A History of Greatness: GM Produces 100-Millionth Small Block Engine
GM Produces 100-Millionth Small Block Engine
A ZR1 LS9 Engine just produced by Chevrolet was the 100-Millionth manufactured by the company.
In the past 56 years, since Chevrolet began producing small block engines, the bowtie emblazoned automotive company and the small block engine has been synonymous with one another. In that time, every iconic car produced by Chevrolet has been known and linked to their famous small-block engine design in some manner. Most recently, the fifth generation Camaro has become a small block powered icon on both road and track, much like it's LS small block powered big brother, the Corvette.
The sheer number there--100,000,000 for those who like lots of zeroes--really highlights the durability, reputation, and potential of the small block and speaks to the iconic nature of the GM engine. It is fitting then to also consider that the first small block, introduced in 1955, was built for the first generation Corvette and the 100-millionth produced was a hand-crafted work of art LS9 made specifically for the sixth generation Corvette's special edition ZR1--the fastest Corvette ever produced.
Of course, the transition from the first small block to the modern pinnacle LS9 is a long one, filled with numerous exciting and memorable engines. In 1992 Chevrolet first introduced its second-generation Small Block, known as the LT1, in to its Corvette. This engine became an absolute staple on tracks across the globe, and adorned various vehicles from that Corvette, to the F-Body Camaro and Firebird, and the B-Body Impala SS and Caprice Police car. The LT1, which featured a newly developed reverse cooling, is still being used in races all across the globe today.
Following the second generation, Chevrolet then introduced their first LS Engine in 1997. This third generation small block, which was first placed in the C5 Corvette, was an even greater step forward. The LS engines are all-aluminum small blocks, and the first of them, the LS1, was rated a naturally aspirated 350HP and 365 lb ft of torque--numbers that, today, are still incredibly impressive for a naturally aspirated 5.7L engine. The LS engine was then featured, in some form, in numerous different vehicles and even had a more powerful, LS6 version introduced in the C5 Z06 Corvette in 2001. This LS6 featured the same 5.7L displacement as its LS1 brethren, but put out a stomach churning 405HP and 400 lb ft of torque.
Those numbers were fairly mind-shattering for a naturally aspirated engine of the LS6's size and weight, at least, until 2005 when the first of the fourth generation small block was released. In 2005 the Corvette went from its fifth generation vehicle to the now current sixth generation, and with the change in body also came the biggest change: the introduction of the Chevrolet LS2. The LS2 was almost identical to the LS6 engine in performance and displacement, but also featured a much more even Torque curve through-out the RPM range, and had the potential to be modified for incredible gains. It was from this base LS2 that the LS7--the now revered 505HP and 470 lb ft torque monster--was produced and introduced to the 2006 Corvette. Just one year after the update of the small block, this engine seemed to be where everything was building, and the Z06 became the undeniable greatest performance bang for the buck on the globe. Within the year, there were Z06's running against quarter-million dollar European exotics on racetracks all across the globe, and each one came with the distinctive sound and tone that only a Chevrolet small block V8 can deliver through the exhaust.
Of course, Chevrolet wasn't finished there (thankfully, they're dedicated to the production of envelope-pushing performance machines) and we saw such engines as the 430HP LS3 (now outfitting the base-level C6 Corvette and the Chevrolet Camaro SS), the LSA (a 556HP Supercharged monster that can be found in the world's fastest production sedan, the Cadillac CTS-V and will also hit the streets in the body of the new super-Camaro ZL1 this year), and the engine that would be made as number 100,000,000--the LS9.
The LS9 is an absolute marvel worth talking about as well, especially considering that everything before it brought us to this point. The LS9, which can only be found in the top of the line Corvette ZR1, produces an amazing supercharged 6.2L engine based on the LS3 block and putting out a ferocious 638bhp and 604 lb ft of torque. Those numbers, in combination with the Corvette's lightweight body and wide, aggressive stance, have produced a vehicle that runs track times that best it's $250,000+ competitors. Today, the ZR1 is the undeniable greatest bargain on wheels that exists for the performance minded consumer, and, as such, is the only engine fitting to be given the designation as number 100,000,000 of its kind.
Of course, Chevrolet's not stopping at 100,000,000 and the future of the small block engine holds a great deal of excitement. Already, official reports have come out that Chevrolet is updating their engine for the seventh-generation of their Corvette, and we may see the introduction of such features as direct injection and an upgraded combustion chamber design, as well as the improved performance and efficiency numbers to match. GM enthusiasts should expect to see the next small block engine first hit the streets in the C7 Corvette, scheduled for release some time in 2014.
Bumblebee in the Flesh…er Metal?
It's no surprise that there is a plethora of Transformers fans in the world today. As the first generation that grew up on the cartoon matures and venture out into the world and become professionals, some of those fans become Senior Creative Managers of Corvette and Camaro Accessories and Specialty Builds. Adam Barry is that man. Being a long time fan and youth of the Transformers/Decepticon struggle he laid mum, quietly aging leaving behind his boyhood admiration for the mating of machine and might, until the first Transformers movie was brought up and the Camaro was suggested for use in the film. Barry jumped at the opportunity, and it seems he was the chosen one.
Faces of GM interviewed Adam, which is a blog run by GM solely to showcase the people behind the scenes of the company. Think of it as sort of a "Meet the Press" for GM. They do stories on the people that make GM, GM. Barry admits that he still has some of his boyhood Autobot action figures, and goes into detail about the intricacies of the package. The following article and video are from the Faces of GM website.
You don't have to speak Cybertronian to understand what's so rad about the latest special edition Transformers package for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro.
When this car shows up in your review mirror, you'll definitely do a double take, and then some! Bold yellow paint with pumped up black stripes, a high-wing rear spoiler and black-on-black wheels… this car looks like Bumblebee, straight from the set of Transformers: Dark of the Moon. It's enough to make Sam Witwicky's heart beat fast.
"It's so cool to see little five-year olds standing in front of the car saying, 'Wake up, wake up.' And, I'll ask them, 'Who do you want to wake up?' And, they'll say 'Bumblebee,'" says Adam Barry, Senior Creative Manager, Corvette and Camaro, Accessories and Specialty Builds.
A self-described "Transformers geek" who still has his Autobot action figures, Barry says that when he found out about the project, he jumped all over it. "There's no question that this specialty package was designed by someone who loves, Transformers," says Barry.
It's the little details — like Cybertronian symbols spelling "Transformers" on the spoiler, Autobot logos on the wheel caps and front quarter panel and an awesome interior with black leather seats and bright yellow stitching — that give this Chevrolet extra attitude.
"When you see this car," says Barry, "you're not going to think it's a car, you're going to think it is Bumblebee… and you're going to be looking around for the other Autobots. How cool is that?" Plus, if any Decepticons show up, you'll be able to handle them.
You can order the Transformers Specialty package now. It's due in dealerships in September.
For more cool stories on the people behind GM, visit www.facesofGM.com and for ANY question you might have about ANYTHING Transformers, visit http://transformers.wikia.com.
2011 CHEVROLET CAMARO: THE FUN CONTINUES
Source: GM Media
Camaro was welcomed back onto the highways, boulevards and cruise nights of North America last year with enthusiasm. In a still-recovering market, it posted sales of more than 90,000 (through April 2010).
Customers continue to turn their new Camaros into personal statements, outfitting them with the wide array of appearance, convenience and performance options and accessories offered through Chevrolet dealers. The RS appearance package, with its High-Intensity Discharge headlamps accented by LED-illuminated "halo" rings, is the most popular option.
For 2011, the Camaro rolls on with evolutionary changes. They include:
- An increased horsepower rating for the 3.6L V-6 VVT - 312 (232 kW) vs. 2010's 304 horsepower / 227 kW rating.
- The Synergy Green Metallic exterior colour will be offered on all Camaro models for a limited time; also, the Synergy Green instrument panel and door trim panels on 2LT and 2SS models will be available.
- Head-Up Display is now standard on 2LT and 2SS equipment packages. The system projects vehicle speed and other data onto the windshield for easy, at-a-glance viewing that doesn't require the driver to take his or her eyes off the road.
- OnStar with a six-month Directions and Connections subscription is standard on all models.
Performance
Camaro's 3.6L direct injection (DI) V-6 delivers more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. It is standard on LS and LT models, producing 312 horsepower (232 kW) and 278 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). Despite a compression ratio of 11.3:1, the 3.6L DI engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel.
No changes were made to the Camaro powertrain to achieve the higher horsepower ratings for 2011. They are based on additional testing that demonstrated the Camaro's air intake and exhaust systems are less restrictive than the similar 3.6L DI engine on which the original rating was based.
Two 6.2L V-8 engines are offered in the Camaro SS, including the L99 on automatic-equipped vehicles and the LS3 on manual-equipped models. Both engines are derived from the LS3 that debuted on the 2008 Corvette, with an aluminum block (with cast iron cylinder liners) and aluminum cylinder heads. Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) at 5,900 rpm and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) at 4,300 rpm. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm). Output on the L99 is lower than the LS3 because of a slightly lower compression ratio (10.4:1 vs. 10.7:1) and design features of the Active Fuel Management System. The L99 is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission.
All Camaro models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Aisin AY6 six-speed manual is standard with the 3.6L engine, and a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic is optional. A Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is standard on the SS, and the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic is optional.
Both automatic transmissions feature aggressive first gear ratios that deliver strong launches, but also provide tall overdrive ratios that decrease engine rpm and provide better fuel efficiency. Each also includes driver shift control, allowing the driver to take control via controls located on the steering wheel after selecting the "M" mode on the console-mounted shifter. Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) is included with the 6L50 and 6L80. It lets the electronic transmission controller override the automatic gear selection during high lateral acceleration manoeuvres.
The SS model's Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is designed to handle the high torque characteristics of the LS3 engine, while providing shorter throws, smoother gear synchronization and greater overall shift feel with little or no vibration. Its specs include a solid, 290-mm flywheel and single-plate clutch. The final drive ratio for LS3 vehicles is 3.45:1.
Chassis and suspension
Camaro features fully independent front and rear suspensions, with the standard independent using a 4.5-link system that includes a unique, L-shaped upper control arm that attaches to the knuckle at one end and incorporates a ride bushing in the rear.
Two suspension packages are offered: FE2 sport on V-6 models and FE3 performance with the V-8. The front suspension has a dual ball strut system, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar that measures 22.2 x 4 mm on FE2 and 23 x 4.2 mm on FE3. Hollow bars are used for mass savings. Rear suspension features include high lateral stiffness for handling via three lateral ball joints per side. A sub-frame at the rear is double-isolated to minimize vehicle body motions and dampen road imperfections. Coil-over shock absorbers are used in the rear with a decoupled, hollow stabilizer bar. FE2 includes a 21.7 x 3 mm rear bar, while the FE3's large bar measures 23 x 3 mm.
The front track is a wide 1,618 mm (63.7 inches) for all models, while the rear track on LS and LT models is 1,628 mm (64.1 inches) and 1,618mm (63.7 inches) on SS models. The axle halfshafts on all V-8 models and manual transmission-equipped V-6 models are 30 mm in diameter on the left side and 40 mm on the right side. This design feature helps reduce the oscillation of torque from side to side and reduces axle hop.
Additional chassis and suspension details include:
- Four-wheel disc brakes on all models - including Brembo four-piston callipers on SS - with hydraulic brake assist
- Precise rack-and-pinion steering system, with a 16.1:1 ratio on all models
- Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control on all models
- Competitive/sport mode on SS models enhances on-track performance
- Performance Launch Control on SS models with the manual transmission optimizes hard-acceleration launches for quicker, more consistent performance
- LS and LT models equipped with standard 18-inch wheels or optional 19-inch wheels; SS comes with standard 20-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels; 21-inch wheels are available as a dealer-installed accessory.
Heritage-inspired design
Camaro's design drapes classic proportions over a 2,852 mm (112.3-inch) wheelbase. A long hood and short deck are pushed to the far corners of the muscular fender forms and a fast, 67-degree rake windshield contributes to aerodynamic performance that includes a 0.37 coefficient of drag (Cd) on V-6 models and a slightly sleeker 0.35 Cd on the V-8-powered SS model. On SS models, a simulated air intake is located in the upper front fascia and the lower air intake is larger.
Ten exterior colours are available and include Black, Victory Red, Rally Yellow and Silver Ice Metallic. Red Jewel Tintcoat is optional. The colour palette also includes Cyber Gray Metallic, Inferno Orange Metallic, Summit White, Imperial Blue Metallic and Synergy Green Metallic (for a limited time). Red Jewel Tintcoat, Inferno Orange Metallic and Synergy Green Metallic are extra-cost colours.
An RS appearance package is available on LT and SS. It includes HID headlamps with integrated LED halo rings, a rear spoiler on LT, specific tail lamps and 20-inch wheels with a Midnight Silver painted finish.
Interior details
Camaro's four-passenger cabin is a well-executed balance of heritage, modern design and attention to detail. An available ambient light package, for example, offers advanced LED light pipe technology, giving the cabin a distinctive glow.
Deep, recessed gauges, located in square housings, give a nod to the classic Camaro interior. The instrument panel gauges include both speedometer and engine rpm, with a driver information centre
located between the large gauges - its readouts and features controlled via a stalk on the steering column. An optional, console-mounted gauge package includes oil pressure, oil temperature, volts and transmission fluid temperature. The gauge package is included on 2LT and 2SS models, and it's available as an accessory through Chevrolet dealers.
Cloth upholstery is standard and leather-appointed seats are included on 2LT and 2SS models. Four-way manual adjustment including fore/aft and up/down on the driver seat and two-way adjustment on the passenger seat is standard. Heated, leather-trimmed seats with driver six-way power adjustment are standard on 2LT and 2SS models.
All models include a three-spoke steering wheel with manual tilt/telescope adjustment. Cruise control and a rear defogger also are standard, while a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, redundant steering wheel controls, Bluetooth, rear park assist and USB port are part of the available Driver Convenience and Connectivity package. This package also includes remote start on automatic transmission-equipped vehicles, as well as a personal device interface module for iPods.
Camaro's entertainment systems include a single-CD radio with six speakers that are standard on LS, LT and SS models. A premium, 245-watt Boston Acoustics nine-speaker audio system is standard on 2LT and 2SS; and it can be ordered on 1LT and 1SS models. XM Satellite Radio is standard on all models, with three months of service. All models also include power door locks and an express up and down feature on the driver and passenger windows.
2011 Camaro Convertible Unveiled at the LA Auto Show
The new 2011 Camaro Convertible goes On sale in February 2011
LOS ANGELES – The segment-leading Chevrolet Camaro opens a new chapter as the 2011 Camaro convertible premieres at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The new convertible begins production in January and goes on sale in February. It includes an enhanced body structure and well-tailored top mechanism – a combination designed to deliver sports coupe-like driving fun and precise quality.
"The launch of the new convertible opens Camaro design and performance to a new set of potential customers," said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "The 21st century revival of Camaro is tremendously popular, so it's a natural to now expand and elevate the product range in new directions."
The convertible will be offered in similar model configurations as the Camaro coupe. The standard model will have a 312-horsepower direct injection V-6 engine delivering 29 mpg highway. The SS model will feature the 6.2L V-8 engine producing 426 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, with an optional six-speed automatic.
Camaro seized leadership in U.S. sales in its segment with the original coupe model that launched in spring 2009 as a 2010 model. The right to purchase one of the first convertibles was recently sold at the Barrett-Jackson auction for $205,000, with all proceeds donated to charity. The 2011 Neiman Marcus Edition Camaro convertibles, a group of 100 exclusive cars with custom-designed elements and priced at $75,000 each, sold out in only three minutes.
The Camaro convertible delivers great refinement, along with uncompromising, coupe-like driving dynamics. Its enhanced body structure helps prevent cowl or steering wheel shake, for a strong, confident feel in all driving conditions. The top has a smooth, tailored fit, with acoustical foam in the headliner that helps deliver a quiet ride with the top up.
Camaro convertible is offered in 1LT/2LT (V-6) and 1SS/2SS (V-8) trim packages and priced from $30,000 MSRP (including $850 destination). Nine production exterior colors are available, with tops offered in black or tan. Rear parking assist is standard on all convertible models.
Strong structure
The Camaro's architecture was designed to accommodate a convertible model, which means customers enjoy the fun of top-down cruising with coupe-like driving dynamics. Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to eliminate common convertible maladies of cowl and steering wheel shake. They include:
A tower-to-tower brace under the hood
A transmission support reinforcement brace
Underbody tunnel brace
Front and rear underbody "V" braces.
"Our goal in development was to make the convertible match the coupe as closely as possible in ride quality, handling and overall performance," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.
A telling example of the Camaro convertible's strength is evidenced in its suspension tuning – specifically, the lack of changes between the convertible and coupe models.
"To compensate for the reduced structure of an open car, engineers often will make the suspension softer, making the convertible a boulevard cruiser," said Oppenheiser. "Instead, we took the more difficult, but better path of bolstering structure rather than softening the suspension. We didn't change a strut, bushing or spring rate from the Camaro coupe."
The result is a convertible that preserves nearly all the acceleration, road-holding and performance capabilities of the Camaro coupe.
Additional safety structural reinforcements are designed to improve noise and vibration characteristics, while also contributing to the elimination of cowl/steering wheel shake. They include a hydrofromed tube in the A-pillars, an inner reinforcement bracket in the windshield header, a reinforced front hinge pillar and reinforcements inside the rockers. The structural changes to the Camaro convertible body give it superior bending and torsional stiffness than its closest competitor, and better torsional stiffness than the BMW 3-Series convertible.
Exceptional top refinement
At the outset, designers and engineers sought to eliminate the common appearance of convertible top support ribs and they succeeded, using composite knuckles rather than aluminum ones, as well as extending the top material below the belt line and revising the top's stitch lines. The result is a top that has a smooth, taut and carefully tailored appearance that also retains the sleek roofline of the coupe.
The power-folding top retracts in about 20 seconds. It is built in partnership with the same manufacturer as the Corvette convertible top, and operates in a similar manner. That means it folds in a simple "Z" pattern and latches with a single, convenient handle located at the center of the windshield header. Other convertible models in this segment still offer convertible tops with dual latches, forcing drivers into two-hand operations reaching across the car.
Once the latch is turned to the open position, the push of a single button lowers the windows and activates the top. The car doesn't have to be parked for the top to be activated, allowing for spur-of-the-moment lowering while stopped at a stoplight.
The top is made of thick, durable canvas and it features acoustical headliner material that provides a quiet, coupe-like ride when the top is up. It also incorporates a glass rear window and rear window defogger.
A folding, one-piece tonneau cover is standard on 2LT and 2SS models and optional on 1LT/1SS. It covers the folded top for a finished appearance. An accessory windscreen is available from Chevrolet dealers. It installs behind the front seats to limit wind buffeting when driving with the top down.
Additional details
A myriad of fine details distinguish Camaro convertible models, including:
The OnStar/XM/AM-FM radio antenna moves to the deck lid on LT models without the RS package
The radio antenna is embedded in the rear spoiler on RS-equipped LT and SS models
The trunk lock cylinder is moved to the rear seat area for a cleaner exterior appearance
A new subwoofer design is located in the trunk between the rear seats.
Because the combined OnStar/XM/AM-FM radio antenna is mounted on the roof of coupe models, it had to be relocated on the convertible. On RS-equipped LT models and SS models, which include a rear spoiler, a small "shark fin" OnStar/XM antenna is mounted on the deck lid, while the AM/FM radio antenna is hidden inside the rear spoiler. This patent-pending design creates a sleeker appearance. For LT models without a rear spoiler (without the RS package), the combined antenna is located in the center of the deck lid.
The relocation of the trunk lock cylinder also cleans up the Camaro convertible's appearance, moving from the panel between the taillamps to a discreet area between the rear seat back cushion and driver's side interior panel. The change retains full, lockable access to the trunk, with the keyless remote fob also offering easy trunk access.
Finally, the subwoofer – either an eight-inch unit with the base sound system or a 10-inch subwoofer with the available Boston Acoustics system – is relocated from the trunk to an area between the rear seat cushions.
Performance
Camaro LT convertible models are offered with a 3.6L direct injection (DI) V-6 that delivers more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. It is rated at 312 horsepower (232 kW) and 278 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). Peak fuel economy with the direct injection V-6 is 29 miles per gallon on the highway.
Two 6.2L V-8 engines are offered in Camaro SS models, including the L99 on automatic-equipped vehicles and the LS3 on manual-equipped models. Both engines are derived from the LS3 that debuted on the 2008 Corvette, with an aluminum block (with cast iron cylinder liners) and aluminum cylinder heads. Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm). The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm).
The L99 features the fuel-saving Active Fuel Management System, which saves fuel by shutting down half of the engine's cylinders during certain light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising.
All Camaro models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Aisin AY6 six-speed manual is standard with the 3.6L engine, and a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic is optional. A Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is standard on the SS, and the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic is optional.
-Well-tailored fabric top
-Acoustical headliner for quietness and easy-to-use single latch
-Robust, reinforced structure supports a sports coupe-like driving experience
-Better torsional stiffness than BMW 3-Series convertible
Camaro Convertible Release Information
Chevrolet is planning on publicly unveiling the 2011 Camaro Convertible at the LA Auto Show next month. The high profile event should provide a lot of press for the vehicle and make pre-ordering it an easy, albeit slow going, task. I imagine there will be a pretty long wait-list for a while with the vehicle as, already, its profile is pretty big.
Before the show, though, Chevrolet has released some pertinent information concerning the vehicle:
- The Camaro Convertible will arrive at dealerships in February of 2011
- The starting price for the Camaro Convertible will be $30,000
- On top of the $30,000 cost there will also be an $850 delivery charge
- The Convertible will be available in both RS and SS versions
Camaro Gets Sales Revenge on the Mustang
Well, the Mustang sales incentives for the 2010 models are dwindling, and the Camaro not only reclaimed it's spot at the top of the sales heap, and it did so with bravado. Last month Mustang outpaced the Camaro in sales by a grand total of 3 units. That was the third month in a row (and, only the third month period since the Camaro release) that the Mustang had outsold the Chevroley monster. A total of 3 units is a small small victory. A total of 751 units is a large victory though, and that's the margin by which the Camaro outsold the Mustang in August.
Chevrolet had official sales numbers of 6,321 Camaros. Of course, they produced 10,252 units in August, which means they're preparing for the more busy months ahead with the 2011 gaining reputation quickly as an improvement on the unanimous best new car on the road. Ford did move an impressive 5,570 units in August though. This number was a 26% drop off from the month prior, but was still solid for the generally slow month of August. In all, this is great news for both Ford and Chevrolet and speaks highly of the product being built and sold by these American Automotive companies right now. Hopefully, they'll continue to innovate and excite with their work in to the near future.
Camaro Z28 Artist Rendering
We've seen the spy photos of the Z28 thus far, and it looks pretty awesome. Using those, artist Jon Sibal put together a rendition of what the Z28's front end most likely looks like. You can make out some angles and details in the spy photos, and obviously Mr. Sibal used those same cues in the rendering he has put together. It's a good looking car that doesn't venture far from the standard Camaro styling, which is an absolute plus. Now, we just have the performance numbers to truly speculate on!
2011 Camaro News and Camaro Sales Numbers
We'll start with the bad news, guys. For the first time since May of last year, the Mustang has posted higher one-month sales numbers than the Camaro. We all expected this, with the release of the new model year Mustang, but it's still sad to see it happen. Mustang sales in May almost doubled their April numbers, while the Camaro took a very slight (3%) dip in that same time. Of course, this loss could actually be viewed as a solid win, as the Mustang released a newer, more updated and powerful model, yet could only muster a 1,000-unit victory, and this at a time when Camaro numbers are expectedly down since the new model year Camaros will also be hitting showrooms soon. Considering all of that, I expect these numbers to return to normal in a month or two, and for this May (and maybe June) to just be small speed-bumps on the beautiful highway of dominance the Camaro has traveled for some time now, and will continue to for some time to come.
The good news is that we now know the pricing on the next model year Camaro, and it holds up my bold ascertations from the last paragraph! The 2011 Camaro, which will be offered in Synergy Green, have a HP rating increase to 312HP, and come standard with the Heads-Up Display (HUD) on the 2LT and 2SS, will only see a rise in the 2LT and 2SS price by $350, and remain the same on all other base models. This is great, as most vehicles (especially those with the popularity of the Camaro) see price hikes in their second and third years, and this should also help guarantee further Camaro sales domination in the future.
Camaro 2011 Press Release
Well, the info is official and Chevy gave their press release for the 2011 Camaro. There's some pretty exciting stuff here, with the three biggest points being: the added HP on the V6 Model to push it from 304 to 312 HP, the HUD will now be standard equipment on all 2LT and 2SS models, and limited time availability of the Synergy Green color for all models. This is pretty exciting, and I really like the standard HUD as that should be standard on a powerful performance vehicle like the Camaro and is a nice touch, and am sure that the added HP, HUD and Synergy Green availability will help to increase Camaro sales through the new year. The full press release is copied below:
Chevrolet supports Camaro’s consumer momentum with exciting updates for 2011
312 horsepower for V6, expanded availability of Synergy color and heads-up display new for 2011
2010-04-08
The 2010 model year proved to be a very successful and exciting year for the segment-leading Chevrolet Camaro. For the 2011 model year, Chevrolet looks to expand the car’s popularity among consumers with the introduction of additional features.
“We are pleased with Camaro’s success in the market during its first year of production,” said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President, Chevrolet Marketing. “The 2010 model year has been a banner year for us, and we plan to build on this momentum.”
Horsepower increase for V6 engine
The 2011 Camaro V-6 engine completed SAE certification testing and is now officially rated at 312 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 278 lb-ft of torque at 5100 rpm. This rating is eight horsepower higher than the previous year and also marks an increase in torque from the 2010 rating of 273 lb-ft.
“The 304 horsepower in the 2010 Camaro was actually a conservative rating on our end,” said Tom Sutter, GM V-6 chief engineer. “But we knew already that this award-winning engine produced at least the amount of power we stated, but now we’ve gone the extra step in certifying the engine for this application and have verified an additional 8 horsepower.”
The 3.6-liter V-6 with variable valve timing (VVT) and direct injection employs four independent cam phasers to change the timing of valve operation as operating conditions such as rpm and engine load vary. The result is linear delivery of torque, with near-peak levels over a broad rpm range, and high specific output (maximum horsepower per liter of displacement) supporting overall engine response and drivability. When combined, direct-injection and VVT enable an unmatched combination of power, efficiency and low-emissions in gasoline V-6 engines.
SAE certification is a voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. Chevrolet was the vehicle brand to begin using the procedure.
Synergy color to be made available across the lineup
Earlier this year, Chevrolet introduced the Camaro Synergy Special Edition which is based off the concept displayed at the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas. The Synergy Special Edition is limited to a 1LT model, but the Synergy Green exterior color will be made available on all trim levels for a limited run during the 2011 model year.
“When we looked at the overwhelmingly positive reaction we received from SEMA attendees and consumers on Synergy Green, making the color available across the board was pretty much a no-brainer,” said John Fitzpatrick, Camaro Marketing Manager.
Customers will be able to order this color for a manufacturer suggested retail price of $325.
Head-Up Display
Already available on the Chevrolet Corvette,the 2011 Camaro will become the second Chevrolet vehicle to offer the popular Head-Up Display.
Camaro’s Head-Up Display will include:
- Vehicle speed
- Tachometer
- Compass
- Outside air temperature
- Manual Paddle Shift Gear Indicator (if equipped)
- OnStar Turn-by-Turn
- Audio functions
- Phone information
- Selected gear
- Turn signal indicators
- High-beam indicator signal
- Vehicle messages
“Head-Up Display has been a very frequent customer request” said Cheryl Pilcher, Camaro Product Manager. “People familiar with the HUD system simply love it. It truly enables drivers to keep their eyes on the road.”
Production of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro begins on June 7, 2010.
Camaro still King: Sales continue to rise and dominate the competition.
Well, March marked another great month for the Camaro. After the World Design Car of the Year award yesterday, sales numbers are now coming out for the month of March, and they're impressive. 8,904 Camaros came off the lot in March, the second most in any month since the Camaro launched, and a number that dominated the sales of the Camaro's competition: The Mustang, and The Challenger. As for those two though, must give props to the Challenger for almost doubling its numbers from the month prior. It's not a bad car (I like it a lot more than the Mustang, myself) and it's nice to see it getting some boost in sales numbers. Of course, the King stays on top there, with the Camaro outpacing its rivals big time.
