UPDATE: GMBlogs and Twitter
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Posted by Editor at 3:32 PM
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Virgin Atlantic Chooses Chevy for Going Green on the Ground
By Larry Burns
Vice President
Research & Development and Strategic Planning
Virgin’s President Sir Richard Branson announced yesterday that the airline will be using Chevrolet Equinox hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles as its limousines of choice for passengers landing at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The partnership with GM is an expansion of Project Driveway.
This podcast gives highlights from yesterday’s news conference in New York City, beginning with Branson’s comments and followed by Larry Burns, GM vice president of Research & Development and Strategic Planning. Also included is a short interview with Mary Beth Stanek, director of Energy and Environment Policy and Commercialization.
And check out our Flickr galleries for more photos from the press conference.
Posted by Editor at 12:21 PM
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Driving the New Pontiac G8
Adam Denison
Coordinator, GM Social Media
Never have I been more aware of my newbie status in the car industry than I was this week as I spent some time with automotive journalists and bloggers in San Diego. But regardless of my still blooming knowledge of how cars work, I can tell a good car when I drive one. Such was the case during my time driving the brand new Pontiac G8.
You know, I could tell you that the G8 has two powertain options (256 hp 3.6-liter V6 or 361 hp 6.0-liter V8), that it has a four-wheel independent suspension, that it has standard disc brakes featuring ABS and StabliTrak, or that the G8 361 hp G8 GT is the most powerful sedan under $30k in North America, but I’ll leave all that to the automotive journalists and bloggers who joined us for the media drive of the G8 this week. What I want to tell you about is what this fledgling auto enthusiast thought about the car.
I’ve seen the G8 before and even had the chance of filming some of the engineers driving a fleet of them into Detroit after a cross-country drive, but I guess I forgot how impressive the styling of the car was until I saw one outside the doors of the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego. Man, that car has a presence; a point noted by many of the hotel guests as they stopped to check it out.
After a quick early morning walk-around of the vehicle with a G8 engineer two of our media guests and I hopped in a bright red G8 GT (V8 version) and started our journey. I was immediately impressed with the beautiful interior, the styling of which really added to ambience of this powerful sedan. It took a little while to get used to having the power window controls and side-view mirror controls in the center console, rather than on the doors, but the reason for this I assume is due to the global nature of the vehicle. Having these controls in the center makes it easier to go from left-hand drive to right-hand drive.
The drive route set up by my colleagues here at GM was excellent for really getting a feel for the ride and handling of the vehicle. The route took us through some beautiful, curvy roads in the hills and mountains of San Diego and surrounding areas. The G8 handled beautifully on these sharp curves, and had no problem going up the side of some the bigger climbs. The long wheelbase of the car made for an extremely smooth ride, so much so that I was often surprised to see how fast I was actually going (all within the speed limits, of course!).
I really got to test out the pick-up of the G8 when I found myself three lanes to the right of where I needed to be on the route. Once that light hit green we went from the far right of the road to the far left in the road in what seemed like an instant. In fact, I think the indentation of my head from the quick acceleration is still in the headrest of the driver’s seat! It was thrilling to jump off the line so quickly.
The G8 was really a fun, exciting vehicle to drive, but my “review” here doesn’t really do it justice. You really need to get into a G8 and experience it for yourself. I was told today that they’ll start arriving in showrooms next week. I’d also encourage to read some of the media reviews of the G8. I’m sure they will echo much of what I’ve said here, but also give you some more of the technical details of this great car.
So congratulations to Pontiac for a building an amazing car that is sure to be the brand’s flagship performance sedan. Great work Pontiac!
Posted by Editor at 10:30 AM
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Chevrolet Helps High School Seniors "Drive for Perfection"
By Monica Coleman
Guest Blogger
Going to school just got sweeter for high school seniors in more than 200 schools in 26 Tennessee counties because of the Chevy Drive For Perfection Program. Through this initiative, five lucky students will be awarded with a 2008 Chevy Cobalt sedan for having perfect attendance during the 2007-2008 school year.
Statistics show that students who have poor attendance for reasons other than illness are more likely to drop out and to fall behind their peers in the classroom. The Chevrolet Drive For Perfection program was created by Chevrolet and the Middle Tennessee Chevrolet Dealers, in conjunction with the Tennessee Department of Education, to give seniors an additional incentive to finish their high school careers strong in order to adequately prepare for post-secondary education or the workforce.
When I talked to Tim Hudgens, Chevy marketing manager for GM’s Southeast region, he couldn’t have been more excited about encouraging students to succeed:
“Literacy and education are two initiatives that Chevrolet and its dealers champion through their support of several initiatives in the Southeast region. The Tennessee Department of Education is charged with the significant task of educating the state’s youth, and our local Chevy dealers are honored to provide support to them and high schools in their communities.”
Why the Cobalt? We thought it offered a variety of well-equipped and sporty choices and was a natural fit for a hard-working student finishing up another exciting school year. For more information about the Chevy Drive For Perfection program or to see if your school or your child’s school is participating, please e-mail Katie Dougherty at kdougherty@chevydriveforperfection.com.
Posted by Editor at 3:12 PM
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Mourning the Passing of a Labor Legend
By Diana Tremblay
GMNA Vice President, Labor Relations
In the days since former UAW President Douglas Fraser died, I have read a number of articles and scanned numerous comments from people who knew him or were touched by him in some fashion.
What struck me most was the comment by Doug’s own wife, Winnie Fraser: “Everybody thought he was wonderful.”
And that sentiment was echoed over and over by people, offering their tributes to someone who helped navigate the union and automakers through the tumultuous period of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Doug is rightly credited with getting the federal government to bail out Chrysler and educating fellow union members to make sacrifices, as well.
In the years that followed his time as UAW president, he was tireless in educating people about the labor movement and the UAW, in particular. Whenever I saw a quote from him in the press, I could tell Doug was doing his best to help the reporter understand the challenges and opportunities facing the union. In doing so, I believe he was trying to educate the masses that the UAW remained a relevant part of the automotive industry.
That wasn’t lost on me as I sat in meetings last summer with UAW President Ron Gettelfinger and UAW Vice President Cal Rapson. Both are very much like Doug in their integrity and passion to protect the rights of workers. Like Doug, Ron and Cal had difficult decisions to make as the industry went through yet another tumultuous period that required not only sacrifice, but creativity.
I always had respect for the UAW, but going through negotiations last year my respect deepened. I’m proud of what we accomplished in the negotiations. We made tough choices and were innovative where we needed to be, in order to protect jobs and ensure GM emerged more competitive.
While some pundits like to take a negative spin on the contract talks, I view them differently. The UAW remains a relevant part of the automotive industry because of its leaders and members and their willingness to address challenges head on. That is probably the best tribute anyone can make to the “wonderful” Doug Fraser.
Posted by Editor at 10:43 PM
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Answering Saturn Questions
Editor's note: Back in January, Saturn showcased several tech-related announcements at the North American International Auto Show here in Detroit. We received a lot of good questions from the post on FastLane, so today Kyle Johnson, Director of Saturn Communications, checks back in with us. He's got answers to some of the questions posted by our readers. Thanks for the great responses, and keep them coming. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Q: A coupe version could be cool also. -Paul Eccles
A: Coupe version of what, Vue or Flextreme (or other)?
Q: If the industry was able to design and build vehicles that weren't even on the drawing boards in just months, why is GM unable or unwilling to do the same with regards to plug-ins and electric only vehicles? -Kevin R
A: Those vehicles that move quickly from drawing board to production use validated components. Plug-ins and electric vehicles will rely on technologies/components that have recently been invented and need to go through extensive validation to prove the designs are robust.
Q: This Vue is made to meet new CAFE, so does that mean that the two-mode will cost 6G's more? -Mike
A: We haven't determined pricing on the two-mode option on the Vue. That will happen later this year and we'll announce pricing in the third or fourth quarter. But the technology is currently expensive.
Q: How about eliminating the hybrid powertrains and just getting the weight under 4,000 lbs. This Vue weighs as much as a 1970s Cadillac! -Adam
A: And 1970s Cadillacs didn't have the crashworthiness, air bags, ABS, entertainment, navigation, emissions controls and other advanced systems that make the Vue more capable than a 1970s Cadillac. This is an apples-to-oranges comparison.
Q: Was the two-mode hybrid system ever considered with a 1.8L Ecotec engine instead of a V6? -Darren
A: There are a lot of technologies, including hybrid technology, that we haven't yet discussed publicly. I'm not saying yes and I'm not saying no — stay tuned.
Posted by Editor at 5:30 PM
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More on Fuel Efficiency/Economy, Part 4
Editor's note: Part 4 in a series of responses by Dave Lancaster. – Will Stewart, blog editor
As it happens, I've driven the Cobalt. The performance of the 2.2L was unimpressive. The Corolla's 1.8L manages peak torque just about equal to the Chevy 2.2L. I wouldn't be surprised to find the Corolla is quicker, as it weighs 400lbs less. Actual observations, reported on the EPA site, put the Corolla significantly ahead in fuel economy.
I notice the 2.4 requires premium fuel; therefore, a Cobalt with a 2.4L engine is not an economy car.
For me, the question is, where can I go to get superb fuel economy? GM? No. Honda? Yes. Toyota? Yes. I don't care what else they build, as long as they have something that meets my needs.
Posted by: Charlie
Dave: Charlie, the Cobalt’s 2.2L engine has 149 lb-ft of torque and 152 hp vs. 122 lb-ft and 126 hp in the Corolla’s 1.8L engine. Those differences are in line with the size of the engines. They are both well developed engines with similar technology levels. More importantly, you are incorrect when you say the 2.4L requires premium fuel. For that engine, premium fuel is recommended, not required. The difference is not insignificant. For many customers driving a vehicle with premium fuel recommended, regular fuel will be quite adequate most of the time. It’s only when you are driving in a hot or dry environment, towing or trying to get maximum performance out of your engine that you really need the higher octane fuel. If you have an engine that is premium recommended, it is reasonable to try using regular or midgrade fuel in your normal driving and see if you encounter knock. As long as you aren’t in one of those situations where the control system senses knock and retards the spark, you can save money. (Premium required engines such as the Corvette LS7, Supercharged Northstar LC3 and Turbocharged Direct Injected 2.0L LNF really do need premium all the time.)
Posted by Editor at 2:40 PM
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Driving the Volt
By Pete Savagian
Engineering Director, GM Hybrid Powertrain Engineering
The public’s appetite for information on the Volt never ceases to amaze me. The concept obviously struck a chord, although I probably shouldn’t be surprised; I was one of the chief engineers for our last battery electric vehicle – the EV1. The public’s reaction to the Volt is somewhat similar, although on an even larger scale, to the reaction we received when we built the EV1 – the first modern electric vehicle.
The EV1 was one of the most technologically advanced vehicles for its time with a passionate, loyal group of customers. We learned an awful lot from the EV1 program, knowledge that’s being put to use right now on the development of the Chevy Volt. The fact is, reducing our dependence on petroleum requires vehicles that provide the petroleum-free benefits we know electric vehicle drivers are passionate about, but we also need to offer the flexibility to be able to drive hundreds of miles at a time between fill-ups. People expect that type of freedom every time they take the wheel.
We believe an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV) like the Volt is that kind of vehicle. E-REVs are electric vehicles that provide full performance on electric power alone and only engage energy from the gas in the tank after the battery is discharged. Based on our studies, a vehicle like this offers tremendous potential to reduce petroleum use and emissions.
Earlier today at the Hybrid Vehicle Technologies 2008 Symposium in San Diego, Calif., I shared some results from our analysis of what an E-REV could do in the hands of regular drivers. We used real world data from the Regional Travel Survey conducted by the Southern California Association of Governments over the past few years. The survey measured the daily driving habits of over 600 commuters in the Los Angeles area, one of the world’s busiest, most congested driving regions.
What we learned was pretty telling. If everyone in this study drove a vehicle like the Volt:
- Sixty-four percent of the drivers in this study would never use a single drop of gas during their daily travels.
- On average, Volt drivers commuting less than 75 miles a day would use 1/5th the fuel compared to drivers using a conventionally-powered vehicle.
- Drivers of the Volt would have 70 percent fewer initial engine starts than conventionally-powered vehicles. Initial engine starts are a large factor in the total emissions produced.
Please take a look at the presentation, “Driving the Volt.” I think you’ll agree, the potential of the E-Flex technology to improve every day driving is real and something we can all get excited about. I’m excited about this and it is this potential that “drives the Volt” team each and every day.
Thanks,
Pete
Posted by Editor at 12:00 PM
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More on Fuel Efficiency/Economy, Part 3
Editor's note: Part 3 in a series of responses by Dave Lancaster. – Will Stewart, blog editor
Why won't GM bring back the battery powered electric car EV-1? It's fast, goes 120 miles between charges, can be charged at home, and meets the needs of 90% of the driving public. You better do it soon because the Japanese and others will in the next 2 years. I want to drive by a gas station and give them the bird.
Posted by: Harry
Dave: Harry, think of the Volt as a more capable successor to the EV-1. The battery power will get you around on short trips, but the engine is there to keep you from running out of juice on your way past that gas station.
I would like to applaud the responses I read in this part of the GM Blog. I am overjoyed to actually get to see real responses to my (and our) questions and comments. As a highly technical person, I often times am disapointed at the lack of discussion surrounding key issues like energy consumption. As a potential GM customer I am also disapointed with the lack of knowing what GM is going to release next. It is frustrating to say the least in wondering if GM will have vehicles out to compete with the wave of 2008 Diesels that are rumored to be showing up. As a customer I would love to see GM offer the G8, CTS and other cars with diesels. The new 4.5 Turbo Diesel has me wondering if GM will put that in the cars mentioned above. As a customer I love the idea of 260+ HP and 32+ MPG highway. I have driven a Duramax and am fairly impressed with it, I can only imagine the 4.5L Turbo Diesel will perform wonderfuly in the CTS and G8. I just hope GM offers them for those of us who are willing to pay the premium. I realize that on a cost basis it doesn't quite make sense, but in the case of Diesel cars, you can have your (performance cake) and eat it to (fuel economy). This fact alone is something that makes me take a serious look at the new BMW 3 series diesels rumored to be crossing the pond. Since their priceis similar to the CTS, I hope GM thinks about dropping in a diesel. Perhaps the more important question for current and potential customers of GM is much simpler. When will GM's next generation of fuel efficient engines be available (HCCI etc..). I myself am waiting to see if GM actually has something thats competitive to offer thats worth waiting on.
As a side note, why can't the HCCI or even current Diesels and Gas engines be setup to run gaseous fuels? This seems to be the best solution for the long run (5-15 years). My current GM is a 1990, I expect that my next one will be run equally as long. As to the cost factor in hybrids, I guess I'm not seeing why a small 60-100 HP diesel engine and hybrid system can't be manufactured cheaply. If such a system were to be made even at a slight premium cost, it surely could top 50 MPG on the highway (with proper drag reduction techniques). This being the case it would qualify for tax incentives and customers who were concerned about fuel usage would be willing to buy them. I have heard the Honda and Toyota Hybrids are selling out everywhere. Whether this is true or not I'm not sure. So, all this said why not introduce a small hybrid diesel to more directly compete with the upcomming wave of diesel cars?
As for flex fuel vehicles. From my understanding of ethanol fuels, the elastomers in engine components would need to be replaced with ethanol compatible parts (viton, teflon etc...), additionaly fuel and timing maps would have to be recalibrated as well as adding sensors to detect fuel composition. This being said, despite the cost, isn't the long term benefit of having all GM vehicles Flex Fuelable a worthwhile one? After all if the whole fleet runs Flex fuel, in 5 or 10 years if E85 becomes more popular the fleet can run it and any other mix; which socially and politically seems to be a very good thing.
Additionally it would be technically possible to convert older vehicles should E85 become a major fuel source. The concerns seem to come from the small car buyers, despite the fact that the larger cars would see a direct benefit with flex fuel since they seem to consume more fuel. In my previous post I mention methane (CH4) as a good long term fuel since it can in theory be generated from hydrogen. Methane appears like it would be easier (safer) to store since it does not diffuse composite storage structures like pure hydrogen would. In theory some form of hydrogen generated fuel is probably the only solution, as hydrogen is "easy" to generate from water (assuming an energy input method such as fully renewable or nuclear fuel). The question seems to be centered around cost, efficiency and sustainability. The latter would appear to have the largest impact on infastructure.As a closing remark, I would like to hear about how GM's stability mangement and AWD systems function in bad weather and for performance driving. I have read about the competition in several magazines, but never read a great review on GMs technology. They seem to be behind from the articles I have read in the past. I would love to hear other wise. That said can GM offer some more insight and information about what their stability systems can and can't do (compared to their competition).
As always keep up the good work. Its a great thing to be able to discuss and provide feedback to GM.
Posted by: Nate
Dave: Nate, let me try to address the issues you raised.
With respect to the diesel engine, I can’t reveal any future product plans, but you can be assured that the diesel will figure strongly in our plans as we work to attain the stringent new CAFÉ standards and meet our customers’ demand for improved fuel economy. We are ready and able to offer advanced diesel engines when the market warrants that diesels are a viable alternative to gasoline-powered engines.
As you recognize, the diesel engine itself is more expensive and will require an extensive aftertreatment system, in addition to the diesel particulate filter to meet the stringent Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions requirements for North America. Our goal is to maintain the fuel economy, performance and driveability that customers expect with our diesel engines, while meeting the stringent regulations and minimizing the complexity and cost to the diesel engine.
HCCI is still in the research stage. The concept is to use compression ignition like a diesel with a homogenous mixture. Under light load, the mixture could be so lean that combustion temperatures are too low for oxides of nitrogen to form. The fuel economy advantage would come from being able to operate the engine without throttling and from the improved thermodynamic properties of the lean mixture. At higher loads, the engine would transition to operate like a traditional spark-ignition engine. The realization of that somewhat simple concept is much more difficult because of the control systems involved.
Engines can be run on gaseous fuels. Natural gas and propane have both been used. Typically, these fuels are run in spark-ignition engines where their high octane ratings (130 for natural gas and 110 for propane) allow the engine to use a higher compression ratio. The disadvantage of gaseous fuel is that engine power is reduced because their combustion release less energy per unit mass of air meaning that engine power drops at a given air flow. Storage of gaseous fuels is also more difficult and requires more volume than gasoline or diesel fuel.
I suggest you visit a dealer for a test drive and discussion of the stability control and anti-lock brakes.
Posted by Editor at 2:22 PM
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More on Fuel Efficiency/Economy, Part 2
Editor's note: Part 2 in a series of responses by Dave Lancaster. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Count me among the unimpressed. E-85 capability is hardly noteworthy; components that ethanol won't attack and new computer settings. E-85 itself is problematic. All E-85 production has accomplished so far is to drive up food prices. I live in the state with the most E-85 pumps and there still isn't one convenient to me. I've checked with friends who have E-85 capable vehicles and not one has actually used the stuff. The US was rocked by OPEC back in 1973. It became painfully obvious that our oil dependence was a strategic problem for us (and it turns out oil consumption is a big part of a global environmental problem, too) and in the 34 years since, domestic auto manufacturers have not risen to the challenge of significantly driving down fuel consumption. You've spent the better part of the last 20 years in a horsepower and cylinder count race. And you've spent oodles of money advertising trucks (many of which are parked outside my office building having done their heavy lifting for the day by bringing the driver to work through stop-and-go traffic). I vote for the production of high mileage cars by buying them. Unfortunately, after 34 years, I still have to go to Japanese manufacturers to get such cars. While you were sleeping, Toyota and Honda busted their butts and delivered cars that get phenomenal city fuel economy and impressive highway economy, too. One of those is a market winner, too, to the tune of 20K sales/month. And props to Ford for the hybrid Escape, too.
Posted by: Charlie H
Dave: Charlie, E85 is clearly not the only solution, but using a fuel based on biomass rather than fossil fuel is clearly a step in the right direction from a CO2 standpoint and it reduces our dependency on foreign oil. GM sees E85 ethanol FlexFuel vehicles as one of the most effective near term ways (the next decade or so until reliable battery technology is developed and electric vehicles are in mass production) to decrease global petroleum demand.
Obviously infrastructure is a considerable hurdle to overcome. To help expand the availability of E85 ethanol in the U.S., GM has helped open 300 new E85 ethanol fueling pumps at stations in 15 states and the District of Columbia in the last two years. GM will continue to work on establishing more partnerships to do the same. A key is to expand the number of stations offering E85 by greater numbers so that the fuel is available more readily to more customers who drive flex-fuel vehicles.
As to the trucks outside your office, there are many people who drive trucks because they need the ability to haul a load on an occasional basis. We build some great trucks for them, and our new two-mode hybrid will allow them to get city fuel economy that rivals much smaller cars. Witness the Hybrid Tahoe besting the four-cylinder Camry.
As to your personal quest for a high mileage car, check out the new Saturn Astra. It’s a hit in Europe where fuel economy has been king for a long time.
Dave: Herr Langlitz, thanks for the comments. We are bringing the Astra over here as a Saturn. Hopefully that will meet Paul’s (your response comment) needs.
"While you were sleeping, Toyota and Honda busted their butts and delivered cars that get phenomenal city fuel economy and impressive highway economy, too. One of those is a market winner, too, to the tune of 20K sales/month." That statement is outrageous to say the least. The fuel economy of GM's four cylinder midsize sedans is just as good as the Accord and Camry four cylinder. The Civic and Corolla get better mileage than the Cobalt largely dut to their small engine sizes. Both of those cars have less powere and far less torque than the 2.2L Cobalt. Comments by people like yourself and Paul are always focused on compact cars and hybrids but never crossovers and SUVs. Why is that? Probably because the mileage of import trucks and SUVs is below average. GM's trucks and crossovers get better mileage than their Toyota counterparts and yet that goes unmentioned from the GM bashers who spend countless hours reading and posting on this blog. Furthermore, Honda has dropped its hybrid accord for 2008 and thus the Malibu/Aura hybrids get better mileage than ANY Accord you can buy today. Yes they cant match the CAmry hybrid for mileage but they are still superior to the Accord since it lacks any form of hybrid.
Paul, the difference in cost between 30 MPG and 40 MPG if you drive 15,000 miles a year is $375 @ $3.00 a gallon which i do not think would ruin the budget of anyone who owns and drive a car.
Posted by: motorman
Dave: Motorman, the flip side of that is that if you have large vehicles that consume a lot of fuel, expensive technologies such as hybrids make more sense. That’s why we started introducing the two-mode hybrid on urban transit buses, and are now offering the two-mode RWD hybrid system on our Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUV’s and soon will add the Cadillac Escalade and full-size pickups.
Posted by Editor at 4:01 PM
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More on Fuel Efficiency/Economy
Editor's note: GM Powertrain's Dave Lancaster is back with more answers to the fuel economy/efficiency post Dan Hancock posted last December. We'll have a series of posts coming in response to the comments we received, so stay tuned. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
My question is How Proactive Will GM Be To Meet CA Emission Requirements? Meaning will the 2009 MY GM Model lineup meet CA requirements or not? It would be great to see GM take the lead on this this important issue and receive the support of a majority of the population of the United States! Imagine being the only manufacturer to meet these standards. That would give GM a lot of clout - even without being forced to meet these standards.
Posted by: Tiger Cosmos
Dave: Tiger, you're correct that CO2 emissions translate directly into fuel economy. In fact, the European fuel economy targets are expressed as CO2 grams per kilometer. The new CAFÉ regulations pose a tough, national standard that GM will strive to meet. We will focus our engineering and technical resources to attain these standards, and we remain hard at work applying the innovation and developing the advanced technologies that will power tomorrow’s cars and trucks. Addressing the nation’s energy security challenges, however, will require all of us working together and we hope to see continued progress on infrastructure and market-drive mechanisms that can augment the auto industry’s efforts.
Dear Mr. Lancaster,
I have a question, concerning a topical issue, discussed in Germany since a few weeks. As you may know, there are existing certain plans, to increasing the portion of ethanol for regular gasoline up to 10% over here. Only exception: "Super Plus", our premium gasoline. What about the US-made GM-vehicles sold over here in recent years? Are they already able to running on E10 without any risk of damage? Referring to my information, E10 had been introduced in the USA already decades ago. So I would presume, that your vehicles, sold over here, are E10-capable. This would mean a significant advantage vs. some competitors. Drivers who are not owning an E10-capable car, otherwise would have to use "Super Plus" later, meaning, this fuel is significantly more expensive than the other sorts (in the average 15 Euro-Cents more per Liter). I am driving a 2001 Alero, running on LPG, but nevertheless, the engine is using gasoline (for a minute) after a cold start, before it switches to LPG-use automatically. An answer to this question would be most appreciated. Thank you and Merry Christmas everybody!
Posted by: Gereon Langlitz (Germany)
Dave: Herr Langlitz,
All of our vehicles built in the US are able to run on E10 which is widely available here.
Fuel Economy, fuel efficiency. Well Something I would like to add a bit here. I have always liked the LSx engine for its fuel economy, netting the millennium motor is something great. I have heard the LS7 will be phased out due to cost/performance ratio. If the LS3 costs a lot less, gets 436HP it would be easy to assume that getting 436/6.2 x 7L = 492HP. Why go with a smaller engine and not give the corvette a 7L w/o the luxuries of titanium everything? I find it fascinating the 7L and the fact that such big engines that do not pay gas guzzler tax are around just be phased out again.
Posted by: Christian de Saint Preux
Dave: Christian, engines are big pumps, and the power out is proportional to the amount of air you can pump through the engine. That’s why the power actually scales with bore area rather than displacement. Bigger bores allow bigger valves thus more air flow and more power. An engine with a lower displacement due to shorter stroke can turn faster to get the power back. As to the LS3 and LS7, they're both great engines. Squeezing the last bit of power out of a naturally aspirated engine drives you to the expensive materials used in the LS7 to keep component strength up and mass down. As I write this, the ZR1 with an LS9 has already been introduced at the Detroit Auto Show. It gets even more power than the LS7 from “only” 6.2 L. It does it with a supercharger.
Mr. Lancaster, You have far more patience than I do to respond to some of the nonsense posted in the previous blog entry. Some questions are not worthy of answers but I understand why you are taking the time to respond.
Posted by: sheth
Dave: Sheth, thanks for the support. It really doesn’t take much patience to respond. If people care enough to give our products serious consideration, we will listen to what they have to say.
Posted by Editor at 2:06 PM
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The Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept
Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept
General Motors Vice President for Global Design Ed Welburn just gave a speech unveiling the Cadillac CTS Coupe concept car at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Here are some highlights from his speech:
- “As the design team was completing the development of the CTS sedan, the creative ideas continued to flow. Our designers had a great idea for a CTS coupe. The design quickly progressed from a hot sketch to a wonderful full-size clay model. It looked so good that we had to build it!”
- “The CTS Coupe concept builds on the success of the CTS sedan, but is an expression of the ‘Art & Science’ design language that is even more dramatic. The body shape is crisp, lean, and has a lot of energy. The bold front end is straight from the CTS sedan and the rear is just as striking as the front. The rear has a strong centerline crease, and aggressive proportions and plan view sweeps.”
- "The interior is based on the production sedan, but we used this opportunity to explore new materials, colors and finishes. I was so excited about the seat design that I had an extra seat designed to display as a piece of artwork at the Design Center."
- "In terms of performance, the CTS Coupe concept offers the flexibility to accept a broad engine range of gasoline and diesel engines for international markets."
Click over to GM's media web site for more information about the CTS Coupe concept, including a complete list of specifications and comments from the car's designers. And check out Flickr for more photos of the CTS Coupe concept.
Posted by Editor at 6:23 AM
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The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept
More about GM's biofuels partnership with Coskata, on the FYI blog
Saab 9-4X BioPower concept
Saab is on the move.
I hope with what you have seen today that you agree.
Sixteen Swedish aircraft engineers showed the world their remarkable innovative spirit when they introduced its first automobile concept more than 60 years ago, now know as the Ur Saab.
That same innovative spirit endured when Saab introduced the industry’s first turbo-charged engine for regular cars 30 years ago.
And here we are today at the North American International Auto Show proudly showing our innovative Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept. Our ambition as you may know has always been to expand our global portfolio and, although realizing we’re not the first, I believe the timing is right to share with you our vision of what a premium Swedish Saab Crossover could look like.
A little less than two years ago the Saab Aero X Concept Car surprised car enthusiasts around the world and showed more than words could say where we wanted to take this unique Scandinavian brand. It is therefore not a coincidence that the 9-4X Biopower Concept shares a lot of the Aero X design language that so many of you have come to appreciate. It’s neither a surprise given today’s discussion on climate change that this concept vehicle features our unique BioPower concept making it capable of running on E85 while at the same time delivering more power. Typical Saab, I would say. And it’s not without success; The Saab BioPower range has made us the No. 1 selling brand of E85 flex-fuel cars in Europe.
Of course this business is all about people. Anthony Lo (who led the design team for the Aero X) brought together a group of designers and engineers and worked with the Saab Brand Center team in Sweden to develop this crossover. I hope you, like me, are excited about the result, which clearly expresses our Scandinavian values and DNA. A concept that we believe will resonate with our potential customers.
So what makes it Scandinavian? What sets it apart from other vehicles? It’s the simplicity of form, with clean and uncluttered lines and a characteristic ‘ice-block’ surface and lighting themes. The progressive interior design elements also draw inspiration from Saab’s Aero X concept.
But we stretched a bit further and hosted “guest” designers on this vehicle. The innovative load-carrying solutions, including a unique ski equipment stowage system, was developed in co-operation with mountain sports specialists Salomon. I can tell you this comes in quit handy in my country that for a large part of the year is covered with snow…
Efficient use of our resources and respect for our nature are deeply rooted in the Swedish culture. For 30 years Saab has been seeking out the highest levels of performance from smaller, more efficient engines without sacrificing power. It’s part of our thinking as Swedes and this leadership position now gives us a huge competitive advantage as many of our competitors currently are looking for ways to ‘right-size’ their engines.
The 9-4X BioPower Concept has a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter BioPower turbo engine that delivers an exceptional level of power efficiency - 300 hp and strong torque of 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.). In combination with our state-of-the-art Saab XWD ('cross wheel drive') system that is developed in Sweden, this advanced powertrain promises to make driving to your destination as enjoyable as the impending adventure itself. And you can do that with a clean conscious…
The 9-4X BioPower Concept is a first and important signal of our ambition to expand our product range. But it’s more than that. It shows where we want to take our brand. And we’ll take it beyond many people’s imagination. Expect a lot more from us. Perhaps even sooner than you might think….
Posted by Editor at 11:31 AM
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The HUMMER HX Concept
Photos of the HX concept and lots more from NAIAS on Flickr
By Carl Zipfel, Exterior Design Director
HUMMER Design Studio
Hello, my name is Carl Zipfel. I’m the Exterior Design Director of the HUMMER Design Studio. As you may know, the HUMMER HX concept vehicle debuted today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. On Jan. 16, I’ll be speaking at the Autoweek Design Forum. The theme of the forum is “Designed for Fun,” and the reason I was asked to be there is because I work with the team responsible for creating the exciting, new, fun designs for HUMMER.
The HX concept is a peek into the future possibilities for the HUMMER brand. There are a number of imperatives we’re working on: first, to build on our position of “Best in Class” off-road capable vehicles, evidenced by H3 and H3 Alpha stock-class victories at the 2007 Baja 1000 and the H3 Alpha’s recognition as Four Wheeler Magazine’s 2008 Four Wheeler of the Year; second, to continue to evolve the portfolio with fresh, exciting, relevant new designs; and third, to maintain our commitment to develop HUMMER’s global relevance — a brand that is available in 37 countries today.
Carl Zipfel and the HUMMER HX Concept
The HX is a compact two-door, four-passenger, open-air, extreme off-road capable concept. HX features a reconfigurable rear compartment that can transform from slant back to SUT to square back, any of which can be open air or fully enclosed. The HX is a hint at the evolution of the HUMMER design DNA. HX is all about leading-edge design with a theme focused on function, performance, adventure and fun.
And while HUMMER vehicles are designed for fun, the also have a serious side, with capabilities that make them the ideal emergency response vehicle. HUMMER has partnered with the American Red Cross to provide 72 vehicles for over six years to enhance the disaster response capacity of chapters around the country.
An important aspect of HX is the 3.6L E85 Ethanol FlexFuel powertrain. HUMMER is committed to the development of alternative fuel systems for the entire range of models we offer. In fact, by 2010, all HUMMER models will offered with a biofuel powertrain
I believe the HX concept is a fitting representative for the future of the HUMMER brand during GM’s centennial celebration year. We’re looking forward with passion and excitement about the future possibilities for HUMMER. We’re committed to the development of the brand, and as part of that, we will create new models that are relevant to the rapidly changing world around us. The future is bright. I’m excited about the work ahead of us and continuing to deliver on the promise of keeping HUMMER “Like Nothing Else.”
Posted by Editor at 11:30 AM
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More on the Camaro
This just in: Spotted on The GM test track, this early, preproduction Camaro Coupe. The new Camaro is quickly evolving into final form, but some of the details you see here (such as the headlamp design) may change before production begins this year. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Posted by Editor at 12:52 PM
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NEWS: Rick Wagoner CES Keynote Available
Rick Wagoner and the Cadillac Provoq Concept
Make sure to check out GM's Media Online site for the full text from Chairman Rick Wagoner's Tuesday remarks at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Rick's speech included both highlights from GM's past, such as the development of the catalytic converter and automatic transmission, and future as the company heads into its next 100 years. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Posted by Editor at 1:07 PM
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Cadillac Accelerates Into 2008
By Jim Taylor
Cadillac General Manager
Cadillac enters 2008 carrying a lot of momentum, and in the coming days we’ll be taking some big additional steps that I’m excited to preview for you.
Cadillac will extend momentum in two of the world’s most influential venues. This week we introduced the Cadillac Provoq Concept at the massive Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Provoq is Cadillac’s vision for the petroleum-free future of luxury transportation, and a major statement on the development of GM’s breakthrough E-Flex technology. Provoq continues GM’s vision of the electrification of the automobile, but this time where electrical power is generated by an advanced hydrogen fuel cell and the only “tailpipe” emission is water vapor. This concept is a dramatically designed luxury crossover vehicle showcasing how E-Flex technology can deliver all-wheel drive performance, while supporting the cargo carrying capability and the accommodations demanded by modern consumers.
Included in the Provoq are some pretty interesting technological ideas that support the E-Flex system. The roof is actually a solar panel, which transmits small amounts of electric power to operate the car’s interior accessories (such as the audio system.) The exterior features “active” aerodynamics, such as louvers in the grille that open and shut based on the airflow needs of the E-Flex system.
Petroleum-free, emissions-free driving could represent the ultimate luxury. Overall, the Provoq Concept does just what its name suggests – it provokes a new perspective on how the electrification of the automobile can change the luxury landscape.
Next week at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Cadillac will debut the much-anticipated 2009 CTS- V . Launching later this year, CTS- V is a car designed to enter the stratosphere of the world’s most desired and capable luxury cars. In Detroit, Cadillac also will feature the upcoming Escalade Hybrid and Escalade Platinum models, which extend the desirability of the leading large luxury SUV.
Luxury buyers want it all. This series of technically advanced concept and production debuts are a powerful statement of how Cadillac and GM will deliver.
The all-new 2008 CTS exemplifies the momentum we’re building. Since its launch in August, CTS is winning with the two toughest audiences – luxury buyers and critics. Sales of the new CTS are up 59.5 percent since September. CTS is Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, is on Car and Driver’s revered 10Best cars list, and it’s a finalist for the prestigious North American Car of the Year Award (along with the Chevy Malibu.)
As GM enters its centennial year, it’s absolutely fitting that Cadillac once again exhibits the full capabilities and innovation of GM. This is more than just tradition for us. It’s Cadillac’s role and responsibility. From Charles Kettering’s invention of the electric starter in 1912 all the way to the electrically-powered new Provoq Concept we’ve debuted today, we at Cadillac are again excited to show our vision for elevating the art and science of luxury transportation.
Posted by Editor at 12:20 PM
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Happy Birthday to the Volt
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
Exactly one year ago today we revealed the Chevrolet Volt to the world, and what a year it’s been…
Leading into last year’s North American International Auto Show, we felt the Volt was something special, but I have to admit, even I was surprised at the overwhelming response.
The enthusiasm for this product motivates us, every day, to bring the Volt and the E-Flex System technology to market as quickly as possible. In just 365 days, we’ve:
- Revealed three variants of the E-Flex System; an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV), a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle and a Diesel Extended-Range Electric Vehicle
- Assigned over 200 engineers to the program
- Transferred over 400 scientists and engineers from our Fuel Cell R & D programs to production programs — same work, but now production intent
- Signed advanced development battery contracts with Continental and LG Chem
- Signed an advanced development lithium-ion battery cell contract with A123Systems
- Begun testing our first two batteries
- Opened a dedicated E-Flex Design studio staffed with over 40 interior and exterior designers
We’re proud of the progress we’ve made, but we are constantly reminded that we need to move even more quickly. The proof is everywhere — $100/barrel oil, increased concerns over CO2 emissions, new CAFÉ standards and the growing concern that our industry needs to seek alternatives to oil.
This program remains a top commitment to the company, and we are holding tight to our 2010 deadline.
And while 2007 was a big year for the Volt, we expect 2008 to be even bigger. As each day passes, our confidence and understanding of the battery technology necessary for the Volt to go into production grows. The results from our first two months of testing — some of which has been fairly extreme — have been very encouraging. Soon these batteries will move from the lab to engineering mule vehicles for dynamic testing. There’s no way we can predict how these batteries will perform over 10 years based on only two months of testing, but I can assure you, there will be a point in time when we have the full confidence that our solution will reach this goal. When this happens, you’ll be the first to know.
Posted by Lutz at 4:10 PM
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UPDATE: Over on FYI
Check out FYI for some answers from GM Service Parts & Operations to recent readers' questions. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Posted by Editor at 5:46 PM
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For the Camaro Fans...
By Ed Peper
Chevrolet General Manager
I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday season and is looking forward to 2008, because I know I am.
Word has come down from Bob Lutz to remove the camo from the pre-production Camaros so further evaluations could be done for aerodynamics and cooling efficiency.
Here - for the enjoyment of our FastLane readers - is the first picture of the Camaro development vehicle without camouflage:
During this upcoming year, pre-production Camaros will appear both on U.S. and Australian roads as we continue with testing and development. So keep those camera phones ready- if you happen to see one, we'd like to hear about it, so please post a comment and include your "spy photo!"
Posted by Editor at 12:21 PM
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January Flickr Calendar
Make sure to check out FYI for January's Flickr calendar. Happy New Year's from all of us at GM Blogs. -Alicia Dorset, blog editor
Posted by Editor at 3:57 PM
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The 2009 Corvette ZR1: A World-Beating Supercar...
...from America
By Ed Peper
Chevrolet General Manager
If you were online yesterday and had even a passing interest in performance cars, you probably read about the new 2009 Corvette ZR1. The car will go on display to the public during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January, but we released some photos and the all-important technical information on this ultimate Vette. It’s the Corvette that challenges the supercar hierarchy, with world-beating performance offered at a world-beating price.
Just in case you missed it, here’s the story: The ZR1 is the fastest and most powerful Corvette ever produced. In fact, it’s the fastest and most powerful production car in General Motors’ history. We’re still conducting performance testing, so I can’t throw out 0-60, quarter-mile and braking numbers, but suffice it to say that we couldn’t use the Corvette Z06’s 200-mph speedometer because there weren’t enough numbers on it.
The power behind this performance capability is the new LS9, a supercharged and intercooled, 6.2-liter version of the famed small-block V-8 that is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center in Michigan. The LS9 uses a new, sixth-generation Eaton supercharger that expands the effectiveness of the compressor, helping give the engine terrific low-end torque and high-rpm power. The tremendous power boost of the “blower” allowed the engineers to spec a “smaller” cam than we use on the Z06’s LS7 engine, giving the ZR1 exceptional drivability. You can drive this car to work every day and it doesn’t beat you up, yet you can take it to a racetrack on the weekend and mop the floor with the competition.
Final power numbers are still being calculated, but we’re confident the LS9 will make at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower, and nearly 600 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is backed by a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual that uses a dual-disc clutch that, again, enhances the overall driving feel with a smooth, easy pedal effort. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the carbon-ceramic brakes and second-generation magnetic ride control that are standard, too.
On the outside, the ZR1 stands out with unique, larger wheels and tires, a distinctive rear spoiler and unique front fenders with dual-split vents. But admirers and wary competitors will certainly know the car from its windowed hood and exposed-weave carbon fiber parts. The hood window provides a look at the top of the engine’s intercooler and the exposed-weave carbon-fiber parts are found on the roof, rocker moldings and front splitter. We’ve used carbon fiber previously on the Corvette, but we really wanted to show it off on the ZR1 and a new clear coat that blocks ultra-violet rays finally allowed us to do it.
The Corvette has always been a performance and technology leader, from the fuel-injected racers pioneered by the likes of Zora Arkus-Duntov and the ground-shaking L88 big-blocks of the late 1960s, to the first ZR-1 supercar that was introduced in 1990 and the track-dominating C5R and C6R racecars. The new ZR1 is the culmination of that legacy, delivering an uncompromising balance of performance and driving comfort that exotics costing two, three or four times as much, cannot match.
The technical information on the ZR1 that was released yesterday has already spawned the inevitable “pushrod versus overhead-cam” debate, with preconceived notions continually perpetuated about the perceived technical sophistication of a cam-in-block design. Our Powertrain team’s testing shows the LS9 makes about 300 horsepower by only 3,300 rpm and a significant 320 lb.-ft. of torque at only 1,000 rpm. The engine’s rev range is competitive with many overhead-cam engines, but we’ve also got usable torque at every notch on the tachometer. It’s a also a compact, relatively low-mass package, which helps the ZR1 achieve a better power-to-weight ratio than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and the Lamborghini LP640.
At Chevrolet, we couldn’t be prouder about the ZR1; it is a world-beating supercar from America that makes no apologies. And to those who question its capabilities or technical supremacy, I have only two words: Bring it.
Posted by Editor at 11:24 AM
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Season’s Greetings
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
I’d like to thank those who posted their congratulations on the last post about GM taking four of the six finalist spots for North American Car and Truck of the Year. Your support and enthusiasm means a lot to us, and helps us “remain calm” as we wait anxiously for the winners to be announced Jan. 12, 2008, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Malibu, CTS, Enclave and Tahoe Hybrid teams deserve all the credit in the world; in my mind, they’re all winners.
When the auto show rolls around, be sure to check back here for information and updates. We have a host of world debuts that I’m sure will pique your interest, whether you’re a fan of fuel savings or out-and-out performance. We’re going to have something for everyone, and we can't wait to pull the wraps off the concept cars and production vehicles we have lined up this year.
In the meantime, before we assemble here in Detroit for the auto show, there’s this business of the holidays to attend to. I know I’ll be enjoying the time with my family, trying (and likely largely failing) to break the Blackberry habit, at least temporarily. Please take the opportunity to take some time off and enjoy the company of friends and family this season. I hope you all have the happiest of holidays and a terrific 2008. See you then.
Posted by Lutz at 3:31 PM
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Checking Back In: Fuel Economy vs Fuel Efficiency
Editor's note: