Corvette’s Superstar Performance

July 15th, 2010

The 2010 Corvette convertible drop-top matches the coupe in terms of performance while adding the exclusivity and charm of a roadster.

There is nothing quite like the confident growl of a powerful V8 engine, and the aural experience provided by so much horsepower can only be amplified by removing any obstructions that might be found between the ears and the exhaust system. When it comes to the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, putting the top down does so much more than just allow the wind to blow back your hair – it also gives you front-row tickets to one of the most impressive tailpipe concerts ever to leave the Chevrolet factory.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible (MSRP $53,580) is the direct spiritual descendent of the very first vehicles to hit dealer showrooms bearing the Corvette nameplate. These original 1950s roadsters were meant to offer the pleasures of open-top motoring in a package that was as responsive to driver commands as the era’s design specs allowed. Flash forward to 2010, and the most recent edition of the Corvette convertible finds itself still positioned at the cutting edge of what modern high-performance technology can offer.

The Corvette platform was initially planned out with a convertible version in mind, which means that the topless edition of this classic sportscar enjoys all the rigidity and suspension tautness of the coupe model. This becomes readily apparent when flogging the Corvette convertible through twisty canyon roads, especially if the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control is onboard. This system employs unique shock absorbers containing a magnetic fluid that can respond to an electrical charge in order to alter the stiffness of their response. You can choose the comfort-oriented “Tour” setting, or go all-out by turning the console-mounted rotary dial to “Sport” to enjoy a ride that makes the most of the Corvette’s extensive handling palette.

There are several other high-performance personality traits built directly into the Corvette convertible’s DNA. For buyers who elect to purchase the vehicle with its standard short-throw six-speed manual transmission, an all-new launch control feature is included as standard. When the vehicle’s electronic stability control system is set to “competitive” mode, launch control automatically engages once the clutch and accelerator are pushed down to the floor. The Corvette’s computer brain keeps the engine speed at the best rpm for balancing traction and acceleration. When the clutch is released, the system continuously monitor’s engine output to maintain this delicate power delivery dance. The end result is the ability of the Corvette convertible to consistently pounce forward from a dead stop, making it one of the most driver-friendly performance cars on the market and giving those who compete in their Corvettes a nice edge.

The next link in the Corvette convertible’s performance makeup is found under the fiberglass hood. All drop-top Corvettes are equipped with a fire-breathing, 430-hp V8 engine that delivers 424 lb/ft of torque from its 6.2 liters of displacement. Want a few more horses? Opting for the available dual mode exhaust ups that output number to 436 hp, thanks to the introduction of special outlet valves that open up under full throttle to increase exhaust flow while still providing a controlled sound experience at normal speeds. In addition to the vehicle’s manual transmission, it is also possible to outfit the Corvette with a six-speed automatic transmission that provides manual shift control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. Despite offering such a staggering amount of horsepower, the Corvette convertible still achieves an incredible 26 mpg during highway driving, which places it head and shoulders above any other comparable sportscar.

Last, but certainly not least, it is possible to purchase the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible with either a standard manual top that operates via a simple, one-handed double latch or instead choose a power top that quickly and quietly stows the roof from the comfort of the driver’s seat. Either way, the Corvette is capable of going from buttoned-down and snug to wide-open sky in only a few seconds.

The 2010 Chevrolet Corvette convertible is more than just a living legend – this phenomenal roadster is a world-class competitor that offers a Jekyll and Hyde street and track personality that is rarely found in the sportscar universe.
Source: IMN

2011 Chevrolet Volt

July 13th, 2010


The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is truly another step in the evolution of the automobile, but with one amazing twist — it creates its own electricity — letting you live your life nonstop — for hundreds of miles at a time. There is a lot of buzz about the Volt, so here are a few things to think about until the vehicles start arriving in select dealerships.

Volt runs on a pure electric charge for up to 40 miles(1)— gas and tailpipe emissions free
Once the initial electric charge is depleted, a small gas generator will kick in to seamlessly create enough electricity to continue to power the car for hundreds of miles

We invite you to join us in the movement to redefine what a car is and become a Chevrolet Volt insider. You’ll be among the first to get the latest news and updates.

2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD – King of the Hill

June 22nd, 2010


Chevrolet may no longer use its “Like a Rock” tagline, but the 2011 Silverado HD certainly feels as if it’s fashioned from granite. In the ever-increasing heavy-duty pickup arms race, Chevrolet has made many significant improvements to its already formidable worksite battleships for the 2011 model year.

Taking a bottom-to-top approach, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD gains an all-new frame that could gird bridge spans. Fully boxed, with larger cross sections and tubular cross members, the new frame also has an increased percentage of high-strength steel. The backbone improvements make the Silverado HD’s frame a much stiffer foundation for the completely new, independent front suspension.

Rendered from forged steel and cast iron, the suspension arms look like they’d be equally at home on a diesel locomotive. The super-durable construction also improves the load capacity of the front end. Bash over rocks at a job site or pound it mercilessly while plowing snow, the Silverado HD’s front suspension can shrug it off.

No matter what kind of violence is happening at the wheels, inside the cab of the Silverado HD, things have been retuned with an eye on increased serenity. Engine and transmission mounts have been upsized, and the significantly stiffer frame throws in to help quell vibration as well. Hydraulic body mounts further isolate occupants from external chaos, providing respite during toil.

A new heart adds muscle in the engine room as well. The new 6.6-liter turbocharged DuraMax diesel leads the heavy-duty pickup class in torque (a whopping 765 lb/ft) while also taking the fuel economy crown. The increased economy leads to a 63 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions, too. Fully compatible with B20 biodiesel, the DuraMax is teamed with an unburstable Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission to put all the torque to the job.

If your needs don’t require the turbodiesel, the 2011 Silverado HD can also be equipped with a 6.0-liter Vortec V8. Burning gasoline and sporting variable valve timing, the Vortec V8 has a revised camshaft profile to enhance torque delivery and drives through a newly strengthened Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic transmission to make the best use of the brawn.

If your routine includes lots of towing, the Silverado HD has it covered. Nothing in the heavy-duty truck segment has a higher fifth-wheel rating than the Silverado HD’s 20,000 pounds. Conventional hitches aren’t far behind, either, at 16,000 pounds of capacity. Towing is enhanced by the DuraMax diesel’s exhaust brake. All Silverado HDs have trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake control, hill start and braking assist and automatic grade braking. All 2011 Silverado HDs are packed with the tools to confidently show the load who’s boss.

Don’t get the impression that it’s all work and no fun with the Silverado HD either. The exterior design alone is handsome and sculpted. This truck looks great whether it’s splattered in mud on the job or newly waxed on a lazy afternoon. Roomy extended cabs are easily accessed by rear doors that swing in a 170-degree arc, and cabins are filled with available technology like Bluetooth and standard OnStar (version 9). USB connectivity and mobile Wi-Fi are also available.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control’s safety chops are enhanced by a rear suspension that has been redesigned to keep towing a calm endeavor. The brawny frame improves crashworthiness, and there are plenty of airbags, too, including available seat/pelvic thorax and head side-curtain airbags for 2500HD models.

Strong like never before, filled with technology to make working easier, safer and more enjoyable, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD stomps into the segment at the top of the class. Putting a cherry on top of the sundae is GM’s five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the best out there. With an MSRP of only $27,965, just call it King of the Hill.


Source: IMN

Home Security Tips When on Vacation

June 21st, 2010

Getting ready for vacation can be stressful enough. One of the most important things that you shouldn’t take lightly is securing your home. Nothing can sour a vacation than coming home only to find a problem has occurred. You certainly don’t want to come home to find that someone made themselves “at home” while you were away. Here’s some steps that can help diminish the risk and give you some peace of mind while you’re away:

• Exterior Lighting – Put outdoor lighting on timers, photocell mechanisms or motion detectors. You definitely want to make sure your home has that occupied look to it. Any entry ways should also be well lit.

• Interior Lighting – Again if you can setup some timers to any interior lighting, TVs or radios. There again you want to make it seem like someone is home.

• Telephone Answering Maching – Set the machine to answer on 3 or 4 rings. Don’t leave a message that you’re out of town. If you don’t have an answering machine, disconnect the phone from the outlet.

• Keys and Locks – Don’t hide keys in mailboxes, under door mats or under flower pots. Those are the obvious places that people look. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor.

• Doors/Windows – All doors and windows should be locked, which is obvious. One door that is commonly left unlocked is the door that goes to the garage from the house.

• Security Systems – If your house is equipped, notify your service and advise them to call you on your cell phone if needed. Make sure your alarm system is armed when you walk out the door for the last time.

• Inform a Neighbor – Let your trusted neighbor know you’re going out of town. As stated earlier, you might give them a key. Also you might ask them to park a car in your driveway as this definitely gives that appearance of someone being home. Ask your neighbor to check the mail and the newspaper in case something gets delivered.

• Mail/Newspaper – Call the Newspaper to hold your subscription and have your mail stopped while you’re away.

You might inform your local police that you are going on vacation. Some police departments encourage you to inform them. Also if you have a Neighborhood Watch program, let them know as well. I hope some of these tips will help you have a more enjoyable vacation. Now go have a good time and remember to take plenty of pictures.

Tips for Driving in the Rain

June 14th, 2010

Rainy driving tips – Here are some suggestions for safer driving in wet weather. In stormy conditions, it is more difficult to see other vehicles, road signs and the road itself. It is critical to make sure you can see and be seen.

• First and foremost: slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather.
• Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
• Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule). This needs to be increased in wet weather.
• Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
• Don’t follow large trucks or busses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
• Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
• Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
• Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they’ll help other drivers see you. If your car has daytime running lights you still should put them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
• Before it starts to rain, replace old or brittle wipers.
• Avoid off-road driving: it’s hard to judge the actual depth of puddles and you can easily become stuck, even in an SUV.
• Never drive beyond the limits of visibility. At night rainy roads become especially treacherous. The glare of oncoming lights, amplified by the rain on your windscreen, can cause temporary loss of visibility while substantially increasing driver fatigue. In rainy conditions pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife are extremely hard to spot and even harder to avoid.
• Never drive through moving water if you can’t see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
• When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it’s deeper than the bottom of your doors, turn around and find another route. Deep water can cause serious damage to a modern car’s electrical system.
• Avoid splashing pedestrians.
• If possible, stay off the road during heavy thunderstorms. Large flashes of lightning can temporarily blind and disorient drivers, and the accompanying high winds and heavy rain can create deadly driving conditions.
Slow down! This should be obvious but it also very important. People are so used to driving certain speeds on certain roads that sometimes they forget the need to slow down when inclement weather presents itself.

Remember – “There’s no substitute for Common Sense”…..

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