FIRST LOOK: 2011 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z06 CARBON LIMITED EDITION

By Kirill Ougarov, Motor Trend - When it first barged onto the scene in late 2005, the 505-horsepower C6 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 was the top dog, the fastest, baddest production Corvette in history, blowing the C5 Z06 completely out of the water. Oh how times change. The Z06 is now merely the aging middle brother of the Corvette lineup, its thunder stolen completely and utterly by the 638-horsepower, Ferrari-eating ZR1.

With the next-generation Corvette still at least a couple of years away, the General has decided to give the Z06 some love for its fifth birthday in the form of the ZR1's carbon-ceramic brakes, black 20-inch wheels wearing Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires, Magnetic Selective Ride Control adjustable dampers (also used on the ZR1), and additional cooling, creating a car called the 2011 Chevy Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition. While the LS7 -8 that powers the Z06 remains unchanged for the special edition model, it does receive a fancy carbon pattern engine cover.

The changes don't stop there, however, as there's no such thing as a limited-edition sports cdar that doesn't get new bodywork and interior trim. In the case of the Z06 Carbon, that consists of the all-new Supersonic Blue paint job (Carbons will also come in Inferno Orange), black headlamps and mirrors, ZR1-style rear spoiler, and a carbon-fiber hood, diffuser, and side rockers, making the Z06 Carbon look much like, well, a ZR1. GM is coy as to how much weight all this saves, but Corvette Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter believes that the Carbon can "shave up to three seconds off the Z06 lap time" around "technical tracks like Laguna Seca." Going by our Laguna Lap records, this would put the Z06 Carbon just two seconds behind the ZR1 with a lap time of around 1 minute 38 seconds. Speaking of tracks, each car will come with a set of European-style racing numbers that can be put on the car come race day.

Inside, the Carbon features a black leather-and-suede interior -- the suede is used on the steering wheel, shifter, seat inserts, armrests, and doors -- with blue or orange stitching depending on the exterior color, accompanied by unique sill plates, logged headrests, and steering wheel emblem.

If this ZR-lite Z06 tickles your fancy, you should get your local Chevy dealer on the horn pronto, because just 500 will be produced. GM isn't going to leave regular Z06 buyers out in the cold either, as the automaker plans offer most of the Carbon's features as option packages. The carbon fiber bits will be available as one package, codenamed CFZ, with the mechanical upgrades -- brakes, adjustable dampers, cooling upgrades, wheels and tires -- coming as part of another, codenamed Z07. Each can be chosen by itself or the two can be combined as a package deal. The customer is always right, after all.

GM hasn't announced pricing yet for the Z06 Carbon itself or either of the option packages, but we expect the former to split the difference between the Z06 and ZR1 and come in somewhere in the $80,000 range before any additional options. The option packages are likely to be fairly pricey as well, but the final cost of the two plus a Z06 should be slightly less than that of a Carbon. All three become available this summer, so stay tuned. We just may run a Carbon at Laguna Seca to test Juechter's claim.

GM DRAWS ON GLOBAL DESIGTNERS FOR NEW CORVETTE

By Rick Kranz, Automotive News - For the first time, General Motors Co. studios across the world have submitted design studies for the next-generation Chevrolet Corvette.

Late last year, Ed Welburn, GM's vice president of global design, invited GM's 10 styling studios to submit design proposals.

Some "were absolutely phenomenal," Welburn said. "There is a lot to pick from. The direction we take is very important, and the decision has not been made."

Global input on the Corvette's design is one of several steps GM is taking to attract buyers in Europe, where the car has little appeal, and young U.S. buyers who favor imports.

"We have challenges in the States with the Corvette," Welburn said in an interview at the Geneva auto show. "The average age of the customer is really rising."

The current average age of a Corvette buyer is 54, according to the Power Information Network, a unit of J.D. Power and Associates.

Corvette sales are in a tailspin. Last year 13,934 were sold in the United States, down 48 percent from 2008.

The current Corvette debuted in the 2005 model year. Prices range from $49,880 for the base couple to $107,830 for the ZR-1. Both prices include shipping.

A redesign is due in two to three years, industry sources say.

Corvette critics often cite the sports car's size, saying it looks big. They also point to what they say is a cheap-looking interior.

Welburn admitted the interior has a problem: "The execution, materials selection -- it's got to be a much better interior. Our customers desire that."

Welburn said today's Corvette is about the same size as the Porsche 911, but the styling makes it look bigger. "We have to develop a design that feels trimmer, meaner, to go along with the incredible performance that the car has," he said.

In addition to styling, content, pricing and marketing strategy are under discussion, he said.

"It is a key time in the development of the Corvette," Welburn said. "There is a lot of debate and a lot of study on the bandwidth of Corvette."

But, he added, "It can't mutate into something that gets so far away from Corvette that it is no longer a Corvette."

GM'S SUBURBAN GETS A FREE RIDE IN 'CRAZY HEART'

By Jean Halliday, Automotive News - So how much did General Motors Co. pay to place a well-worn 1978 Chevrolet Suburban in a prime role in the hit film 'Crazy Heart'?

The truck was driven by leading man Jeff Bridges -- ironically, the voice of Hyundai commercials. On Sunday, Bridges finally won his first Oscar for his performance in the film after five nominations.

One might suspect a bidding war for product placement between GM and Ford Motor Co. to win heavy screen time for a long-lasting SUV set in the prime truck territory of Texas and New Mexico. The Suburban shows its durability even after Bridges' character, over-the-hill country singer Bad Blake, rolls it in the film.

But GM was better lucky than good. The automaker had nothing to do with the placement, didn't pay a dime and essentially got a free, long-form ad for the SUV.

The 1978 Suburban "is what the director wanted," said Robert "Bear" Molitor, whose Sante Fe, N.M., outfit, L&B Production Services, provided two identical Suburbans for the film.

First-time director Scott Cooper -- who started as a child actor growing up in Appalachia's Abingdon, Va., listening to bluegrass music -- co-wrote the Crazy Heart screenplay. Cooper, 39, shot the movie in 24 days with a budget of $7 million. The film had tallied U.S. box office earnings of $377 million as of early March, according to published reports.

GM is "very happy" about the Suburban's role in the movie, said an executive close to the automaker who asked not to be identified. GM's Steve Tihanyi, who oversees GM's Hollywood and TV placements, wasn't available for comment by deadline.

Last year, Suburban sales echoed the flagging U.S. market, plunging 24 percent in a light-truck market that also fell 24 percent.

Molitor said he was surprised that another movie wanted his same Suburban after filming of Crazy Heart wrapped -- for The Book of Eli. That post-apocalyptic film starring Denzel Washington is directed by Albert and Allen Hughes. The twin brothers were born in Detroit on April 1, 1972.

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO WHEEL BEARINGS

Wheel hubs and bearings are one of the most underserviced components on today's vehicle. Unless they fail, most drivers take them for granted and do not realize the true importance of having good wheel bearings.

Wheel Bearing Facts:

• A classic symptom of a bad wheel bearing is noise, so if a wheel is making "funny" noises when driving (squeaks, chirps, squeals, moans, etc.) or you hear a grinding noise when turning, it may indicate a bad wheel bearing. Other symptoms include steering wander or possibly a pull to one side when braking
• Wheel bearings are designed to support the entire weight of the vehicle through the hub, wheel and tire
• Worn wheel bearings can also cause excess pad-to-rotor clearance which can result in a low brake pedal, a brake squeal and/or clicking on disc brake vehicles
• There is no way to disassemble and repair a sealed hub assembly
• A bearing failure can be dangerous because it may cause the wheel to separate from the vehicle and/or cause a loss of steering control

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO BATTERIES

Whether you're travelling by car, heavy-duty truck, snowmobile, boat or motorcycle, ACDelco makes a battery that's maintenance-free and long-lasting. It's part of their All Seasons, All Reasons, philosophy.

60 Series Car & Truck Battery: For long life and maintenance-free convenience, Real Car Guys look no further than the ACDelco 60 Series Car & Truck Battery. Manufactured for most vehicles on the road today, the 60 series is tough enough to handle your demanding performance

Professional Battery: Real Car Guys know that if you want your battery to last longer, get the one built for the long haul: an ACDelco Professional Battery

ACDelco 60-Series Marine Batteries: ACDelco's new 60 Series Marine batteries are specially designed for outdoor and recreation use. The new series offers high quality batteries with an exceptional warranty - all at a value price

Heavy-Duty Battery: When they work and play hard, Real Car Guys know the ACDelco Heavy-Duty Battery can help keep up. For staying power in off-road vehicles and line-haul trucks or construction, farm, marine, and industrial applications, get the battery that meets your needs

No matter what time of year it is, ACDelco has a battery for you!

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO FILTERS

By using some of the world's most sophisticated filtration technology and materials, ACDelco offers an outstanding line of filters. Choose from:

Oil Filters: ACDelco Oil Filters help capture harmful contaminants that can harm your engine, therefore, helping to improve the quality, performance, and lifespan of your engine.

Air Filters: Regular use of ACDelco Air Filters for the engine and cabin is important for you and your car. Cabin air filters help eliminate common airborne pollutants from the interior of your vehicle, while the engine air filter helps block particles that are harmful to the combustion chamger.

Fuel Filters: For consistent fuel flow, count on ACDelco Fuel Filters, mile after mile, to help keep dirt, rust, and other contaminants from getting into your vehicle's engine.

Transmission Filters: ACDelco Transmission Filters are made of quality materials and offer excellent flow combined with long filter life

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO SHOCKS

Why ACDelco shocks and struts can help support you and your ride like no other.

• Perfect choice for most makes and models: ACDelco offers a complete line of aftermarket shocks and struts to fit your vehicle and your budget. ACDelco Shocks and Struts fit 95 percent of vehicle makes and models from the 1980s on
• Suspension parts to fit your style and budget: ACDelco Shocks, Struts, and other suspension parts are available at various price points for most applications, from economical to premium performance. Smart engineering - aftermarket ACDelco Shocks and Struts perform well with existing suspension parts as they are specifically designed to help compensate for the normal wear of these parts
• Proven reputation for quality: ACDelco has over 100 years of automotive experience providing quality shocks and struts for all kinds of vehicles. Today, ACDelco Shocks and Struts are industry leaders in reliability, durability and performance
• Excellent warranty: ACDelco Shocks and Struts feature a competitive limited lifetime warranty for passenger cars and light-duty trucks

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO SPARK PLUGS

ACDelco Professional Platinum Spark Plugs are perfect for engines that run on conventional plugs and newers engines that require platinum plugs. ACDelco Professional Platinum Spark Plugs can provide up to 160,000 kms of service before requiring replacement.

• A ribless insulator that improves the plug-to-boot seal
• Dual platinum tip for improved resistance to spark erosion, fouling, and corrosive combustion chamber environment
• A platinum centre electrode and a platinum pad lower the ignition demand voltage and reduce possible flame kernal quenching
• One-piece integral suppressor seal helps reduce radio frequency interference, meters spark plug energy to help provide long electrode life, and seals against compression leakage
• Maximum engine performance over time
• A corrosion-resistant shell to keep up with the demands of any vehicle
• Spark gap remains virtually unchanged during the life of the plug
• Meet increased auto industry performance and reliability requirements
• Available for most makes and models

DID YOU KNOW ... ACDELCO BRAKES

Why ACDelco DuraStop Brakes?

• Quiet: You won't hear much from these high-quality brakes, which include noise-dampening shims, where applicable
• Durability: ACDelco DuraStop Brakes are designed to help resist corrosion and premature wear
• Warranty: ACDelco DuraStop Brake Pads and Shoes carry a limited lifetime warranty*. All other DuraStop brake products carry a limited warranty of 12 months from sale or installation with unlimited mileage.
• Quality Assurance: ACDelco DuraStop Brakes are the most thoroughly, independently tested brakes on the aftermarket. No manufacturer tests or audits its replacement brake products to the level of ACDelco.

What is D3EA Certified?

D3EA is a dual-end brake testing/validation/certification process that correlates brake system performance to whole vehicle assessments in an otherwise compliant vehicle. It is voluntary and conducted independently to maintain the objectivity of the results and is conducted on pads, shoes, drums and rotors, where test platforms are available. ACDelco submits its DuraStop brake products to this rigorous, independent D3EA testing because it is one way to ensure that the brake components provided will help you maintain your vehicle as the manufacturer intended.

*To the original retail purchaser. Parts only. Other restrictions apply. DuraStop Disc Brake Pads and Drum Brake Shoes are warranted against defects in materials, workmanship and wear-out for as long as the original purchaser owns the private passenger car or light truck (less than 8,600 lbs. GVW on which the brake pads or shoes were originally installed.

COLLISION CENTRE - WHAT TO DO IN AN ACCIDENT?

9 EASY STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT

1. Stop - render aid. Stop profuse bleeding. If possible avoid moving an injured person. Call 911 immediately.
2. Warn other drivers to prevent further damage. Stop your car immediately, avoid blocking traffic (if possible drive car off to shoulder) turn off your engine and turn on your hazards.
3. Be careful what you say. Don't admit responsibility. Investigation may show you were not responsible.
4. Remain calm, be courteous and avoid getting into an argument even if you're angry.
5. Gather facts. Be sure to get the names of witnesses, as well as other driver's information. If vehicle is not safe to drive, insist on towing your vehicle to Jim Tubman Chevrolet.
6. Important tip regarding towing. Beward if the tow truck driver is recommending a particular repair facility without being asked. This could be an indication that a referral fee arrangement exists. Be clear in where to deliver your vehicle.
7. Report to proper authorities in Ontario all personal injury accidents and all accidents resulting in property damage over $1,000 or higher.
8. Report to your insurance company claims department.
9. If your vehicle is driveable contact Jim Tubman Chevrolet for an assessment of the damages.

RISKS OF NOT REPORTING YOUR ACCIDENT

The other driver may ask you not to report the accident and offer to pay for your damages. If the damage looks like it is under $500, you might consider accepting the other driver's offer, but doing so is risky. You have no assurance that the person will actually send you a cheque to cover your damages.

Usually, the reason people don't want an accident reported is higher insurance rates. However, the police agency that handles the accident usually does not notify the insurance agency, as one of the involved parties frequently does it. So, go ahead and file a policy report. It is important for your protection.

THE INSURANCE COMPANY

A crucial part of the collision repair process is communication between you and your auto insurer. One call will help you better understand the terms, conditions and limitations of your coverage.

CHEVROLET AVEO RS SHOW CAR: A WAKE-UP CALL FOR THE SMALL-CAR SEGMENT

By General Motors - Chevrolet today announced the world debut of the Aveo RS show car at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. It features a European-inspired hot hatch look designed to appeal to young enthusiasts, and hints at the next-generation Aveo.

Longer, wider and more spacious than the current production Aveo, the Aveo RS showcases the car's upscale-looking design cues both inside and out, and presents the many personalization options potentially available on the next-generation car.

"We hope the Aveo RS show car will demonstrate that we are as serious about redefining the Aveo and its place in the small-car segment as we were about reinventing the Malibu," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager.

First impressions: The Aveo RS Show car, finished in electric Boracay Blue, wears global Chevrolet design cues such as the dual element grille, round taillamps and fender flares, but designers turned up the attitude on the show car with low openings and a lower mouth trimmed in a combination of brushed and polished aluminum. Outboard fog lamps are integrated into an exaggerated brake-cooling inlet that flows into the front fender flares, creating an aggressive-looking face.

Exposed headlamps, with their brushed aluminum structural surround, are inspired by the designers' affection for motorcycles. The sleek side profile is characterized by uninterrupted body side lines, a high beltline and low roofline. The side mirrors with amber-colored turn signal indicators carry the same shape as the car and seemingly disappear into the profile. At first glance, the car actually looks like a three-door hatch because the rear door handles are discreetly located in the "C"-pillar area.

"The Aveo RS show car demonstrates how progressive design can inject personality into a small car," said Michael Simcoe, executive director, North American Exterior Design. "We want customers to see it and have an emotional reaction to it."

No performance-minded car earns its street cred without large wheels and tires. The Aveo RS show car's wheels are 19-inch, five-spoke with a gun metal metallic finish Chevrolet logo. The wheel openings reveal large Boracay Blue brake calipers.

The rear of the show car continues the sport theme, with an integrated spoiler that flows from the roof, a center-mounted exhaust and chrome exhaust tips. The exposed motorcycle-inspired rear taillamps feature tinted aluminum housings and a discreet Bowtie logo.

Spacious and stylish interior: With its matte black interior highlighted by gloss black, metallic and blue accents, the Aveo RS show car reflects as much attention to detail as the exterior. The Boracay Blue theme continues inside, with accent stitching across the dual cockpit instrument panel, front and rear door insert, steering wheel rim, gear shift boot, parking brake, leather seat bolster and even the floow mats. The integrated center stack holds the gearshift, HVAC controls and the sound system, including a USB port. Ice-blue backlighting on the audio display, telltale indicator screen and knobs augments the blue stitching.

The motorcycle inspiration also carries inside, with a round, analog tachometer set within an asymmetrical LCD readout also trimmed in milled metal with round cutouts; and round, aluminum-trimmed side vents.

The interior is as functional as it is stylish, with storage compartments in the center stack and doors. The rear seats fold flat for carrying larger items.

Efficient performer: The Aveo RS show car is powered by the same highly efficient 138-horsepower (103 kW) 1.4L I-4 Ecotec turbocharged engine that will be available in the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze. A six-speed manual transmission is designed to ensure the car will provide a spirited driving experience.

For the show car, designers created a special engine cover in graphite silver with a brushed aluminum insert. The coolant and power steering fluid fill caps are rimmed in ice blue, and the honeycomb vents flanking the center of the cover are matte-finished in shadow chrome and designed to match the wheel color.

Chevrolet has previously announced the new Aveo will be built at Orion Assembly in Orion Township, Michigan in 2011, a move that will restore 1,200 jobs to Southeast Michigan. Timing for retooling Orion Assembly for Aveo production is anticipated to begin in late 2010.

THE NEW GREEN MACHINE: 2010 CAMARO SYNERGY SPECIAL EDITION

By General Motors - Hot and cool exterior colors are a part of Chevy Camaro history. Now the 2010 model is getting its own.

Chevrolet debuts the Camaro Synergy Special Edition with pricing starting at $30,690. Synergy will be produced in limited quantities from February to May.

"Synergy Green continues a long tradition of dramatic Camaro colors," says Camaro historian Scott Settlemire. "Some of the most sought-after Camaros are first generation cars - those from 1967 to 1969 - in Hugger Orange, Daytona Yellow, and Rallye Green."

The 2010 Camaro Synergy Special Edition is based on a Camaro 1Lt, with a 3.6L direct injection V-6, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The powertrain has become a benchmark for the segment by offering a combination of performance and efficiency: The V-6 delivers 304 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, and returns as little as 6.8L/100km on the highway."

The Synergy Green exterior color was first previewed at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers (SEMA) show. In production form, the Synergy Green is accented by Cyber Grey Rally Stripes running the length of the Camaro hood and rear deck. Other exterior features include a standard rear spoiler, and standard 19 inch, Sterling Silver painted wheels wrapped with P245/50R19 tires.

The color scheme is mirrored on the interior, with Synergy Green instrument panel and door inserts. Synergy Green stitching also accents the Jet Black cloth seats, steering wheel, shift knob and center console.

"Just as those colors helped make the first generation Camaro an icon, modern colors like Inferno Orange, Rallye Yellow Transformers Edition and Synergy Green will define the 2010 Camaro," Settlemire said.

The Special Edition also includes the Camaro Convenience and Connectivity Package, with Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port for MP3 players, and remote vehicle start for models equipped with an automatic transmission.

"The Synergy Special Edition package is designed for customers who want a unique performance car at an attainable price," says Camaro marketing manager John Fitzpatrick. "The Camaro Synergy Special Edition offers standout stying, modern technologies like Bluetooth, and 304 horsepower under the hood."

CHEVROLET INTRODUCES 2011 HD TRUCK LINEUP AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

By General Motors - Chevrolet today introduced the 2011 Silverado HD truck lineup, with an all-new chassis that helps deliver segment-best towing and payload capability, as well as an available new Duramax 6.6L diesel engine and Allison 1000 transmission combination expected to achieve best-in-class fuel economy. The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD trucks go on sale this summer.

"We reached out to our customers during the development of the 2011 Silverado HD and considered their input to produce a truck that offers class-leading strength and capability with more power, quicker acceleration and lower emissions," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager.

The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD lineup offers all-new, fully-boxed frame assemblies; stronger independent and new asymmetrical leaf-spring rear suspensions; a strengthened 6.0L Vortec 6L90 standard powertrain; a new, exclusive exhaust brake system; larger brakes; improved ride, handling and steering; and comprehensive safety and functional technologies such as 170-degree-opening rear access doors on extended cab models and state-of-the-art connectivity.

The Silverado heavy-duty lineup grows to eleven 2500HD models and eight single- and dual-rear-wheel 3500HD models - including a new 3500HD Crew Cab with a 6.5-foot cargo box. WT, LT and LTZ trim levels are offered and popular features, including the EZ lift tailgate and rearview camera system, return. All models bring greater capability, improved ride and handling and a greater feeling of driver control. Depending on the model the Silverado HD offers:

• On the available Duramax 6.6L diesel, horsepower and torque are expected to top the previous model, along with expected segment-best fuel economy and B20 biodiesel capability
• Segment-best fifth-wheel towing capacity of 20,000 pounds (9,072 kg)
• Segment-best conventional towing capacity increases up to 23 percent, with a maximum of 16,000 pounds (7,272 kg)
• Segment-best payload capability of 6,335 pounds (2,873 kg) with a complete vehicle
• Segment-best gross combined weight rating increases to 27,500 pounds (12,500 kg)
• Gross vehicle weight ratings increases up to 17 percent to 13,000 pounds (5,909 kg)
• Front axle weight rating increases by up to 25 percent to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg)
• Exhaust brake system designed to extend brake pad life and help avoid overheating on long descents
• Snow plow capability enabled for all 4WD cab configurations

"Along with all their heavy-duty equipment, these trucks are designed to be stylish and refined, inside and out," said Campbell. "We paid close attention to all the details, giving them a distinctive, muscular appearance on the exterior and a well-appointed interior with the comfort, convenience and safety features customers appreciate."

On the outside, the 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models are distinguished by a power dome-style hood with a new, louvered design, as well as a new grille and full-width chrome steel front bumper. A new lineup of 17-, 18- and 20-inch wheel/tire combinations is featured, too (20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels available on 2500HD).

CHEVROLET SUBURBAN TURNS 75 WITH SPECIAL-EDITION MODEL

By General Motors - When the first Chevrolet Suburban went on sale in 1935, America had not yet put a man in space, the microwave oven did not exist and there was no Internet. While times have changed, the Suburban - the industry's longest-running model - is still serving families and businesses that need maximum passenger and cargo space and truck-like towing capability.

To commemorate this milestone, Chevrolet introduced the 2010 75th Anniversary Diamond Edition Suburban in Chicago. Limited to 2,570 units (including 350 for Canada and other markets), it seats up to nine; features premium LTZ content; a White Diamond Tricoat exterior color and Cashmere interior; unique 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and new roof rack rails. Special badging adorns the C-pillar sail panel and steering wheel center cap, while "Diamond Edition" lettering is used on the sill plates and embroidered on the front headrests.

"We are grateful for the 75 years of support our customers have shown for the Chevrolet Suburban, and we look forward to many more years of being their vehicle of choice," said Campbell.

The 2010 75th Anniversary Diamond Edition Suburban goes on sale this summer.

NEW 2011 CHEVROLET SILVERADO HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS DELIVER BEST-IN-CLASS DIESEL TORQUE AND HORSEPOWER

By General Motors - Chevrolet's new 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD pickups deliver the segment's best diesel power. Their new, optional 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 is rated at 397 horsepower (296 kW) at 3,000 rpm and 765 lb.-ft. of torque (1,037 Nm) at 1,600 rpm - an improvement of 32 horsepower (24 kW) and 105 lb.-ft. of torque (142 Nm) over last year's engine.

"Segment-leading power is great, but it's not the only thing that makes the new Duramax a winner," said Gary Arvan, Duramas chief engineer. "We designed the engine to make that power with less fuel and fewer emissions, while also increasing its durability."

A slightly different version of the 6.6L Duramax is offered in Silverado HD chassis and box-delete models. It is based on the same improved architecture and includes most of the same features as the pickup version, but is engineered to meet federal certification standards for incomplete vehicles, including the incorporation of a robust EGR system. It is rated at 335 horsepower (249 kW) at 3,100 rpm and 685 lb.-ft. of torque (928 Nm) at 1,600 rpm.

Among the 2011 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel's new and enhanced features are:

• Main bearing profiles changed to enhance oil film thickness
• Oil pump flow increased for more pressure at low speeds
• A revised turbocharger oil circuit for increased pressure at the turbo and faster oil delivery
• Connecting rod pin ends modified to provide increased piston support
• New, higher-strength piston design
• A new 30,000-psi (2,000 bar) piezo-actuated fuel injection system - capable of operating on ASTM grade B20 biodiesel - ensures more precise fuel delivery, improving emission performance
• An EGR cooler bypass reduces high-mileage soot deposits in the cooler and EGR circuit (pickup versions only)

The more powerful 6.6L Duramax is also more fuel-efficient - up to 11-percent greater highway fuel economy than the outgoing model - reduces NOx emissions by up to 63 percent and helps enable greater towing ratings. Silverado 3500HD equipped with a fifth wheel hitch can tow up to 20,000 pounds (9,072 kg). The increased fuel efficiency, combined with a new, 36-gallon (136 L) fuel tank, provides up to 680 miles (1,090 km) of highway driving between fill-ups.

With nearly 1.3 million Duramax diesel engines put into operation since its launch in 2000, no other automaker has as much diesel engine development experience for meeting the demands of the heavy-duty truck customer.

Strong small-block 6.0L V-8: The standard engine in Silverado HD trucks is the Vortec 6.0L small-block V-8, which is enhanced for 2011 with greater idle refinement. It is rated at 360 horsepower (268 kW) at 5,400 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. (515 Nm) at 4,200 rpm in Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD pickup models. In chassis cab and box-delete models, as well as pickups with a GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds, it is rated at 322 horsepower (240 kW) at 4,400 rpm and 380 lb.-ft. (515 Nm) at 4,200 rpm.

Approximately 90 percent of the Vortec 6.0L's peak torque is available by only 2,000 rpm and excellent fuel economy is enabled by the engine's low-friction OHV configuration and cam phasing. The state-of-the-art small-block architecture of the Vortec 6.0L - known commonly as the "LS" family - delivers great strength, smoothness and durability.

Whether equipped with the 6.6L Duramax or the small-block 6.0L, all 2011 Silverado models work under the best warranty coverage in America - a five-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, plus roadside assistance, courtesy transportation and other features that provide assurance that Chevrolet backs its trucks for everything the road offers.

THE ELECTRIC CAR UNPLUGGED

By Joe Duarte, Autonet.ca - During the Vancouver Olympics, General Motors took the time to schedule groups to test drive its Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric car, cycling thousands of people from high-school students to special-interest-group representatives through the car, one hour at a time.

Then came the announcement in the Toronto area that the Atmospheric Fund's Fleetwise program was launching a 300-electric-vehicle fleet in the GTA. There are probably more electric vehicles ready for the road than most people might know and more are driving into the stream every day - we already have the Mitsubishi, iMiEV, Mini E, Smart and Zenn, with the Prius Plug-in, Nissan Leaf and Volt not too far away. And I won't even touch on all the electric versions of European and Japanese cars that have been available for years.

Yet it will still be years, if not decades, before we see the widespread use of electric cars, despite what "visionaries" such as Al Gore, David Suzuki and Carlos Ghosn would have us believe.

The problem is not the vehicles - those can be built and distributed quite quickly and effectively, probably in the standard auto-industry six-week cycle.

The problem is the infrastructure. We just don't have anybody stepping up to build enough charging stations for electric vehicles to replace the internal combustion engine, mainly because nobody knows what the charge for electricity at the retail level.

Think about it - if you had a source of gasoline at home whereby you could top up your car whenever you needed it, at a fraction of the cost at the retail pump, would you still visit Esso or Petrocan? So what would lead service stations to believe it would be a viable business venture to install quick-chargers that would require consumers to pay considerably more than they would by plugging in at home overnight?

And even the trickle-charge capabilities of parking venues that are becoming popular in Germany and Israel are meeting with apathy here.

There are too many questions left unanswered for the viability of electric vehicles in Canada, primarily when it comes to wintry climates - nobody really knows what impact the cold temperatures and necessary accessories will have on the electric car.

Even GM's Bob Lutz, a big supporter of the Chevy Volt, admits that in the dead of winter in the prairies, Volt will likely be no more economical than a compact car with a 1.4-litre engine ... and frankly, we have a lot of those already at a cost far more reasonable than any electric variation.