Misplaced Pages

#558441

117-635: In 2013 General Motors announced that it would withdraw the Chevrolet brand, with the exception of the Corvette and Camaro , from Europe except Russia and CIS member nations. Chevrolet has a history in the European market prior to the establishment of Chevrolet Europe in the 21st century. It had production facilities in Denmark, Poland, and Switzerland, which existed until 1968. In the latter half of

234-541: A United States auto manufacturer. It serves as Chevrolet's halo car . Since its introduction in 1953, the two-seater has steadily moved upmarket. Initially, a relatively modest, lightweight 6‑cylinder convertible , subsequent introductions of V8 engines, competitive chassis innovations, and rear mid-engined layout have positioned the Corvette in the supercar class. The first three Corvette generations (1953–1983) employed body-on-frame construction, and since

351-719: A 1.4 Econo.Flex engine. Although sporting a similar front end style, it is not directly related to the Chevrolet Agile , since it shares the overall underpinnings with the 2011 Chevrolet Sonic , while the Agile is derived from the considerably older Opel Corsa B , from 1993. Chevrolet had no plans to bring the Cobalt to the North American market, which already had the Chevrolet Sonic and Chevrolet Spark as

468-402: A 235 cu in (3.9 L) version of the second-generation Blue Flame inline-six rated at 150 hp (112 kW; 152 PS). The 1955 model offered a 265 cu in (4.34 L) V8 engine as an option. The new V8 improved 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) acceleration by 3 seconds. With a large inventory of unsold 1954 models, GM limited production to 700 units for 1955. Despite

585-470: A 390 hp (291 kW; 395 PS) rating. The ZR-1 special package was an option available on the 1970 through 1972 model years, and included the LT-1 engine combined with special racing equipment. Only 53 ZR-1's were built. In 1971, to accommodate regular low-lead fuel with lower anti-knock properties, the engine compression ratios were lowered which resulted in reduced power ratings. The power rating for

702-414: A Corvette). An all-new LS1 aluminum engine (Gen III small block) featured individual ignition coils for each cylinder, and aluminum block and pistons. It was initially rated at 345 hp (257 kW; 350 PS) and 350 lb⋅ft (470 N⋅m), but was increased to 350 hp (261 kW; 355 PS) in the 2001 edition. The new engine, combined with the new body, was able to achieve up to 28 mpg on

819-681: A Corvette, the Z06 featured a full aluminum chassis. The frame mirrored the C5/6 architecture, but substituted aluminum hydroformed rails and aluminum extrusions and castings fore and aft. This dropped weight from 419 to 287 pounds while improving chassis stiffness. For 2008, the Corvette received a mild freshening: a new LS3 engine with displacement increased to 6.2 L (380 cu in), resulting in 430 hp (321 kW; 436 PS) and 424 lb⋅ft (575 N⋅m) (436 hp (325 kW; 442 PS) and 428 lb⋅ft (580 N⋅m) if ordered with

936-408: A body and interior revisions including a longer front end with quad headlamps, bumper exiting exhaust tips, revised steering wheel, and a dashboard with all gauges mounted directly in front of the driver. For 1958 only were 1958 hood louvers and twin trunk spears. The 1959–60 model years had few changes except a decreased amount of body chrome and more powerful engine offerings. In 1961, the rear of

1053-544: A car that "exemplifies our company slogan ‘Driving Innovation’". Mixing together both elements of a Sports Utility Vehicle and a Sports Coupe, it has a wheelbase of 2,707 mm (8.881 ft), sporty wheel arches and wheels that are positioned outside of the vehicle's body giving the impression of an agile and athletic car. According to Max Wolff, deputy director of Advanced Design, the T2x has been designed to appeal to everyone, but in particular those in their 20s and 30s looking for

1170-408: A distinctive tapering rear deck (a feature that later reappeared on the 1971 "Boattail" Buick Riviera ) with, for 1963 only, a split rear window. The Sting Ray featured hidden headlamps, non-functional hood vents, and an independent rear suspension . Corvette chief engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov never liked the split rear window because it blocked rear vision, but Mitchell thought it to be a key part of

1287-781: A press release, Chevrolet stated that a coupe and convertible version would be made available, outfitted with 400 hp, 6.2-liter V8 Active Fuel Management engines. Facing up against competition from the Citroën C3 Picasso and the Kia Soul , the Camaro was named the World Car Design of the Year at the 2010 World Car of the Year Awards. European Union's new Euro 6d-Temp automotive emission regulations have ended

SECTION 10

#1732797909559

1404-480: A range of 100 miles (160 km), producing a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 103 mph (166 km/h). The battery unit itself is set to take just 8–10 hours to fully charge. In Europe a hatchback version of the Cruze was due to launch in the second half of 2011, with 1.6L and 1.8L petrol engines, accompanied by a 161 bhp 2.0 diesel. As yet there is no official word on whether

1521-538: A sedan version was sold alongside the coupé in Canada and Mexico. As with their predecessors, all Cobalts and its Pontiac equivalents were manufactured at GM's plant in Ramos Arizpe , Mexico and Lordstown, Ohio . The United States Environmental Protection Agency classified the Cobalt as a subcompact car . The front suspension was independent with MacPherson struts , while a semi-independent torsion beam

1638-539: A separately opening tailgate window. The Cruze name was initially used for a joint venture between Suzuki and GM which produced both the Cruze and the Suzuki Ignis in 2001. In its first incarnation, it was packaged as a crossover SUV . Subaru also adopted the shape of the car in 2003 to create the G3X Justy, exclusively distributed around Europe. In 2008, the name was resurrected as a compact sedan based on

1755-502: A single charge. After the charge has depleted, a petrol powered generator starts to charge the battery enabling a further 400 miles of range. It has been on sale in the US since December 2010 in a select number of regions where it has been met with largely positive reviews. Washington Post journalist, Gene Weingarten, renowned for his stance against American cars tested the Volt and suggested that

1872-561: A specific area of the vehicle's trim. This resulted in an unacceptable vulnerability to head injuries, though GM claimed the vulnerability would only affect motorists not wearing a seat belt. On March 2, 2010, GM announced a recall of 1.3 million compact cars in North America, including the Chevrolet Cobalt, because of power steering problems. GM implemented the repair on older models before fixing more recent models, as

1989-516: A sports-car feel coupled with the practicality of an SUV. The Chevrolet Sequel is GM's first hydrogen powered vehicle. Unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in 2005, the vehicle operates via an electrochemical fuel-cell that combines hydrogen fuel with oxygen, generating electricity, the only by-product of this process being water vapour. Although former GM vice chairman Bob Lutz suggested that

2106-399: A tweaked LS3 with a forged crank, are built in Z06 fashion by hand, and utilize a dry-sump oil system. The first three gears were also made shorter for better throttle response and faster acceleration. A new launch control system was introduced for all models that allow for sub-4-second 0–60. EPA is estimated at 26 MPG highway, 1.0 G on skid pad. Beginning with the 2011 model year, buyers of

2223-478: A two-piece, tapering urethane bumper cover replaced the Kamm-tail and chrome bumper blades, and matched the new front design from the previous year. The 1975 model year ended the convertible body style until it returned 11 years later, and Dave McLellan succeeded Zora Arkus-Duntov as the Corvette's Chief Engineer. For the 1976 models the fiberglass floor was replaced with steel panels to provide protection from

2340-635: A two-tone Silver Anniversary Edition and an Indy Pace Car replica edition of the C3. This was also the first time that a Corvette was used as a Pace Car for the Indianapolis 500 . Engines and chassis components were mostly carried over from the C2, but the body and interior were new. The 350 cu in (5.7 L) engine replaced the old 327 cu in (5.36 L) as the base engine in 1969, but power remained at 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS). 1969

2457-510: Is also the location of the National Corvette Museum . The Corvette has become widely known as "America's Sports Car." Automotive News wrote that after being featured in the early 1960s television show Route 66 , "the Corvette became synonymous with freedom and adventure," ultimately becoming both "the most successful concept car in history and the most popular sports car in history." The first generation of Corvette

SECTION 20

#1732797909559

2574-644: Is equal to that of the C4 ZR-1, the improved rigidity, suspension, brakes, and reduced weight of the C5 produced a car quicker than C4 ZR-1. For the C6 Corvette GM wanted to focus more on refining the C5 than trying to redesign it. Car & Driver, and Motor Trend, described the C6 as an "evolution of the C5, instead of a complete redo". The C6 wheelbase was increased while body overhangs were decreased when compared to

2691-492: Is fitted with Computer Aided Gear Selection (CAGS) to improve fuel economy by requiring drivers to shift from 1st gear directly to 4th in low-speed/low-throttle conditions. This feature helps the C6 avoid the Gas Guzzler Tax by achieving better fuel economy. The new Z06 arrived as a 2006 model in the third quarter of 2005. It has a 7.0 L version of the small block engine codenamed LS7 . At 427.6 cubic inches,

2808-462: Is in running condition. The third-generation Corvette, patterned after the Mako Shark II concept car, was introduced for the 1968 model year and was in production until 1982. C3 coupes featured the first use of T-top removable roof panels. It introduced monikers that were later revived, such as LT-1, ZR-1, Z07, and Collector Edition. In 1978, Corvette's 25th anniversary was celebrated with

2925-439: The 1 ⁄ 4 mile (0.40 km) in 10.89 seconds. There was an extended production run for the 1969 model year due to a lengthy labor strike, which meant sales were down on the 1970 models, to 17,316. 1970 small-block power peaked with the optional high compression, high-revving small-block LT-1 that produced 370 hp (276 kW; 375 PS). The 427 big-block was enlarged to 454 cu in (7.44 L) with

3042-852: The Cavalier and the Toyota -based Geo/Chevrolet Prizm as Chevrolet's compact car. The Cobalt was available as both a coupe and sedan , as well as a sport compact version dubbed the Cobalt SS . Like the Chevrolet HHR and the Saturn ION , it was based on the GM Delta platform . A Pontiac version was sold in the United States and Mexico under the G5 name for 2007–2009. It was sold as

3159-460: The Chevrolet marque since 1953. Throughout eight generations, indicated sequentially as C1 to C8, the Corvette is noted for its performance, distinctive styling, lightweight fiberglass or composite bodywork, and competitive pricing. The Corvette has had domestic mass-produced two-seater competitors fielded by American Motors , Ford , and Chrysler ; it is the only one continuously produced by

3276-844: The Pontiac G4 in Mexico for 2005–2006 and as the Pontiac G5 in Canada for its entire run (where it was briefly known as the Pontiac Pursuit and later Pontiac G5 Pursuit ). The G5 replaced the Cavalier-related Pontiac Sunfire . While the Cobalt was available as a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan in all markets it was offered in, the G5 was only available as a coupé in the United States while

3393-582: The Shelby Cobra , GM planned to manufacture 100 to 125 Grand Sport Corvettes, but only five were actually built. They were driven by historic drivers such as Roger Penske , A. J. Foyt , Jim Hall , and Dick Guldstrand among others. Those five cars (001–005) are all held by private owners, and are among the most coveted and valuable Corvettes ever built. 002 is exhibited in the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum and

3510-630: The Suzuki Splash and latest generation Opel Agila . These cars supplemented the petrol engines available in the Spark with a GM 1.3 diesel engine. Along with the Corvette , the Camaro has been a popular American import to Europe since it launched in 1966. Chevrolet made the announcement in March 2010, that the Camaro was going to be made available on the European market for the first time in 2011. In

3627-416: The catalytic converter 's high operating temperature . For 15 model years the names Corvette, Sting Ray, and Stingray were synonymous. 1977 was the last year the tunneled roof treatment with a vertical back window was used, in addition, leather seats were available at no additional cost for the first time. The black exterior color returned after a six-year absence. The 1978 25th Anniversary model introduced

Chevrolet Europe - Misplaced Pages Continue

3744-467: The fastback glass rear window and featured a new interior and dashboard. Corvette's 25th anniversary was celebrated with the Indy 500 Pace Car limited edition and a Silver Anniversary model featuring silver over gray lower body paint. All 1979 models featured the previous year's pace car seats and offered the front and rear spoilers as optional equipment. 53,807 were produced for the model year, making 1979

3861-652: The front-engine , rear-wheel drive (RWD) platform was retained to keep production costs lower. Promotional efforts towards a new generation of buyers included a camouflaged version of the car was made available in the popular video game Gran Turismo 5 in November 2012, and the C7 being featured as the 2013 Indianapolis 500 pace car, the Corvette's 12th time in that spotlight. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette included an LT1 6.2 L V8 (376 cu in) making 455 hp (339 kW; 461 PS) or 460 hp (343 kW; 466 PS) with

3978-809: The subcompact cars in the continent. In GM Brazil's line-up, it is situated above the Chevrolet Prisma and below the Chevrolet Cruze . In January 2013, the Cobalt was launched in the Russian market, where it was imported from Uzbekistan. There, it was offered with a 1.5-liter engine, producing 77 kW (105 PS) and 134 N⋅m (99 lb⋅ft). The Cobalt was retired in Russia in December 2015, when Chevrolet decided to minimize its presence only to its iconic models. However, in late 2016, it

4095-573: The 1.4 ecotec engine used in North America will make its way into the European model. The Chevrolet Orlando is a seven-seater MPV released throughout Europe in Spring 2011. Seen as a rival to the Ford S-Max , VW Touran and Opel Zafira , it signals another step in Chevrolet's goal of establishing itself as a European brand. The car itself will initially be available in a 1.8-litre version delivering 139 bhp and two 2.0-litre diesel versions with

4212-454: The 1973 Corvette's chrome front bumper was changed to a 5-mile-per-hour (8 km/h) system with a urethane bumper cover, while the rear retained the two-piece chrome bumper set, its last year. The optional wire-spoked wheel covers (left) were offered for the last time in 1973. Only 45 Z07 were built in 1973. From 1974 onwards both the front and rear bumpers were polyurethane. In 1974, a 5-mile-per-hour (8 km/h) rear bumper system with

4329-487: The 1983 model year produced that were never sold. All of the 1983 prototypes were destroyed or serialized as 1984 model year except one white example with a medium blue interior. After extensive testing and modifications were completed, it was initially retired as a display sitting in an external wall over the Bowling Green Assembly Plant's employee entrance. Later this only surviving 1983 prototype

4446-620: The 2004 Paris Motor Show, the Captiva is a crossover SUV developed in South Korea by GM Daewoo . In South Korea the car is referred to as the Daewoo Winstorm. Available in 5- and 7-seater iterations, What Car refers to the roominess and practicality of the cabin as a particularly strong aspect of the car. The equipment is also rated highly with base models being equipped with air conditioning, MP3 ready CD stereo, alloy wheels and

4563-528: The 2004 model year. The C5 was a completely new design featuring new concepts and manufacturing innovations, subsequently carried forward to the C6 & C7. With a top speed of 176 mph (283 km/h), the C5 was noted by the automotive press as an advance, with improved dynamics in nearly every area over the C4. Innovations included a 0.29 drag coefficient, a notably lower weight with near 50/50 weight distribution, and active handling (the first stability control for

4680-552: The 2009 Geneva Motor Show under the name badge, Spark. Some of the revisions from the original Beat concept, to the final production line Spark, include a more-rounded nose and larger headlights. Upon going on sale, the Spark took over from the Matiz , which had been badged as a Chevrolet in recent years, and available in 1.0- and 1.2-litre variants. The underpinnings made it a sister car to the Opel/Suzuki joint venture which produced

4797-748: The 2016 model year. Its main rivals are the Nissan Versa and the Renault Logan . In Brazil, production ended in late 2019, with 2020 being the final model year. The Cobalt has been succeeded by the Chevrolet Onix Plus sedan, which achieved higher sales upon its launch in 2019. After UzAuto phased out the Ravon brand in 2020, the Ravon R4 was once again renamed the Chevrolet Cobalt. The Cobalt / R4 made by UzAuto never received

Chevrolet Europe - Misplaced Pages Continue

4914-511: The 20th century, Chevrolet grew as a niche European brand with imports of the two flagship models, Corvette and Camaro , as well as other Chevrolet vehicles. At the 2004 Paris Motor Show, Chevrolet announced that it was relaunching the brand across Europe, basing its headquarters in Zürich, the largest city in founder Louis Chevrolet 's native country of Switzerland. By 2010 sales had risen from 295,000 units in 2005 to 500,000. This level of growth

5031-501: The 350 cu in (5.7 L) L48 base engine decreased from 300 to 270 horsepower and the optional special high-performance LT1 engine decreased from 370 to 330 horsepower. The LS5 454 cu in (7.4 L) motor was carried over and produced 365 hp (272 kW; 370 PS). Offered in ‘71 only was the LS6 454 cu in (7.4 L) big-block featuring aluminum heads and delivering 425 hp (317 kW; 431 PS),

5148-452: The 350 cu in (5.7 L) L83 "Crossfire" V8 engine from the final 1982 third-generation model. New chassis features were aluminum brake calipers and an all-aluminum suspension for weight savings and rigidity. The new one-piece Targa top had no center reinforcement. Retractable headlights continued to be used, but became single units, which had been last used in 1957. A new electronic dashboard with digital liquid crystal displays for

5265-469: The 454 big-block engine was discontinued. Gradual power increases after 1975 peaked in 1980 with the model's optional L82 producing 230 hp (172 kW; 233 PS) in its final year. 1981 saw a single engine, the L81, which had 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) while the fuel-injected 1982 L83 had 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS). Styling changed subtly throughout the generation until 1978 for

5382-533: The C4 generation, introduced in 1983 as an early 1984 model, Corvettes have used GM's unibody Y‑body platform. All Corvettes used front mid-engine configuration for seven generations, through 2019, and transitioned to a rear mid-engined layout with the C8 generation. In 1953, GM executives accepted a suggestion by Myron Scott , then the assistant director of the Public Relations department, to name

5499-587: The C5. Retractable headlights were replaced with fixed units, for the first time since 1962. The C6 brought a new and improved interior compared to the C5. As a result of the upgraded interior, the C6 had a slight increase in passenger hip room. It also sported an updated engine called the LS2, which bumped the 5.7 L (350 cu in) LS1/LS6 to 6.0 L (364 cu in) and gained 50 HP, delivering 400 hp (298 kW; 406 PS) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb⋅ft (540 N⋅m) at 4400 rpm, and giving

5616-737: The Corvette Z06 and ZR1 were offered the opportunity to assist in the build of their engines. Titled the "Corvette Engine Build Experience," buyers paid extra to be flown to the Wixom, Michigan Performance Build Center. Participants helped the assembly line workers build the V8 engine, then took delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, near the Corvette final assembly point. The last C6 Corvette

5733-544: The Coupe and Convertible versions later in 2010. The Volt is a hybrid electric vehicle set for release in the fourth quarter of 2011 in Europe. After the Volt concept was unveiled during the 2007 Detroit Auto Show, GM former vice-chairman, Bob Lutz suggested that the Volt was the "first steps in the electrification of the automobile". The Volt itself runs on a lithium-ion battery that Chevrolet claim can last for up to 60 miles on

5850-542: The European sale of Camaro and Corvette (C7) on 31 August 2019. The 6.2-litre V8 engine fitted to both Camaro and Corvette (C7) could not be modified further to meet the new emission regulations. Chevrolet announced the arrival of the Corvette Grand Sport in March 2010. At the Geneva Motor Show 2010, Chevrolet showcased the Corvette Grand Sport, Coupe, and Convertible, announcing plans to release

5967-404: The GM Delta II platform, on which the European Opel/Vauxhall Astra also sits. The Cruze replaces the Chevrolet Cobalt and Daewoo/Chevrolet Lacetti . The Cruze body was used as part of a test to determine electric car driving patterns and "real world" behaviour, in preparation for the launch of the Chevrolet Volt. The cars are set to be outfit with 31 kWh battery packs that are claimed to have

SECTION 50

#1732797909559

6084-430: The Grand Sport and Collector Edition, OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics), run-flat tires, and the LT4 engine. The 330 hp (246 kW; 335 PS) LT4 V8 was available only with a manual transmission, while all 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) LT1 Corvettes used automatic transmissions. Chevrolet released the Grand Sport (GS) version in 1996 to mark the end of production of the C4 Corvette. The Grand Sport moniker

6201-446: The Pontiac G5 in the United States in 2009, and it was discontinued in Canada and Mexico in 2010. The Chevrolet Cruze served as a replacement for both the Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5. In 2009, Chevrolet launched the Cobalt's eventual successor, the Chevrolet Cruze (based on the new Delta II platform ), in Europe, with launches in other markets (including the US) following in 2010. The Cobalt ended production on June 23, 2010. With

6318-426: The Sequel could go into production by 2011, it was found the cost of producing the fuel-cells would be too expensive. Efforts were instead placed into preparing the hybrid technology behind the Volt for roll out over 2010/11. A 5-seater hatchback, the Aveo is being launched throughout Europe in Summer 2011 as a competitor to the likes of the Ford Fiesta , Opel Corsa and Volkswagen Polo . The second generation Aveo

6435-404: The Z06 unprecedented handling thanks to upgraded brakes and less body flex. Those characteristics, along with the use of materials such as a titanium exhaust system and a carbon fiber hood in the 2004 model year, led to further weight savings and performance gains for the C5 Z06. The LS6 was later upgraded to 405 hp (302 kW; 411 PS) for 2002–2004. Although the Z06's rated power output

6552-404: The Z06 was the largest small block ever offered by General Motors. Because of the Corvette's former use of 427 cubic-inch big blocks in the late-1960s and early 1970s, the LS7's size was rounded down to 427 cubic inches. Official output was 505 hp (377 kW; 512 PS) and has a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 3.7 seconds. Top speed is 198 mph (319 km/h). Another first for

6669-455: The ZR-1 option, which then replaced it. Early B2Ks produced 345 hp (257 kW; 350 PS) and 450 lb⋅ft (610 N⋅m); later versions boasted 450 hp (336 kW; 456 PS) and 613 lb⋅ft (831 N⋅m). 1988 saw the 35th Anniversary Edition of the Corvette. In 1990, the ZR1 option Corvette was introduced with the LT5 engine designed by Lotus and built in the Mercury Marine plant in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The LT5 engine

6786-434: The base and ZR-1 models besides the wider rear wheels was the location of the CHMSL, which was integrated into the new rear fascia used on the base model, but remained at the top of the rear hatch on the ZR-1's. For the 1992 model year, the 300 hp (224 kW) LT1 engine was introduced, an increase of 50 hp (37 kW) over 1991's L98 engine. This engine featured reverse-flow cooling (the heads were cooled before

6903-477: The beginning of the end for the Rochester fuel injection system. The 396 cu in (6.49 L) option cost US$ 292.70 while the fuel injected 327 cu in (5.36 L) engine cost US$ 538.00 . Few could justify spending US$ 245.00 more for 50 hp (37 kW; 51 PS) less, even though FI could deliver over 20 mpg on the highway and would keep delivering fuel despite high G-loading in corners taken at racing speeds. Another 1963 and 1964 option

7020-462: The block), which allowed for a higher compression ratio of 10.5:1. Also new for 1992 was Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR), a form of traction control that utilized the Corvette's brakes, spark retard, and throttle close-down to prevent excessive rear wheel spin and possible loss of control. Production of the ZR-1 ended in 1995 after 6,939 cars had been built. 1996 was the final year of C4 production, and featured special models and options, including

7137-466: The car of "the successful plumber." John Fitzpatrick, Corvette's marketing manager said "It's the old saying, 'Nobody wants to be seen driving an old man's car, but everybody wants to be seen driving a young man's car.' " Originally set to be introduced for the 2011 model year, the C7's debut was delayed until the 2014 model year to make changes to make the car more appealing to younger buyers. Mid-engine and rear-engine layouts had been considered, but

SECTION 60

#1732797909559

7254-414: The car was completely redesigned with the addition of a tapered tail with four round lights. The light treatment would continue for all following model year Corvettes until 2014. In 1962, the Chevrolet 283 cu in (4.64 L) Small-Block was enlarged to 327 cu in (5.36 L). In standard form it was rated at 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS). For an additional 12% over list price,

7371-502: The car was replaced by the Chevrolet Cruze in late 2010. The Pontiac G5 and its international variants were also affected, though GM had already ended production of the Pontiac brand by that point. On September 28, 2012, GM announced a recall of 40,859 cars including the Chevrolet Cobalt from the 2007-09 model year because of a potential fuel leak. Although the recall was limited to five states, vehicles from other southern states were covered for repair when summer heat caused cracks in

7488-484: The car's 25th anniversary. The Sting Ray nameplate was not used on the 1968 model, but Chevrolet still referred to the Corvette as a Sting Ray; however, 1969 (through 1976) models used the " Stingray " name as one word, without the space. In 1970, the body design was updated including fender flares, and interiors were refined, including redesigned seats and indication lights near the gear shift that were an early use of fiber optics. To comply with government safety regulations

7605-457: The company's new sports car after the corvette , a small, maneuverable warship. The first model, a convertible , was introduced at the 1953 GM Motorama as a concept car ; production models went on sale later that year. In 1963, the second generation was introduced in coupe and convertible styles. Initially manufactured in Flint, Michigan , and St. Louis, Missouri , the Corvette has been produced in Bowling Green, Kentucky , since 1981, which

7722-402: The discontinuation of the Pontiac brand by GM in 2010, the Buick Verano is marketed as the G5's successor in Canada, while the Cruze serves as a de facto replacement for the Pontiac G5 in the United States. In 2011, General Motors Brazil introduced a new model bearing the Cobalt name in the Brazilian market. This Cobalt replaced the aging local Chevrolet Astra . The car is equipped with

7839-406: The entire design. Maximum power for 1963 was 360 hp (268 kW; 365 PS) and was raised to 375 hp (280 kW; 380 PS) in 1964. Options included electronic ignition , the breakerless magnetic pulse-triggered Delcotronic first offered on some 1963 Pontiac models. On 1964 models the decorative hood vents were eliminated and Duntov, the Corvette's chief engineer, got his way with

7956-444: The factory. From 1967 through 1969, the Holley triple two-barrel carburetor , or Tri-Power , was available on the 427 L89 (a $ 368 option, on top of the cost for the high-performance 427). Despite these changes, sales slipped more than 15%, to 22,940 (8,504 coupes, off close to 15%, and 14,436 convertibles, down nearly 19%). Duntov came up with a lightweight version of the C2 in 1962. Concerned about Ford and what they were doing with

8073-410: The fuel reservoir assembly. The fuel vapor leak could be detected during hot days by a gasoline smell in the vicinity of the car. Faulty ignition switches in the Cobalts, which cut power to the car while in motion, were eventually linked to many crashes resulting in fatalities, starting with a teenager in 2005 who drove her new Cobalt into a tree. The switch continued to be used in the manufacture of

8190-435: The fuel-injected version produced 360 hp (268 kW; 365 PS), making it the fastest of the C1 generation. 1962 was also the last year for the wraparound windshield, solid rear axle, and convertible-only body style. The trunk lid and exposed headlamps did not reappear for many decades. The second generation (C2) Corvette, which introduced Sting Ray to the model, continued with fiberglass body panels, and overall,

8307-539: The highest of the 1970-1972 series, and could be ordered with an automatic transmission. For the 1972 model year, GM moved to the SAE Net measurement which resulted in further reduced, but more realistic, power ratings than the previous SAE Gross standard. Although the 1972 model's 350 cu in (5.7 L) horsepower was actually the same as that for the 1971 model year, the lower net horsepower numbers were used instead of gross horsepower. The L48 base engine rating fell to 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS) SAE and

8424-457: The highway. For its first year, the C5 was available only as a coupe, though the new platform was designed from the ground up to be a convertible, introduced for model year 1998. A fixed-roof coupe (FRC) followed in 1999. One concept for the FRC was for it to be a stripped-down model with a possible V6 engine (nicknamed in-house as the "Billy Bob"). By 2000, FRC plans laid the groundwork for

8541-409: The largest effect on the styling of this generation, although it had no top and did not give away what the final version of the C2 would look like. The third inspiration was a mako shark Mitchell had caught while deep-sea fishing. Production started for the 1963 model year and ended in 1967. Introducing a new name, "Sting Ray", the 1963 model was the first year for a Corvette coupé and it featured

8658-433: The last available with a manual transmission until well into the 1984 production run. In 1982, a fuel-injected engine returned, and a final C3 tribute Collectors Edition featured an exclusive, opening rear window hatch. The fourth-generation Corvette was the first complete redesign of the Corvette since 1963. Production was to begin for the 1983 model year, but quality issues and part delays resulted in only 43 prototypes for

8775-471: The middle of the production year and selling over 2,000 in just a few months. For 1966, Chevrolet introduced an even larger 427 cu in (7.00 L) Big Block version. Other options available on the C2 included the Wonderbar auto-tuning AM radio, AM-FM radio (mid-1963), air conditioning (late-1963), a telescopic steering wheel (1965), and headrests (1966). The Sting Ray's independent rear suspension

8892-509: The most powerful of the two creating 161 bhp (161 hp). In a first test of the car, UK car website, Autocar suggested that the car could compete with the Zafira and S-Max in terms of practicality. They pointed in particular to the size of the cabin and the 30 different seat arrangements, which helped position it as a significant rival in the MPV market. Initially unveiled as a concept under

9009-543: The name "Beat" during the New York International Auto show in 2007, the Spark is aimed at targeting a younger urban market with a need for value, fuel economy and practicality. Along with two other concepts referred to as Trax and Groove , Chevrolet invited the public to vote on their site for which one they preferred. Upon winning and going into general production, Beat was first unveiled in Europe at

9126-455: The new generation's structure included a carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel. The fenders, doors, and rear quarter panels remained composite. At the rear of the car, the trademark round taillights changed to a more squarish form. The underbody panels were made of "carbon-nano" composite and it made use of a new aluminum frame that located the four wheels an inch farther apart, front to rear and side to side. Luggage space decreased by 33% from

9243-411: The optional LT1 dropped to 270 hp (201 kW; 274 PS) SAE. 1974 models had the last true dual exhaust system that was dropped on the 1975 models with the introduction of catalytic converters requiring the use of no-lead fuel. Engine power decreased with the base ZQ3 engine producing 165 hp (123 kW; 167 PS), the optional L82's output 205 hp (153 kW; 208 PS), while

9360-417: The optional performance exhaust). The six-speed manual transmission also has improved shift linkage and a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 4.0 seconds, while the automatic is set up for quicker shifts giving the C6 automatic a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 4.0 seconds, quicker than any other production automatic Corvette. The interior was slightly updated and a new 4LT leather-wrap interior package

9477-552: The optional performance exhaust. The LT1 engine (the "LT1" designation was first used by GM in 1970 and then later in 1992.) is in the Gen V family of small block engines, which was used in GM vehicles as the new small V8 option. It featured three new advanced technologies: direct injection, variable valve timing, and an active fuel management system. Fuel injectors are located under the intake manifold. The Corvette remained rear-wheel drive with

9594-566: The peak production year for all versions of the Corvette. Sales have trended downward since then. In 1980, the Corvette received an integrated aerodynamic redesign that resulted in a significant reduction in drag . After several years of weight increases, 1980 Corvettes were lighter as engineers trimmed both body and chassis weight. In mid-1981, production relocated from St. Louis , to Bowling Green, Kentucky (where all subsequent Corvette generations have since been manufactured), and several two-tone paint options were offered. The 1981 models were

9711-581: The poor sales of the Corvette at the time, the V8 was a popular option, with an estimated six cars produced with the inline-six. Three new competitors, the Ford Thunderbird , the Studebaker Speedster , and the larger Chrysler C-300 were introduced that same year. A new body was introduced for the 1956 model featuring a revised front end and side coves; the taillamp fins were deleted. An optional " Ramjet " fuel injection system

9828-493: The previous generation's C6 ZR1 model (3,324 lb (1,508 kg)), which included a supercharger and intercooler. Chevrolet announced the C7 Z06 at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. The 2015 Z06 Corvette produced 650 hp from the supercharged LT4 aluminum 6.2 L V8 engine. Chevrolet Cobalt The Chevrolet Cobalt is a compact car introduced by Chevrolet in 2004 for the 2005 model year. The Cobalt replaced both

9945-533: The previous generation's. The overall weight of the car was not announced by General Motors for many months after its first showing in January 2013. Despite the increased use of aluminum and other light weight materials, numerous publications reported that the weight would remain essentially unchanged from that of the previous generation's. In August 2013, the weight of the new Corvette was reported to be 3,444 lb (1,562 kg), meaning it would weigh more than

10062-460: The return in 2001 of the Z06, an RPO option not seen since Zora's 1963 race-ready Corvette. The Z06 model replaced the FRC model as the highest-performance C5 Corvette. Instead of a heavier double-overhead cam engine like the ZR-1 of the C4 generation, the Z06 used an LS6, a 385 hp (287 kW; 390 PS) derivative of the standard LS1 engine. Using the much more rigid fixed roof design allowed

10179-471: The same and consequently in structure/safety category of the IIHS's side impact test the Cobalt receives a "Marginal" score. Side airbags are limited to the curtain type; torso type side airbags are unavailable. According to the IIHS's injury measurements taken from the side impact test, the driver's torso is given a "Marginal" score. The IIHS also found 2005-08 model year Cobalts had the highest fatality rate in

10296-421: The small 4 door car class, with 117 deaths per million registered years compared to its class average of 71. 2010 NHTSA sedan crash test: Before 2009 the Cobalt only offered stability control as an option on Sport models. In early 2007, 98,000 Cobalt coupes from the 2005–06 model years were recalled after it was discovered they did not meet federal safety requirements because of a lack of adequate padding in

10413-451: The speedometer and tachometer was standard. Beginning in 1985, the 230 hp (172 kW; 233 PS) L98 engine with tuned port fuel injection became the standard engine. September 1984 through 1988 Corvettes were available with a "4+3" transmission designed by Doug Nash - a four-speed manual coupled to an automatic overdrive on the top three gears. It was devised to help the Corvette meet U.S. fuel economy standards. Since 1981 (when it

10530-411: The split rear window changed to a full-width window. Four-wheel disc brakes were introduced in 1965, as was a " big block " engine option: the 396 cu in (6.49 L) V8. Side exhaust pipes were also optionally available in 1965, and continued to be offered through 1967. The introduction of the 425 hp (317 kW; 431 PS) 396 cu in (6.49 L) big block in 1965 spelled

10647-541: The time the company failed to recall the cars. The Pontiac G5 was a rebadged version of the Chevrolet Cobalt. In Canada, a rebadged variant of the Cobalt called the Pontiac Pursuit was sold from 2005 to 2006 as a sedan only. In 2006, another version of the vehicle was released in Canada, now called the Pontiac G5 Pursuit, and it was now available as both a sedan and a coupe. In Mexico, the vehicle

10764-404: The transaxle located in the rear. Transmission choices included a 7-speed manual or a 6-speed (2014) / 8-speed (2015-) automatic with paddle shifters. The new interior included wide-bottom seats as standard, with sportier versions with high side bolsters optional. The Corvette's flag logo was revised for the new car and a small casting of a stingray was added to the car's ornamentation. Features of

10881-597: The vehicle a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of under 4.2 seconds. Its top speed was 190 mph (310 km/h). The C6 shared some components with the Cadillac XLR hard-top convertible introduced two years earlier in 2003. The C6 generation did not match the previous generation's relatively good fuel economy , despite its relatively low 0.28 drag coefficient and low curb weight, achieving 16/26 mpg (city/highway) equipped with automatic or manual transmissions; like all manual transmission Corvettes since 1989, it

10998-455: The vehicles even after the problem was known to GM. On February 21, 2014, GM recalled over 700,000 Cobalts for issues traceable to the defective ignition switches. In May 2014 the NHTSA fined the company $ 35 million for failing to recall cars with faulty ignition switches for a decade, despite knowing there was a problem with the switches. Thirteen deaths were linked to the faulty switches during

11115-451: The versatility of the engine showed insight that differentiated it from any other car before it. The Volt has also received several awards including ‘Car of the Year’ accolades from auto magazines Motor Trend and Automobile . Chevrolet Corvette The Chevrolet Corvette is a line of American two-door, two-seater sports cars manufactured and marketed by General Motors under

11232-421: Was a four-cam (DOHC) design producing 375 hp (280 kW). The C4 ZR1 ran from 1990 thru 1995 model years. In 1991, all Corvettes received updates to the body, interior, and wheels. The convex rear fascia that set the 1990 ZR-1 apart from the base model was included on L98 Corvettes, making the styling of the expensive ZR-1 nearly identical to that of the base cars. The most obvious difference remaining between

11349-590: Was a nod to the original Grand Sport model produced in 1963. The Grand Sport came only in Admiral Blue with a white stripe down the middle, black wheels, and two red stripes on the front left wheel arch. The C5 Corvette was redesigned from the ground up after sales from the previous generation began to decline. Production of the C5 Corvette began in 1996 but quality/manufacturing issues saw its public release delayed until 1997. C5 production continued through

11466-461: Was added in 1986 to comply with safety regulations. While the color of the pace car used in the race was yellow, all 1986 convertibles also had an Indy 500 emblem mounted on the console, making any color a "pace car edition". In 1987, the B2K twin-turbo option became available from the factory. The Callaway Corvette was a Regular Production Option (RPO B2K). The B2K option coexisted in 1990 and 1991 with

11583-464: Was added. The wheels were also updated to a new five-spoke design. The ZR1 was formally announced in a December 2007 press statement by General Motors, where it was revealed that their target of 100 hp (75 kW; 101 PS) per 1 L (61 cu in) had been reached by a new "LS9" engine with an Eaton- supercharged 6.2-liter engine producing 638 hp (476 kW; 647 PS) and 604 lb⋅ft (819 N⋅m) of torque. The LS9 engine

11700-582: Was called the Pontiac G4 and was sold as both a sedan and a coupe from 2005 to 2006. In the United States, the Pontiac G5 went on sale in 2006 as a 2007 model, serving as the replacement for the Pontiac Sunfire, and was only available as a coupe. In Canada and Mexico, the Pontiac G5 went on sale in early 2007 as a 2007 model, available as both a sedan and coupe. General Motors discontinued

11817-399: Was continued thru the C2 line-up except for 1966. This feature returned for the 1967 model year and then continued until 1968, the first C3 model year. The 1967 model year had the first L88 engine option that was rated at 430 hp (321 kW; 436 PS), but unofficial estimates place the output at 560 hp (418 kW; 568 PS) or more. Only twenty such engines were installed at

11934-610: Was in part due to the introduction of small and mid-sized cars built by GMDAT (GM Daewoo Auto & Technology). Chevrolet announced plans to return two of their most iconic cars, the Camaro and Corvette, to Europe in 2011. Korean-made Chevrolet models were officially withdrawn from Europe on December 31, 2015. Unveiled at the 2006 Seoul Motor Show, the T2X was developed in Korea by Chevrolet Europe's parent company, GM Daewoo. David Lyon, executive director of Design for GM Daewoo described it as

12051-491: Was increased to 155 hp (116 kW). According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) the Cobalt receives an overall top score of "Good" for front collisions. However, it receives a "Poor" overall score for side impacts without side curtain airbags , and an "Acceptable" overall score with side curtain airbags. In 2008, side curtain airbags became standard, but the Cobalt's structure remains

12168-486: Was introduced late in the 1953 model year , appearing as a show car for the 1953 General Motors Motorama, January 17–23 at New York's Waldorf-Astoria Hotel . At the time, Chevrolet general manager Thomas H. Keating said it was six months to a year away from production readiness. The car generated sufficient interest for mass production to begin on June 30, 1953. Uniquely, the original Corvette used fiberglass bodywork, its reinforcement placed by hand. This generation

12285-403: Was last offered), a manual transmission returned to the Corvette starting with production in late 1984. The transmission proved to be problematic and was replaced by a modern ZF six-speed manual transmission in 1989. In 1986, the second Corvette Indy Pace Car was released. It was the first convertible Corvette since 1975. A Center High Mounted Signal Light (CHMSL) – a third center brake light –

12402-624: Was launched at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and is set to take over from the Daewoo Kalos , which has been known as the Chevrolet Aveo in most European markets for a number of years now. Earlier in the year, Chevrolet had also unveiled an Aveo RS concept, featuring 19-inch wheels (48 cm) and the North American Cruze's 138 bhp 1.4L Turbocharged Ecotec . Developed from the 2004, Chevrolet S3X concept car debuted at

12519-732: Was made available midway through the 1957 model year. It was one of the first American mass-produced engines in history to reach 1 horsepower per cubic inch (0.046 kW/cm ) and Chevrolet's advertising agency used a "one hp per cubic inch" slogan for advertising the 283 hp (211 kW; 287 PS) 283 cu in (4.64 L) Small-Block engine . Other options included power windows (1956), hydraulically assisted convertible top (1956), heavy-duty brakes and suspension (1957), and four-speed manual transmission (late 1957). Delco Radio transistorized signal-seeking "hybrid" car radio, which used both vacuum tubes and transistors in its radio's circuitry (1956 option). The 1958 Corvette received

12636-668: Was manufactured in February 2013. In May 2013, a federal investigation of problems with more than 100,000 C6 lighting systems was announced. Development for the seventh generation Corvette started in 2007. A prime consideration was countering not just the perception but the fact that the Corvette had become an "old man's toy" - confirmed by an October 2012 GM study which showed that about 46 percent of Corvette buyers were 55 or older, compared with 22 percent of Audi R8 and 30 percent of Porsche 911 customers. The head of Chevy marketing, Chris Perry, acknowledged that too many people saw it as

12753-479: Was often referred to as the "solid-axle" models, with independent rear suspension appearing in the next. Three hundred hand-built Corvette convertibles were produced, all Polo White, for the 1953 model year. The 1954 model year vehicles could be ordered in Pennant Blue, Sportsman Red, Black, or Polo White; 3,640 were manufactured. The 1953, 1954, and 1955 model years were the only Corvettes equipped with

12870-568: Was reintroduced under the new Ravon marque as the Ravon R4 . The Chevrolet Cobalt was assembled in Colombia too. It was equipped with a simple range of two versions and a single 1.8-liter 8-valve 106-horsepower engine. With a very discreet commercial performance and a taxi variant, its production in the Colombian market ended in early 2016. The Cobalt received a facelift in late 2015 for

12987-423: Was removed, restored, and put on display at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It is still owned by GM. On February 12, 2014, it was nearly lost to a sinkhole which opened up under the museum. Eight other Corvettes were severely damaged. Regular fourth generation production began on January 3, 1983; the 1984 model year and delivery to customers began in March 1983. The 1984 model carried over

13104-418: Was smaller than the first generation. The car was designed by Larry Shinoda with major inspiration from a previous concept design called the "Q Corvette," which was created by Peter Brock and Chuck Pohlmann under the styling direction of Bill Mitchell . Earlier, Mitchell had sponsored a car known as the " Mitchell Sting Ray " in 1959 because Chevrolet no longer participated in factory racing. This vehicle had

13221-425: Was successfully adapted for the new-for-1965 Chevrolet Corvair , which solved the quirky handling problems of that unique rear-engine compact. 1967 was the final model year for the second generation. The 1967 model featured restyled fender vents, less ornamentation, and backup lamps - which were inboard in 1966 - became rectangular and centrally located. The first use of all four taillights in red started in 1961 and

13338-421: Was the Z06 competition package, which offered stiffer suspension, bigger, multi-segment lined brakes with finned drums, and more. Only a couple hundred coupes and a single convertible were factory-equipped this way in 1963. With only 771 fuel-injected cars built in 1965, Chevrolet discontinued the option at the end of the 1965 production, having introduced a less-expensive big block 396 engine rated at 425 hp in

13455-661: Was the most powerful to be put into a GM production sports car. Its top speed was 205 mph (330 km/h). The historical name Grand Sport returned to the Corvette lineup in 2010 as an entirely new model series that replaced the Z51 option. The new model was an LS3 equipped Z06 with a steel frame instead of aluminum. It retained many of the features of the Z06 including a wide body with 18x9.5 and 19x12 inch wheels, dry-sump oiling (manual transmission coupes only), 6-piston 14-inch front brakes and 4-piston rear, and improved suspension. Manual transmission-equipped G/S coupe models received

13572-400: Was the only year for a C3 to optionally offer either a factory-installed side exhaust or a normal rear exit with chrome tips. The all-aluminum big-block 427 cu in (7.00 L) ZL-1 engine was also new for 1969; the special racing engine was listed at 430 hp (321 kW; 436 PS), but was reported to produce 560 hp (418 kW; 568 PS) and accelerated a ZL-1 through

13689-883: Was used in the rear. The wheelbase was 103.3 in (2,624 mm), longer than its competitors, and the width was 68.4 in (1,737 mm). Weight was average in-class, at 2,681 lb (1,216 kg) for the coupe and 2,747 lb (1,246 kg) for the sedan. For 2009, the United States Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy was increased to 24 mpg ‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg ‑imp ) city/34 mpg ‑US (6.9 L/100 km; 41 mpg ‑imp ) highway with automatic transmission , and 26 mpg ‑US (9.0 L/100 km; 31 mpg ‑imp ) city/37 mpg ‑US (6.4 L/100 km; 44 mpg ‑imp ) highway with manual transmission . The engine output

#558441