Planet Jupiter » Chevrolet News

Jupiter CHEVROLET STILL BUILDS ROCKETS!!!

mbattel — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:43:39 +0000

What is Detroit Doing Right?

mbattel — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 18:44:32 +0000

By MIKE COX SPECIAL TO THE WASHINGTON POST

America’s Big Three automakers got pounded on Capitol Hill last month. Senators from both parties took turns ridiculing General Motors, Ford and Chrysler as out-of-touch fossils, churning out poor-quality products that virtually no one wants to buy.

Wouldn’t it be nice if America’s automakers actually made cars that customers wanted? New hybrids, for example, and electric vehicles, mid-size cars that rank high in quality and more models that get 30 miles per gallon?

Actually, that’s exactly what Detroit is doing. Not in a couple of years, not next year, but now.

I invite every member of the U.S. Senate to come visit the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Here is a sample of what they would see:

The brand-new Ford Fusion Hybrid, which is the most fuel-efficient mid-size car in America, averaging 41 miles per gallon.
Chevy’s new mid-size Malibu, which gets 33 miles per gallon — better than the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Nissan Altima.
Three new electric vehicles from Chrysler, including a gasoline-electric minivan and Jeep model and an all-electric sports car.
Here are a few other facts for the doubters:
This model year, Detroit will make more than 137 vehicles that get 30 miles per gallon or more.
The Big Three will also sell 25 hybrid models, 38 versions of flex-fuel vehicles and eight models that run on clean diesel.
Ford and GM tied for the leadership position in the prestigious 2008 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study — with 11 models ranked in the top three of their respective segments.
Despite the public scolding recently heaped on the Big Three in Washington, Ford and GM still make the top-selling vehicles in the country, the Ford F-150 truck and the Chevy Silverado.
Senators who think Detroit is still stuck in the dinosaur age may be shocked to learn that the Big Three are the leading purchasers of computer chips nationwide. In fact, GM, Ford and Chrysler are making cutting-edge vehicles featuring the latest in technology, engineering and fuel economy. Detroit’s automakers spend $12 billion annually on research and development. No other industry can match that.

More changes are needed, and the Big Three understand that their pace of change must be accelerated. But the last thing our economy needs right now is for 13 million jobs to be threatened. One out of every 10 jobs in America is related to the auto industry. That’s why President Bush wisely agreed to release funds as a loan — not a bailout — to help the auto industry get through this Wall Street credit crunch.

America’s auto industry is building some of the safest, most fuel-efficient, technologically advanced vehicles in the world. That will be on display at this month’s auto show in Detroit. As many have said: Facts are stubborn things. Unfortunately, the facts about America’s auto manufacturers may have run up against something even more stubborn — the U.S. Senate.

Mike Cox is attorney general of Michigan.

Chevy Press Release From Detroit

mbattel — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 22:27:00 +0000

DETROIT – An all-new Chevrolet Spark mini-car and Orlando seven-seat compact multipurpose vehicle will come to the United States in 2011. The announcement was made during a General Motors press conference at the North American International Auto Show here today.

“Chevrolet Spark will bring great style, roominess and versatility to the segment of extremely fuel-efficient small cars in the U.S.,” said Troy Clarke, president of GM North America. “The decision to add the Spark to Chevrolet’s portfolio reflects the brand’s commitment to being a fuel efficiency leader in the industry.”

Originally seen as the Chevrolet Beat concept at the 2007 New York Auto Show, the four-door Chevrolet Spark will provide versatility with a fresh, youthful exterior and interior design that is reflected in the selection of materials and colors.

The Spark will make its world debut in full production form at the Geneva Auto Show in March 2009. Sales begin in Europe in the first quarter of 2010, followed by other markets around the globe.

“The Chevrolet Orlando show car, unveiled at the recent Paris Auto Show to positive public reaction, combines the versatility of a sport-utility, a family van and a wagon in a single vehicle,” Clarke said. It has the added benefit of excellent fuel economy, because of its car-based architecture.”

First photos and plans for the Chevrolet Orlando’s global rollout will be released in the coming months. It will be in Chevrolet showrooms in the U.S. in 2011.

“These small vehicles make a big statement,” said Ed Peper, North America vice president, Chevrolet. “With their fresh, clean approach, we believe Spark and Orlando will appeal to a wide range of customers who want excellent fuel efficiency, functionality and style in a small vehicle.”
CHEVROLET CRUZE: ALL-NEW SEDAN DELIVERS GREAT LOOKS AND OUTSTANDING FUEL ECONOMY

DETROIT – The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze makes its North American debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The all-new, compact sedan with coupe-like design proportions, midsize-like interior and trunk space, and great fuel efficiency will go on sale in the United States and Canada in the first half of 2010.

In North America, the Cruze will be powered by an optional new, 1.4L Turbo engine that is expected to deliver better fuel economy than the current leader in this segment, the Chevrolet Cobalt XFE that is rated at 37 mpg on the highway.

“Around the world, Chevrolet stands for expressive value and that’s exactly what the Cruze delivers,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “The Cruze’s combination of great design, strong performance and outstanding fuel economy makes it a compelling choice.”

Cruze is the result of a development process harnessing GM’s global expertise and is the first of a new family of compact products that will deliver world-class quality. It will be backed by expected highest scores in all major crash safety ratings.

Vehicle highlights include:
· New 1.4L four-cylinder turbo engine with E85 capability
· New 1.8L four-cylinder
· Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions
· Front, side-impact and roof rail head curtain air bags
· OnStar
· Bluetooth and USB connectivity
· Electronic stability control with rollover sensing

The Cruze will be offered in base, LS, LT and LTZ models. Production for North American models will take place at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio assembly plant, while the 1.4L Turbo engine for North America will be manufactured in Flint, Mich.

“The Chevy Cruze built and sold in North America will differ only slightly in markets around the world,” said Peper. “Only market-specific features will distinguish the global models and all will proudly wear the Chevy Bowtie on the grille.”

Arching roofline
The new Chevy Cruze’s design is distinguished with a bold “face” that is becoming the signature look for Chevrolet models around the globe, as well as an arching roofline that gives the car a sporty, coupe-like proportion.

“The Cruze reinterprets the traditional sedan with drama, confidence and a decidedly upscale presence,” said Taewan Kim, chief designer. “It is a refreshing, exciting design that advances Chevrolet’s character around the world.”

Large headlamp housings are incorporated in the front-end design. They wrap around the corners and sweep upward in the fenders and sculpted hood. The headlamps flank a two-tier grille that features the iconic Bowtie logo between the horizontal openings.

An arching roofline extends from the Cruze’s steeply raked windshield to fast-sloping rear pillars, culminating at a short rear deck. It’s a profile typically found on sports coupes and gives the Cruze a decidedly aggressive look that is complemented by a wide, confidant stance.

The Cruze is wider and longer than most of its competitors, with minimal overhangs around the wheels. Taut, tightly drawn bodywork conveys solidity, while restrained use of exterior trim enhances the car’s high-quality feel.

That bold yet purposeful design ethic and attention to detail carries over to the interior, where a Corvette-inspired twin-cockpit motif is matched with high-quality materials and exceptional assembly tolerances. Grained, soft-touch components and low-gloss trim panels exude a quality that is uncommon in the segment, while conveniences such as Bluetooth and USB inputs offer customers the latest connectivity options.

Turbocharged efficiency
Pumped up with its exhaust-driven turbocharger, the Cruze’s 1.4L Turbo performs like a larger engine when needed, but retains the efficiency of a small-displacement four-cylinder in most driving conditions. Its power-boosting advantage comes from forcing more air into the engine than a non-boosted engine would draw normally; power ratings are estimated at 140 horsepower (104 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm).

The 1.4L Turbo is part of GM’s family of global small-displacement engines. They are designed with fuel efficiency in mind, including technology such as full variable valve timing that optimizes performance and fuel economy across the rpm band. Carefully matched transmissions, including a six-speed automatic available on the Cruze, further enhance performance and fuel economy.

In addition to the 1.4L Turbo, the Cruze will also be offered in North America with an efficient 1.8L four-cylinder engine with dual continuously variable camshafts. It is rated at an estimated 138 horsepower (103 kW).

Chevrolet is one of America’s best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $12,120 to $103,300. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

FOR the RECORD…..

mbattel — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 01:25:44 +0000

To All, I could not let this one pass by, considering the recent news and events regarding the Big 3,
and what’s at stake for current, and future jobs for millions of people, and the risk of losing technological advances,
knowledge, and experience of our manufacturing capabilities.

For the record… Ford, Chrysler and GM’s contributions after 9/11 An interesting commentary…You might find this of interest:
‘CNN Headline News did a short news listing regarding Ford and GM’s c ontri butions to the relief and recovery efforts in New York and Washington .
The findings are as follows…..
1. Ford- $10 million to American Red Cross matching employee contributions of the same number plus 10 Excursions to NY Fire Dept.
2. GM- $10 million to American Red Cross matching employee contributions of the sam e number and a fleet of vans, suv’s, and trucks.
3. Daimler Chrysler- $10 million to support of the children and victims of the Sept. 11 attack.
4. Harley Davidson motorcycles- $1 million and 30 new motorcycles to the New YorkPolice Dept.
5. Volkswagen-Employees and management created a Sept 11 Foundation, funded initial with $2 million, for the assistance of the children and victims of the WTC.
6. Hyundai- $300,000 to the American Red Cross.

7. Audi-Nothing.
8. BMW-Nothing.
9. Daewoo- Nothing.
10. Fiat-Nothing.
11. Honda- Nothing despite boasting of second best sales month ever in August 2001
12. Isuzu- Nothing.
13. Mitsubishi-Nothing.
14. Nissan-Nothing.
15. Porsche-Nothing. Press release with condolences via the Porsche website.
16. Subaru- Nothing.
17. Suzuki- Nothing.
18. Toyota-Nothing despite claims of high sales in July and August 2001. Condolences posted on the website

Whenever the time may be for you to purchase or lease a new vehicle, keep this information in mind.
You might want to give more consideration to a car manufactured by an American-owned and / or American based company.
Apart from Hyundai and Volkswagen, the foreign car companies contributed nothing at all to the citizens of the United States …
I believe we should not forget things like this.
Say thank you in a way that gets their attention..
BUY YOUR NEXT VEHICLE FROM GM, FORD OR CHRYSLER.

Curt Silbert, President

Automatic Marketing

“Innovative Solutions…Automatic Results!”

Want to know about the 2010 Concept Chevrolet Camaro Black???

mbattel — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:35:09 +0000

The Camaro Black is one of the four 2010 Camaro-based concepts that made their way to the Las Vegas convention center for this year’s SEMA show. As its name suggests, this Camaro has been totally “blacked” out – from the black paint and the matte black-finished hood to the 21-inch alloy wheels, the tinted RS tail lamps, the darker grille finish and the color-matched exterior badging. The coupe’s sinister looks are complemented by a ground effects kit that includes a rear diffuser, a SS rear spoiler and red-glowing HID headlamp halo rings.

Chevrolet Camaro Black Concept SEMA 2008Inside, the Camaro Black Concept features a Chevy Accessories‘ premium audio upgrade package along with MTX speakers, red LED instrument lighting and red footwell ambient lighting, black chrome trim accents, dark-finished accents and leather-covered seats with grey accent stitching.

There are no mechanical upgrades as under the hood lurks the Camaro’s standard production 3.6-liter V6 engine producing an output of 300HP.

Opel and GM Develop Vehicles with a Sixth Sense

mbattel — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:10:02 +0000

October 22, 2008

In its second international forum, the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium (C2C-CC) is demonstrating for the first time worldwide vehicle-to-X communication independent of manufacturer or vehicle-type. Opel is hosting the event at the GM Dudenhofen Test Center in Germany.

Preventing accidents by warning drivers about potential danger from other vehicles was a major goal during the development of the new General Motors/Opel C2C (car-to-car or vehicle-to-vehicle) communication systems. Vehicles equipped with this technology can communicate with each other and exchange information such as location and speed. Drivers can then be warned in advance if another vehicle is stopped in an area that is difficult or impossible to see, or about to enter the same intersection as they are.

“Driving is a very complex task. Knowing where the other guy is and where he’s headed can be as critical as being in control of your own vehicle,” said Hans-Georg Frischkorn, Executive Director, Global Electrical Systems, Controls and Software. “With C2C technology, we intensify the driver’s awareness of his environment to improve road safety, without any distraction to him and certainly without reducing his level of control. This sixth sense lets drivers know what’s going on around them to help avoid accidents and improve traffic flow.”

Today, vehicles can be equipped with multiple safety sensors, including
radar-based sensors connected with speed control devices, lane change assistance systems or sensors to detect objects in a car’s blind spot. GM/Opel can increase the operating range and coverage of individual sensors significantly with its comprehensive technology – a more effective and affordable way to provide extensive observation and assessment of the surrounding traffic conditions.Demonstration with typical driving situationsGM/Opel engineers demonstrate the new technology’s advantages with a range of practical exercises. Several functions help prevent the rear-end collisions that occur on a daily basis due to poor visibility, twisty roads or short lapses in driver concentration. For example, the system warns of a stationary vehicle on the road even before the driver behind can see it, for example around a corner. Depending on the situation, the system transmits these warnings visually, acoustically or through vibrations in the driver’s seat.

Goal: Wide availability for as many vehicles as possible.

GM/Opel has deliberately based this technology on inexpensive, proven components, giving it the potential to become standard equipment in many vehicles. The alternative would be to offer extremely expensive high-tech systems for just a few cars, but as Hans-Georg Frischkorn says: “GM/Opel has always been committed to democratizing innovations. Our C2C systems are affordable and could potentially be used in every vehicle class. That’s especially important because cooperative systems like these become more effective when many vehicles are equipped with them.”

Jupiter Chevrolet—-The 2010 Camaro

mbattel — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:08:37 +0000

Miguel Muniz, Sales Consultant Participant in the Chevy Traverse Walkaround Competition

mbattel — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 23:59:26 +0000

Mr. Miguel Muniz, one of Jupiter Chevrolet’s finest Sales Consultant’s is going to represent Jupiter Chevrolet in the South Central Region Chevy Traverse Walk-Around Competition.

This competition is designed to showcase a Consultant’s unique selling technique, and the competition rewards those who best absorb the vehicle information and are able to effectively communicate it to others. Miguel will be judged on the content of his Walk-Around, his preparation, and his delivery. If Miguel does place in the competition, (of which are 8 finalist spots, he can win as little as $250, or as much as $5000. He also will get the opportunity to stay at the Five-Star Gaylord Texas Hotel. Miguel, we know you can do it!!!

Miguel, show Texas what Jupiter Chevrolet is made of!!! GOOD LUCK!!!

Malcolm with His Pants Down?…Interesting….

mbattel — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:37:13 +0000

Our esteemed Service Manager, Malcom Simons is in the photo below with his pants down to his ankles. Why would he be photographed like this knowing that we would put him on the blog?

Good question. I don’t think he thought that far ahead.

Malcolm raced all season at Redline Raceway this summer, and made it to the bracket finals at Pine Valley Raceway, where this illustrious photo was captured. He made it through the eliminations at Pine Valley to the semifinals.

Malcolm not only raced the Jupiter Chevy Camaro, but he had a foot race as well. At Pine Valley, along with Drag Racing, they also paticipated in “Olympic Activities.” One of which is a foot race with your pants down to your ankles.

Malcolm may be a fantastic drag racer, but he couldn’t hold a candle to the lady to his left. She won the race. Malcolm, on top of it all, you have a photo on the Internet in your nice boxer briefs, but you also got beat by a girl.

WAY TO GO!!-we still love you though. Keep up the good work!

GM FACTS AND FICTION—GM TELLS IT LIKE IT IS

mbattel — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 19:01:36 +0000

Myth

GM didn’t anticipate the growing demand for fuel efficient cars

Fact

Early this decade, GM put a major focus on improving its cars and expanding the number of crossover vehicles that it offers. As a result, of the last 13 new GM products introduced in the U.S. 11 have been cars or crossovers. Of the next 19 launches, 18 will be cars or crossovers.Cars like the Saturn Aura, Chevy Malibu and Cadillac CTS have won major awards and are selling well in a very tough market. GM is also the only U.S.-based company to offer a subcompact car, the Chevy Aveo, which we introduced back in 2003. A second subcompact, the Pontiac G3, joins the lineup early next year.GM crossovers like the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Pontiac Vibe have become increasingly popular with customers who need the space and utility of an SUV in a more fuel-efficient package.

The very rapid shift from trucks to cars that occurred when fuel prices spiked this spring has forced all carmakers to adapt. With its current and future product lineup, GM is well positioned to take advantage of growing demand for fuel efficient vehicles.

Myth

GM is not actively pursuing energy saving technologies

Fact

GM sells cars and trucks in every major market in the world, and it is clear to us that oil alone cannot fuel the world’s rapidly growing vehicle fleet. That’s why GM is aggressively pursuing a broad range of advanced propulsion technologies.

These include:

Improved internal combustion powertrains, which can squeeze more miles from each gallon of gasoline or diesel;
Flex-fuel vehicles and investments in advanced biofuels;
An expanding fleet of hybrid vehicles — nine hybrid models by mid-2009;
Electrically-driven vehicles like the Chevy Volt, which is scheduled to go into production in 2010;
Advanced fuel cell vehicles, which are currently undergoing fleet tests.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Different countries and different customers will require different solutions. We are committed to being a global leader in providing these solutions.

GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner outlined this strategy at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto show.

September 10, 2008

Myth

GM is looking for a government bailout

Fact

We are not seeking a bailout, or a handout. We are talking about loans, which must be repaid in full, with interest.

We are asking Congress to fund a loan program already authorized as part of major energy legislation last year. These loans are specifically designed to accelerate investment in energy-saving technologies, and help carmakers and suppliers more quickly introduce cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

GM is already investing billions in technologies that help drivers use less fuel, help America reduce its dependence on petroleum, and help GM comply with aggressive new government fuel-economy mandates.

This federal direct-loan program is a powerful and appropriate incentive to speed this transformation, which is vital to our industry, and to the country as a whole.

September 10, 2008

Myth

GM plans to stop leasing vehicles

Fact

GM recently cut back on its leasing programs, due to the increased cost of credit and other economic factors. Instead, the company will focus its incentives on helping customers purchase new vehicles with price discounts or cash bonuses. Employee Discount for Everyone is such a program.

GM will continue to offer lease incentives on some vehicles, and GM dealers will continue to offer leasing through GMAC and other financial institutions. But until the credit markets and overall economy improve, auto leasing will likely remain a modest part of the business for finance institutions, GM and many other carmakers.

September 19, 2008

Myth

GM no longer matters to the U.S. or its economy

Fact

The U.S.-based auto industry remains a vital part of the economy. It generates more employment, annual economic output, exports, and retail business than any other industry. It directly employs a quarter of a million Americans, and supports another 5 million at dealerships, suppliers and service providers.

U.S.-based carmakers spend more on R&D than any industry – more than $12 billion annually. We also provide healthcare benefits to 2 million Americans, and support nearly 800,000 retirees and spouses with pension benefits.

In short, the economic impact of this industry is substantial, and reaches every state in the nation.

There is also the matter of national pride. GM is one of a handful of U.S.-based manufacturing companies that compete head-to-head with the world’s best in global markets. We are proud that we have become a truly global company, and proud that we are a leader in fast growing markets like China, Brazil and Eastern Europe. We are also proud that American brands like Chevrolet and Cadillac are known and admired around the world.

Myth

GM vehicles are not as fuel efficient as comparable imports

Fact

A visit to the EPA fuel economy site shows that, segment for segment, GM vehicles are competitive with any vehicles in the market.

GM currently has more models with EPA highway ratings of 30 mpg or better than any other carmaker, 18 in total.

We are not resting on our success. We are working to further improve the fuel economy of every new vehicle we build. For example, we recently announced plans for a new Chevy compact car, the Cruze, which is expected to have signficantly better fuel economy than the Cobalt, which is already among the most fuel efficient vehicles in its segment.

September 3, 2008

Myth

With a few exceptions, GM designs are uninspiring

Fact

That might have been true in the past. But if you look at new GM vehicles – the ones we’ve recently introduce and those on the way – they tell a very different story.

CTS, Malibu, Aura, Astra, Enclave, Acadia and Vue are just the beginning. Soon to follow are the Traverse, Camaro, CTS Coupe and Wagon, SRX, and more.

GM intends to reclaim its legacy as a design leader. Please watch the upcoming auto shows for more great examples of GM designers at work.

September 19, 2008

Myth

GM can’t compete with Toyota in the global sales race

Fact

GM finished slightly ahead of Toyota in 2007, recording its second best global sales ever, almost 9.4 million vehicles. In the U.S., GM outsold Toyota by more than 1.2 million vehicles.

GM finished ahead of Toyota in nine of the top 10 global markets. Toyota dominated the market in Japan (where the largest importer, Daimler AG, had a mere 1.4% share).

GM and Toyota remain the world’s largest carmakers by a considerable margin. The second tier – Ford, VW Group, and Renault-Nissan – each sell about 6 million vehicles per year.

Given the uncertainties in the market, GM is not making sales projections for this year. But we are clear on two things: We will continue to compete hard for every sale. And we will keep our focus on sustainable, profitable growth.

September 19, 2008

Myth

The Volt is vaporware

Fact

There are dozens of companies around the world promising a practical electric vehicle in the near future. While we can’t comment on the efforts of others, we can assure you, the Volt is for real.

On June 3, GM announced that production funding for the Volt had been approved, and that GM’s Detroit Hamtramck plant has been selected as the assembly plant, pending government approvals.

Meanwhile, development of both the car and its lithium-ion batteries continues apace. For the latest information, please see our Volt website.

The Chevy Volt is a revolutionary product, and as such, it demands maximum effort from everyone involved. But we are on target to start production toward the end of 2010, and excited about the potential for the Volt.

September 2, 2008

Myth

GM can’t compete

Fact

GM competes head to head with the best global carmakers in every major market except Japan, which is effectively closed to non-Japanese companies. And we do quite well, thank you. We are on track to sell more than 9 million vehicles globally for the fourth year running, and we are setting sales records in our three regions outside of North America.

In North America, our new vehicles have been consistent award winners, and they continue to win over customers in a very tough market.

GM is one of a handful of companies with the resources to truly reinvent the automobile. Whether it is advanced internal combustion engines, biofuels, hybrids, fuel cells, or electrically driven vehicles like the Chevy Volt, GM is committed to being a global leader in advanced propulsion, which will reshape the auto industry during its second century.

September 1, 2008