Thursday, September 27, 2012
Car Seat Fit Stations
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE
In Iowa, 9 out of 10 child safety seats are installed incorrectly. Make sure your precious cargo is riding safely! Bring your vehicle, your child safety seat and child into Bob Brown Chevrolet in Urbandale on the first Thursday of the month from 5 to 7 pm. Certified child passenger safety technicians will provide you with education and assistance regarding proper child safety seat instillation free of charge. This service is provided on a first-come, first-served basis and no appointment is necessary. We look forward to assisting your family. If you have any questions regarding the Fit Station, please call Safe Kids Greater Des Moines at 800-258-6419 or visit www.blankchildrens.org/cps.
Bob Brown Chevrolet is located at:
3600 111th Street
Urbandale, IA 50322
2012 Car Seat Fit Station Dates
5:00 -7:00 p.m.
July 5th
September 6th
October 4
November 1
December 6
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Chevrolet Volt Owners Get Plugged-In
DETROIT – Chevrolet Volt owners from across United States gathered at nine Chevrolet dealerships Saturday to celebrate going electric.
During the event, Chevrolet hosted an online live-broadcast where the Volt’s chief engineer, Andrew Farah, who answered owner questions and discussed topics ranging from the electrification of the Volt to the future of the electric vehicles.
“Our Volt owners are our best brand ambassadors, and we wanted provide them the unique opportunity to interact with and have their questions answered, and who better to do that than the chief engineer of the Volt,” said Cristi Landy, Chevrolet small cars marketing director. “With our Volt owners having driven approximately 80 million miles on electricity alone, National Plug in Day was the perfect time to say ‘thank you’ for their support.”
National Plug in Day was created to bring attention to the environmental, economic and other benefits of plug-in electric vehicles.
For the first 38 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its 16.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank. Volt owners have travelled more than 65 million miles since the vehicle launched late 2010. Roughly two-thirds of those miles were powered by grid electricity.
Courtesy of media.gm.com
Monday, September 24, 2012
Thursday, September 20, 2012
2013 Malibu Turbo: A Midsize Sedan with Chevrolet Spirit
DETROIT – Throughout its history, Chevrolet has offered stylish, affordable and dependable family cars with a little something extra.
In the case of the 2013 Malibu, that something extra is an all-new 2.0L turbocharged engine designed to infuse the new Malibu midsize sedan with real Chevrolet spirit.
“The all-new turbocharged engine showcases just how capable the new Malibu is, and the turbocharged Malibu is perfect for customers who want a midsize sedan that is fun to drive under a wide range of real-world conditions,” said Mark Meyers, GM global vehicle performance manager.
The Malibu turbo can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and achieve a top speed of 155 mph. Even with this performance delivered by its 259-horsepower (193 kW) engine, the Malibu turbo has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 city and 30 mpg highway.
With its peak torque of 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) sustained between 1,700 and 5,500 rpm, the turbocharged engine also gives Malibu excellent response under a broad range of driving conditions. This added performance comes with greater refinement as the enhanced torque reduces downshifts and helps quiet the buzz sometimes found in four-cylinder engines.
Malibu turbo includes a four-wheel-independent suspension system, hydraulic ride bushings, premium electric steering gear and more.
“With its global pedigree and European tuning, the new Malibu has a robust body structure, premium steering and suspension, and substantial four-wheel disc brakes,” said Meyers.
Performance and value
The Malibu turbo goes on sale this fall, available as both a mid-level LT model with a suggested retail price of $27,710 and as a more luxurious LTZ model with a suggested retail price of $30,925. Both prices include a $995 dealer freight charge.
Standard content on turbo LT models includes:
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Chevy MyLink, with a seven-inch color touch-screen radio, Bluetooth, and USB port
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Remote start
- Eight-way power driver seat with power lumbar
- Tilting and telescoping steering column with steering wheel controls for audio and cruise control
- Ice-blue ambient lighting.
Malibu turbo LTZ models add:
- LED tail lamps
- Leather-appointed seats
- Heated front seats
- Available 19-inch aluminum wheels.
Technically advanced engine
A host of technologically advanced elements contribute to the Malibu turbo’s performance, including dual-overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing, direct injection and more:
- Twin-scroll turbocharger that virtually eliminates turbo lag and generates maximum boost of 20 psi
- Air-to-air intercooler that reduces the pressurized air charge’s temperature for optimal performance
- A356T6 aluminum cylinder head cast with Rotocast process – similar to the Corvette ZR1’s heads – for greater strength and improved airflow
- Sand-cast aluminum engine block that features cast-in iron liners and structural enhancements to enable higher power with reduced noise and vibration
- Aluminum pistons with jet-spray cooling, which enhances performance and longevity
- Modular balance shaft system in the oil pan for greater refinement
- Two--stage variable-displacement oil pump that enhances the overall operating efficiency of the engine
- Specially tuned exhaust for reduced backpressure and improved sound quality.
The advanced, electronically controlled turbocharger’s twin-scroll design optimizes power. Each of two scrolls on the turbine is fed by a separate exhaust passage – one from cylinders one and four, the other from cylinders two and three – to virtually eliminate turbo lag at low engine speeds, giving the engine immediate throttle response.
Because direct injection cools the intake process, compared to conventional port injection, the engine can operate at higher boost and a relatively higher compression ratio of 9.2:1, which increases both output and efficiency. Also, each piston has its own directed jet that sprays oil toward its skirt, coating its underside and the cylinder wall with an additional layer of lubricant. That cools the piston, reduces friction and operational noise and bolsters the engine's durability.
The 2.0L turbo engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, with TAPShift control.
Driving experience
Sold in more than 100 countries, the new Malibu benefits from a global development process that prepared the car for everything from unimproved roads in developing countries to the Autobahns and mountain switchbacks of Europe.
“You feel connected to the road in the Malibu turbo, while also being isolated from wind noise and imperfections in the pavement,” said Meyers. “Behind the wheel, the new Malibu turbo feels responsive. The steering is precise on center, with a confident steering effort build-up as the driver turns into a curve. The chassis feels great in the corners, with excellent body-motion control.
“The Malibu is a fun car to drive, and the power of the turbo engine makes it even better,” said Meyers.
A solid body structure, as stiff as any in the global midsize market, helped engineers dial in a refined degree of control in the front and rear suspensions, while an isolated engine cradle reduces noise transmission to the cabin. Chassis and suspension highlights include:
- MacPherson-strut front suspension with dual-path mountings, which separates the transfer of spring damper loads to the body to a smoother-feeling ride and an enhanced feeling of control. New for the turbo model are internal rebound springs for the front struts that give the Malibu improved body motion control and roll damping in handling maneuvers
- Side-load-compensated strut modules are designed to reduce the sliding friction caused by the bending load on the strut that is common in most suspension geometries, for more precise suspension tuning
- Aluminum steering knuckle/strut carriers and control arms are used to minimize un-sprung weight, optimize weight distribution throughout the front suspension and intended to foster a more nimble driving feel
- A direct-acting front stabilizer bar enables a more direct and immediate feeling to steering inputs. It is mounted to the rear portion of the engine cradle, with each end of the bar connected to the front struts
- Isolated lower A-arms, with integrated ball joints, are attached via two mounting points on a sub-frame that, in turn, is mounted with four isolators to the body structure. This provides a firmer foundation for the A-arms, which helped engineers tune the suspension more precisely, while also reducing noise and vibration
- Hydraulic ride bushings in the front control arms are designed to deliver a higher degree of ride isolation, quieter performance and more controlled transfer of road inputs
- Rack-mounted electric power steering gear by ZF Steering Systems. This dual-pinion system – one for steering and the other to move the rack – is designed to deliver excellent response and on-center characteristics, with almost perfect linear response. It also helps save fuel because engine doesn’t have to turn a conventional hydraulic steering pump
- A four-link rear suspension intended to contribute to the car’s controlled feel, with a direct-acting performance and precise calibration, thanks to its mounting directly to the stiff body structure. The four links include an upper camber link, two lower links and a trailing link
- Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels are standard on Malibu Turbo, while 19-inch wheels are available. They’re used with 235/50R18 or 245/45R19 all-season tires, respectively.
Chassis control systems
Malibu’s electronic chassis controls are designed to enhance overall ride and handling qualities of the car, and also help make for a safer journey. All are part of the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, which also incorporates full-function traction control.
When a situation requires a higher level of electronic intervention – signaled by inputs detected by a yaw sensor mounted in the center of the vehicle – StabiliTrak modulates the brakes at the individual wheels, reduces power or does both to help the driver remain in control. The system incorporates advanced braking features to assist in a variety of conditions, including:
- Cornering Brake Control is activated when the car is braking while cornering. Brake pressure is individually varied among all four wheels to keep the car stable.
- Brake Assist helps the driver in emergency braking situations, giving the driver a higher deceleration gain than would be possible from the regular brake system booster.
The Malibu turbo’s brake system consists of four-wheel discs, featuring 11.7-inch (296 mm) vented front discs and aluminum calipers in the rear. A four-channel anti-lock system is tied in with StabiliTrak to provide more control in wet and icy conditions.
The 2013 Malibu Turbo also offers 10 standard air bags, as well as an available rearview camera system, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. It is also the first 2013 midsize car to earn double honors for safety, including a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.
All models are covered by a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, as well as a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty.
Courtesy of media.gm.com
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
2014 Impala Engine Gets a High-Tech Lift
DETROIT – Drivers of the 2014 Chevrolet Impala coming early next year can get improved fuel economy over the competition due in part to a new advanced valvetrain technology on the Ecotec 2.5L four-cylinder engine.
Chevrolet’s redesigned flagship sedan uses new Intake Valve Lift Control (IVLC) technology that enables variable intake valve lift, duration and timing over a wide range of engine operation. When the technology operates in low-lift mode, the engine pumps only the air it needs to meet the driver’s demand. The system switches to high-lift mode at higher speeds or under heavy loads, providing the full output capability of the engine.
“Intake Valve Lift Control works so seamlessly drivers aren’t likely to notice it at all,” said Mike Anderson, GM global chief engineer for Ecotec engines. “What they will notice is a fuel savings of up to one mile per gallon.”
The engine achieves variable valve lift using an innovative all-new rocker arm that switches between low and high lift intake cam profiles. The mechanism is actuated by an oil control valve through a dual-feed stationary hydraulic lash adjuster. It is the first of its kind for low friction roller-type finger-follower valvetrains in gasoline engines. The engine’s computer continuously selects the optimal lift profile based on conditions such as engine speed and load.
Impala’s three powertrains all feature fuel-saving direct injection and lightweight components.
- Impala’s Ecotec 2.4L engine works with the eAssist system to provide electrical assist in certain conditions to help save fuel. It is GM-estimated at 182 horsepower (134 kW) and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Ecotec 2.5L is one of a new family of four-cylinder engines developed with increased efficiency and greater refinement. Output is estimated at 195 horsepower (145 kW).
- Output for the 3.6L V-6 is estimated at 303 horsepower (226 kW).
All of Impala’s engines are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions.
The powertrains are the force behind Impala’s responsive driving experience, tuned for a spirited yet comfortable performance. A MacPherson-strut front suspension and four-link rear suspension underpin the Impala with an isolated front cradle and hydraulic ride bushing that help deliver a smoother, quieter ride. All models feature an electric variable-assist steering system that helps save fuel by drawing energy only when the steering wheel is turned.
Courtesy of media.gm.com
Monday, September 17, 2012
DIY Car Maintenance Moves for Fall: Change your wiper blades
Fortunately, replacing wiper blades as part of car maintenance is very easy and requires no tools. They cost from $10 to $20. Be aware that some cars will require same-sized blades for the driver and passenger sides, while others will require a longer blade for the driver-side wiper. So, be sure to consult the in-store sizing guide to buy the right ones. And don't forget to buy a third blade if you own a hatchback, station wagon or SUV, with a wiper for the rear window.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Small-Block V-8 is the Heart of Chevrolet Corvette
DETROIT – For 58 of its 60 years, the Chevrolet Corvette has been powered by the legendary Chevrolet V-8 engine. Technological advancements have increased output threefold – from 195 hp in 1955 to 638 hp today – as well as reliability, refinement and efficiency.
However, the fundamental architecture of the Chevrolet “Small Block” remains the same today as it was in 1955: a 90-degree V-8, with overhead valves actuated by pushrods, and a 4.4-inch on-center bore spacing.
“The brilliance of the Chevrolet V-8 is its elegant, efficient design,” said Jordan Lee, global chief engineer for Small Block Engines. “The Chevy V-8 has fewer reciprocating parts, and is very efficient and has one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any engine family in the industry. The design is incredibly compact, enabling the Corvette’s signature sleek profile and low hood line.”
Despite a sporty appearance, the early Corvettes’ performance didn’t match their good looks. The car launched in 1953 with the “Blue Flame” inline six-cylinder engine and a two-speed automatic transmission – not exactly the stuff on which to build a sports car legend. That changed in 1955, when the new small-block V-8 engine became available and was ordered by 99 percent of Corvette buyers.
Not only did the new and significantly more powerful engine breathe new life into the Corvette’s driving experience, it could be linked to a three-speed manual transmission that gave the driver an even greater connection to the car. The result made the Corvette a proper sports car, and enthusiasts responded. Sales nearly doubled from 1954 and by the end of the decade, they nearly tripled.
Immediately after the V-8 was introduced, the small-block began a steady march upward in displacement, power and technological advancement.
The Corvette’s first 4.3L (265 cu. in.) small-block engine in 1955 produced up to 195 hp with an optional four-barrel carburetor. Today, the LS9 6.2L (376 cu. in.) supercharged small-block in the Corvette ZR1 is rated at 638 hp (476 kW), delivering about 230 percent more power than the original small-block engine from only 42 percent greater displacement.
Today’s small-block is also remarkably fuel efficient. For example, the 430-horsepower (476 kW) LS3 version of the Gen-IV small-block helps the 2013 Corvette accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about four seconds, run the quarter-mile in just more than 12 seconds and achieve a top speed of 190 mph – all while achieving EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of 26 mpg.
That fuel economy compares favorably to vehicles more commonly associated with daycare drop-off vehicles than road-course lap times. Indeed, the Corvette’s highway fuel economy is better than the 2013 Hyundai Equus (23 mpg), Volvo XC90 AWD (23 mpg) or Subaru Legacy with the 3.6L flat-6 (25 mpg) – and it matches the Toyota Venza (26 mpg). It also matches or beats other sports cars with smaller engines, including the Nissan 370Z (26 mpg/3.7L V-6), Porsche 911 Turbo (24 mpg/3.8L flat-6) and BMW Z4 (26 mpg/3.0L straight-6).
Here is a look as some of the most significant small-block engines in Corvette’s history:
1957 283 “Fuelie” – Almost 30 years before the widespread adoption of fuel injection, the Corvette offered it on the newly enlarged 283-cubic-inch small-block, resulting in 283 horsepower – and the one-horsepower-per-cubic-inch benchmark that is still considered a noteworthy performance achievement for modern engines.
1969 350 – The small-block’s displacement grew throughout the Fifties and Sixties, but when it settled at the 350-cubic-inch mark in 1969, an icon was born. Many enthusiasts equate the small-block with the classic 350, which remained the Corvette’s standard engine through 1996.
1985 “L98” Tuned Port Injection – Although electronically controlled fuel injection was introduced on the Corvette in 1981 (the early “Fuelie” engine featured mechanical fuel injection), it was the 1985 introduction of the L98-code engine and its Tuned Port Injection system that launched the modern era of performance. Its basic port-injection design is used on the 2013 Corvette and almost every other gas-powered vehicle sold in America.
1997 LS1 – The third generation of the small-block debuted in the C5 Corvette. Completely redesigned, it introduced a new aluminum “deep skirt” cylinder block, high-flow aluminum cylinder heads and more – all while retaining the basic 4.4-inch bore-center design of the original small block.
2006 LS7 – Co-developed with the C6.R racing program, it is the highest-performance naturally aspirated production small-block in Corvette history, rated at 505 hp, with a 7,000-rpm redline. It was introduced in the C6 Corvette Z06 and is also included with the 2013 427 Convertible Collector Edition. It is hand-built at GM’s Performance Build Center near Detroit.
2009 LS9 Supercharged – It’s the most powerful automotive production engine ever from Chevrolet and its 638 supercharged horses help push the Corvette ZR1 to a top speed of 205 mph. Like the LS7 engine, it is built by hand at the Performance Build Center.
Courtesy of media.gm.com
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Chevrolet and MTV Iggy Partner to ‘Cover the World’
DETROIT – To celebrate the stateside arrival of the globetrotting 2013 Chevrolet Spark mini car, Chevrolet is partnering with MTV Iggy, a multiplatform brand elevating global artists and pop culture trends, to launch “Cover the World” – a new online music showcase that will bring the hottest, breaking artists from abroad to North American shores.
Launching today, “Cover the World” connects music fans with global artists to reimagine one of the world’s most-recognizable pop songs. Four musical acts from around the world will each cover one iconic song chosen by fans. Each will perform its cover versions of the song and fans will vote for their favorite.
Fans who vote will earn a chance to win a custom-wrapped Chevy Spark, as well as a VIP trip for two to see one of the featured acts perform live. Fans can also create, upload and share their own cover version for a chance to win a Chevy Spark.
"Music is a universal language. The Chevrolet Spark is a global car with global roots. So it makes sense to share the Spark's journey through emerging artists," said Chris Perry, vice president of global Chevrolet marketing. “The ‘Cover the World’ music showcase allows us the opportunity to engage next-generation customers through a shared passion of music."
The Spark is reaching a new generation of customers through online and offline experiences including Cover the World, The Color Run and Importing Our Export video series. Spark sold a monthly record 2,630 units in the United States in August.
To learn more about the artists, songs and how to upload user-generated videos, visit www.covertheworld.com.
Follow the Chevy Spark and “Cover the World” at @ChevyLife, and #sparkworld. More information is available at www.covertheworld.com.
The Spark, which went on sale in mid-July in the United States, is a sporty four-passenger, five-door hatch. It is designed for first-time buyers and city dwellers with bold styling and colors, affordability, the safety of 10 standard air bags, fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Spark also is the only car in its segment to provide a seven-inch color touch screen radio capable of displaying smartphone-based music, videos, photos and contacts for hands-free calling.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
If you’re thinking about getting a new vehicle, you can’t miss this offer on the 2012 Impala! Check out our event tab for more information.
2012 Chevrolet Impala - 0% APR for 72 months for qualified buyers.
Monthly payment is $13.89 for every $1000 you finance. Example down payment: 18%. Some customers will not qualify. Take delivery by 10-31-2012. Residency restrictions apply. See Dealer for details.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Four Chevy Passenger Cars Set Monthly Records in August
DETROIT – Chevrolet passenger car sales were up 25 percent in August, with the Spark, Sonic, Cruze and Volt all posting their best-ever monthly sales.
| Chevrolet Nameplate | New Sales Record | Old Sales Record | Old Sales Record Month |
| Spark | 2,630 | 1,460 | June 2012 |
| Sonic | 8,703 | 8,251 | March 2012 |
| Cruze | 25,975 | 25,160 | April 2011 |
| Volt | 2,831 | 2,289 | March 2012 |
“The single message Chevrolet communicated this summer was ‘confidence’ and it rang true with customers when they saw how our product lineup is being transformed,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president of U.S. sales operations.
Courtesy of media.gm.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)