2011 Chevrolet CAPRICE Police Patrol Vehicle

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS An all-new Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV) will join the ranks of law enforcement departments across North America in 2011. It's a modern, full-size, rear-drive sedan that will offer both V-8 and V-6 engines, as well as a host of specialized equipment and features. Unlike other police cars on the market, the Caprice PPV is not based on existing "civilian" passenger-car model sold in North America. It has been developed in key areas specifically for police duty, containing modern equipment and features. Special front seats designed for the long-term comfort of officers whose car is their effective office. The front seats are sculpted to "pocket" the equipment belt, which greatly increases the comfort for a great range of police officer sizes. The foam density of the seatback and cushion insert surfaces are designed to conform to the shape of an equipment belt's various items, too, allowing the officer's back to rest properly on the seatback surface. The Caprice PPV is based on GM's global rear-drive family of vehicles that also underpins the Chevy Camaro. It uses the longest wheelbase of the architecture—118.5 inches—along with a four-wheel independent suspension that delivers responsive high-performance driving characteristics. Caprice PPV's long wheelbase also contributes to exceptional spaciousness. Compared to the primary competition, its advantages include: * A larger interior volume than the Ford Crown Victoria, including nearly 4 inches more rear legroom * The barrier between the front seat and rear seat is positioned farther rearward, allowing for full front-seat travel and greater recline for officer comfort The Caprice's 6.0-liter V-8 is rated at an estimated 355 horsepower with an estimated 384 lb-ft of torque. It is backed by a six-speed automatic transmission that is performance-calibrated for police duty. Additional, police car-specific powertrain and vehicle system features include: High-output alternator, engine oil, transmission and power steering coolers; standard 18-inch steel wheels with bolt-on center caps; large, four-wheel disc brakes with heavy-duty brake pads; heavy-duty suspension components; police-calibrated stability control system; driver information center in the instrument cluster with selectable speed tracking feature. A host of complementary features are also offered, including special equipment packages such as spotlights; lockouts for the power windows and locks; and an "undercover" street-appearance package. To enable more room for interior equipment, the standard radio can be relocated to the trunk, allowing for an in-dash, touch-screen computer to be used. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Chevrolet CORVETTE ZR1

NEWS & REVIEWS After taking on the world’s best supercars and proving a better value and performer by the global automotive press, the Corvette ZR1 returns for 2010 with new Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology. The PTM system holds a predetermined engine speed while the driver pushes the throttle to the floor. That allows the driver to quickly release the clutch and the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver’s best effort and repeats it consistently. PTM also integrates the ZR1’s traction control, active handling and selective ride control systems to enhance race track driving consistency and overall performance. When full throttle is applied upon exiting a corner, it automatically manages acceleration dynamics. In addition to PTM, the following features are also new for 2010: Standard launch control, available Torch Red exterior color, available Cashmere interior color, and available Competition Gray wheels. The supercharged LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power behind the ZR1’s performance. A sixth-generation Eaton supercharger helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine’s confident high-rpm performance. The LS9 engine is backed by an upgraded, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch pedal effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear. The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car’s steamroller-wide front and rear tires. Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system’s ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g. In addition to the exterior cues and powertrain, ZR1 models are distinguished from other Corvette models by their vehicle identification number, or VIN. Each carries a unique, identifying VIN digit, as well as a sequential build number. This makes it easy to determine the build number of a specific car – information treasured by enthusiasts and collectors. For example, a ZR1 with a VIN ending in “0150” would indicate it is the 150th ZR1 built for the model year. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Chevrolet CORVETTE ZO6

NEWS & REVIEWS Like the rest of the 2010 Corvette range, the latest Z06 comes with a new launch control system and side airbags as standard. Buyers opting for the top-end 3LZ package now get powered sports seats for both driver and passenger, while a new Cashmere interior with Corvette logo embroidery is also available. Also new for 2010 is the availability of the full Corvette color palette, with eight colors including Arctic White, Crystal Red Metallic and the new Torch Red now offered. Equipped with the LS7 V8 engine and built on a lightweight chassis, the Corvette Z06 is a road going descendant of the championship-winning Corvette racing program that includes the Le Mans 24-Hour race in its annual schedule. With its racing-inspired power train and suspension features, the Corvette Z06 delivers exceptional levels of capability and technology. The aerodynamics of the Z06’s was shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. And while the race-cars use large rear wings, the Z06’s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag. The Z06’s Cd is 0.34. For all its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a high-performance vehicle suitable for daily use. To that end, comfort and convenience features are of a very high standard. High-Intensity Discharge lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and head-up display (HUD), with track mode and g-meter, are standard. The Z06’s LS7 seven liter engine delivers 505 hp in a vehicle that weighs just 3,175 pounds – a combination that delivers a 0-62 mph acceleration of 3.7 seconds in first gear and a top speed of 299 mph recorded on the Autobahn in Germany. It also provides maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and 62-0 mph braking in just 112 feet; a level of performance that allowed the Corvette Z06 to lap the famed Nürburgring circuit in a time of 7:43 from a standing start in testing. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Chevrolet CORVETTE Grand Sport

NEWS & REVIEWS Grand Sport is one of the most storied monikers in Corvette's illustrious racing heritage and it is returning the lineup. Chevrolet announced the new, 2010 Corvette Grand Sport at the 12th annual C5/C6 Corvette Birthday Bash, held at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky. The new Grand Sport model combines the Corvette's LS3-based powertrain with unique, wide-body styling and a racetrack-bred suspension for a distinctive, starting grid-ready performer. It is offered in both coupe and convertible body styles, with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The LS3 6.2L engine is rated at 430 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft. of torque with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system elevates the power ratings to 436 horses and 428 lb.-ft. The Grand Sport replaces the Corvette's previous Z51 package and brings a greater degree of handling performance, with wider wheels and tires; revised shock, stabilizer bar and spring specifications and specific gearing. The equipment enables cornering capability of 1.0 g, as well as a 0.2-second improvement in 0-60 acceleration vs. standard LS3-powered models. Grand Sport coupe models equipped with the manual transmission are uniquely outfitted for racetrack competition, too, with a dry-sump oiling system, differential cooler and a rear-mounted battery. The complete list of content and special features for the Grand Sport includes: •Wider front and rear fenders – including specific front fenders with integrated Grand Sport badges •Z06-style front splitter and tall rear spoiler •Functional brake ducts and extra cooling •Unique 18-inch front and 19-inch wheels; painted finish standard and chrome finish optional •Large 275/35ZR18 tires in front and 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear •Z06-size brakes, including 14-inch (355 mm) front rotors with six-piston calipers and 13.4-inch (340 mm) rear rotors with four-piston calipers •Specific manual transmission gear ratios •Specific rear axle ratio on automatic-equipped modles With its special equipment, the Grand Sport offers a unique blend of performance and amenities. Its suspension package approaches that of the Z06, but includes a removable roof on coupes (Z06 has a fixed roof) and, of course, the availability of a convertible body style. Also, the paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmission is offered, while a manual transmission is the only choice with the Z06. All of Corvette's exterior colors are offered on the Grand Sport and an available Heritage package adds iconic front fender hash marks offered in four colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Chevrolet CAMARO SS

NEWS & REVIEWS Mastering and producing hype is not an easy task. Most manufacturers do it by keeping their cars covered up before finally unveiling it to the public a number of months before the car is set to go on sale. This helps build anticipation, which in turn ignites sales even before the car goes on sale. Take the Challenger, which was reportedly sold out before even hitting showrooms. The car was unveiled and pushed into showrooms fairly quickly. On the other hand, we have the Chevrolet Camaro; a car that has been on display in one way or another for almost five years now. Incredibly, Chevrolet has been able to keep the anticipation for the Camaro quite high. Of course, when you drop a big 6.2L V-8 into sexy sheetmetal, you’re bound to get some lasting eagerness for the vehicle. The big engine comes in two main forms. The hi-po version comes with the 6-speed manual. The underpowered version is reserved for the automatic transmission, which not only loses power and deprives the driver of changing gears manually but also adds weight to the vehicle. In return for the extra 50 or so pounds you do get a cylinder deactivation feature that pushes EPA up to 23 miles per gallon on the highway. Mustangs and Camaros looked similar in the late 60s but slowly grew apart with each passing generation. In a funny twist, since both cars are going for that retro look, both cars look similar again; although they won’t be mistaken for twins, the basic outline of the two cars are not that far apart. Side-by-side the Camaro gets the nod with much sexier skin on even the most basic models. Even the interiors are not that far apart, though the Camaro feels more like a pod where the Mustang is more open. Early 2009 is when the Camaro will finally hit showrooms. Expect anticipation and hype to remain high. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Chevrolet CORVETTE ZR1

NEWS & REVIEWS The Corvette ZR1 is an exercise in perfection. Take the best all-around Corvette built thus far and make it the fastest Corvette this world has ever seen, not forgetting to embarrass the Italians and squash the Germans on your way to 1st place. How could Chevy complete such a feat? By stuffing a supercharged version of the 6.2L V-8 under the hood of a vehicle that makes extensive use of aluminum and carbon fiber. To help keep the car planted in the corners it uses the same suspension set-up as the corner slicing ZO6 and adds Magnetic Selective Ride Control, which changes the viscosity of the liquid within the dampers in milliseconds, to keep the car both comfortable on the city streets and rigid on the track. Hot on the heels of the launch of the Nissan GT-R, the ZR1 is showing up late to the party. These cars were almost destined to be archrivals since their inceptions some years ago. The ZR1 and GT-R both offer stunning, super car performance at a price that isn’t breathtaking; prices are hovering around $70,000 for the GT-R and $100,000 for the ZR1. Which one would you rather own? Both are expected to go from zero to sixty miles per hour in 3.4 seconds. The Corvette bests the GT-R on a top speed run with the Corvette stretching its legs all the way to 205 mph while the GT-R only hits 186mph. Accelerating isn’t everything when on a track and the corners is where the GT-R might just take home the gold. by: Benjamin Greene' GM: The new LS9 6.2L V8 engine is the power plant behind the ZR1’s performance of 620 horsepower* (462 kW), and 807 Nm of torque. A large, positive-displacement supercharger with a new, four-lobe rotor design, plus an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature, contribute to the ZR1’s supercar performance. The engine is hand-assembled at GM’s Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich., and incorporates specialty processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. The engine is backed by a new six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear. The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system’s ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g. From a high-performance perspective, Magnetic Selective Ride Control helps the rear axle remain planted during launch for smooth, hop-free acceleration. It also helps suppress axle movement when cornering on broken or uneven pavement. Commensurate with the ZR1’s engine output is the braking system. The system features carbon-ceramic brake rotors made of a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic silicon carbide material, with resulting low mass and resistance to wear and heat. Clamping down on the high-tech rotors are six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, each painted a ZR1-exclusive blue. The brakes are visible through the ZR1’s exclusive wheels: 20-spoke alloy rims that measure 19 inches in diameter in the front and 20 inches in the rear. They come standard with a bright, Sterling Silver paint finish. Chrome versions are optional. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the ZR1, measuring P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Chevrolet CORVETTE ZO6

NEWS & REVIEWS Equipped with the LS7 V8 engine and built on a lightweight chassis, the Corvette Z06 is a road going descendant of the championship-winning Corvette racing program that includes the Le Mans 24-Hour race in its annual schedule. With its racing-inspired power train and suspension features, the Corvette Z06 delivers exceptional levels of capability and technology. The aerodynamics of the Z06’s was shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. And while the race-cars use large rear wings, the Z06’s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag. The Z06’s Cd is 0.34. For all its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a high-performance vehicle suitable for daily use. To that end, comfort and convenience features are of a very high standard. High-Intensity Discharge lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and head-up display (HUD), with track mode and g-meter, are standard. The Z06’s LS7 seven liter engine delivers 505 hp in a vehicle that weighs just 3,175 pounds – a combination that delivers a 0-62 mph acceleration of 3.7 seconds in first gear and a top speed of 299 mph recorded on the Autobahn in Germany. It also provides maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and 62-0 mph braking in just 112 feet; a level of performance that allowed the Corvette Z06 to lap the famed Nürburgring circuit in a time of 7:43 from a standing start in testing. The LS7 engine shares the same basic Gen IV V-8 architecture as the Chevrolet 6.2-liter LS3 engine, but it uses a different cylinder block casting with pressed-in steel cylinder liners to accommodate the engine’s larger cylinder bores. Internally, the LS7’s reciprocating components are based on racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost power and rpm capability. The rev-limit, imposed by a fuel cut-off, is 7,100 rpm. A high-capacity clutch channels the vast torque of the LS7 engine to the rear mounted six-speed manual transaxle. The transmission includes a pump that sends transmission fluid to a front mounted oil radiator for cooling. On its return the fluid passes through a heat exchanger to remove heat from the differential lubrication system. The six-speed transaxle includes a limited-slip differential. The Z06 has a unique aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight. Perimeter chassis members are one-piece hydro-formed aluminum components featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. The Z06 retains the standard Corvette wheelbase of 106 inches. The race bred suspension works harmoniously with cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires at the front, and aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires at the rear. The tires use the latest extended-mobility technology from Goodyear to provide a satisfactory ride but still allow the vehicle to achieve lateral acceleration of more than 1 g. The extended-mobility tires eliminate the need for a spare tire while also reducing the chance of a sudden loss of handling capability in the event that a tire loses air pressure. Large, red-painted, six-piston calipers with six individual brake pads are fitted at the front. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. For the rear brakes, four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads are used. A four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system – complete with a Competitive Driving mode. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Chevrolet CORVETTE SV 9 Competizione

NEWS & REVIEWS Combining the muscle of America’s favorite sports car with the body of an Italian super model, SV 9 Competizione by SV Motorcars has its sights set on being a bargain supercar. It starts with a carbon-fiber body that still retains the overall shape of a Corvette. The weight loss is substantial—dropping by 132 lbs. to a total of 3,085—for a car that is already well known for being light. The SV 9 Competizione keeps the LS3 6.2-liter V-8, but increases the power to 450 hp via a revised intake and custom exhaust. Estimates have the SV 9 ripping to 60 mph from a standstill in 4 seconds flat and tripping the quarter-mile lights at 12 seconds even. The brakes, tires, and suspension have also been custom tailored for the SV 9 and, combined with its perfect 50/50 weight distribution, are capable of pulling 1.03g on the skidpad and braking from 60 mph to zero in 107 feet. Some may think that just building 1,000 units will make the car rare enough, but SV is taking it a bit further by offering a large number of exterior colors, interior trims, and wheel choices for a total of 500 possible combinations. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Chevrolet CORVETTE Innotech C6

NEWS & REVIEWS Innotech's Corvette lineup, starting in January 2009 with modified C6 Corvette coupe and convertible (based on 2005-2009 models), is for sports car enthusiasts seeking exotic body styling combined with great performance. Innotech Corvettes offer the best mix of unique styling, exiting performance, and great value for money. Compared to a stock C6 Corvette Coupe or Convertible, Innotech´s approach results in a more distinctive looking, sporting, and elegant body design, evoking an Italian lineage. Innotech Corvette features a new front and rear fascia which set it apart from competition. Combined with new Innotech rear window side louvres, the styling of the car stands out of the crowd. There is a choice of stock or louvered hood, with other distinctive body parts coming in 2009. A wide body kit will also be available for C6 Coupe and Convertible. All new Innotech body parts are made in fiberglass or carbon fiber. Corvette interior upgrades include fine Italian or English leather and optional carbon-fiber seats with leather upholstery. Innotech Corvette styling packages can be combined with various performance upgrades (from mild to wild). Brakes: BAER or Brembo 14´´ or 15´´ ventilated, drilled and slotted rotors, 4 or 6 piston calipers. Wheels: forged aluminum 9x19´´ front and 12x20´´rear, HRE or Forgeline (also with optional center lock hub), offered in several wheel designs. Dymag carbon-magnesium wheels option. Exhaust systems: modified headers, mufflers, and tips for better flow, sound and appearance. Engines and transmissions: Corvette engines : LS2 (6.0L) or LS3 (6.2L), performance modified to 500 hp – 560 hp if naturally aspirated, or 600 hp – 1000 hp supercharged or twin-turbocharged. The engines are mated with Corvette 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Performance: INNOTECH Corvette C6 Coupe with approx. 3080 lbs. curb weight has one of the best power/weight ratios available. Supercharged and turbocharged versions give extreme, but street-able supercar performance. Several distinctive INNOTECH Corvette Packages and Limited Editions, both performance and luxury oriented, will be offered to discriminating buyers in 2009. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Chevrolet CORVETTE GT1 Championship Edition

NEWS & REVIEWS Today Chevrolet introduced the limited production GT1 Championship Edition Corvettes at Sebring International Raceway. The GT1 Championship Edition (Regular Production Option GT1) commemorates the success of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C6.R: Eight American Le Mans Series GT1 manufacturers and team championships Five-time 24 Hours of Le Mans class champions 74 victories in international sports car competition Included in the GT1 Championship Edition package: Graphics inspired by C6.R livery feature Corvette Racing "Jake" mascot, ALMS championships, and driver flags ZR1-style body color full-width spoiler and chrome wheels Custom leather-wrapped ebony interior with exclusive yellow accent stitching GT1 embroidery on leather seats, instrument panel, and center console armrest Special engine cover with carbon pattern and yellow Corvette lettering Windshield banner (owner installed) GT1 Championship Edition to be produced in Corvette coupe, convertible and Z06 models in spring 2009: Available in 45U Velocity Yellow (with black headlamps) or 41U Black Specific VIN sequence 300001 series for 45U Velocity Yellow representing the No. 3 Corvette C6.R Specific VIN sequence 400001 series for 41U Black representing the No. 4 Corvette C6.R Production limited to 100 per each color and body style combination (600 total) Coupe and convertible versions also include Z51 Performance Package and NPP Performance Exhaust Optional MX0 6-speed paddle shift automatic on coupe and convertible Optional C2L dual roof package on coupe Optional U3U Navigation System on all models PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge