Showing posts with label Chevrolet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chevrolet. Show all posts
Friday, 29 March 2013
Thursday, 28 March 2013
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Z/28 | PR
2014 Camaro Z/28 the Most Track-capable Camaro Ever
NEW YORK – Chevrolet today introduced the restyled 2014 Camaro line at the New York Auto Show, including the return of the Z/28, the most iconic model in Camaro history.
The 2014 Camaro models feature a revised exterior design that integrates high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The new Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamics package that creates downforce at speed, which helps make it the most track-capable offering in Camaro’s history.
“As the ultimate track-capable Camaro, this car restores the mission of the original Z/28, and serves as a testament to the expertise of Chevrolet as the best-selling brand of performance cars,” said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America. “The build sheet is the wish list of any racer: lightweight, high-revving, dry-sump LS7 engine; carbon-ceramic brakes; integrated coolers for track use; true aerodynamic downforce, and a significant reduction in curb weight. This car could only come from Chevrolet, and could only be called the Z/28.”
The first Camaro Z/28 was introduced in 1967, created to compete in the Sports Car Club of America's Trans-Am 2 class. It featured a smaller, lighter, 302-cubic-inch V-8 for improved weight balance, as well as quick-ratio steering and a heavy-duty suspension for track use. In keeping with its road-racing focus, the 1967 Camaro Z/28 was not available with an automatic transmission or air conditioning.
While the new Camaro Z/28 is not intended to compete in a specific race series, it is solely focused on track capability. In initial testing, the Camaro Z/28 is three seconds faster per lap than the Camaro ZL1. That extra speed comes from three areas:
Increased grip: The Z/28 is capable of 1.05 g in cornering acceleration, due to comprehensive chassis revisions
Increased stopping power: the Z/28 features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes capable of 1.5 g in deceleration, and consistent brake feel, lap after lap
Reduced curb weight: The naturally aspirated Z/28 weighs 300 pounds less than the supercharged Camaro ZL1, with changes ranging from lightweight wheels to thinner rear-window glass
Like the original, the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is offered only with a manual transmission. In a nod to modern convenience, air-conditioning is available, but only as an option.
"We set out to make the fastest road-racing Camaro possible that was still street-legal,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “While the Camaro ZL1 offers exceptional performance on the street, the drag strip, and the track, the Z/28 is entirely focused on the track performance. The Z/28 will be too track-focused for most drivers, but offers road-racers one of the most capable track cars ever offered from an automaker.”
The new 2014 Camaro line will arrive at Chevrolet dealers later in 2013. The Camaro Z/28 is expected to be appearing at track events across the United States in spring 2014.
High-performance aerodynamics highlight changes for 2014 Camaro
The 2014 Camaro represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept car in 2006.
“The 2014 Camaro is our opportunity to apply what we have learned listening to our customers, and our continuing development of high-performance models,” said Tom Peters, Camaro exterior design director. “We look for solutions that are both functional and beautiful so that the result is genuine Chevrolet – simple, powerful, honest, and more than expected.”
Compared to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance. The front fascia features a wider lower opening, and a narrower upper opening that also updates the appearance of the iconic “halo ring” HID headlamps on the Camaro RS package. The functional hood vent on the Camaro SS helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. Moving to the rear, the sculptural decklid, horizontal lamps and diffuser complete the powerful statement.
The Camaro Z/28 also features a full aerodynamic package designed to produce downforce at track speeds. At the front, the Z/28 features a large splitter, connected to an underbody panel that further reduces lift. In profile, the Z/28 features fender flares over the front and rear wheels, as well as extended rocker panels that contribute to aerodynamic stability. An aggressive rear spoiler and functional diffuser complete the aerodynamic package.
On the interior, the Camaro Z/28 features trim in a distinctive, matte-metallic finish named Octane, the ZL1 flat-bottomed steering wheel, and standard Recaro seats with microfiber suede inserts. The new seats (also available on the coupe versions of the SS and ZL1 models), feature aggressive bolsters for high-performance driving, as well as seat cutouts inspired by the five-point harnesses found on racing seats. To save weight, both front seats incorporate manual adjustment.
The rear seats of the Z/28 have also been modified for weight reduction. A total of nine pounds (four kilograms) was saved by eliminating the seat-back pass through, as well as using high-density foam in place of the rigid structure of the seat back and steel mesh of the seat bottom.
“Unlike the Ford Mustang Boss 302, we felt it was important to keep the 2+2 configuration of the Camaro Z/28 as Chevrolet already has a world-class two-seat sports car in the Corvette,” said Oppenheiser. “By modifying the construction of the rear seat, we were able to reduce the overall weight of the Z/28 while still preserving the flexibility of 2+2 seating.”
7.0L, LS7 the heart of the Camaro Z/28’s track-capable performance
Like the original, the new Camaro Z/28 forgoes ultimate horsepower and torque for improved weight balance and track performance.
In 1967, the most-powerful engine available in a factory Camaro was a 396 cid V-8 with 375 horsepower. To prepare the Camaro Z/28 for road racing, engineers specified a lighter, 302 cid V-8, officially rated at 290 horsepower. While the 302 was not the choice for drag racers, it proved ideal for sports-car racing.
Today, the most-powerful engine offered is the Camaro ZL1’s supercharged 6.2L LSA, which delivers 580 horsepower. The heart of the 2014 Camaro Z/28 is the lighter, naturally aspirated 7.0L LS7 first introduced in the Corvette Z06.
“The LS7 is ideal for road racing because it delivers amazing performance in a compact, lightweight package,” said Jordan Lee, Small Block chief engineer and program manager. “The broad torque curve and high redline of the LS7 mean fewer shifts are required for each lap, while the lightweight design improves the front-to-rear weight balance for better handling.”
Co-developed with Corvette Racing, the hand-assembled 7.0L (427 cid) V-8 uses a number of high-performance components, including:
Titanium intake valves and connecting rods, and sodium-filled exhaust valves
CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads
Forged-steel crankshaft and main bearing caps
High-lift camshaft
Hydroformed exhaust headers
11.0:1 compression ratio, and a 7,000 rpm redline.
10.5-quart, dry-sump oiling system
For the Camaro Z/28, the LS7 features unique induction and exhaust systems, and delivers at least 500 horsepower (373 kW) and 470 lb-ft of torque (637 Nm).
The racing-style, cold-air induction system and large K&N air filter provide maximum air flow.
The standard dual mode exhaust system and larger-diameter pipes enable improved air flow. By bypassing the mufflers during acceleration, the system increases both the torque and sound generated by the LS7 engine.
The Camaro Z/28 is exclusively offered with a Tremec TR6060 manual transmission. The six-speed features close-ratio gearing and 3.91:1 final drive ratio, both optimized for the power characteristics of the LS7.
Power is distributed to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential featuring a helical gear set, rather than traditional clutch packs. The new design enables the driver to apply more power and get through corners faster, by continuously adjusting the torque bias to maximize available traction.
The differential works in unison with Chevrolet’s proprietary Performance Traction Management system, which allows drivers to adjust the level of throttle and brake intervention to match their capability and driving environment.
Unlike some competitors’ “track package” offerings, the Camaro Z/28 makes standard all the cooling systems required for track use. This includes the dry-sump oiling system for the LS7, which is connected to an integral liquid-to-liquid cooling system for engine oil.
A second liquid-to-liquid system provides cooling for the transmission and differential. This system pumps overcooled transmission fluid to a heat exchanger in the rear differential before traveling to the transmission. This reduces differential temperatures as much as 100 degrees F.
Camaro Z/28 chassis delivers 1.05 g in cornering grip
The singular focus of the Camaro Z/28 is most evident in the chassis, where the most has been made of every component for track use, from the ultra-high performance tires to race-proven dampers.
“We used the very best components in the industry to deliver uncompromised performance, lap after lap,” said Mark Stielow, Camaro Z/28 engineering manager. “We made nearly 200 changes to improve the track performance, which cumulatively make the Z/28 capable of 1.05 g in cornering. For perspective, with all other things, equal increasing maximum grip from 1 to 1.05 g can cut up to four seconds per lap.”
The Camaro Z/28 is the one of the first production cars fitted with race-proven, spool-valve dampers. Compared to a conventional damper that offers only two-way tuning for bump and rebound, a spool-valve damper allows four-way adjustment to precisely tune both bump and rebound settings for high-speed and low-speed wheel motions. The wider tuning range allowed engineers to dramatically increase the damper stiffness on the Camaro Z/28 without a significant change in ride quality. Additional chassis changes include stiffer string rates and suspension bushings for improved cornering response.
The Camaro Z/28 features 19-inch diameter wheels and tires, which reduce unsprung weight by 42 pounds (19 kilograms) per car compared to the 20-inch wheels standard on Camaro SS and ZL1. In addition, the smaller diameter wheels lower the center of gravity by 33 millimeters, further improving handling.
At all four corners, the lightweight, forged aluminum wheels are wrapped in massive 305/30ZR19 tires. This is the first production application of ultra-high performance Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires, and believed to be the widest front tire on any production car.
To fully exploit the grip of the Pirelli tires, the Camaro Z/28 also features Brembo Carbon Ceramic Matrix™ rotors and fixed, monoblock calipers. The large 394 x 36 mm front rotors are paired with six-piston calipers, while the 390 x 32 mm rear rotors are paired four-piston calipers. Compared to similar-size, two-piece steel rotors, the lightweight carbon discs save 28 pounds (12.5 kilograms) per car.
The combination of tire grip and braking power enable the Camaro Z/28 to achieve up to 1.5 g in deceleration. With standard front brake cooling ducts, the Z/28 is also capable of continuous track use unmatched brake feel, lap after lap.
“What makes the Z/28 so addictive is it inspires confidence through every section on the track,” said Stielow. “The incredible, balanced performance helps you carry much more speed through every corner: the brakes are so good you can adjust your braking points later and later; the grip and suspension damping allows you to carry more speed through the apex; and then the limited slip allows you to make the most of the LS7 as you power out of the corner.”
Extensive lightweighting saved 300 pounds over the Camaro ZL1
To optimize the track performance of the Camaro Z/28, the engineering team subjected it to an intensive lightweighting program, saving 100 pounds (45 kilograms) compared to the naturally aspirated Camaro SS and 300 pounds (136 kilograms) to the supercharged Camaro ZL1.
“We looked at every subsystem for opportunities to save weight,” said Oppenheiser. “Our goal was to get rid of everything that didn’t make the car faster, and keep only what was required by law. For example, we wanted to eliminate the audio system completely, but we had to keep a single speaker for the seat-belt chime to meet safety requirements.”
Other examples of weight savings include:
Eliminated the tire-inflator kit, except for Rhode Island and New Hampshire, where it is required by law
Removed interior sound deadener, and carpeting from the trunk
Replaced the standard LN4 battery with a smaller, lightweight, LN3 battery
Specified thinner, 3.2-mm glass for the rear window, compared to 3.5-mm glass on the standard Camaro
HID headlamps and foglights are not available
Air conditioning is only available as a stand-alone option
“The team was so fanatical about saving weight, we even stripped the unused wiring out of the harness when we eliminated the fog lights, speakers, and air conditioning,” said Oppenheiser. “Every ounce saved contributed to making this the most track-capable Camaro we have ever built, and a worthy successor to the Z/28 name.”
2014 Chevrolet Camaro unveiled. The Z/28 is the new baby
Chevrolet released pictures of the Camaro SS and the new Camaro Z/28 together with a press release, but it seems they were so excited to see the return of the Z/28 name they only talked about this new version. Almost nothing was said about the SS or the ZL1.
The new Camaro now comes with narrower head lamps and upper grille that also has a new chrome piece on top of it. In the back, Chevrolet gave the new Camaro one-piece LED tail lights and a third stop-light. Both the rear and front bumpers have been redesigned.
Now let's get more specific about the Z/28. Chevrolet says it is "the ultimate track-capable Camaro". It features a full aerodynamic package for optimal down-force, that includes a large splitter connected to an under body panel to help avoid lift, fender flares over the front and rear wheels, extended rocker panels, a rear spoiler and diffuser.
Inside Chevrolet adopted several wight saving measures. The Recaro seats are manually adjustable and the rear seats, while they weren't removed because "it was important to keep the 2+2 configuration of the Camaro Z/28 as Chevrolet already has a world-class two-seat sports car in the Corvette", they did remove the seat back pass and used high-density foam in place of the rigid structure.
The North American brand also removed the tire inflation kit, the interior sound deadener and carpeting from the trunk, replaced the standard LN4 battery with a smaller, lightweight, LN3 batter, added a thinner, 3.2mm glass for the rear window, instead of the standard 3.5mm, HID head lamps and fog lights are not available, and the air conditioning system is only available as an option.
The engine powering this track-focused car is the naturally aspirated 7.0 liter V8 LS7. An engine that produces 500hp (373kW) and 637Nm (470lb/ft) of torque. Connecting the engine to the rear 19 inch wheels (wrapped in Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires) is the Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual gearbox, and helping stopping all that power are Carbon Ceramic Matrix front (394 x 36 mm [15.5 x 1.4 in]) and rear (390 x 32 mm [15.3 x 1.3 in]) discs with six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston in the back.
Tuesday, 26 March 2013
Wednesday, 20 March 2013
2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS gets teased ahead of the New York International Auto Show
Chevrolet has just released the first teaser image of the redesigned Camaro SS that will be introduced at the New York International Auto Show, together with the new Corvette Stingray and the also new Chevrolet SS performance sedan, and while don't get to see much there a few important changes to the front end of the car.
As you can see from the image below, the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS will get a redesigned grille that seems to be smaller in size and will have a chromed trim piece over the top of it.
The debut is schedule to take place on March 27 at 12:45 p.m., EDT (16:45 UTC/GMT). This is what General Motors (Chevrolet) had to say: "The 2014 model represents the most significant change for the fifth-generation Camaro, which has been the most popular sports car in America for three consecutive years. The new Camaro will be joined by the all-new Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet SS performance sedan, completing the line of new performance vehicles Chevrolet will offer for 2014."
Chevrolet Teases 2014 Camaro SS
DETROIT – The redesigned 2014 Camaro SS will debut at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, March 27 at 12:45 p.m., EDT.
The 2014 model represents the most significant change for the fifth-generation Camaro, which has been the most popular sports car in America for three consecutive years. The new Camaro will be joined by the all-new Corvette Stingray and Chevrolet SS performance sedan, completing the line of new performance vehicles Chevrolet will offer for 2014.
Wednesday, 13 March 2013
Friday, 8 March 2013
Updated 'Maro in Big Apple
NEW YORK –Chevrolet will showcase a new lineup of performance cars for the 2014 model year at the New York International Auto Show, including the all-new Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible, all-new SS performance sedan and refreshed Camaro.
The new cars build on Chevrolet’s success in 2012, when the brand accounted for one out of three performance cars sold in the United States.
“Chevrolet customers have validated our performance credentials with their enthusiasm,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss “We're going to give them even more reasons to be enthused about Chevrolet performance, design and technology.”
Chevrolet will showcase:
2014 Camaro – The New York International Auto Show will host the world debut of the revamped 2014 Camaro, which advances the design and performance attributes that has made it the most popular sports car under $50,000 for three consecutive years.
2014 Corvette Stingray convertible – Earlier this week in Geneva, Chevrolet unveiled the drop-top version of the new Corvette Stingray. Unlike other convertibles, the Stingray delivers an uncompromised driving experience with a similar power-to-weight ratio and chassis tuning identical to the coupe. It features an all-new, fully electronic top that can be lowered with the push of a button, and even remotely using the key fob.
2014 SS sports sedan – Introduced at Daytona in February, the SS is the brand’s first V-8-powered, rear-wheel driven performance sedan since 1996. It’s based on a race-proven, global platform and powered by a 6.2L V-8 rated at an estimated 415 horsepower. Driving through a six-speed automatic transmission, it sprints from 0 to 60 in five seconds flat.
2014 Corvette Stingray coupe – Introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January, the all-new Corvette Stingray rolls into the Big Apple 60 years after the Corvette made its public debut in New York City. The seventh generation of the iconic sports car will be the most powerful, most capable and most fuel-efficient standard Corvette ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in four seconds, and better fuel economy than the 2013 Corvette's EPA-estimated 26 mpg highway.
Wednesday, 27 February 2013
Not a $tingray: Low-Cost Chevrolet Corvette Coupe in the Works
We’ve heard plenty of enticing details on the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, from its new estimated 450-hp LT1 V-8 engine to the aerodynamic details that may make the C7 the most streamlined Corvette ever. All these details sound great, but enthusiasts actually considering a 2014 Corvette Stingray may only hear dollar signs. That won’t be the case for long, as Motor Trend has learned that Chevrolet is preparing a “low-cost” Corvette for 2015.The lower-cost Corvette will not wear a Stingray badge and, instead of the 6.2-liter V-8 with an estimated 450 hp, expect a version of the all-aluminum direct-injection 5.3-liter V-8 making fewer than 400 horsepower. Called the Corvette Coupe, the car’s 5.3-liter V-8 is similar to the one debuting in the new GM trucks. Chevrolet considered a twin-turbo V-6 because, while it had enough power, it didn’t improve fuel economy.
The Corvette Coupe will still have plenty of curb appeal, but compared to the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, the car will include changes to the front fascia, front fender, and rear diffuser. Interestingly enough, we hear the Corvette Coupe project started life as Project Stingray.
With the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette carrying an MSRP of $50,595 for a base, manual-transmission model, a Chevrolet Corvette Coupe model could help bring the car’s base price below $50,000 again, before factoring in incentives. Whatever the price, we’re looking forward to driving it.
Tuesday, 26 February 2013
Sunday, 24 February 2013
Wednesday, 20 February 2013
2014 Chevrolet Impala Infotainment System Valet Mode
Lock It Up: 2014 Chevrolet Impala Offers Secure Info Storage
Redesigned flagship sedan offers hidden compartment behind PIN-activated faceplate
DETROIT – Anyone who has ever felt trepidation about handing their car keys to a valet will appreciate the 2014 Chevrolet Impala. The redesigned flagship sedan offers a “valet mode” that lets someone unknown take the wheel but shields personal items and information from prying eyes.
The new Impala’s available 8-inch center stack display is an interactive touch screen for the next-generation Chevrolet MyLink system but doubles as a PIN-activated retractable faceplate over a secure storage bin large enough to hold valuables like a wallet, MP3 player and smartphone. Addresses and contacts stored on MyLink also remain PIN-protected.
“Valet mode is the kind of feature that Impala customers will appreciate,” said Chris Perry, Chevrolet vice president of Global Marketing. “It is one of many great new features on our newest MyLink and a small part of Impala’s overall technology package.”
Impala owners will be able to access valet mode through MyLink’s Settings menu via a four-digit code, much like on a hotel safe. A confirmation entry of the code simultaneously locks the bin and secures personal information.
Chevrolet customer clinic participants showed avid interest in valet mode, particularly young car buyers who valued MyLink’s information privacy protection feature. Impala’s hidden bin also addresses customers’ frequently expressed need for a secure place to keep personal items out of sight.
“We were able to move the MyLink system’s electronics to another location in the vehicle, effectively creating the space behind the touch screen,” said Matt Highstrom, General Motors human-machine interface designer.
In addition to privacy protection, Impala’s next-generation MyLink system allows for increased personalization. Owners can click and drag icons on the home screen located in the center stack, similar to operating a smartphone or tablet.
Using consumer research, including interviews and online voting, designers of the award-winning MyLink developed four specific graphic appearances or “skins,” selectable through the Settings menu, designed to appeal to distinct customer group personalities. They include:
Contemporary – Clean, simple interface that’s neither overly colorful nor busy, geared to busy moms and families.
Edge – Youth-oriented, dynamic feel with vibrant colors and pop culture-inspired icons.
Velocity – Sleek, with carbon fiber background appearance and glowing neon, aimed at driving enthusiasts.
Main Street – An all-around, crowd-pleasing design using primary colors.
These and other functions, including valet mode, will be rolled out to other Chevrolet models featuring the next-generation MyLink system.
Edge – Youth-oriented, dynamic feel with vibrant colors and pop culture-inspired icons.
Velocity – Sleek, with carbon fiber background appearance and glowing neon, aimed at driving enthusiasts.
Main Street – An all-around, crowd-pleasing design using primary colors.
These and other functions, including valet mode, will be rolled out to other Chevrolet models featuring the next-generation MyLink system.
“We can’t design a custom Impala interior for every customer, but we can give them the next best thing – an infotainment system that reflects their tastes and features that meet their needs,” said Matt Fuligni, design manager, Chevrolet User Experience.
The 2014 Impala will begin production this spring and eventually will be offered with three engine choices. A 3.6L V6 will be available at launch, starting at $30,760 including destination charges.
Monday, 18 February 2013
Sunday, 17 February 2013
Saturday, 16 February 2013
2014 Chevrolet SS revealed. We already saw him as the Holden VF SS V
Externally the only difference from the Holden Commodore SS V VF is the different logo on the front and the back, besides the new paint and wheels, but what is worth mentioning is that it is the first Chevrolet V8 rear-drive performance sedan in 17 years.
But when the Holden was introduced a few days nothing was revealed about the engine so it was with some joy that i saw Chevrolet revealing the engines specs in their press release. The SS comes with the 6.2liter LS3 Chevrolet V8, producing around 415hp and 562Nm (415lb/ft) of torque, so you know it will be fast.
The LS3 is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission that works together with the TAPshift paddles mounted on the steering wheel for a 0 to 60mph (97km/h) run in about five seconds. Unfortunately nothing was said about the top speed but i am sure it is limited to 155mph (250km/h).
The exterior includes the same ventilated Brembo brakes with 355mm rotors and two-piece, four-piston front calipers, aluminum hood and rear deck lid for a near 50/50 weight distribution, and forged aluminum wheels, with Bridgestone tires: 19 x 8.5 inch wheels with 245/40ZR19 tires in front; 19 x 9.0 inch wheels with 275/35ZR19 tires rear.
Inside we get 42 inches (107cm) of front legroom, and 39 inches (99cm) of rear legroom, leather seats as standard, the Chevrolet MyLink system in a color touch screen, Bose® Nine-speaker premium sound system besides several other safety systems like, the Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone Alert.
Sales will start in the fourth quarter of 2013 with prices being disclosed closer to the on-sale date.
