Photos: 2008 Saab 9-7x Aero

Source: GM

2008 Chevy Malibu Hybrid

All-New 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid Debuts at Major League Baseball's All-Star Game
The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid will join baseball's other stars as it makes its world debut in the All-Star Fan Zone today. The Malibu Hybrid's appearance continues through the last out of one of MLB's highlights of the year.
Thanks to an affordable hybrid powertrain option, the all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid not only will be the most refined new midsize sedan in the neighborhood, but one of the most fuel-efficient, as well. Powered by the GM Hybrid System, the first-ever Malibu Hybrid delivers an EPA rating of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway – a two-mpg increase over the non-hybrid four-cylinder model – and will be Chevrolet value-priced, offering customers an affordable hybrid choice.
"The beauty of the Chevy Malibu Hybrid is that customers don't have to choose between a stylish, expressive, fuel-saving sedan full of standard content and the gasoline that goes in the tank," said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. "The Malibu Hybrid's winning package of uncompromising design and fuel economy will help us assert leadership in the midsize sedan segment and meet the needs of Chevy customers."
Production of the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is scheduled to begin in October, with vehicles arriving in dealerships shortly thereafter. The system will be available as a powertrain option on the base LS model, which also features Electric Power Steering, Automatic Climate Control and the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
The GM Hybrid system featured on the Malibu Hybrid saves fuel by using sophisticated controls and software, as well as a unique, 36-volt electric motor/generator mated to GM Powertrain's 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. The GM Hybrid system maintains the vehicle's sporty feel and seamlessly reduces fuel consumption by:
* Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling
* Restarting the engine promptly when the brake pedal is released
* Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration
* Capturing vehicle kinetic energy during deceleration through regenerative braking to charge the advanced nickel metal hydride battery
* Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient
The GM Hybrid system provides additional power, when required, during launch from the electric motor/generator. At wide-open throttle, such as during a passing maneuver, the system enhances acceleration by using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine and achieve maximum power.
The GM Hybrid system also is designed to automatically maintain full accessory functionality – including climate control – when the vehicle is stopped, so that hybrid operation is seamless to the driver and passengers. The Malibu Hybrid delivers an appropriate balance of fuel economy and cabin comfort with an air conditioning system with two selectable modes. The Hybrid A/C mode favors more fuel-efficient performance by limiting the draw on the hybrid powertrain, while the normal mode provides maximum passenger comfort in hot climates and enhances defogging performance.
Malibu Hybrid models make a statement away from the gas pump, too, thanks to specific exterior appointments such as 16-inch low rolling resistance tires and unique hybrid badging. Inside, a special gauge cluster provides information and feedback about the hybrid powertrain's operation.
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is covered by GM's five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the most comprehensive in the industry. In addition, the Malibu Hybrid's advanced nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is covered by an eight-year / 100,000-mile warranty.

Source: GM

New Opel/Vauxhall Agila

PRESS RELEASE (OPEL):
Flex in the City: The New Opel Agila Generation
Urban mini-monocab balances versatility with stylish design
Rüsselsheim. When it comes to the lifestyle of active women today, the watchword is balance. Job, fitness, shopping, meeting friends and getting around – a car makes everything easier to manage, and preferably one that is as versatile as its owner. This is precisely what designers and engineers had in mind when developing the latest generation Opel Agila. The result is a stylish urban car which is compact and maneuverable for tight parking spaces, yet boasts an interior that is spacious enough even for bulky sport and hobby gear. It also has enough seats to ensure comfort for family and friends.
Even with its compact length of 3.74 meters, the new Agila offers room for five occupants and provides them with easy entry through the four doors. The quality of the materials, a fresh interior and exterior color collection, versatile storage compartments and ample headroom project a feel-good ambience right from the word go. The enjoyable driving experience is enhanced by details such as the separate rev counter on the instrument panel, high placed gear stick and remote controls on the steering wheel for the radio. The high seating position makes getting into and out of the Agila easier and ensures good visibility even in heavy urban traffic. The rear seat backs can be folded down at a flick of the wrist to create a completely flat load floor, with a compartment beneath providing additional storage space. In total, the Agila has a luggage capacity of more than 1100 liters accessible through its large trunk lid – the top figure in this segment. The new Agila also comes with a safety package comprising four airbags, as well as optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and head curtain airbags.
New engines with up to 86 hp (two lively gasoline engines and a top-of-the-line common-rail diesel for high pulling power) combine performance with low emissions. As an alternative to the standard manual transmission, an automatic gearbox is also available – a distinctive feature in this class. The second-generation Opel Agila makes its world premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt (September 13 – 23, 2007) and will be available at dealerships as of next spring.
Opinions on new Agila
Hans Demant, Opel Managing Director: "The new Agila cuts a fine figure in all situations. Its agile chassis and lively engines make it fun to drive - with low consumption and CO2 levels."
Belinda Müller, Designer: "The boring days are over. Who says a nimble urban car can't also look cool? A wide selection of fresh colors and bold styles create an ambience that's enhanced even more by the spacious headroom."
Sara Nicholson, Opel European Marketing Manager: "The Agila, the new Baby-Opel, is a clever package of fun and versatility for the girl about town."
Characteristics of new Agila:
• Design: Modern five-door urban mini-monocab with flowing lines, dynamic roofline, typical friendly Opel face and design, balanced proportions (length/width/height: 3.74/1.68/1.59 m) despite compact dimensions
• Interior: Versatile five-seater, high seating position provides good visibility, high placed gear stick in center console, large distinctive round instrument, rev counter in separate housing, fresh colors including orange and blue for fabrics, center console and instrument panel edging, height-adjustable steering wheel with remote controls, height-adjustable front seats, numerous compartments, 60:40 split fold-down rear bench seat, flat load floor with additional storage compartment beneath
• Chassis: Newly developed chassis for agile handling, front axle mounted to subframe, semi-independent rear suspension, large wheels up to 15-inch
• Engines: Two new lively gasoline units (1.0 l/65 hp with five-speed manual transmission, 1.2 l/86 hp also available with automatic gearbox), one economical and powerful common-rail direct-injection diesel unit (1.3 l/75 hp, 190 Nm), available with diesel particulate filter
• Safety: Front and side airbags, driver safety belt warning signal and front passenger airbag can be deactivated as standard, also available: head curtain airbags and ESP

PRESS RELEASE (VAUXHALL)FLEX IN THE CITY: THE NEW AGILA
• All-new Agila with stylish looks inside and out
• Five door and five seats as standard
• Diesel and auto versions offered for first time
Small is beautiful; especially for drivers who live, work or play in the city. But while the ideal urban runaround needs to be compact in order to slot into the urban landscape, a tiny interior might put the squeeze on your social life.
Which is why the new Agila is set to be hot in the city. Set for a launch in spring 2008, Vauxhall's new baby is small enough to be manoeuvrable in tight parking spaces yet will offer the flexibility of five doors and five seats as standard. There's enough luggage space to embarrass cars in the class above too, providing plenty of room for the busiest of lifestyles.
It's not only the space which will rival bigger, more expensive models. Buyers no longer expect small cars to be budget cars, and the new Agila's styling and interior quality mean it could be considered a fashion accessory in the same way as a pair of trainers, a handbag or an iPod.
The clever design allows for plenty of storage spaces inside and the tall roofline provides an airy, spacious feel. It also allows a high seating position, making it easy to get in and out of the Agila and ensure good visibility even in heavy urban traffic.
For those occasions when owners need to carry furniture rather than friends, the rear seat backs can be folded down to create a completely flat load floor. In total the new Agila has a luggage capacity of 1150 litres - the best in this sector.
To complement the dynamic looks and all-new chassis, the Agila will offer three new engines and an automatic gearbox will be available for the first time. The two petrol units are expected to be the top sellers; a 1.0-litre three-cylinder with 65PS and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder with 86PS. The larger unit is available with an automatic gearbox, an option which is expected to be popular with urban dwellers.
For anyone with an eye on economy and the environment though, the new diesel is expected to be the top choice. The 1.3-litre CDTi, as seen in the Corsa, offers 75PS and exceptional performance while sipping fuel.
To prove that small can also be safe, the new Agila comes with a safety package comprising four airbags, as well as an optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
New Agila will make its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September and will arrive in the UK early next year. Prices and full specifications will be revealed nearer the launch.
source: GM

2008 Saturn VUE

ALL-NEW 2008 SATURN VUE SPORT UTILITY DELIVERS PREMIUM, EUROPEAN-INSPIRED LOOKS AND RIDE QUALITY
A compact five-door crossover vehicle with European-inspired design and sporty ride and handling, the 2008 Vue is the latest Saturn model to showcase the brand's new design character and intensified focus on driving characteristics.
"The 2008 Vue continues the product revitalization at Saturn," said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak. "The all-new Vue is versatile, technologically advanced and loaded with safety equipment. Saturn customers will be as pleased with the vehicle as they are with the customer treatment they've always received at their Saturn retailer."
The 2008 Vue is available in XE and XR trim levels, as well as the performance-inspired Red Line and Green Line hybrid models – when it was introduced in the 2007 lineup, the Vue hybrid was the first vehicle to use GM's new affordable hybrid powertrain.
Vue's broad lineup will offer a wide range of powertrains, including a more powerful four-cylinder engine, and two V-6 choices mated to six-speed automatic transmissions.
The 2008 Vue is the fourth all-new Saturn model since the beginning of the 2006 calendar year. The other all-new models are the Sky roadster, Aura sedan – which was voted the 2007 North American Car of the Year – and the larger Outlook crossover utility. The Saturn Astra small car will join the lineup this fall, completing a comprehensive revitalization of Saturn's portfolio in less than two years.

Ride and handling
At the core of the Vue's European-inspired driving character is a stiff, steel body-frame integral structure. Ride and handling is augmented by one of three levels of specific spring-rate and wheel-travel tuning: Red Line, XE/XR with a V-6, or four-cylinder-equipped. Front and rear stabilizer bars, MacPherson strut independent front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension, along with a double-isolated engine cradle, add to the specifically tuned ride. Hydraulic power-assisted steering on V-6 models, standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, standard traction control and standard GM StabiliTrak electronic stability control provide outstanding vehicle control.
A towing package with hitch and wiring is available on all Vues. When properly equipped, the Vue can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg). A towing stabilization system uses active braking to help control the vehicle in trailering situations. The Vue can also be towed as an RV "dinghy vehicle" with all four wheels on the ground.
Safety is standardIn addition to the handling features that help drivers avoid crashes, the all-new Vue helps protect occupants with its high-strength steel structure and a long list of standard crash protection safety features. Dual-stage front seat air bags, front seat side thorax air bags and head curtain air bags covering front and rear rows are standard on all models.
Unique to the compact crossover segment is Vue's Electronic Trailer Sway Control, a feature that is integrated into the standard StabiliTrak system. It detects the occurrence of trailer sway that may be caused by improper trailer weight balance or excessive vehicle speed. Upon detection of trailer sway, StabiliTrak will begin to apply the brakes, independent of the driver applying the brake pedal, to assist the driver in stabilizing the vehicle. The StabiliTrak activation telltale will flash to signal the driver to reduce vehicle speed. If trailer sway continues, StabiliTrak will reduce engine torque to reduce the speed of the vehicle.
Other standard Vue safety features include front-row dual safety belt pretensioners, disengaging collapsible pedals, active head restraints, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic power door locks and side turn signal lamps.
Like all Saturn vehicles, the Vue comes standard with GM's OnStar safety and security system, including a one-year subscription to the Safe & Sound plan. The OnStar service includes Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN), making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes sooner. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an air bag, the system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who will contact the occupants and summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also provides remote door-unlocking service and can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen.

Exterior design
The new Vue's exterior exhibits Saturn's new European-inspired design cues, with a look that is clean, sculpted and distinctively sporty. Tight wheel-to-body relationships, large jeweled headlamps and a sweeping upper profile line contribute to the Vue's striking design. The tapered roof line is one of the design cues drawn from the PreVue concept shown at the 2006 New York Auto Show.
Another cue inspired by the PreVue concept is the fender accent molding located vertically along the forward front door line. The styling feature is molded in charcoal color and incorporates a side repeater turn signal. Bright accents surrounding the side glass add to the appeal of the vehicle's profile. The grille proudly displays Saturn's recognizable chrome brand bar with a large Saturn badge.
Sixteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on XE models, while larger 17-inch alloy wheels come with the uplevel Vue XR. XE and XR models are further distinguished from each other with specific fascias, rockers and wheel opening trim. All models with a V-6 engine include dual exhaust with chrome tips.

Interior design and features
Inside, the Vue continues the upscale theme with refined materials and precise fit and finish. Designers used lighter colors to bring a greater sense of spaciousness to the cabin, and incorporated an array of useful storage solutions.
The interior offers a host of comfort and convenience features, many of which are uncommon in the segment. These include an optional eight-way power driver's seat; standard flip-down second-row armrest with storage; standard CD stereo with MP3 capability; available automatic climate control system with electronic controls; available navigation system with voice recognition; available heated front seats and an optional enhanced convenience package that includes an automatic rain-sensing wiper system, remote start, universal home remote and heated windshield washer system.

Other cabin highlights include:
• Rich materials including chrome accents on the air vents, center stack controls, instrument cluster and speakers
• Bolstered seating upholstered with two levels of flat-woven fabric with specific inserts; leather seating is available on all models
• Front center articulating armrest
• Low-gloss, low-glare upper instrument panel with embossed grain
• Amber backlighting in the instrument panel and center stack control faceplates
• Ample covered and damped storage compartments, including an illuminated, locking and oversized glove box
• A sliding storage bin under the front passenger seat
• A folding rear seat center armrest with storage
• Flat-folding 60/40 split rear seatback
• A rear cargo management system that features removable, adjustable upper and lower rails and storage nets to contain a variety of items; storage beneath the cargo load floor
• An assist handle above each door.

Powertrain
No other vehicle in the segment offers as wide a range of engine choices as the 2008 Saturn VUE. The XE FWD and Vue Green Line models are equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec with variable valve timing that produces an estimated 169 horsepower (126 kW)* and 161 lb.-ft. of torque (218 Nm).* The 2.4L is mated to the Hydra-Matic 4T45, four-speed, electronically controlled transaxle.
All-wheel-drive Vue XE models come equipped with a 3.5L V-6 engine, delivering an estimated 222 horsepower (166 kW) at 5,900 rpm* and 219 lb.-ft. (297 Nm) of torque at 3,200 rpm,* with a broad torque curve and good low-end torque for quick acceleration.
Vue XR and Vue Red Line, are powered by GM's sophisticated, high-feature 60-degree dual overhead cam 3.6L V-6 VVT that delivers 257 horsepower (192 kW) at 6,500 rpm** and 248 lb.-ft. (336 Nm) of torque at 2,100 rpm.**
All Vue models equipped with V-6 engines receive the new Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission, which helps maximize powertrain performance and economy. All models equipped with an automatic transmission feature a manual shift mode.
*SAE certification pending. **SAE certified. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.

VUE RED LINE AND GREEN LINE HYBRID DELIVER BOLD LOOKS, PERFORMANCE TUNING AND VALUE
Two popular models return to the lineup with the all-new 2008 Saturn Vue: the performance-oriented Red Line and the Green Line hybrid. Each builds on the new Vue's European design, and sporty ride and handling characteristics.

Red Line details
The Vue Red Line features an aggressive front-end design, including a large, lower air opening and projector beam fog lamps. The rear of the vehicle features a special fascia, spoiler and chrome trapezoid exhaust tips. A lowered suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and Red Line badges complete the aggressive appearance.
From a performance perspective, the Red Line comes with standard tap up/tap down transmission control and sport-tuned ride and handling. It is powered by a dual overhead cam 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that delivers 257 horsepower (192 kW) at 6,500 rpm** and 248 lb.-ft. (336 Nm) of torque at 2,100 rpm.** The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Vue Red Line will be available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Interior modifications include a Red Line-exclusive black interior, including leather sport seats with red stitching and perforated suede fabric inserts. The vehicle also features unique Red Line instrument cluster graphics and embroidered floor mats.

Green Line hybrid details
The 2008 Vue Green Line hybrid will continue to provide consumers with an affordable hybrid that also provides uncompromised utility.
The hybrid system on the Vue Green Line combines sophisticated controls with an electric motor/generator mated to a 169-horsepower (126 kW) 2.4L four-cylinder engine and a modified four-speed automatic transmission. The system saves fuel by providing an electric power assist during acceleration; shutting off the engine at idle; early fuel cut-off during deceleration and capturing energy through regenerative braking. Fuel economy figures for the 2008 Vue will be announced later.
The 2008 Vue was first shown last November at the Greater Los Angeles International Auto Show, as an uplevel XR model. At the show, Saturn also announced it will offer a version of the Vue Green Line with GM's new two-mode hybrid system, in the third quarter of 2008. This system will provide a 45-percent improvement in fuel economy compared to its non-hybrid counterpart.
Additionally, General Motors committed to the production of a plug-in version of the Vue Green Line that will double the fuel economy performance of any SUV currently on the market. No date has been set for the introduction of the plug-in hybrid, but it is a top-priority program for the company.
The Vue Red Line will arrive in the third quarter of 2007 and the Vue Green Line hybrid will arrive in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Source: GM

Corvette Factory. Bowling Green Assembly Plant

Bowling Green Assembly Plant Facts:
• The plant is over one million square feet under roof, or the equivalent of 22 football fields.
• The Bowling Green plant assembles more than 35,000 Chevrolet Corvettes and 4,000 Cadillac XLRs per year.
• Production each day ranges from 150 - 170 Corvettes and approximately 16 XLRs.
• There are 387 suppliers from which the plant receives 1,376 parts. Seventy-seven percent of the car is made in the USA and Canada.
• From start to finish, each Corvette spends approximately 36 hours winding seven miles of conveyor systems in the plant.
• In the paint department, body panels spend ten hours winding two miles on a conveyor system.
• Body panels receive three coats of paint: primer, color and clear coat. Corvette and XLR body panels are composite fiberglass, except for the front and rear bumpers, which are urethane.
• The Cadillac XLR is built on a separate line from the Corvette. They share the same frame and both use fiberglass body panels.

source: Autoblog

2008 Cadillac STS

PRESS RELEASE:
Enhanced 2008 Cadillac STS Delivers Signature Styling And Advanced Performance Technology
DETROIT - The 2008 Cadillac STS debuts next month with a new, 302-horsepower engine with direct injection technology that improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. In addition, Cadillac's luxury performance sedan also showcases enhanced signature styling and the addition of leading-edge safety technology.
"For the past two decades, the Cadillac STS has been a showcase of luxury, performance and technology," says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The enhanced 2008 model extends that with bolder design, more standard power, better fuel efficiency, improved emissions and new safety technology."

New direct injection V-6 debuts
For 2008, STS will be the first GM vehicle equipped with a new 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine. Direct Injection, an advanced system for more precise and productive fuel delivery, enables the rare achievement of simultaneous gains in power, fuel efficiency and emissions performance.
The new standard engine for STS delivers a SAE-certified 302 horsepower (225 kW) at 6300 rpm,* 47 more horsepower (35 kW) than the previous 3.6-liter V-6. Torque is also increased to 272 lb.-ft. (366 Nm) at 5200 rpm,* an upgrade of 20 lb.-ft. (27 Nm). At the same time, the engine is expected to deliver improved fuel efficiency. Official EPA fuel economy statistics for the 2008 model have not yet been announced. On the outgoing 2007 model STS, EPA fuel economy is 18 mpg city and 27 mpg hwy.
Additionally, direct injection's more efficient operation enables a 25-percent reduction in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
Coupled to the new V-6 engine will be the 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, introduced last year on Northstar V-8 models, which has a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a steep first-gear that helps deliver strong launch acceleration. The STS V-6 continues to be available with all-wheel drive for 2008.

New technology
Continuing Cadillac's commitment to the advancement of safety and performance attributes, the 2008 STS includes new systems and advanced technologies to enhance driver awareness and control.
For the first time, Cadillac's acclaimed StabiliTrak electronic stability control system now includes the optional addition of active steering technology. In addition to controlling brakes and reducing engine power, the latest iteration of StabiliTrak combines active front steering to turn the front wheels into the skid when rear wheels lose traction. The system includes a new steering motor assembly combined with computer-driven electronic controls that measure wheel slippage at all four wheels independently during acceleration, braking and adverse road conditions.
Active steering will be available exclusively on all-wheel-drive V-8 models.
GM's Lane Departure Warning System also debuts on the 2008 STS. Controlled by a camera located in the rearview mirror that reads the lines in the road, the system will alert drivers when they have strayed into another lane. Drivers get both an audible and visual alert cue.
When the Lane Departure Warning System is engaged, a driver traveling at 35 mph or more who crosses a detected lane marking without signaling is alerted in two ways: The system flashes an amber indicator light located in the fuel gauge of the instrument panel, and an alerting chime of three beeps is played. The system does not steer the vehicle; it is designed only to alert drivers so they can take appropriate action to move the vehicle back into the lane.
GM's Side Blind Zone Alert System extends and enhances driver awareness and vision. Alternating radar beams in Side Blind Zone Alert System sweep adjacent lanes of traffic, covering a zone of about one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, or 11 feet (3.5 m). The zone starts at each side mirror and goes back about 16 feet (5 m).
When the system is engaged, a driver will know that following vehicles in the adjacent lanes are entering their side blind zone when an amber symbol, located in the outside rearview mirror, is illuminated.
The system is not designed to detect vehicles outside of the side blind zone that may be rapidly approaching, or detect pedestrians, bicyclists or animals. It's designed to ignore infrastructure such as fire hydrants or parked cars. In addition, the system displays do not come on while the vehicle is approaching or passing other vehicles.
The Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone Alert systems can be manually turned off by the driver.
A new performance handling package will be available for V-8-equipped rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive models and V-6-equipped rear-drive models. The package includes 18-inch x 8.5-inch aluminum alloy, chrome-plated wheels fitted with new P255/45R18 Michelin Pilot Sport summer-only tires.
Four-piston caliper Brembo brakes, with front rotors measuring 355 mm x 32 mm and 365 mm x 28 mm rear rotors, provide enhanced baking. All four rotors are vented.

A bolder new look, inside and out
The new STS injects more of the bold design flair that has become a Cadillac signature. Up front, the dual-textured, multi-faceted grille - first seen on the landmark Cadillac Sixteen concept car and incorporated on both the Escalade and soon-to-be-launched CTS - has been adapted to the STS.
High Intensity Discharge lamps and the Intellibeam automatic high-beam system are added for the first time for V-6 models. The lower front fascia features a new intake and grille pattern evoking Cadillac's V-Series high-performance models.
Similarly, side air extractors, again inspired by the Sixteen and Escalade, are now incorporated into the front fenders of STS. New chrome-plated door handles and lower rocker moldings are added for more presence and refinement. At the rear, the new fascia is now body color and is highlighted with polished aluminum three-inch exhaust tips. New, polished 18-inch x 8-inch aluminum 14-spoke wheels are available.
The luxurious interior of the STS includes a new steering wheel with available genuine Sapele Pommele wood trim. The center stack of the instrument panel is revised with the addition of wood and metallic trim.
The 2008 Cadillac STS begins production this spring, with initial availability beginning in June. *SAE certified.
Source: GM

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Chevrolet Volt E-Flex Concept at the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show

E-Flex Hydrogen Fuel Cell Continues Move Toward Electric Drive
General Motors Unveils Second Propulsion System for Chevrolet Volt
SHANGHAI - GM's global commitment to developing transportation that reduces oil use and promotes energy diversity continued today at the Shanghai Auto Show with the unveiling of the next iteration of the E-Flex electric architecture, configured with GM's newest, most efficient hydrogen fuel cell system to date.
This second variant of the E-Flex system uses GM's new fifth-generation fuel cell propulsion technology and a lithium-ion battery to provide up to 300 miles (483 km) of petroleum- and emissions-free electric driving. The fuel cell E-Flex is a true Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and operates all-electric from both hydrogen fuel cell-generated electricity and grid electricity. It is plug-in capable, adding up to 20 additional miles (34 km) each time it is charged, further reducing trips to the refueling station.
The E-Flex system is a flexible all-electric production vehicle architecture that can be configured to run on electricity from a number of sources. It was first shown in January at the North American International Auto Show in the Chevrolet Volt concept vehicle. The Volt is a battery electric vehicle with 40 miles of all electric-range and uses a small bio-fuel engine with a generator to extend its range to 640 miles (1030 km).
"The beauty of our E-Flex strategy is that it allows us to package various propulsion systems into the same space depending on what energy is available locally," said Larry Burns, GM's vice president of Research and Development and Strategic Planning. "It also provides flexibility in the sources of energy. We can obtain hydrogen or electricity from a myriad of renewable sources - wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and biofuels - or from traditional sources such as natural gas, clean coal, nuclear or even gasoline.
"E-Flex provides flexibility in two ways: in the propulsion systems that can be used, and in the sources of energy that can be commercialized to compete with oil and meet global transportation growth in a sustainable way."
Independent studies indicate hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer superior overall efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engines running on gasoline, when considering both the creation of the energy and its use in the vehicle.
GM's fifth-generation fuel cell system is half the size of its predecessor, yet it provides the same power and performance. The fourth generation currently powers the Chevrolet Sequel concept vehicle. The Sequel stores 8 kg of hydrogen and delivers a range of 300 miles (483 km). The fuel cell Volt will also deliver 300 miles of range, but with only 4.0 kg of hydrogen (75 miles / kg).
GM's advancements are a strong indication that our fuel cell technology has the potential to be a competitive alternative to the internal combustion engine - in size, performance, durability and cost.
"Our progress has made us increasingly confident that our fuel cell propulsion system will be automotive-competitive," said Burns. "But before this technology can be made widely available, governments, energy suppliers and infrastructure companies around the world need to collaborate with GM and the auto industry to develop a market for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen fuel."
A variety of technological advancements and lightweight materials contribute to the efficiency of the Volt. With an estimated curb weight of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), it weighs 30 percent less than the Sequel. The fuel cell propulsion system is packaged entirely under the hood and is equivalent in size to a four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. The Volt also features molded GE plastic panels on the fenders, window glazings, instrument panel and steering wheel, which offer between 30 percent and 50 percent weight reduction per part.
The E-Flex fuel cell variant also showcases GM's third-generation wheel hub motors, packaged inside the rear wheel to add considerable torque for all-wheel electric drive capability. The new coreless motor technology reduces mass and produces more power compared to the first generation shown in 2003.

sourse: GM

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Seoul Motor Show Preview: GM Daewoo L4X sedan

PRESS RELEASE:

GM Daewoo L4X - Premium Large Sedan of the Future
GM Daewoo is lifting the veil on a show car version of its much-anticipated long-wheelbase premium large sedan, the L4X.
The rear-wheel-drive product, which is close to a production version, permits a first glimpse into what GM Daewoo is pursuing as its premium large sedan. GM Daewoo's future flagship will boast a superior level of refinement, safety and comfort features.
"The L4X exemplifies what a true premium large sedan should be. It excels in the most fundamental virtues of its segment," said Michael Grimaldi, President and CEO of GM Daewoo. "For example, it has segment-leading interior space and rear seat comfort."
He added, "Our latest show car is not only stylish, it also offers an array of convenience features and luxury appointments to satisfy the most sophisticated Korean consumers."
The L4X comes with a powerful 3.6-liter V-6 powerplant that is matched with a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission. The state-of-the-art alloy engine generates peak power and torque of 258 hp at 6,500 rpm and 34.7 kg.m at 3,200 rpm.
What makes the GM Daewoo L4X stand out in terms of superior ride and handling are its sharpened chassis dynamics coupled with a longest-in-class 3,009-mm wheelbase, world-class structural stiffness and a sophisticated rear-wheel-drive system.
Its elegant exterior design, which will set it apart from other premium sedans, is characterized by a stretched silhouette and a wide stance accentuated by flared wheel arches. The longer rear doors are the key to the dramatic proportions, which are accentuated by a sweeping roofline and substantial wheel and tire package. As a result of the longest wheelbase among Korean large sedans, the wheels have been moved to the very corners of the car, making it look and perform in a stable and sporty manner.
Detail highlights include signature LED repeater lamps in the fender vents, striking LED tail lamps and bright chrome accents. Its bi-xenon headlamps and tail lamps have a high-tech, precise and almost diamond-like appearance, with finely detailed elements that make them sparkle and glisten. The bright chrome bodyside molding and chrome-highlighted door handles add a touch of sculptured elegance to the side.
The themes for the interior design are comfort, harmony, luxury and attention to detail. The GM Daewoo L4X offers a spacious and safe passenger compartment that provides a prestigious driving environment with optimized storage, packaging and ergonomics.
To give owners second-to-none premium comfort, the production version of the new GM Daewoo flagship will feature an array of safety and convenience features, including a navigation system with Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB) TV, bi-xenon headlamps, curtain air bags, tri-zone automatic temperature controls, power rear seats with three-step temperature control heating and rear-back massage, power rear-window curtains, roller blinds, a rearview camera and power-folding outside rearview mirrors.

source: GM Daewoo

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