USA - The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado designed to build on Chevy's truck momentum.

2016 Silverado designed to build on Chevrolet’s truck momentum

• Bolder, more muscular look reflects Silverado strength, dependability
• Expanded use of 8-speed transmissions; additional safety technologies
• Available support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The new 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 brings muscular designs and new customer-focused technologies to the most dependable, longest-lasting family of full-size pickups on the road.

The new Silverados make their public debut today at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas. “The new 2016 Silverado will build on the Chevy truck legacy of dependability,” said Sandor Piszar, marketing director for Chevrolet trucks.

“New muscular front end designs, sculpted hoods and signature LED lighting accents reflect Silverado’s strength and dependability, which have helped make Silverado the fastest-growing full-size pickup brand this year.”

Other changes for 2016 will include expanded use of 8-speed automatic transmissions, updated available Chevy MyLink with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and additional safety technologies.

New designs feature advanced lighting, strong Chevy Truck DNA

Chevrolet designers used advanced lighting technology to help create new Silverados that show their Chevy Truck DNA while looking like no other truck on the road.

Advanced lighting allowed Chevrolet designers to create more expressive forms, integrating the lights into the sweeping horizontal elements and deep grille inserts. Turn signals and brake lamps wrap around the corners of the truck for a more streamlined look.

The new designs provide a unique look for each Silverado trim level, and let customers chose a look that more closely fits their personalities.

For example, the Silverado WT features chrome horizontal grille elements, black grille inserts, and compact high-intensity discharge headlamps. LT and LTZ Silverados feature chrome grille elements and bumpers, while Z71 models have a monochromatic appearance. Silverado High Country features chrome horizontal bars and unique grille inserts, set off by body colored bumpers.

The muscular front end designs also feature a dramatically sculpted hood that helps give the new Silverado the strong presence that differentiates full-size pickups from other types of vehicles.

All trim levels feature premium lighting with LED signature daytime running lamps and park/turn lamps. LED fog lamps are available on LT and standard on LT Z71.

LTZ, LTZ/Z71 and High Country models feature LED technology for all lighting, including LED headlamps, daytime running lights, fog lights, park/turn signal lamps, and taillamps.

Advanced connectivity for work or play

Silverado customers are among the top users of the connectivity offered by available OnStar and 4G LTE Wi-Fi. For 2016, Silverado will be available with support for Apple CarPlay, which projects select iPhone features (iPhone 5 and later) on the available MyLink display in a smart, simple manner.

This integration of phone and vehicle allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Using CarPlay is simple. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen, visible when a phone is not connected, changes to indicate “CarPlay” when a compatible phone is connected via a USB. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using, and Apple’s privacy statement and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply.

CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay.

Silverado models with the available 7-inch color MyLink also will support Android Auto.

Advanced safety and convenience features

The new 2016 Silverado 1500 offers safety features such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist and IntelliBeam high beam assist.

The 2016 Silverado is also available with a remote locking tailgate for convenience and security. Wireless phone charging is available on LT and LTZ double cab and crew cab models with available bucket seats, and it is standard on High Country.

Silverado High Country also will be available with power articulating running boards, which extend to enhance access to the cab, and can also swing rearward for easier access to the bed.

Time-tested high-strength steel, advanced V-8 engines

The new 2016 Silverado 1500 builds on the legacy of the most dependable, longest-lasting full-size pickups on the road.

Silverado features a fully boxed high-strength steel frame and a body structure that make extensive use of high strength steels, as well as roll-formed steel beds, which are stronger and lighter than conventional steel.

Customers can chose from three advanced EcoTec3 engines. They build on the legacy of Chevrolet small block truck engines, while incorporating advanced features to enhance power and efficiency.

All three engines feature direct fuel injection, continuously variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation, also known as Active Fuel Management, for improved power and efficiency. All switch to four-cylinder mode under light-load conditions.

Silverado’s standard 4.3L V-6 is SAE certified at 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque, the most torque of any standard V-6.

The 5.3L V-8 is certified at 355-horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Offering an EPA highway estimate of 23 mpg, it is the most fuel efficient V-8 in any pickup.

Silverado’s available 6.2L V-8 is certified at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, the most power and torque of any light-duty pickup. This engine also offers the highest towing of any V-8 light-duty pickup, up to 12,000 pounds.

For 2016, the new 8-speed automatic transmission that is standard on 6.2L-equipped Silverados will be standard on LTZ, LTZ/Z71 and High Country Silverados with the 5.3L V-8.

The new 8-speed provides a numerically higher first gear ratio to help drivers start off more confidently with a heavy load or when trailering. Its wider overall gear ratio spread also enables numerically lower rear axle ratios, which reduce engine rpm on the highway.

Building on strong Chevy Truck momentum

Chevy Trucks are on a roll, with pickup sales up 33 percent so far this year.

“Our strategy is pretty simple,” said Piszar. “Build trucks that meet the real needs of truck customers. The right designs. The right sizes. The right powertrains. The right materials. The right technologies.”

Chevrolet intends to strengthen this momentum with the new 2016 Silverado 1500, a new diesel engine for the hot-selling midsize Colorado, and new special models for Silverado and Colorado.

Since the introduction of the all-new Silverado 1500 in the spring of 2013, Silverado sales have grown by double digits, on a percentage basis, each year. Through August, Silverado sales are up 17 percent compared with the same period last year.

Growth in Silverado sales have been accompanied by a strong Colorado launch, which has made Colorado the fastest-selling pickup in America. Colorado sales so far this year have passed the 59,000 mark in the U.S. alone.

USA - GMC updates the Sierra Elevation Edition for Model Year 2016, and in all Black, it looks stunning.

Sport appearance wears new front-end design, latest connectivity technologies

The popular GMC Sierra Elevation Edition returns for 2016 with the styling enhancements and other features new to the entire Sierra 1500 lineup – including revised front-end styling with new, high-intensity discharge projector-beam headlamps and GMC Signature LED lighting.

The Elevation Edition – available on Sierra double cab – has a street-smart stance, thanks to body-color moldings, door handles, mirror caps and a body-color grille surround, as well as body-color bumpers. It also rolls on 20-inch black-painted aluminum wheels and is further enhanced with new Elevation Edition badging.

“The Sierra Elevation Edition offers a boldly styled pickup for customers who want a truck that looks as good as it performs,” said Duncan Aldred, U.S. vice president, Buick and GMC. “With its muscular design details, inherent truck capabilities and premium technology features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, Sierra Elevation improves on an already comprehensive package.”

Inside Sierra Elevation Edition, the latest technology helps drivers stay connected at all times. A new radio with a 7-inch-diagonal screen incorporates CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration capability, which gives drivers the ability to make calls, send and receive messages and control music from the IntelliLink touchscreen. Additionally, OnStar 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot allow continuous connectivity for up to seven personal devices.

All Sierra Elevation Edition models include remote keyless entry, remote locking tailgate, outside heated power-adjustable mirrors, a 110-volt AC power outlet, black recovery hooks, a six-speaker audio system and more.

A standard 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque with a highway fuel economy of 24 mpg. An available 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 produces 355 horsepower – and offers up to 9,400 pounds of trailering capacity (2WD). Customers can choose two- or four-wheel drive and the Eaton locking rear differential is standard with both.

All-terrain tires, a Rear Vision camera system, trailering equipment and XM Radio are available on all models.

The new GMC Sierra Elevation Edition goes on sale in the first quarter of 2016.

USA - 2015 GMC Sierra Carbon Edition adds style to popular pick-up sector.

Unique packages offer enhanced style and value

The 2015 GMC Sierra already offers an unparalleled blend of style and strength, but the new 2015 Sierra Carbon Edition, which will be available at dealers this fall, adds distinctive style to the mix.

“The beauty of the new Sierra lies in its strength and sophistication,” said Stuart Pierce, Sierra marketing manager. “But for customers wanting to stand out and make a strong statement, the Sierra Carbon Edition models are the answer.”

Based on the 2015 Sierra 1500 pickup, the 2015 Sierra Carbon Edition is offered in three different versions, allowing customers to hand-select the truck best suited to their lifestyle.

The striking Sierra Carbon 22 Edition, offered on both Sierra SLE double- and crew cab models, adds distinctive graphics that echo its name. Two carbon fiber appearance graphics emphasize strong forms in the Sierra’s hood, while another graphic dresses up the tailgate panel. Additional exterior touches include a black painted grille, along with body-colored door handles and mirror caps. 

The Carbon 22 Edition also incorporates four-inch black tubular side assist steps and unique 22-inch black alloy wheels. Carbon 22 Edition models also include fog lamps, remote keyless start, Universal Home Remote, a 110-volt power outlet and dual-zone climate controls.

The Carbon 20 Edition, offered only as a Sierra SLE double cab, incorporates the same painted grille and carbon fiber appearance accents as the Carbon Edition, and rides on distinctive 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

The standard Sierra Carbon Edition builds off the standard Sierra 1500 double cab model with many of the same cues used on the Carbon 22 and 20 Edition models. The Carbon Edition shares its black painted grille, carbon fiber graphics, and body-colored trim with other Carbon Edition variants, and also includes additional standard content including remote keyless entry, a 110-volt power outlet and light-emitting diode, or LED, cargo box lighting.

All 2015 Sierra Carbon Editions are available with two- or four-wheel drive. A 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V-6 engine is standard equipment, and delivers 285 horsepower, 305 lb-ft of torque, and EPA highway ratings up to 24 mpg. A 355-horsepower, 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8 is optional.

The 2015 Sierra Carbon Edition carries a suggested retail price of $33,075, while pricing for the Carbon 20 Edition and Carbon 22 Edition starts at $38,275 and $42,270, respectively. Dealers are accepting orders for double-cab 2015 Sierra Carbon Edition models. Crew cab models will be available to order in early October.

Mark 2 by Callum, bring the modern and the great together in one stunning Jaguar.

Ian Callum puts his personal twist on the famous Mark 2

A unique Jaguar Mark 2 redesigned by Ian Callum, Director of Design at Jaguar Cars, and reengineered by leading restorers Classic Motor Cars Limited (CMC) has been unveiled at the opening of the company’s new headquarters in Bridgnorth, Shropshire.

The building was officially opened by motorcycle and Formula One Grand Prix world champion John Surtees OBE and the car was unveiled by Jaguar’s legendary test driver Norman Dewis.

CMC’s new building complex is one of the biggest of its kind in the UK. Fitted out to the highest standards and with new paint and trim shops, it provides some 40,000 square feet of production space, allowing CMC to cover every aspect of a car’s restoration in-house, except for chrome plating. Another 24,000 square feet is provided for bespoke classic car storage.

This exciting 18 month joint project between Ian Callum and CMC has endeavoured to retain the integrity of the original Mark 2, whilst making it even more exciting in shape and performance. 

Ian Callum said: “This is a very personal statement. A long held notion that, although the Mark 2 has always been a beautiful car, it could be even more exciting in shape and performance. Whilst maintaining the purity of the car’s form, I wanted to add a number of modern twists to the design. Simplification and clarity was my objective.”

The car has been redesigned by Ian for his own personal use and, working with CMC's engineers, it now boasts a huge number of aesthetic and technical modifications that make this a practical, reliable, enjoyable and exciting everyday vehicle.

Featuring a modified and uprated 4.3 litre XK engine, 5-speed manual gearbox, unique independent rear suspension and upgraded front brakes, the Mark 2 by Callum provides an intuitive driving experience.

Commenting on the specifications, Ian said: “The stance of the Mark 2 is already excellent, but I wished to make it even better. The car’s form is now 30mm lower and sits on 17” split rim spoke wheels. The bumpers are now part of the overall form. It is a fine balance of extracting and adding.

“I have always loved traditional louvres as seen on many older race cars. Four louvres appear on the side of the car to add to that sense of power and ‘something different’. Of course they had to work, so they have been designed in a low-pressure area for a better internal airflow from the modified engine.”

The suspension has been designed and reengineered by CMC. The front incorporates a bespoke power assisted rack, uprated coil springs, roll bar and wishbone bushes, adjustable dampers and solid subframe mountings, repositioned to improve anti-dive characteristics. The unique independent rear suspension now includes uprated coil springs, blade control wishbones, outboard disc brakes, an anti-roll bar and adjustable dampers.

The car has been fitted with Clarion’s NZ502E single DIN multimedia station, a high technology in car entertainment system with a 16cm flip-out touch screen, amongst other features, and component loudspeakers in specially-designed housings. The cabling has been provided by VDC Trading, as used in the world’s top recording and mastering studios, such as Abbey Road.

Peter Neumark, Chairman of CMC, said: “The wide-ranging list of modifications in the Mark 2 shows just how much design and engineering development has gone into this venture from the original car. To be chosen by Ian Callum to work with him on his project is a testament to the skills and passion that exist within our business, and is something that CMC are immensely proud of.”

Ian said: “Every time I go to CMC it excites me to see so many wonderful machines being worked on with passion. I always leave feeling a much happier person.”

John Surtees OBE said: “I have long admired the designs of Ian Callum, to be present at the unveiling of Ian’s personally redesigned and updated Jaguar Mark 2 is a privilege, and I am honoured to be officially opening the premises that have made this extraordinary project possible.”

Norman Dewis said: “I have been associated with Jaguar for more than 60 years and was their Chief Development Test Engineer for 33 years. I have always been excited to work with them and over the years I have come to know and respect the work that CMC have carried out restoring Jaguar’s heritage. Mark 2 by Callum is something special and I was delighted when I was asked to unveil the car. It is something that both Ian Callum and CMC should be very proud of.”

CMC and Ian Callum would like to thank Clarion, Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, Severn Valley Railway and VDC Trading.

USA - 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 & GMC Sierra 1500 now with light weight high strength steel capability

Like athletes who burn fat and build muscle to become more competitive, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 strategically replaced traditional steel with lightweight, high-strength steels for improved capability, safety and fuel efficiency.

High-strength and ultra-high-strength steels make the Silverado and Sierra’s fully boxed frames and cabs lighter and stronger, helping the trucks deliver the best fuel economy of any V-8 pickup, up to 23 mpg highway. They also have class-leading towing capability of up to 12,000 pounds when equipped with the available 6.2L V-8.

Similarly, making the most of mass also enables Silverados and Sierras equipped with the 4.3L V-6 to tow up to 7,600 pounds, the highest for any standard V-6 in the segment, with EPA highway fuel economy of up to 24 mpg.

“Our customers tell us they want better fuel economy, but only if it doesn’t come at the expense of capability,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer of the Silverado and Sierra. “By using lightweight materials like ultra-high-strength steel and aluminum for key structural parts and components in our new trucks we were able to improve both capability and efficiency.”

It’s been said that stronger muscles and bones help prevent injury, and the same can be said of the high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels that make up two-thirds of Silverado and Sierra’s cab structures, including A-pillars, B-pillars, rocker panels, roof rails and underbody. High-strength steel is several times stronger than mild steel.

These rigid materials helped Silverado and Sierra become the first pickup trucks to receive the highest possible 5-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year.

Similarly, the main rails and key cross members of Silverado and Sierra’s updated frames are high-strength steel with major elements hydro-formed for reduced mass and improved strength. Their pickup boxes are made from roll-formed steel for increased strength and reduced mass, compared with the stamped beds used by major competitors.

According to U.S. Steel Corp., the use of advanced high-strength steels is the fastest-growing trend in auto manufacturing today. Parts made from high-strength steel can be as much as 39 percent lighter than parts made from traditional steel.

Strong, lightweight aluminum alloys also play a key role in Silverado and Sierra by reducing the weight of the trucks’ engines, front suspension components, hoods and other parts. All three EcoTec3 engines use aluminum blocks and cylinder heads to reduce mass for improved fuel economy.

Direct fuel injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, and continuously variable valve timing, a combination not found in competitor trucks, also contribute to Silverado and Sierra’s fitness.