130 hp / 97 kW per liter) and is the most powerful engine in the Ecotec family. Gasoline direct-injection technology helps the engine produce more power while maintaining the lower fuel consumption of a small displacement port-injected engine.

With direct injection, fuel is delivered directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture. Less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower, especially at normal cruising speeds, of a conventional port-injection combustion system. Direct-injection technology works well with turbocharging and helps deliver a great balance of power and economy.

Highlights of the Cobalt SS’s Ecotec 2.0L DI turbo engine include:

• Steel crankshaft
• Forged connecting rods
• Oil-spray piston cooling
• 9.2:1 compression ratio
• Aluminum cylinder head with stainless steel intake valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves
• High-pressure engine-driven fuel pump
• Mobil 1 synthetic oil

Components including the steel crankshaft and forged connecting rods are high-strength items that provide strength and enhance durability. Oil-spray piston cooling helps reduce cylinder temperatures and promotes longevity by delivering pressurized oil that continuously lubricates the pistons, which reduces friction. To enhance combustion, the piston tops feature a dish shape that deflects incoming fuel toward the spark plugs.

To accommodate the direct-injection system, the Ecotec 2.0L DI turbo has a unique cylinder head and intake manifold. The cylinder head incorporates mounting locations for the fuel injectors – items that are typically mounted in the intake manifold on port-injection engines. Specialized and extremely precise multi-hole fuel injectors are used to meter fuel and deliver it in a finely atomized manner. They are supported by an engine-mounted high-pressure fuel pump.

Apart from the mounting positions of the fuel injectors, the cylinder head has conventional port and combustion chamber designs. Large stainless steel intake valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves are durable components designed to stand up to the high-performance capability of the engine.

The unique cylinder head, fuel system, pistons and intake manifold are the major components that differentiate the 2.0L DI turbo from other members of the Ecotec engine family. Mobil 1 synthetic engine oil is installed at the factory. Synthetic oil was selected for its friction-reducing capabilities and high-temperature performance.

Turbocharger and charge air cooler

Pumping up the Cobalt SS’s 2.0L Ecotec engine is an intercooled turbocharger system. The turbo blows pressurized air into the combustion chambers to enhance horsepower and torque, while the system’s intercooler circuit cools the turbocharged air charge to maximize its effect. The turbocharger is sized to deliver a significant horsepower boost and almost no spool-up lag. Maximum pressure is almost 20 psi.

Because the pressurized air pushed by a turbocharger becomes heated, the Cobalt SS’s system employs an air-to-air intercooling system. With it, the pressurized air passes through a heat exchanger mounted behind the grille in the lower front fascia, where it is cooled before it enters the engine. Cooler air is denser, enabling the combustion chambers to draw in more air for maximum power. The cooler air also staves off the possibility of detonation at higher temperature, which allowed engineers to tune the engine for maximum power and ensure consistent performance in all driving conditions.

Transmission

Backing the turbocharged engine is a standard GM Powertrain Sweden F35 five-speed manual transmission. Semi-synthetic transmission fluid is used for its capability of absorbing heat and resisting breakdown during high-performance driving.

A performance-oriented feature referred to as “no-lift shift” allows maximum performance – upshifts can be performed very quickly without lifting the throttle. An algorithm in the engine’s controller enables this high-performance feature, which helps maximize acceleration and gear changes.

A short-throw shifter with stiffened shifter bushings and modified cables and attachments enhances confidence behind the wheel, giving the driver a firmer, more direct and quicker shift feel. A limited-slip differential is available with the manual transmission.

3.82:1 final drive ratio

The Cobalt SS’s powertrain has a 3.82:1 final drive ratio, which was selected because it allows the turbocharged engine to remain in the optimal section of the torque band during shifts and while driving competitively on a racetrack. This enhances both the car’s tangible performance measures and intangible fun-to-drive quotient.

PERFORMANCE-ORIENTED COCKPIT HIGHLIGHTS THE ’08 COBALT SS INTERIOR

DETROIT – Every driver’s element – from the highly bolstered seats to the A-pillar-mounted boost gauge – is designed to match the performance capability delivered by the 2008 Cobalt SS’s 260-horsepower (194 kW) turbocharged engine and FE5 sport suspension deliver. In short, the cabin delivers maximum functionality and driver satisfaction.

The features that comprise the Cobalt SS’s driver-focused interior include:

Sport seats: The Cobalt SS’s seats don’t just look sporty; modified seatback bolsters and “winged” bottom-cushion bolsters provide excellent support during spirited driving. The seat features contemporary, mesh-style impression cloth coverings with suede-like UltraLux inserts in the center section for additional grip. “SS” logos are embroidered on the front seats.

Contrasting interior colors, including Ebony, Victory Red and Light Grey, contribute to the sporty look and are offered in SS-only combinations. Color-matched door panel inserts complete the theme. The rear seat is trimmed to match the front seats and features enhanced bolster styling to also match the front seats.

Shifter: Compared with other Cobalt models equipped with a manual transmission, the SS features a shifter that has shorter throws between gears and a more precise feel.

No-lift shift: An algorithm in the engine’s controller allows upshifts to be performed very quickly without lifting the throttle.

Steering: The Cobalt SS has a quicker-acting, more precise steering system consisting of a modified steering knuckle and a new steering gear (14.8:1 ratio).

160-mph speedometer: A unique instrument panel gauge cluster is standard; it includes a 160-mph readout (255 km/h) illustrated with large, easy-to-view graphics.

A-pillar gauge: In what is now a signature feature of models with the turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec, the Cobalt SS comes with a standard A-pillar-mounted turbo boost gauge.

Driver Information Center: The standard Driver Information Center located in the gauge cluster allows the driver to engage several SS-specific features, including a “competition” mode that is designed for closed-course performance driving and adjusts chassis controls (including turning off traction control) in controlled driving conditions. A launch control function is part of the competition mode and enables consistent acceleration performance.

Additional changes: SS-specific satin nickel trim accents the cabin, enhancing the distinctive and performance-oriented theme of the SS’s driver environment.

2007 SEMA: Chevy V8 Powered Quadracycle

Bourget's Shredder 2008 F-80 Quadracycle might look like a hot-rod inspired toy but this quad promises to deliver a serious kick in the “arse” if you’re willing to depart a hefty $90,000 (€62,500) when it goes on sale next year. The quad-bike is powered by a… 425 Hp, 383 cubic-inch (6.3-litre) V8 Chevy crate engine. The F80 Quadracycle also uses other parts from the automotive industry including suspension and steering components.

"As the personal transportation market continues to grow, I wanted to build a new breed of vehicle that customers can get excited about, feel comfortable about riding, and customize it like the hot rods of the past with relative ease" said Roger Bourget, President of Bourget's Bike Works, "These machines will appeal to a new breed of open-air rider, and change the future landscape of the performance market." -Continued

SPECIFICATIONS:

- Limited Production of 25 Per Year

- MSRP - Starting at $90,000.00 USD

- 425 Horsepower, 383 Fast Burn Chevrolet Crate Motor

- Turbo 350 Automatic Transmission

- Winters "Quick Change" Rear End

- Porsche 930 CV Joints

- 4-Wheel Independent Suspension

- Power Rack and Pinion Steering

- All Aluminum Body

- Custom 17 x 12 Aluminum Wheels with AVON 330 Tires

Via: Jalopnik

2009 Corvette ZR-1: New Image Gallery Of Mystery Vette

Unless you shut down your desktop computer, threw out your laptop and moved to a remote area in Alaska for the past two days, you couldn’t have missed out on the ZR-1 frenzy that went on during the weekend. To make a long story short, GM rolled out a prototype version of the Corvette at California’s Laguna Seca Raceway and everyone went completely haywire as the vehicle is believed to be the long rumoured ZR-1, previously know as the “Blue Devil”. Today, ALMS (American Le Mans Series) released a new set of images featuring the ZR-1 running around the Californian race circuit. In case you really spent the weekend in Alaska, click here to see the video of the alleged ZR-1. -Image gallery after the jump

Via: Le Blog Auto , Source: ALMS

Video: 2009 Corvette ZR-1 At Laguna Seca

The mystery supped up Corvette prototype that made its way in California for the American Le Mans Series season at Laguna Seca was caught on tape while performing a couple of test laps on the raceway. We’re still in the black when it comes to details but everything seems to be pointing to the long rumoured “Blue Devil” or ZR-1 version of the Vette. (See image here)

2009 Corvette ZR-1 (?) Spotted At Laguna Seca

Others call it the ZR-1, others the Blue Devil, either way, both are referring to a future high-performance version of the Vette. While GM hasn’t confirmed the rumours, they haven’t disproved them either. To make things even more complicated, GM (unofficially) unveiled some sort of prototype Corvette in Monterey, California for the last race of the Amercian Le Mans Series season at Laguna Seca Raceway. The Yellow Corvette did a few laps on the race track before it was loaded into the back of a truck to go home and leave us with more questions than answers…

Via: Jalopnik , Pic source: Corvette Forum

Win A 2009 Chevrolet Camaro Bumblebee Transformers Replica!

Chevrolet has kicked off “The Bumblebee Camaro Sweepstakes” competition which will see three lucky chaps winning a 2009 Chevy Camaro modified to resemble the exterior of Bumblebee, as seen in this summer’s blockbuster film, Transformers. The Bumblebee Sweepstakes is open to all legal residents of the U.S. and Canada (excluding Quebec Province) over the age of 18 and begins on 10/16/07 and ends on 1/15/08. The winners will be announced on January 30, 2008.

A bit off topic, but we checked out the small print in the “Rules & Regulations” section and we discovered that, the Transformers Bumblebee Replica Edition has an approximate retail value of $40,000. According to Chevrolet, the price is based on forecasted 2009 Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of a base model Chevrolet Camaro. Link: Chevy

Ed Welburn Hugging A Chevy Camaro Prototype...

Aww, aint that cute? Well, no it’s actually funny but that’s another story. As you might have read on Carscoop earlier today (click here), GM’s Vice President, Bob Lutz visited Australia along with GM Vice President for Global Design Ed Welburn to check out Holden and the internationally sourced product development team working on the carmaker’s global rear-wheel-drive cars. When Ed Welburn saw his creation in near production form he ran over to it and, well you can see what happened in the image above. We did request the photo earlier and although this is pure coincidence, just in case it isn’t, we’d like to ask Bob Lutz for a second image -there must be more images stored in that Blackberry! We promise to (any) God that we won’t tell on him.

Via: GM Fastlane

GM’s Bob Lutz Goes Down-Under And Takes The Camaro For A Spin

GM’s Vice Chairman Bob Lutz completed a business trip to Australia visiting Holden (and apparently the 2007 Sydney Motor Show) and decided to do a write-up on the company’s official blog (Fastlane). Lutz was quite impressed with GM’s Aussie subsidiary and especially with Holden’s “passion for excellence and dedication to the product” as he described the carmaker in his own words.

He also had the chance to take several current and forthcoming rear-wheel drive models for a spin including the first fully representative prototype of the 2009 Camaro with close to final surfaces. Though the car isn’t ready yet, GM’s 72-year-old VC was moderately impressed with the Camaro. Here’s what he had to say about it:

“Twisting the key produced a muted rumble from the big V8. We pulled away smoothly in the first cog of the new, slick, six-speed manual. Depressing the accelerator shifted the world into fast forward, with three or four more quick upshifts. The car had just been completed and had had no tuning or finessing. But I loved the response, the sound, the steering and the brakes. There's more work to be done, for sure, and the group knows it. They still have time for further development. The goal of the team led by Gene Stefanyshyn is to produce the finest car in its class, ever. Do I think they will get there? I wouldn't bet against that team!” -Continued after the jump

Though Lutz did take pictures, he noted that he couldn’t share them with us. Oh come on, a little leak never hurt anybody. Think of all the buzz you’d create…

Via: Fastlane

Chevrolet Contest Offers 3 Cars To Every Winner

Chevrolet kicked off a new pan-European promotion campaign this week handing out more 50 new vehicles and 170,000 limited edition Chevrolet CDs to winners in 11 European countries. Apparently, nobody cares about the CDs so let’s concentrate on the cars –ok, you may not care much about a Chevy’s Korean offerings in Europe, but a free vehicle is a free vehicle. The campaign centres on a game, which can be played either on-line or off-line. Players select their three Chevy models and park them in the Chevrolet Dream Garage. In every country, the winner will receive all three cars he or she chose while second prize is the player’s second choice car and third prize is the player’s third choice car. The rest of the winners will have to do with the CD. -Continued after the jump

Wayne Brannon, Executive Director Chevrolet Europe says: “Chevrolet is still a young brand in Europe. We introduced a new Chevrolet portfolio for Europe only two years ago. Although, we are considerably growing sales year after year, awareness for our European product line-up is relatively low. We believe that once customers learn about our products and the great value for money that we offer, we will be even more successful in the market place. Last year, we sold over 340,000 Chevrolets in Europe, and we are confident to significantly exceed this number in 2007.”

The Chevy Volt: GM Answers (Almost) All of Your Questions

“The Chevy Volt” paid Boston a visit this week, interior and all. While at the “Volt Event”, which is hitting 3 other major cities in the U.S. (Miami, L.A and San Francisco), I had the opportunity to bring our readers’ questions and concerns about the new electric car to the engineers and designers that were in attendance.

In 1996, per direct orders from Mr. Lutz himself, the design team for the Volt began frantically sketching drawings of what will hopefully, one day, become a hallmark vehicle for General Motors. Bob Boniface, the Design Director of the Volt (father of the Camaro design) told us that GM’s main priority right now is to tie up the loose ends in terms of design and engineering and put this car into production sometime in 2010. Bob and his team meet twice a week, every week, with Bob Lutz to go over last minute ideas and production details. So for those of you that are anxious to see this on the road, don’t worry, it’s closer than it’s ever been. -Continued after the jump

For those of you that are more concerned with the design and overall logistics of the vehicle there’s good news and not so good news. There were many floating rumours about the battery life and whether Volt buyers would have to cash in some coin for an extra battery but it’s guaranteed to last 10 years and will probably be leased through GM.

But just to clarify confusion, here’s how it works. The Volt can be fully charged by plugging it into a 110 volt outlet for 6 hours a day. When the lithium battery is charged, the Volt will deliver 40 miles or pure electric range regardless of speed. When the battery runs out, the three cylinder turbo charged engine spins at a constant speed to create electricity and replenish the battery which in turn increases the fuel economy and range. The theory behind the engineering in terms of fuel conservation is that if you live with in 30 miles of work (60 miles round trip) and charged your battery every night or during the day, you would get about 150 miles per gallon.

The Volt concept uses a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged engine which is designed to run on E85, a blend of 15 percent gas and 85 percent ethanol. With E85, fuel economy of 150 mpg using gasoline would translate into more than 525 miles per petroleum gallon. But if you forget to charge the vehicle or go away on a vacation far from home, the Volt would still get 50 mpg by using the engine to convert gasoline into electricity and extend its range up to 640 miles, more than double that of today’s conventional vehicles. Chevy is also playing around with “variant” systems such as the Volt with hydrogen powered fuel cell and diesel engines, which drive the generator to create electricity using biodiesel (for our European friends).

So I must admit, its capabilities are very cool. But let’s talk design for a bit. According to GM, “the Chevrolet Volt’s athletic design challenges the notion that an environmentally conscious vehicle can’t be beautiful and possess an aesthetic spirit that matches its driving characteristics.” But we’re skeptical, especially since about 4 different people at the event told us that even though “the production model won’t look exactly like concept model, you’ll be able to recognize it as the Volt if you see it driving down the street.” For me, this raises a red flag. If GM can just get the design aspect right on this car they can hit a home run just like they did with the Camaro and Corvette. Hopefully, they’ll take the kinetic idea that the concept exhibits and incorporate it into the production model casting away the typical “boxy” style GM cars are so well known for. (Pictures: Daniella & GM)

Posted by Daniella