2015 Hot Rod Camaro – Limited Edition

 

When the legendary HOT ROD Magazine corporation teams up with anybody to make a project car, you know it's going to be something special. Just like in 2001, when Dennis Barker at Todd Wenzel Chevrolet in Hudsonville, Michigan joined forces with the magazine to design Special Edition HOT ROD Camaros, they produced something special. And that's why they're back at it again this year to build 2015 Special Edition Camaros.

A 2014 Special Edition Camaro made its first appearance at the HOT ROD Power Tour on June 7, 2014, at Zmax Dragway. Although this one was a 2014 Camaro, outside one other 2014, the rest of the Special Editions Camaros will be 2015s.


When asked about it at the Power Tour, HOT ROD and dealership staff both admitted to having a hard time agreeing with each other on even some of the smallest details, but both sides say regardless the project was fun and the outcome was spectacular. 

There will be 67 of these Special Edition Camaros sold at the Todd Wenzel dealership. Each Camaro will be sold in all V-8 trim levels including convertibles and will have plenty of HOT ROD Special Edition items including: badges and emblems, stripes, embroidered headrests, floor mats, sill plates, Forgeline wheels and center caps, exhaust diverters, slotted rotors, billet valve covers, and plug wires. 

You will also have a choice of many different colors, and each Camaro will have many different optional dealership performance upgrades to choose from. 

Each Camaro will be built by the legendary Nickey High-Performance Company and will have decals to prove it. What makes these Camaros so cool, with only 67 built, you can bet that you will be the only one on your block that owns one.

Chevrolet Tries to Prevent New Camaro Z/28 Cloning By Restricting Specific Parts

So the word is out, with the successful completion of selling out the 2014 Z/28s so fast, rumors sparked that Chevrolet would up the ante for 2015 and produce 2,500 Z/28s. That is no longer a rumor, there will be a total of 2,500 Z/28s built for 2015 as opposed to the 500 built for the 2014 year.

But more interesting than the limited edition Z/28 selling out so fast, to help keep the rarity of the Z/28s exclusive to the owners who actually shelled out the $75,000.00 for the Camaro, Chevrolet has made a move to prevent the cloning of a Z/28 by restricting the sale of certain parts.

Raging from high-performance parts to cosmetic, Chevrolet sent a list of 35 different parts to dealers that make up the Z/28 package and are not to be sold on the market to individuals or companies that can't prove the ownership of a Camaro Z/28.

Some of those banned parts include: the Brembo brake system and carbon-ceramic rotors, 19-inch wheels, rear differential, and rear axle, front fascia, the "flowtie" grille badge,  Recaro seats, hood scoop, fender flares, rocker panels, and rear fascia and spoiler, and the list goes on.

Now if it's the power of the Z/28 you are looking for, you can buy the power-plant in the form of a crate motor. The 505-horsepower 7.0-liter LS7 V-8 has been available since it was placed in the C6 Corvette ZO6.

It's easy to see why Chevrolet would want to put this plan into motion, but the question is just how long will this plan prevent cloning of Z/28s. They want to clone prestigious cars has been around since hot rodding its self. So even if Chevrolet won't sell these specific parts, aftermarket companies will see an even bigger market to make money. Nevertheless, no matter how many clones are out there, they can't take away from the authenticity of a real one and numbers don't lie. If you have a true Z/28, 1-of-500 or 1-of-2,500, you still have a significant piece of "Hot Rod History." 

Will Chevrolet Have to Build More Camaro Z/28s

 

2014 Camaro Z/28 - SOLD OUT

 
It wasn't too hard for Chevrolet to sell all of their 500 brand new 2014 Camaro Z/28s. Now with no more for car enthusiast to get their hands on this year, Chevrolet is faced with the question of, "Do They Build More?" 

Building more will definitely help the already popular Z/28 trending well into next year, but for the lucky owners of the first 500 units, it will take away from the rareness factor that Chevrolet was shooting for and probably what owners were counting on. Although the chances of Chevrolet building more Camaro Z/28s this year is probably slim to none, next year's plans for more than just 500 being built to meet demands is highly possible.

Camaro Chief Engineer, Al Oppenheiser, has said that next year could possibly see the likes of 2,500 units being built depending on demand and whether or not they decide to build more this year and if they do launch a project like that this year how it ends up panning out.

So unless you have been living under a rock for the last year and a half, you probably know what the 2014 Z/28 is all about. But I don't think anyone really expected this $75,000.00 Camaro would sell out so fast. If Chevrolet decides to build more this year, or ramp up the amount built next year, it's pretty hard to believe that they could lose on their decisions.

$1. Million 2015 Corvette ZO6

The Million Dollar Ticket

At the Barrett Jackson Auction on Sat. (4/13/2014) the bright yellow 2015 Corvette ZO6 made some history on the auction block. VIN #0001 put up for a charity to benefit Cancer Research was bought by very-well know race team owner Jimmy Hendrick.

Hendrick had good reason for purchasing the ZO6, his life was threatened by Cancer and was saved due to the process of Cancer Research Treatment. This Corvette adds to his already impressive collection of Chevy sports cars.

The day before at the Barret Jackson Auction, Hendricks auctioned off his 2014 Camaro Z/28 for a nice round price of $500,000., that money also made its way to charity.

In the last two years, Chevrolet vehicles have brought in a huge amount of money for charities at the auctions. Cars like the COPO Camaro, COPO convertible and the first 2014 Z/28 have been able to pull in huge sums of money for good causes. GOOD CARS for GOOD REASONS.

2001 Mallett Hammer Z06: Pulled from the Corvette Museum Sinkhole

The Last Corvette Pulled From the Sinkhole at the Bowling Green Kentucky Corvette Museum



It was a sad looking piece of crumbled up steel when this Corvette was pulled from the sinkhole. What was once a red customized Vette that was fitted with a roll-bar, no longer resembled its original form.

Kevin and Linda Helmintoller were the original owners of the vehicle and spent 10 years customizing it before donating it to the Corvette Museum just a few months earlier before the sinkhole incident. Although General Motors executives have said that all eight Corvettes would be restored back to their original condition, this last one may be the exception.

When Kevin Helmintoller found out it was time for the Mallett Hammer Corvette to be retrieved, he drove up from Florida to witness it and told the museum staff this, "I expected bad, but it's 100 times worse ......  it looks like a piece of tin foil... and it had a roll cage in it! It makes all the other cars look like they're brand new."

So what will Corvette do to restore this particular victim of the collapsed sinkhole? Probably nothing, they will probably keep the last vehicle as a reminder of the horrible accident that occurred that day. Never the less, all eight Corvettes that were damaged in the wreckage will be on display at the museum through the month of August.

Chevrolet Displays Their Prize Possession's for Detroit Baseball

It All Starts at Comerica Park

Detroit baseball fans come to the Motor City to see All-Star players like Miguel Cabrera and Justin Verlander. These players attract about 3 million fans annually to Comerica Park and many more that watch them on t.v. So what better place for Chevrolet to advertise a few of their nicest pieces of work than the city of GM's own headquarters, Detroit. 

Chevrolet is the official sponsor of the MLB, also for the past five years they have posted vehicles like the Camaro, Malibu, and the Equinox in the outfield for all of the league and fans to see. 

But this year there is a twist, instead of two vehicles that are non-salable, pre-production vehicles -- the production Topaz Blue full-size Silverado and the Crystal Red Metallic Equinox crossover (mid-size SUV) that will be on display, will also be salable production vehicles that will go up for auction at the end of the year.

I think I might be willing to shell out a few extra bucks at an auction if one of the Chevrolet vehicles I was bidding on had a nice little baseball dent in the fender due to a walk-off home run from one of my favorite players. Especially if the Detroit Tigers do what a lot of experts are predicting, another playoff run to the World Series.

In the end, it is a great place for Chevrolet to advertise. And to complete the Chevrolet display, there is a water fountain that sprays out a water show and a recording of a huge tiger's roar every time a Detroit Tiger hits a home run.

Two Classic Corvettes That Could Go for $1 Million Apiece at Auction

In January of this year, a 1967 L88 Corvette showed up on the auction block at the world famous Barrett-Jackson auto auction. This '67 L88 was specially built for a General Motors executive and was produced as the only known L88 from that year with a red-on-red color combination. It was in such good shape with paper work to match it fetched $3.8 million.

The stipulation of that Corvette is much the same as two Corvettes that will be rolling across the auction block at the Mecum Auto Auction (Houston, April 10-12, 2014).

The first Corvette that might fetch some big numbers is an one-off 1963 Corvette Sting Ray convertible styling car that was built for General Motors Chevrolet Division General Manager Semon “Bunkie” Knudsen. Now owned by his son, Bernie Knudesn, this rare Corvette stands out from the rest with huge, unique chromed out side-pipes, on a special Crimsom Firefrost Metallic red with white strips. The interior was modified from the factory with 1964 interior components and styling. The seats were covered in Naugahdye and were chic-white with maroon stripes.

Underneath the hood is a 327 cubic-inch motor with plenty of chrome plating and crinkle black finish to take the place of the cast-iron look.

“All of Knudsen’s cars came in this color, and I’m sure he was out and about showing it off often,” says Mecum consignment director John Kraman, who says that this car could reach the $1 million mark. “It’s a real automotive landmark that has special panache.”

The other Corvette that will probably fetch some big numbers was so pampered it has never even hosted a passenger, and there is only three known people that have ever sat in it. This 1967 Corvette Sting Ray that only has 2,996 org. miles on it is so nice it probably belongs in the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

It has only had one owner, who passed away in 2011. Don McNamra was a United State Marine, he struck a big payday in Las Vegas where he took his winnings and bought this '67 Sting Ray. McNamara lived in Colorado Springs, he never married and lived a very private life. At one point, sometime during the '80s, he denied even owning the rare Corvette to keep a low profile. Legend has it that the small amount of miles on the vehicle were mostly put on during late night cruises.

These Corvettes may not bring a $3.8 million price tag like the Barrett-Jackson L88 Corvette, but they could easily be some of the Mecum's highest auctioned cars of the weekend, maybe even of all time. One thing that will hurt the Corvettes is that the Mecum auto auction doesn't bring in as many high-profile bidders like the Barett-Jackson auctions often do.

“It’s a great color scheme (white with a red stripe) and must be the absolute best second-generation Sting Ray in the country,” says Kraman, who believes this Corvette could also see the $1 million mark. “The first thing that jumps out at you is how different an original car feels from a restored one. This is what it must have looked like in the showroom, down to the whitewall tires.”

New 2014 GTO Judge (6T9 Goat)

The GTO Judge goes back a long way, all the way back to the muscle car era. After being dropped out of production in 1974, the GTO was just another muscle car that didn't survive. But Pontiac brought it back for 2004, '05, and '06 before dropping it again due to marketing issues and poor sales.

Like with the Trans Am, the GTO Judge still has die-hard fans who still want to see vehicles produced with the famous badges and colors that we all know and love.

Two brothers, Tod and Scott Warmack and Jim Dowling from Tallahassee, Fl. felt the same way about the Pontiac brand. So with the same love and respect that other Pontiac fans had, they started up a Trans Am program ran from their Tallahassee shop known as the Trans Am Depot. To this day they are the only company that is allowed to use the Trans Am moniker.


The company started creating awesome versions of what the Trans Am would have looked like if they were still in production today and then sold them. Needless to say, they looked great and made a big hit. Now the Trans Am Depot is venturing out into the business of making a 2014 GTO Judge or what the Trans Depot calls it "6T9 Goat."

Just like with the Trans Am, they will be mocked up by using the '10 Camaro frame and body. Different bumpers, quarter-panels, hoods, spoilers, rims and interior styling, as well as other components, are implicated to differentiate the GTO Judge from the Camaro and Trans Am.

What do they have for power?

The GTO will get a supercharged 600rwhp, 600lb-ft of torque LS3, with 12 pounds of boost and SLP long-tube headers.

The 2014 GTO Judge and Trans Am are available for order, just contact the boys at the Trans Am Depot and get your dream car started.

2014 Corvette's Price Rises $2,000

If you have already ordered your Corvette Stingray you are safe from the price jack, but if you have been sitting back and waiting for the right moment you can now expect to pay an extra $2,000 for the good looking, great selling sportscar.

General Motors decided with such great success so far selling the beauties it was time to try to squeeze a little more out consumers. The Stingray coupe will move from $51,995, including destination, to $53,995. The convertible gets a similar price jack, from $56,995 to $58,995.

The Z51 Performance Package will also see an increases of $1,200 to level out the final package price to $4,000. So if you are looking to get into a base coupe with a Z51 package, you will end up paying $57,995, and if you opt out for a convertible you will find yourself buying one for about $62,995.

March 1st is when the change took place. A spokesmen for Chevrolet has confirmed that there is no need to worry about any orders purchased prior to that, as they will honor the original price even if it has not yet made it into the owners possessions yet.

Corvette is still on the top-ten fastest selling vehicle list of this winter according to  cars.com. Even with the $2,000 increase, one can only image that this will have no effect on sales. The redesigned 2014 Stingray has been a hit every since its debut at the 2013 North American Auto Show.

Even with the $2,000 price jack, the Stingray still puts out performance and comfort with a price tag that can not be matched by any other car on the market. 

The New Silverado Reaper

The Lingenfelter and Southern Comfort Silverado --

AvailableThis Month At Participating Dealerships

 

Originally started as the T-Rex, Lingenfelter gave the Silverado the name because the truck was designed to go head-to-head with the Ford Raptor. And the hope for the T-Rex was a Dinosaur square-off that would eat the Raptor alive.

But when Ligenfelter found out that Southern Comfort Automotive was also doing a similar project, the two joined forces and the name was dropped to make way for a more marketable name, the Silverado Reaper.


The Silverado Reaper made its first debut at the Chicago Auto Show, where its larger than life presences was immediately notice. The beefier hood was designed to fit two different massive power-plants: A 5.3-liter with 475hp and a 6.2-liter with 550hp, both of which are topped with Magnusom supercharges and fitted with Corsa exhaust.

The Suspension is lifted 3-inches over stock and Fox Reservoir Shocks that provide 9.2-inches of wheel travel in the front and 11.2-inches in the rear are bolted on.

Two sets of rims and tires will be available. 20-inch rims and tires are standard, but for the real off-road enthusiast you can order 17-inch beadlock wheels with 33-inches of General Grabber rubber

Other goodies include: a front skid-plate, integrated rock-rail with side steps, flood lights and day time running LED lights, auxiliary switch panel and a custom gauge cluster.

This new beast will be available at select dealers this month. Price has not yet been released but roomers have it that a price tag will be around $50,000 to $60,000 depending on options.

How Does The 2014 Z28 Kill the Road Course

Since its outstanding performance at Germany’s Nürburgring racetrack -- the toughest road course in the world -- otherwise known as the Green Hell -- talks about just how badass the new Z/28 really is, have never slowed down.

Not only was the Z/28 amazingly fast and ran a whole four seconds faster around the Green Hell (7:37.47) than it's more powerful sibling, the ZL1, it also ran faster than the Porsche 911 Carrera S and Lamborghini Murcielago LP640.

What made this 505hp monster so quick around the Green Hell? Chevrolet engineers say it has to do with three main key factors that they put most of their focus on: increasing grip, increasing stopping performance, and reducing weight.

Recently, Chevrolet released a list of 28 improvements that made it possible for the Camaro to accomplish such impressive times:


1. LS7 engine with dry-sump oiling: features a durable forged-steel crankshaft, lightweight titanium connecting rods and high-flow cylinder heads with lightweight titanium intake valves, as well as racing-style dry-sump oiling system.


2. TREMEC TR6060 six-speed manual transmission: with short throws, smooth gear synchronization and shift feel, the gearbox has the capability to stand up to high-performance engines.


3. 5.1-ratio short-throw shifter: provides quicker, more precise-feeling gear changes.


4. Track capable fuel system: he road course-ready fuel system is designed to keep the primary fuel pump reservoir full even under hard cornering.


5. Air intake system: the LS7 uses a unique open air box intake system to make the most of high-rpm airflow into the engine.


6. Differential cooler: incorporates an integral heat exchanger, eliminating the need for an external pump, wiring, relays, temperature sensors and fan.


7. Strut tower brace: the same as on the Camaro SS 1LE, provides extra chassis stiffness by tying the towers together.


8. Uprated lower control arm ride link “travel limiter” bushing: offers 50-percent greater stiffness at high load than the SS.


9. Active dual-mode exhaust system and high-flow converter assembly: engineered to provide high-flow and muscular sound character under aggressive acceleration, while attenuating noise levels in cruising conditions.


10. Belly pan: helps reduce front lift and contributes to drivetrain cooling.


11. Carbon ceramic brake rotors: 21.16 lbs lighter than steel brake rotors.


12. Brembo carbon ceramic brakes: 60-0 mph in less than 120 feet (36.6m).


13. 19-inch wheels and Perille P Zero Trofeo R tires: the widest front wheels/tires of any comparable sports coupe: 19x11-inch wheels with P305/30/ZR19 tires.


14. Lightweight wheels and tires: 29.1 lbs lighter wheels and tires than on the Camaro SS.


15. Zero-preload limited-slip differential: features a concentric helical gear set that generates friction proportional to the input torque.


16. Higher-rate coil springs and smaller-diameter stabilizer bars: the stiffness rate of the Z/28’s coil springs was increased by 85 percent in the front and 65 percent in the rear.


17. DSSV damper technology: the Z/28 is the first high-volume production road car to use Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve damper technology from Multimatic.


18. Uprated rear upper control arm bushing and lower trailing link bushings: 400 percent and 25 percent stiffer, respectively, compared with the SS.


19. Unique front fascia: although the Z/28’s fascia is based on the Camaro SS, the fog lamps, air dam and the upper-base grille are replaced with covers, reducing weight.


20. Front splitter: designed to withstand 250 pounds of down-force at its tip, it is matched with an aero closeout panel under the front of the engine compartment that also enhances aero characteristics.


21. Hood extractor: made of carbon fiber, it provides increased engine cooling by allowing hot air an exit route.


22. Front wheelhouse liners: work with the vehicle underbody to make the most of airflow.


23. Performance Traction Management: integrates the chassis mode selection, Traction Control and Active Handling Systems.


24. Rear spoiler with wickerbill: to meet down-force requirements for the Z/28, the spoiler was modified with a wickerbill--a small, vertical tab at the edge of the spoiler.


25. Thinner rear window glass: Chevrolet saved 400 grams by reducing the thickness of the rear window glass from 3.5 mm to 3.2 mm.


26. Lightweight rear seat: 10.3 lbs lighter due to reduced seat foam and a fixed seatback design.


27. Rocker moldings and wheel flare moldings: help increase the car’s down-force.


28. No air conditioning: 28.4 lbs were saved.

Rare Corvettes Damaged By Sinkhole at National Corvette Museum

Bowling Green, Kentucky "National Corvette Museum"

Bowling Green is not only the home to the biggest Corvette plant in the world, but also home to the famous Corvette Museum. The museum is host to some of the most rarest Corvettes know to man. From vintage to new to prototype, a lot of Chevrolet's prized possessions sit on display in the museum.

Unfortunately, Wednesday morning, their quiet comfortable home came under attack by a force of nature. A sinkhole the size of 25-35ft deep and 40ft around, swallowed several Corvettes right in the Sky Dome area of the museum.

The museum stated in a press release, "It is with heavy hearts that we report that eight Corvettes were affected by this incident."

Corvettes that were effected:

• 1993 ZR-1 Spyder
• 2009 ZR-1 Blue Divel
• 1962 Black Corvette
• 1984 PPG Pace Car
• 2001 Mallett Hammer ZO6
•  1992 White 1 Millionth Corvette
• 2009 White 1.5 Millionth
• 1993 Ruby Red 40th Anniversary Corvette

Luckily one Corvette was saved that was in danger. Thanks to emergency officials okaying the move, an 1983 Corvette was saved. There is no telling what kind of danger other undamaged cars are in, but they will stay put for the time being while the rest of the structure of the Sky Dome is inspected along with the rest of the museum. 

Bowling Green sits in the midst of Kentucky’s Western Pennyroyal area, where many of the state’s longest and deepest caves run underground. To this day nothing like this has happened and comes as much of a surprise to the community. Luckily no injuries were reported in this incident.

As a car guy, I visited the museum when I was young, it was an awesome place. It is very sad to see what happen to some of Americas most beautiful cars.

The Black Widow Corvette and Captain America: The Winter Soldier Join Forces

 

The amazing looking and performing Corvette Stingray scored a side job for early this spring. It will play host to a Superhero S.H.E.I.L.D agent Natasha Romanov (Scarlett Johansson) in the new movie Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

You really couldn't choose a better car for an American Superhero, especially considering that the Corvette Stingray itself is somewhat of an American Superhero. Since its unveiling at last years Detroit North American Auto Show it has taken the auto industry by storm with nothing but rave reviews, following those reviews up with the car of the year at this years Detroit Auto Auto.

Those honors are what could have helped Marvel Entertainment make the decision for using the Stingray in the up coming flick. No word yet if there will be any aftermarket up-grades done to it for the movie, but one can only speculate that even if there isn't any up-grades made for its movie debut, that the black-on-black beautiful will still be more than enough to impress movie goers.

If you want to catch a glimpse of the Black Widow before you see it on the big screen, you will have your chance in Chicago when they host their Annual Auto Show.

Although it seems that there will be no special edition Black Widow Stingray offered to the general public, Chevrolet will be producing a special edition comic book to celebrate the teaming-up of Chevrolet and Marvel Entrainment, LLC.

3.8 Million Dollar 1967 L88 Corvette

What made this L88 Corvette so valuable?


To understand that, you first have to understand what the L88 Corvette was, and that was a pure breaded race car. Rated at 430Hp, dyno test proves that number was underrated. Some where around 560Hp was more like the real horsepower rating. The underrating was a deliberate attempt to keep with-in safety regulations imposed by the government.


There were only 20 L88s built in 1967, making them some of the rarest production Corvettes every made. But the one that rolled across the block at the Barrett-Jackson Auction was a one-of-kind. Ordered by a GM executive for his sons friend, it is the only documented '67 L88 with Red-on-Red (Red Exterior - Red Interior) to come off the assembly-line.

What makes it even more rare is the original condition of the vehicle and the condition of the documents. The tank sheet (order copy) which is accessible by dropping the gas tank is surprisingly legible and had all of the correct information that indicated its true L88 fully optioned status.

The GM/NCRS Document Validation Service approved of the documentation and awarded it the prestigious "Top Flight Award" in 2011. It also went on to collect three other prestigious accomplishments: "Duntov Mark of Excellence," "Bloomington Gold Hall of Fame" and was approved in the "Bloomington Gold Special Collection."

This particular Corvette was a two owner car. It spent the first two years of its life racing at Dragways like Detroit, Motor City, and Lapeer in Michigan. And then in 1970 it was sold to its second owner, a teacher who thought he was just getting a regular Corvette. But while doing a brake job one day he realized that the car had unique dual-pin calipers only found on the J56 option which came with the L88. This discovery promoted him to drop the gas tank and seek out the tank sheet where he discovered he had purchased one of the rarest Corvettes that was every made.

After a few more owners, this car finally made its way to the auction block on Saturday afternoon. The Corvette will have a new home, probably a garage somewhere where it will be put on display. Due to the rarity and the amount of money it cost to own this car, I doubt it will ever see the road or any racetracks, but it will probably see a lot of car shows.

2014 Cadillac ELR: Winning Awards and Giving Away Merchandise

The new stylish look of the Cadillac ELR has spent the last few months sitting in the back row when it comes to what is trending in the the automotive industry. It's edgy and cool look just hasn't seemed to be something that has caught a whole lot of attention.

But what better way to make headlines than receiving the 2014 Green Car Technology Award from the Green Car Journal and giving away something free along with a purchase of a Cadillac ELR.

Jan. 22, at the Washington Auto Show, the prestigious Green Car Technology Award was presented to Cadillac after beating out plenty of worthy domestic and foreign competitors. Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and CarsOfChange.com said, "Cadillac has cleverly evolved a common electric-drive efficiency system into an intriguing feature that adds a new dimension to the driving experience,"

But if that award wasn't enough, that's no problem. Cadillac has also up the ante by offering early buyers a free charging station with their purchase and free professionally installation as well. This would save buyers at least a few hundred bucks on a car that is already priced on the upper-end of the sedan market.

The Cadillac ELR can go 40 miles on pure electric, but can keep going with unlimited power by using the outboard gasoline motor that it comes with. As with most Hybrid cars do, they take the access energy (kinetic energy) that the vehicle creates upon breaking and stores it back into the battery. But what's special about this hybrid is something that Cadillac calls the Regen on Demand system. This system gives the driver control at the steering wheel via a lever to automatically control when he/she wants to use the extra energy that the system stores.

This system also offers another unique feature that most other Hybrids cars do not have. It can create something that is called Regan drag and that drag can help slow down the car without applying the brakes. This can help the driver – depending on the situation – with the possibility to go in to a turn or slow down with traffic without repositioning their foot.

The Cadillac is hoping for some big sales with their Regen on Demand technology, but they are also concerned of unexpected low sales of the EV Chevy Volt and hope to do better then that. Their hoping that the recognition of the Green Car Journal Award and their offering of a free charger will help sales.

The Cadillac ELR will not be sold at ever Cadillac dealership, only location that are certified to sell and service the car will have the honors of having the EV car grace their showrooms.

Chevrolet Makes a New Record at North American Auto Show

 


This year at the North American Auto Show in Detroit, Chevrolet walked way a big winner. Their Silverado toke home the Truck of the Year Award, while Corvette stood tall with their Stingray taking home the Car of the Year Award.

This is the first time in the Detroit Auto Show history that two brands from the same company brought both awards home.

I guess if there was any question if General Motors was getting back-on-track, the answer could rest solely on the slew of accomplishment they have made in the past two-to-three years.

The Cadillac ATS walked away with the Car of the Year Award last year at the North American Auto Show and this year Motor Trend honored the Cadillac CTS with their Car of the Year Award. Also, the 2014 Impala is the first American-branded car in at least 20 years to be rated the top new sedan by Consumer Reports Magazine, the Chevy Malibu got an all-new redesigned look earlier then normal with great reviews, and that's just to name a few of GM's moves to get back on top of the industry.

Alan Batey, Chevrolet's  global boss said, “Chevrolet is in the midst of the most aggressive product transformation in the brand’s more than 100-year history ......  It is a distinct honor for the entire Chevrolet team to have both the Corvette and Silverado recognized with the prestigious North American Car and Truck of the Year awards.”

Chevrolet is also looking into making a Lingenfelter Silverado Reaper that can compete with Ford's F-150 Raptor. The truck is expected to be built on the same frame as the Raptor and will make an appearance Sunday Jan. 26 at the National Automotive Dealers Association, where I'm sure a lot more pics and info will surface.

Chevrolet and Cadillac seem to be taken the auto industry by storm, with hugely popular product-lines and sales and recognition to match. ZO6s, Z/28s, Escalades, CTSs, Stingrays, and Silverados are all probably dancing around in Ford's worst nightmares.

The 2014 Z/28.R Debuts at Daytona

 

Jan. 24^th, in Daytona, the much intiacpated Z/28.R will make its debut on the track in the GS class of the IMSA Continental Tires SportsCar Challenge, a 2 ½ hour endurance event raced before the 52nd Rolex 24 at Daytona. As it competes, it will be the only car on the track that shares so many components as it's street version.

The two cars were built right next to each other making it no surprise they share so many similarities.

Campaigned by Stevenson Motorsports and CKS Autosports, the race version Z/28.R uses the same engine (505hp and 470lb. - ft. torque) and also users the same helical-gear limited-slip differential on the rear axle as the street version. They also share the same aerodynamics with the same rear-spoiler, hood vents, side sills, wheel and arc extensions and belly pan.

The Camaro was born for this type of racing. Just like the new Z/28's, the Z/28's of the muscle car era were built for the track. The original '67 Z/28 was built for the purpose of racing in the SCCA Trans-Am Series. 

Mark Kent, director of racing for Chevrolet says, “the original Camaro Z/28 was designed for racing and became an iconic performance car through its hard-fought victories.”

One can only hope that this Z/28 does the same. The Camaro will be racing against cars like Aston Martian Vantage, Ford Mustangs, Nissan 370Z, Porsche 911, all of which will bring competition to the table, but none of which will represent their brand better than Z/28.R. As a consumer, you can look at what is racing on the track and say to yourself, “hey, I can go down to the dealership and order one of these things.” And that you can do, just about the only thing that would be missing is the graphics and the mandated safety equipment required to race in these competitions. 

2015 Corvette ZO6: The Ultimate American Supercar

When Chevrolet dumped the ZR1 supercar out of their car line-up, it made everyone a little skeptical of what was going to take its place. The ZO6 has always been known as a great sportscar, just not a supercar. But for 2015, that is all about to change. Boasting the most aerodynamic sports car with the most down force that Chevrolet has ever produced, the ZO6 has now been bumped from a sportscar to a sure powerhouse supercar.


Starting with an intercooled supercharged 6.2liter OHV 16-valve motor, the ZO6 is capable of producing 635hp+ and 645 lb.-ft. torque. The engine includes: Titanium intake valves, a dry slump oil pump system, direct injection, and continuously variable valve training.

The power of the motor is matched to a choice of a 7-speed manual with rev matching technology to help make shifting more efficient, or an 8 speed automatic transmission with a paddle-shifter designed to give the driver good fuel-economy without sacrificing performance. From there the power is distributed to an electronic limited-slip differential with three different calibration modes, all of which helps promote 0-60 times around 3.4-3.6 seconds; quarter-mile times not yet recorded.


Exterior Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics of the ZO6 is another huge part of the very impressive performance the supercar can accomplish.

The Corvette has three different options when it comes to aerodynamics.
The first option: The standard Z51 option that comes on the 2014 Stingray - a good set-up and very practical for the average driver.

The second option: A more aggressive front splitter, rocker panel extensions, and a larger rear splitter with fixed Gurney flap aero tabs, all of which are made from carbon-fiber.

The third option: (a ZO7 option) Looks much like the second stage, but in the trunk you will find some interesting components. A larger front splitter with extra-large winglets, and a clear center Gurney flap segment that bolts to the rear spoiler. To improve rear visibility the center piece is clear and can be adjusted up-and-down creating down force that test drivers say even a small four-inch difference is noticeable while on the track.

Other exterior highlights that benefit performance are the larger fender vents and brake cooling ducts that funnel more air to the transmission and differential. Also a mesh front grille is implicated to shuffle more air to the intercooler.

 
Driving Modes
There are five different driving modes that can be effected by twelve different variables. These five modes are: Weather, Eco, Tour, Sport and, Track. All five of these different modes can be changed with a touch of a button right from the driver's seat, and the twelve different variables can be adjusted there as well.

The five different driving modes made capable by their legendary Electronic-Magnetic Ride Control speaks for themselves. Depending on the drivers driving conditions and the drivers preferences, there is a mode that will likely fit whatever the situation you put the Corvette in.



 
Frame and Structure
The frame will be constructed in-house at the famous Corvette factory in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The structure of the frame and the car itself are actually 60 percent stiffer than its predecessor, the ZR1. The ZO6 even has a removable top that when removed is still 20 percent stiffer than the ZR1.



Brakes and Tires
Chevy sticks with the huge carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes system while also sticking with 19 inch rims in the front and 20 inch rims in the back. But there was some adjustment to the width. The ZO6 receives slightly wider rims and tires than the ZR1: 2 inches wider in the front and 3 inches wider in the back to help get better grip when cornering around the racetrack.

Two sets of tires are offered, Michelin Pilot Sport tires which are the standard on all Corvettes, or the track proven Michelin Sport Cup Tires that will come standard if you order the ZO7 performance package. The Michelin Pilot tires are a very well-rounded set of tires for all driving conditions. But if you are looking to put down some amazing track times, the Michelin Sport Cup Tires are what you will need. They're sticky and made just for racing purposes; although street legal, they're made for the track.



The Interior
It is much of what you would expect from a specialized Corvette. You will receive two options for seats. An all-around comfortable set of GT seats and for those who are looking to race, a competition set of seats are offered that is designed to help support the body and keep it stably while engaging in high-performance activities. All of the interior can come wrapped in high quality Napa leather, sueded microfiber, aluminum and carbon-fiber.

With all of the top technology and comfort of a luxury car you could almost forget that you are driving the fastest American made production car.

And just in-case you did forget, the ZO6 can be ordered with an integrated recording system that can record your driving experience from a on-board camera and collect data to be stored into a memory card that is hidden in the glove box. That data then can be played-back on a computer and shared with friends or simply just used to better yourself at the track. And if you don't want to wait for a computer, all of the info can be displayed on the 8-inch screen that comes with the Vette.

Again, Chevrolet does it with Americas only American made supercar. 
 

2015 Cadillac Escalade: Price Tag Starting at $72,690

The new 2015 Cadillac Escalade is undoubtedly the most luxurious SUV GM has produced. Boasting 420hp and 460lb.-ft. of torque, the almost 3 ton sled has plenty of get up and go. Gas mileage will still suffer a little bit, but a cylinder deactivation system will help by shutting down 4 cylinders while at a cruising speed.   

Horsepower is always great, but the real story here is the interior. The CUE (Cadillac User Experience) system that is impacted on all other Cadillacs will now be implicated on the Escalade. This system will allow you to adjust everything from your Bose radio system and climate controls all the way to the suspension modes. As the driver, you will enjoy a 12.3" digital gauge cluster that can be altered in four different ways to best suit the driver.

When it comes to space, the front seat passengers will enjoy 4 more inches in legroom and 1.5 more inches in headroom. For the first time second row passengers will enjoy relining, heated seats. The third row won't get that treatment, but it does have a motorized function allowing it to fold up-and-down in just four seconds.

Cadillac also offers for the first time a standard Magnetic-Ride Control system. It's world class technology was brought about by Ferrari and first tested on the ZR1's, and is now a standard on just about all of GM's high-end vehicles.

The outside looks as up-to-date as the inside. New stylish body-lines all the way around. The headlights and taillights are all LED equipped and have glow in the dark Cadillac emblems emulated in them.

The ideal behind this Cadillac Escalade is to take back the authority in the luxury SUV market, and with the nice price tag, top notch technology and the new styling, they have a chance to do just that.

Other Highlights
20" rims (optioned 22" rims)
Sound Proofing Technology for a Quieter Ride
Hands Free Life Gate
LED Interior Lights
Back Seat Entertainment System
Cut-and-Sewn Stitching and Four Different Wood Grain Choices

2014 Barrett-Jackson: 4 Chevrolets End Up Top Ten Best Sellers

A place where the most prestigious vehicles in the world are sold: The Barret-Jackson Auction held in Scottsdale Arizona took place this passed week. And some of the top sellers just happened to be four different Chevrolets. 


1967 L88 Corvette



This is one of the rarest Corvettes every produced by Chevrolet. It is the only documented Red-on-Red Corvette known to come off the assembly-line. This rare muscle car boasting 430Hp but really was pushing out something more like 560Hp. Before the hammer dropped it brought in the highest price of the week at 3.85 million.



1969 L88 Corvette Rebel

 








 
 


This Corvette manged to fetch $2.6 Million, making it the 2nd highest selling car of the week. This Corvette brought in so many potential buyers by its appearance and its appearances at so many winner circles throughout the years. It could very-well be the most recognizable Corvette of all-time. 



2014 COPO Camaro

 


Every since the COPO Camaro first came around in 1969 there has been somewhat of a cult following behind it. The 2014 COPO is no different and that is probably what helped this bad boy sell for $700,000. That's a good price with proceed going to the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans. 



2015 Chevrolet Z/28
 
 














Chevrolet did not stop with their charity, using the proceeds of this Camaro to help Detroit public schools. This VIN #001 Z/28 left the auction block with a price tag of $650,000. Between the anticipation of this Z/28 and the funds going to a great charity, this Camaro like the COPO went for well-over their sticker prices. 


 

The New Cadillac Emblem Here to Stay

The all-new crest will accompany every model come mid-2014. It's a little bit wider, it's missing the wreath and some complain it's too plain. Cadillac's move to change the crest was a move that was brought on to fit the look of the new vehicles. The hopes were to make it look more futuristic or at least match with the new style of the new Cadillacs.


Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive design director says, "the Crest remains a consistent symbol of Cadillac and our core values...Our goal was to evolve the emblem design to integrate with the new vehicle form while maintaining the core graphic elements that preserve its strong brand recognition."
 
The crest may have changed a little bit, but anyone who knows or has recognized the old crest with Cadillac will still be able to do so.

The new bigger, wider crest should fit well on the new Cadillacs -- which some of them such as the ATS share new wider and bigger body-styles. Regardless if you like it or not, the new crests will be in full force by the middle of this year. 

2014 Barrett-Jackson Gets the First 2014 Z/28

 

The 2014 Camaro Z/28 Vin #0001 - to be sold at the most famous car auction of all time, the Barrett-Jackson.

On January 18th the Camaro will roll across the auction block. The bare bones race-ready track-car will have the $1,550.00 option that includes a 6-speaker audio system and an air-conditioner. Both of which are not standard on the car unless specified when ordered due to the weight saving program by Chevrolet.

This Camaro is expected to bring some pretty big bucks. The Z/28 is the brand that made Camaro the powerhouse that it is today. It was born in 1967 with the Camaro, it was originally designed to run in the Trans-Am circuit. After over 35 years of service the Z/28 was put on the back burner, only to come back stronger than ever.


When the ZR1 made it's return, Chevrolet auctioned the very first production (Vin# 001) redesigned Corvette off at Barrett-Jackson as well and they managed to pull in a million dollars for it. So the intensity for how much this rare Z/28 will bring is there.

Although the ZR1 was considered a super car and the Z/28 is not, it has been able to clock times at the Nurburguing race-track in Germany, the toughest track in the world, better than it's bigger brother the ZL1, the Porsche 911 Carrera S, and the Lamborghini Murcielago.


A million dollars, probably not, but there will be some high-profile bidders with interest, that's for sure.

2014 Chevy Z/28 (No Air Conditioning)?

The New Z/28 is one of the fastest road course cars of its it kind. The Camaro went under major reconstruction to shave weight and boost performance times at the track. With a $75.000.00 price tag, most people would claim it is well worth what you pay for it.

Unfortunately there is a lot of squabbling on the Internet about how it is so disappointing that for that much money you don't even get an air conditioner with the purchase.

First-off, the Z/28 can be ordered with an air conditioner. Although it does come without one, if you specify that you want one they will put in on at the factory. Anyone, including dealerships has this option.



Lets say you buy one used and it never came with one from the factory. An aftermarket air condition can be bought and installed pretty easy. In fact, if you have some semi-knowledge of auto repair and have some tools, you could install one in your own driveway.

What's the logic behind no air conditioning?
It's simple: it cuts weight and it frees up horsepower. And for a car that is race ready, Chevy just doesn't see the reason for the air conditioner.

And for all of you Ford fans out there that enjoy pointing out the missing air conditioning, as if it was some kind of flaw. Let us not forget a special Mustang that Ford came out with in 2000. A Cobra R with a huge, ugly, senseless wing, no radio, no A/C, and a lot of space behind the front seats; that's because it came with no back seats. You could receive all of that for a price tag of $54,995.