The Future of GM’s RWD Platform
GM’s Alpha Platform: What We Know
GMI has been quietly gathering information on GM’s next RWD architecture.
www.gminsidenews.com
June 1, 2010
By: Nick Saporito
Alpha. If you’re reading GMI you are probably already aware of what that Greek designation is infamous with in the world of General Motors. Alpha is GM’s next substantial rear-wheel drive vehicle architecture. There have been copious amounts of rumors; some even reported by “mainstream” media that we can confidently say were factually incorrect. Over the last few months GMI has been working with sources at all levels to obtain the most detailed information we could possibly report about Alpha. We feel we have accomplished just that.
Let’s clear up the most substantial of misinformation. Technically there are two iterations of the Alpha platform. There is “Alpha” and “Alpha+.” Alpha is the variation of the platform that is going to underpin the upcoming Cadillac ATS. As has been reported in the past, this car is internally referred to as the “BMW fighter” and will be extremely close to the BMW 3-Series in size.
Alpha+ is already in development for the next-generation Cadillac CTS. Alpha+ is both longer and wider than the ATS’s Alpha. The exact size of the platform is not yet known, however we expect it to fall close to BMW’s 5-Series as the CTS continues its drive up-market.
The third vehicle slated for Alpha is the sixth-generation Camaro. It was only recently approved for Alpha use by GM’s executive committee. At this point very little is known about the car due to the fact that development is in its infancy.
Other models from various GM brands (including Buick) are looking at Alpha to identify possible uses, though none have been approved for production at this time. GM product plans are set in stone through 2014, so any additional models are certain to be 2015 or later launches.
Contrary to popular belief, Alpha is not yet considered a “global” architecture. A vast majority of the development is taking place in North America, with GM Europe having a little involvement in some of the testing. In order for Alpha to become a “global” architecture, manufacturing of Alpha vehicles would have to take place on more than one continent.
Read entire article HERE.
2010 Hennessey HPE Camaro
You can order a 725-bhp Hennessey HPE700 LS9 Camaro in any color you like, but this very first example in stealthy Cyber Gray Metallic—with blue “hockey stick” graphics in an ode to the Corvette ZR1’s Blue Devil theme—seems appropriate. Makes me think of dark matter and dark energy in the universe, theoretical forces that can’t be directly observed, yet seem to toy with visible celestial objects with unimaginable energy. And supermassive black holes—you can’t see ’em (at least inside the event horizon, where even photons of light can’t escape their gravitational pull) yet they’re the engines of quasars, whose epic release of light and energy is the most impressive display of cosmic horsepower since the Big Bang.
The car world’s version of dark energy is before you, and easygoing Texan John Hennessey is the rocket scientist responsible.
John’s dazzled us before with outrageous twin-turbo Venom Vipers, one of which went 210.2 mph in our Standing Mile Shootout (September 2005). But now he’s stuffing the 6.2-liter LS9 V-8 from the ZR1 into the Camaro, trading exhaust-driven compressors for the 4-lobed helixes of Eaton’s TVS 2300 Roots-type supercharger.
Now the LS9 is the most powerful engine ever fitted to a GM production car—638 bhp in stock tune—but naturally, that didn’t stop Hennessey from extracting more power. A smaller pulley on the blower’s snout raises peak boost from 11.0 psi to 14.5, and the air-to-water heat exchangers within the central plenum are reworked for better flow. A carbon-fiber 4-in. cold-air induction system capped with a conical K&N filter lowers intake restriction, and 17/8-in. stainless long-tube headers expedite outflow of gases to a 3-in. X-pipe center section, high-flow cats and, curiously, a factory rear section that includes standard-issue mufflers. “The neat thing about superchargers,” says Hennessey, “is they’re not real sensitive to exhaust restriction…the blower will just force the air through the motor and out the exhaust. So don’t put a banana in the tailpipe of this thing; it’d launch it into outer space!” Well, with 725 bhp and 741 lb.-ft. of torque, a low earth orbit maybe.
Read entire article HERE.
GM Unveils Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Electric Concept at Auto China 2010
As released by GMInsideNews.com
Beijing – Chevrolet has made a major commitment to providing world-class, fuel-efficient vehicles to its customers around the world. In recent months, through GM’s Shanghai GM joint venture, Chevrolet has introduced the fuel-efficient Cruze and New Sail in China. It will introduce the Volt electric vehicle with extended range capability in 2011.
In preparation for the Volt’s arrival, Chevrolet is leveraging Auto China 2010, which starts today in Beijing, to introduce the Volt MPV5 electric concept. The five-passenger multi-purpose crossover concept demonstrates the potential of the Voltec propulsion system by utilizing the same foundation as the Volt, for gas- and tailpipe emissions-free electric driving.
Maximizing Efficiency and Style
The styling of the Volt MPV5 concept borrows design and aerodynamic cues from the Chevrolet Volt. The front fascia is among the most aerodynamic of any crossover thanks to its closed grille and aero-optimized lower air dam, both of which help improve fuel efficiency. A full-underbody belly pan, along with rocker claddings, creased tail lamps and specially designed blades on the rear quarter, also help the Volt MPV5 concept cut through the wind with ease. The intense focus on improved aerodynamics enables greater all-electric range.
The exterior of the Volt MPV5 concept isn’t solely about efficiency. Its Sonic Blue Metallic paint provides a contemporary appeal, while the dual skylight panels and 19-inch Volt-inspired wheels build the Volt MPV5 concept’s sporty credentials.
“The Volt MPV5 concept takes the efficient design of the Chevrolet Volt and adapts it to the family vehicle crossover segment. It’s immediately recognizable as a true member of the Chevrolet family,” said Bob Boniface, Director of GM North America Crossover Exterior Design, whose team worked in conjunction with members of GM’s design studio in Australia on the Volt MPV5 concept.
The Volt MPV5 concept’s dimensions provide added passenger comfort. While the 2,760-mm wheelbase of the Volt MPV5 concept is a mere 15 mm longer than the wheelbase of the Chevrolet Volt, its body is 181 mm longer (4,585 mm), 73 mm wider (1,871 mm) and 182 mm taller (1,612 mm) than the Volt.
Inside, the Volt MPV5 concept adopts the Volt’s center stack and gauge cluster along with its striking two-tone leather seats. Thanks to the Volt MPV5 concept’s size, passenger comfort doesn’t take a backseat. Typical for Chevrolet crossovers, the Volt MPV5 concept’s seating position allows for maximum comfort and flexibility, including improved entry and egress.
When it comes to cargo, the Volt MPV5 concept carries on the crossover tradition thanks to its flip-and-fold second row seating, which provides up to 1,764.1 liters of cargo space with the seats folded and 863.7 liters of space behind the second row.
Voltec Power Boosts Green Credentials
The Volt MPV5 concept utilizes the same Voltec propulsion system found in the Chevrolet Volt, including the added capability of an engine generator to extend the driving range and eliminate “range anxiety.” A 16-kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack powers the electric drive unit.
The flexibility of the Voltec system enables the Volt MPV5 concept to meet full vehicle speed and acceleration requirements while driving the vehicle and its five occupants up to 51.5 km on pure electric propulsion. This is double what the average urban commuter in China travels each day. When the battery is depleted, a 1.4-liter engine generator sustains the battery charge and provides up to 482 km of electric propulsion.
“The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles. from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept,” said Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles at GM.
“Rapidly growing demand for personal transportation across China is creating new environmental and energy security challenges,” said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. “GM is committed to finding and adopting solutions, which include the electrification of the automobile. The world premiere of the Volt MPV5 concept in Beijing demonstrates GM’s desire to make China a global focus of its advanced technology strategy.”
GM continues to advance electrification in China through research and development. It has launched the China Automotive Energy Research Center (CAERC) in Beijing. The venture with SAIC and Tsinghua University is developing a comprehensive automotive energy strategy for China. The GM China Science Lab, which opened last November, is carrying out advanced automotive-related research, including battery development. In March, GM introduced the EN-V (Electric Networked-Vehicle) concepts in Shanghai. A centerpiece of the SAIC-GM Pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai, EN-V embodies GM’s vision for personal urban mobility in 2030. In addition, GM is supporting its Shanghai GM joint venture’s “Drive to Green” strategy, which is focused on developing green products, supporting green manufacturing and undertaking a green responsibility.
Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept
Specifications
Model: Chevrolet Volt MPV5 Concept
Body style / driveline: five-door, front-wheel-drive crossover
Description: electric vehicle with extended-range capability
Performance
Top speed (kph): 160 (100 mph)
EV range (city in km): up to 51.5 (32 mi) based on EPA city cycle
actual mileage may vary depending on driving habits/conditions, weather and battery age
Extended range: 482 km (300 mi) on a full tank of gasoline
Battery system
Type: lithium-ion
Energy: 16 kWh
Electric drive unit
Power (kW / hp): 111 / 150
Torque (lb-ft / Nm): 273 / 370
Charging times
120 V: over 8 hours (actual charge times may vary)
240 V: about 4 hours (actual charge times may vary)
Brakes
Type: four-wheel disc, fully regenerative to maximize energy capture
Wheels/Tires
Wheel size and type: 17-inch forged aluminum
Tires: specially developed low rolling-resistance
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm): 108.7 / 2,760
Length (in / mm): 180.5 / 4,585
Width (in / mm): 73.7/ 1,871
Height (in / mm): 63.5 / 1,612
Interior
Seating capacity (front / rear): 5
Capacities
Cargo volume (cu ft): 62.3 cu-ft with rear seats folded, 30.5 cu-ft behind second row
Fuel tank (gal / L): TBD
GM will invest $136M in Kansas assembly plant
via Kansas City Business Journal:
General Motors Corp. will invest $136 million in its Kansas City, Kan., plant to build its next-generation Chevrolet Malibu, Chairman and CEO Ed Whitacre said in a Wednesday morning visit to the Fairfax Assembly Plant.
Overall, GM has invested in 20 U.S. and Canadian production plants during the past nine months to the tune of $1.5 billion. The investments restored or created 7,500 jobs, including 900 at Fairfax, Whitacre said.
The investment in the Fairfax Assembly Plant is part of a $257 million total investment in production of the new Chevrolet Malibu and includes GM’s Hamtramck Assembly Plant in Detroit. Whitacre said the Fairfax plant will be the main production facility for the new Chevy Malibu, and the Hamtramck plant will provide extra production capability during periods of peak demand.
The investment will bolster production of a vehicle that has been one of the hottest sellers for GM. In March, the Chevrolet Malibu was GM’s second-highest selling vehicle. Malibu sales reached 17,750, up 20.2 percent from 14,772 in March 2009.
General Motors Pays Back $8 Billion to Taxpayers
ABCNews.com reports:
General Motors today $8.1 billion in government loans repaid, five years ahead of schedule and nine months after the troubled auto giant declared bankruptcy, signaling that the auto maker may be on the path to profitability.
“As of today, GM has repaid in full and interest,” said GM CEO Ed Whitacre to a crowd assembled on floor of a GM plant in Kansas City, Kan.
To smiles and applause from workers, Whitacre also announced GM’s plan to invest $257 million in that plantand another in Detroit to ramp up production of the Chevy Malibu.
Cheering on the floor of a GM factory would have been unthinkable a year ago, when the company was on a downward spiral towards its bankruptcy in June 2009.
When it emerged from restructuring last year, GM had converted most of the $52 billion in federal bailout funds into company stock, leaving a $6.7 billion outstanding loan from the U.S. Treasury. The Canadian government lent the company an additional $1.4 billion.
2011 Camaro Convertible
Thanks to GMInsideNews.com we now have shots of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible.
By now it is no surprise that General Motors will be rolling out a convertible variant of the fifth generation Chevrolet Camaro. The American classic will be revitalized and launched sometime in 2011. Hit up the official Chevrolet Camaro Facebook Page to see the true virtual “reveal.”
Chevrolet and GMC Announce Pricing for 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD and 2011 GMC Sierra HD
Straight from the General:
Detroit – Chevrolet and GMC announced today pricing for the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD and 2011 GMC Sierra HD. The Silverado HD and Sierra HD have best-in-class horsepower and torque, with improved Duramax diesel engine and Allison transmission.
Silverado HD base pricing starts at $27,965. An upgrade to the proven Duramax diesel engine and Allison transmission combination runs $8,395 – the same amount as in 2010, despite the significant improvements in fuel economy – including a highway cruising range of up to 680 miles; aforementioned increases in performance; and new B20 biodiesel capability. (read more)
The 2011 Sierra HD will have a starting price of $27,965, which excludes a $995 destination charge for the 2500 regular cab 2WD model. The Sierra Denali HD, the first offering of the exclusive Denali line on a heavy-duty GMC pickup, will start at $45,865, excluding destination (read more)
Inside the 2011 Duramax Diesel
2011 Duramax Diesel Engine
The guys over at Diesel Power have an excellent article about the new and improved 2011 Duramax diesel engine.
Diesel Power | 2011 LML Duramax Diesel Engine – Inside The 2011 LML Duramax
Automotive manufacturing history includes two brutal horsepower wars. The first involved gasoline engines and started when the GI’s returned home from WWII. It ended with the 1973 oil crisis. This oil embargo gave birth to the next slow-starting and fierce-ending feud, which we are all veterans of-the diesel horsepower wars. Notice how power levels have recently leveled off? It’s because in 2010, manufacturers need to address what’s coming out the tailpipe just as much as they have to worry about what numbers the engine makes. Since we’re optimistic and believe the past is a guide, we predict we’ll see the emissions restrictions turn into a catalyst for better performing diesel engines. Fortunately for us, a world without problems is a very boring place for engineers.
The LML Duramax
The ’11 diesel pickups built by GM will use the same basic 6.6L engine GM has been using for the last decade. This signifies the original Duramax engine’s design was a good foundation-one the engineers didn’t need to totally change as we predicted with the 6.9L UMAX (“Detroit Spy Report,” April ’07). Still, stricter future emissions requirements are putting more pressure on the industry to improve the cleanliness of diesel exhaust without giving up power. The rest of this article highlights the new features on the ’11 Duramax trucks that enable squeaky-clean diesel. Only the future knows for sure whether the new emissions pressure will crush the diesel market into a cube- or a diamond.
Read the entire article HERE.
2011 Chevrolet Cruze Takes Auto Show by Storm
General Motors says that the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco will have the fuel economy of a hybrid (40 miles per gallon). | TheNewYorkTimes.com
Debuting at the New York International Auto Show, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is turning heads thanks to it getting an estimated 40 m.p.g.on the highway.
The New York Times | G.M. Previews the 40 M.P.G. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco
It’s not exactly the Son of Volt, but the 2011 Chevy Cruze Eco will continue General Motors’ theme of green when it is formally introduced Wednesday at the New York auto show.
Propelled by a turbocharged 1.4-liter Ecotec engine with variable valve timing, the Cruze Eco is dressed with assorted fuel-miser tweaks, including a redesigned grill and spoilers to improve aerodynamics, and lightweight aluminum wheels and tires with low-rolling resistance. G.M. says the Cruze Eco with the 6-speed manual transmission will get 40 miles per gallon on the highway.
Also debuting in New York will be a sporty variant of the Cruze, the RS model, which is essentially a styling package. It will be available on the upscale Cruze LT and LTZ trim levels. It features special bumpers, side skirt, a rear spoiler and an instrument cluster with chrome accent rings.
The Cruze Eco will go on sale in the fourth quarter. No word on pricing. Be sure to check in on Wednesday when G.M. officially unveils the Cruze Eco at the New York auto show.
Gmgenuineparts.net Blog 
