NAIAS 2015: Chevrolet Bolt EV Concept Signals Brand’s EV Strategy

Affordable, long-range concept builds on brand’s electrification leadership

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today made a significant statement on its commitment to electrification with the introduction of the Bolt EV concept – a vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle designed to offer more than 200 miles of range starting around $30,000.

“The Bolt EV concept is a game-changing electric vehicle designed for attainability, not exclusivity,” said General Motors CEO Mary Barra. “Chevrolet believes electrification is a pillar of future transportation and needs to be affordable for a wider segment of customers.”

Leveraging the electrification prowess established by Volt and Spark EV, the Bolt EV concept is designed to offer long-range performance in all 50 states and many global markets.

Drivers will be able to select operating modes designed around preferred driving styles such as daily commuting and spirited weekend cruising, for uncompromising electric driving. The modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning. The Bolt EV concept is also designed to support DC fast charging.

“We have made tremendous strides in technologies that make it easier and more affordable for Chevrolet customers to integrate an all-electric vehicle in their daily lives,” said Barra. “The Bolt EV concept demonstrates General Motors’ commitment to electrification and the capabilities of our advanced EV technology.”

Chevrolet Bolt Concept unveiled at 2015
North American International Auto Show
in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

The Bolt EV concept also pushes the envelope for crossover aesthetics. Its unique proportion, with practically no front or rear overhang, makes the most of interior space and was designed to create a roomy environment for four that feels expansive. Lightweight materials, including aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and even woven mesh, complement the design, while driving down the curb weight to help maximize range. Aero-optimizing features such as vented rear fenders also help contribute to range.

Ford launches ad campaign for 2015 F-150 trucks

This is one of three new commercials, released on December 30, for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 full-size trucks.

All-New 2015 Mercedes Benz C-Class

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class at North American International Auto Show
Photo: NAIAS

Here's the next generation C-Class from Mercedes-Benz.  Lighter, sleeker and more efficient, according to Mercedes-Benz officials, while offering a new level of high-class interior design to underscore the luxurious comfort and refined sportiness of the Three-Pointed Star's entry level sedan in North America and top-selling model, globally.  The new C-Class made its US debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Photo: MBUSA

The U.S. market launches with two C-Class models:  C300 4MATIC with a 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection in-line four cylinder engine delivering preliminary power figures of 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of    torque and a C400 4MATIC with a 3.0L turbocharged direct-injection V6 at 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.

On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor.  Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emotions.  

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class interior
Photo: MBUSA

The interior design demonstrates a bold new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the designers combine in accomplished style the architecture of Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a totally new center console featuring flowing lines.  A large one-piece center console panel performs an elegant sweep from the center air vents to the armrest.  These seamless clear-cut lines create a sense of open space and convey a thrillingly purist and modern feel.

The new 2015 C-Class should arrive in Mercedes-Benz showrooms this summer.

See the new C-Class in motion.

Chevy Sets 2014 Corvette Stingray Pricing

DETROIT (GM) – The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license.

“The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet’s mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology that very few manufacturers can match, and none can even come close for $52,000.”

Standard features on the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray include:

• Seating with lightweight magnesium frames for exceptional support, and eight-way power adjustment
• Five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors up to 12 vehicle attributes
• New seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching
• 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine with direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system
• Carbon fiber hood on all models, and a carbon fiber removable roof panel on coupes
• Aluminum frame that is 99 pounds lighter (45 kg) and 57-percent stiffer than the previous model’s structure
• Advanced, high-intensity discharge (HID) and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting
• Dual, eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, with next-generation Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and rear vision camera
• Bose nine-speaker audio system with SiriusXM Satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SD card and auxiliary input jack
• Keyless access with push-button start
• Power tilt/telescope steering wheel
• An all-new, fully electronic top on the convertible that can be lowered remotely using the key fob

New Corvette Stingray unveiled in January at 2013 North
American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

As shown at the North American International Auto Show, the Stingray coupe fitted with the major available options would be $73,360, including:

• 3LT interior package, with leather-wrapped interior ($8,005)
• Z51 Performance Package ($2,800)
• Competition sports seats ($2,495)
• Exposed-carbon-fiber roof panel ($1,995)
• Magnetic Ride Control with Performance Traction Management ($1,795)
• Dual-mode exhaust system ($1,195)
• Carbon fiber interior trim ($995)
• Sueded, microfiber-wrapped upper interior trim ($995)
• Red-painted calipers ($595)
• Black-painted wheels ($495)

The 3LT interior package includes: Bose 10-speaker surround-sound audio system; SiriusXM Satellite radio with one-year subscription and HD radio receiver; color head-up display; memory package; navigation system; heated and ventilated seats with power lumbar and bolster adjustment; premium Napa leather seating surfaces; and leather-wrapped dash and instrument panel, console and door panels.

The Z51 Performance Package includes: high-performance gear ratios; transmission-cooling system; larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels and tires; larger, slotted rotors and brake-cooling ducts; electronic limited-slip differential and differential cooling system; unique chassis tuning; and available Magnetic Ride Control active-handling system with Performance Traction Management. Equipped with the Z51 package, the Corvette Stingray is capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in under four seconds, and more than 1 g in cornering.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year.  Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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2013 North American International Auto Show

Slideshow of photos from Media Preview of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.  (All photos courtesy of NAIAS)

2013 Detroit Auto Show

Cadillac ready to debut ELR extended range electric car

Cadillac ELR going through testing in California. (Photo: GM)

The Cadillac ELR electric vehicle with extended range is wrapped in camouflage and driven through the mountains of southern California for key development tests including steep grade performance and higher altitude operation Tuesday, September 18, 2012. The Cadillac ELR, an upscale corporate cousin of the Chevrolet Volt, will make its official public debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 15, 2013.  The car is expected to hit Cadillac showrooms later this year. Pricing has not been announced, but with the Volt starting at $31.645, expect a hefty up charge for the Caddy.

A Show to Remember: NAIAS 2012 Closes with Smiles, High-Fives, and Optimism

Detroit, MI (NAIAS) - After a spectacular nine day run, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2012 is in the books. Today's attendance of 101,141 topped last year's final day numbers of 98,106, bringing total attendance of the 2012 show to 770,932, the highest since 2005.

2012 NAIAS at Cobo Hall
Detroit, Michigan

Bill Perkins, chairman, NAIAS, said the show lived up to its reputation of being one of the top in the world.

"From the press to the public, everyone realized that this was a very special show," said Perkins. "People want to feel good again about the industry, which is now obviously in a better place than it was a few years ago. As a result, this year's show was a 'must-see' event, as the attendance numbers indicate," he said. "Everything that could go right.did."

Toyota reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

DETROIT (TMS/PRNewswire) -- Toyota Motor Sales, USA revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

“In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.”

NS4’s advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.

2012 Ram 1500 and 2012 Jeep® Wrangler Win "Best for the Money" Accolades from U.S. News & World Report

AUBURN HILLS, MI (PRNewswire) -- The 2012 Ram 1500 has been named U.S. News & World Report's "2012 Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money" and the 2012 Jeep® Wrangler has been named the "2012 Best Off-Road SUV for the Money." The Ram 1500 and Jeep Wrangler took top honors for outstanding value and availability of features buyers want.

RAM 1500

"The Ram Truck brand is meeting the needs and expectations of our customers with the best trucks in the market," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico — Chrysler Group LLC. "U.S. News & World Report's 2012 Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money award is a powerful, independent accolade, standing as an endorsement for the 2012 Ram 1500 and its value for the money."

BMW Confirms 6-Speed Manual Transmission for the 2013 M5

Detroit, MI (BMW) -- On the occasion of the North American International Auto Show, BMW confirmed on January 9, 2012 that it will offer a 6-speed manual transmission on the North American version of the upcoming 2013 BMW M5. The 6-speed manual will be available from the start of production this summer and will be offered as a no-cost alternative to the standard 7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (DCT). The manual gearbox was a popular choice for U.S. customers of the previous generation M5 and continues to be a unique offer in the segment.

Honda Unveils 2013 Accord Coupe Concept

DETROIT (Honda/PRNewswire) — Honda unveiled the dynamic Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda’s suite of next-generation Earth Dreams™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available with a number of innovative new safety and technological features.

Chevrolet Unveils Two Concepts at Detroit Auto Show

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”

According to U.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today’s potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.  Over the past year, Chevrolet has conversed with young consumers across the United States.  Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.

GM Kicks-Off 2012 NAIAS with Debut of New ATS Sedan

The eyes of the automotive world are focused on the Motor City as the 2012 North American International Auto Show gets underway in Detroit this week.  The official media previews begin on Monday morning.  However, General Motors kicked things off on Sunday night with a special media event at the College for Creative Studies, home to one of the world's most recognized programs for transportation design.

GM-North America President
Mark Reuss unveils all-new
Cadillac ATS in Detroit on
January 8, 2012.

The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the all-new Cadillac ATS sedan, which GM officials say will challenge the world's best premium cars.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”