Hennessey Straps a 1,000-HP to a 2019 Corvette ZR1 to the Dyno

The mad individuals at Hennessey Performance Engineering have created their first 2019 Corvette ZR1 with 1,000 horsepower. To show off their creation, the gang at HPE shared a video of the sports car doing a pull on the dyno.

The 1,000 hp comes courtesy of the HPE1000 package for the 2019 Corvette ZR1, which already leaves the factory with a stout 755-hp rating.

In baseline testing, HPE found the sports car made 654 hp at the rear wheels. The dyno test showed that, when outfitted with the HPE1000 package, that figure rose to 905 hp, which certainly means 1,000 or more horsepower at the crank. Of the 966 pound-feet of torque the car now makes, the dyno test revealed 844 lb-ft is sent to the rear wheels.

Just what are the HPE1000 upgrades? They include a custom HPE camshaft, ported heads, upgraded intake and exhaust valves, stainless-steel headers, a high-flow catalytic converter, a lower pulley upgrade, and much more. Every HPE car includes engine management calibration and dyno testing to dial in the new tune.

Corvette ZR1s that come to HPE with the 8-speed automatic require a transmission upgrade as well, while 7-speed manual cars do not need one.

Perhaps best of all, this tune runs 93 octane gasoline, which makes this 1,000-hp car rather livable. When all is said and done, HPE said the car will do 0-60 mph in 2.3 seconds and clock a quarter-mile time of 9.4 seconds. Those figures include an optional drag radial tire upgrade, though, so they won't be reachable on street tires. We assume those stats are also on a well-prepped dragstrip.


In the right situations, the Corvette ZR1 HPE1000 is probably one hell of a supercar slayer. Yet, HPE also plans for an HPE1200 package that will increase the power to, as the name suggests, 1,200 hp

General Motors Co. plans to invest $20 million at its Arlington Assembly plant in Texas to build the next generation of its full-size SUVs expected to go into production by the beginning of 2020.

The automaker builds the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL and the Cadillac Escalade at the 250-acre facility. The automaker sold more than 282,000 full-size SUVs in the U.S. last year as it and other automakers lean more heavily on SUVs to boost profits to pay for investments in expensive gambles on electrification and autonomous vehicles.

Buy Photo

GM builds the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL and the Cadillac Escalade at the 250-acre facility in Texas. (Photo: Todd McInturf, The Detroit News)

"We’ve been building trucks in Texas for more than 20 years, and our additional investment in Arlington Assembly is proof of our commitment and confidence in our Arlington team," said Gerald Johnson, GM executive vice president of global manufacturing, in a statement.

"We are counting on the Arlington team to continue focusing on building the highest quality products possible for our customers while preparations continue for the launch of the next generation of our full-size SUVs."

The Arlington investment is the latest in a $4.2 billion string of plant investments from GM to prepare for new pickups and SUVs. The automaker is in the middle of correcting plant utilization to account for waning U.S. demand for sedans and small cars in favor of trucks and SUVs.

The automaker this spring announced plans to sell its Lordstown Assembly plant to an electric vehicle startup after announcing in November a global restructuring that included production halts at five plants in North America. Most of the employees at those plants have been offered jobs at other GM facilities, though the fate of the plants remains unknown.

GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant, where it builds the tech-packed Cadillac CT6 sedan, is one of the plants in question.

CHEVROLET AND DOMINO’S

CHEVROLET AND DOMINO’S® MAKE ORDERING PIZZA EASY AS PIE

Chevy first automotive brand to provide embedded in-vehicle pizza-ordering

DETROIT — Millions of eligible Chevrolet drivers can now order their favorite Domino’s pizza from their in-vehicle touchscreen so it’s ready for carryout when they get to the store or will arrive at their home if they choose delivery. Domino’s is the latest merchant added to Chevrolet Marketplace¹, the industry’s first in-vehicle commerce platform.

Within Marketplace, customers will be able to place a saved order or a recent order from their Domino’s Pizza Profile with a few taps on the screen. With their preferences already set, customers can easily pick up the pizza in-store or have it delivered to their home. Chevrolet Marketplace works independently of the drivers’ mobile device, making this the first embedded pizza-ordering option in vehicles today.

“Domino’s has offered pizza lovers innovative ordering and delivery options for years. At the same time, Chevrolet put technologies in place that allows us to add capabilities to vehicles already on the road, like the ability for our drivers to order pizza through the touchscreen,” said Scott Goddard, Marketplace line of business leader, Chevrolet. “This new in-vehicle solution is a natural collaboration that both Chevy drivers and pizza connoisseurs can enjoy.”

To place pizza orders through Marketplace, users first need to set up a free Pizza Profile with Domino’s, either online or through their Domino’s mobile app. The profile will include their preferred delivery address, preferred stores and payment method information, as well the chance to create and save their favorite order as an Easy Order. Through Marketplace, users will link their Pizza Profile to their vehicle, allowing for simple ordering in the future.

“We admire Chevy’s commitment to providing the technology that consumers want the most,” said Chris Roeser, director of digital experience at Domino’s. “Now, Marketplace will provide pizza lovers an easy way to order the pizza they love.”

Marketplace debuted in December 2017 as a free service in connected Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles and has steadily added new functionality over time. Last spring, Chevrolet debuted the first embedded in-dash fuel payment capability. Domino’s is the first pizza restaurant on the platform. Marketplace is available on millions of properly equipped model year 2017 and newer Chevrolet vehicles.

¹Valid offers can vary. For latest offers, check Marketplace through the vehicle mobile app or your vehicle’s infotainment system (if available). Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective third-party owners and used under agreement.

About Chevrolet:

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 100 countries and selling more than 4.0 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

About Domino’s Pizza^®

Founded in 1960, Domino’s Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world based on retail sales, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout pizza. It ranks among the world’s top public restaurant brands with a global enterprise of more than 16,100 stores in over 85 markets. Emphasis on technology innovation helped Domino’s achieve more than half of all global retail sales in 2018 from digital channels, primarily online ordering and mobile applications. In the U.S., Domino’s generates over 65% of sales via digital channels and has produced several innovative ordering platforms, including Google Home, Facebook Messenger, Apple Watch, Amazon Echo, Twitter and text message using a pizza emoji. In April 2018, launched Domino’s HotSpots^®, featuring over 200,000 non-traditional delivery locations including parks, beaches, local landmarks and other unique gathering spots.

7 MYTHS ABOUT BUYING A CAR THAT EVERYONE BELIEVES ARE TRUE

Some myths are so unbelievable that the average person thinks they’re ridiculous, like the Loch Ness Monster, or Sasquatch. Of course, you’ll still find some people who believe them no matter how silly they are.

But there are other myths out there that are so prevalent that almost everyone believes that they’re true, even though they aren’t. When it comes to myths about buying a vehicle, there is way too much misinformation out there. Here are seven myths about buying a vehicle that almost everyone believes are true:

1. It’s better to bring your own financing

This is a common misconception and ignores the fact that dealerships are incentivized to offer their own financing through manufacturer or bank discounts. This means you could potentially get a better deal on a vehicle if you use the dealer’s financing, and possibly a lower interest rate through the manufacturer’s financing incentives.

2. You should buy a car when it’s raining

This is an old myth that’s no longer true partly because so many people think that it is. People used to assume that you could get a better deal during bad weather because a dealership would be slow that day. Unfortunately, lots of people think this, so when it rains a lot of people head in to try to get a good deal, making this a self-fulfilling myth.

3. Hide your trade-in until you come to an agreement on price

This myth is based on the idea that you should negotiate the price of the vehicle you want first, and then let the salesperson know about your trade-in after the fact. Not only will this add hours to the time you spend on the transaction, it also won’t get you a better deal because you’ll still get the same trade-in value for your vehicle that you would have gotten to begin with.

4. You’ll get a better deal if you pay cash

This is probably the most common myth in the world about car buying. The only time this is true is when manufacturers are offering cash only incentives. Otherwise, paying cash won’t get you a better deal because dealers are incentivized for financing and leases, so a cash deal actually makes them less money on a transaction. Unfortunately, cash is not king.

5. Auto salespeople make a fortune

Too many people believe that auto sales reps make a small fortune on car deals, but the opposite is likely true. On many transactions, the salesperson only makes what’s called a ‘mini’, which is a bare minimum commission on every car sold. A mini can range from $50 to $200 dollars, and coupled with a low or non-existent base pay, car salespeople are much more working-class than you might think.

6. Try pitting dealerships against each other for a better price

The interesting thing about this myth is that the people who spread it seem to think that they’re the first ones to have thought it up. The truth is that dealerships are very well aware of their competition, and always try to differentiate themselves in their own ways. By trying to pit dealers against each other, you’re creating a confrontational approach that’s likely to backfire. You’ll catch a lot more flies with honey than you will with vinegar.

7. Car salespeople don’t want to help you

This myth is very frustrating for auto sales professionals because it always put the customer on the defensive during a transaction. While there are some dishonest elements out there (like in all professions), the majority of automotive salespeople are hard-working folks providing for their families, who just want to make you happy. The best compliment we can get is earning your business, and we know that helping you is they key to that.

An All Electric Hummer? It's possible...

DETROIT -- A zero-emission Hummer sounds as paradoxical as non-alcoholic whiskey, but General Motors is mulling over the idea of building an electric vehicle that would bring the defunct gas-guzzling brand back to life.

For now, it’s just an idea GM is considering as it plans which vehicles will be included in a fleet of electrified SUVs and trucks, say people familiar with the matter. The Hummer name has surfaced as way to tap growing demand for rugged SUVs with off-road capabilities, while avoiding the gasoline-burning image that made the brand something of a pariah a decade ago, said the people, who asked not to be named because the conversations are private.

Electric Hummer chatter comes as GM is looking to transform itself from a conventional, gas-powered-vehicle maker into what CEO Mary Barra calls an “all-electric future.” Hummer is one of many options GM is exploring as it races to develop the next generation of battery-powered vehicles. Several other car companies also are rushing to produce commercially viable electric-powered models.

When asked about it, GM President Mark Reuss was unconvinced.

“I love Hummer,” Reuss said on the sidelines of a press conference on June 12. “I’m not sure. We’re looking at everything.”

Building an electric Hummer may never come to pass, but without electrification, GM would have a tough time selling a traditional Hummer in an era when emissions rules have become much stricter than in the brand’s heyday.

BEV3 project

GM is currently working on two major battery-electric vehicle programs. The first is its BEV3 project, which will develop passenger cars, crossover SUVs and a variety of other small and mid-sized models. That’s part of the automaker’s pledge to put 20 EVs on the road globally by 2023. The second program would make electric pickups and other full-size vehicles, some of which can go off-road.

In its family of brands, GM has large SUVs -- such as the Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade -- as well as hulking GMC vehicles including the Sierra truck and Yukon SUV. GMC also has Denali-labeled models that denote luxury and an AT4 brand for off-road capable trucks. Any of those potentially could be offered with electric powertrains, Reuss said.

“It’s massive. There might be places where we go first that are not just heavy-duty work trucks but more style and capability for off-road,” he said. “There are lots of things that are very attractive.”

BLOOMBERG/Aotomotive News Data Center

GM kept Hummer after its 2009 bankruptcy but halted sales in 2010. Back then, the 10-miles-per-gallon Hummer H2 made the brand a symbol of automaker indifference to global warming. The vehicle was so heavy its weight placed it beyond the reach of federal government rules for fuel-economy tests, further enraging environmentalists. Hummer’s death knell came when oil soared past $100 a barrel, spiking gas prices and sinking sales.

GM bought the brand in 1998, six years after AM General debuted it as a civilian version of the armored Humvee military vehicle made famous for its role in the Gulf War. Actor and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger was an early and very public advocate for the brand and its first model, which later became known as the H1. GM sales started with the H2 model in 2002, a $60,000 SUV made using some parts from Chevy pickups and SUVs. It was a smash hit among buyers looking for brawn and bling, prompting the Detroit automaker to follow up with the mid-sized H3 SUV and H3T pickup truck.

Demand for Hummer vehicles peaked in 2006 with U.S. sales of 71,524 vehicles, but fewer than 4,000 were sold by 2010, according to the Automotive News Data Center.

Watching Jeep

Over the past few years, GM has been watching the growth of Jeep, the crown jewel and moneymaker of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, and wondering if Hummer might win a piece of that market, said the people familiar with the brand discussions.

GM sees an opportunity to compete with Jeep for off-road vehicles that have creature comforts commanding high premiums, two of the people said. The company’s designers have done work with Hummer concepts and have experimented with Hummer styling cues on future GMC brand models.

Even if GM goes through with a plan to make an electric Hummer, it would be years away. GM’s planned electric-truck project is well underway, but those models aren’t expected to launch until after the debut of the BEV3 architecture for smaller vehicles. Cadillac or one of the higher-volume brands would probably get some of the first models on the larger electric-truck-based platform.

Earlier this year, GM was negotiating to form a joint venture with Rivian Automotive Inc., a startup electric-truck maker based outside Detroit. When the deal fell apart, GM accelerated development of its own battery-powered pickup and SUV program.

It’s not alone in thinking there’s latent demand for large and luxury-market vehicles. When the GM deal died, Ford Motor Co. invested $500 million in Rivian with plans to build an electric pickup. And Jaguar Land Rover Holdings., which has a strong presence in large and luxury SUVs, will sell a plug-in hybrid version of the Range Rover this summer. The Indian-owned, British brand also has joined forces with BMW AG to work on electric drive.

At its annual meeting on June 11, Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk said he is pushing hard to get an electric pickup truck that is capable of work duties but drives like a Porsche. He plans to show the vehicle this summer.

Should GM decide to move forward with Hummer, it would need to rebuild the brand’s marketing and retail strategy. The automaker could sell Hummers in Cadillac or Buick-GMC dealerships -- for example in a small, brand-dedicated showroom. Previously GM gave specific franchises to separate Hummer dealers, who were disgruntled when sales ended. That alone could be a hurdle for greenlighting a resuscitated Hummer brand, one of the people said.

Whatever happens, GM won’t be the first to think of an electric Hummer. Schwarzenegger worked with Kriesel Electric to put a battery and EV motor in his own H1 two years ago -- pioneering a zero-emission version of a vehicle that once went by the tagline “Like Nothing Else.”

Some Simple Facts about Transmission Fluid

What is the Difference between Motor Oil and Transmission Fluid?

Motor oil is used to deal with the combustion of the engine and to keep the engine cool, and it needs to be changed at least once a year if not more often. Transmission fluid is needed for the transmission system cool, but it is a closed system that needs to be changed far less frequently than motor oil.

Are There Different Types of Transmission Fluid?

There are automatic transmission fluids and manual transmission fluids, and some modern manual transmission systems may even require automatic transmission fluid (ATF), so be sure to check your owners manual or call your local service center to make sure you are getting the right kind.

There are also synthetic and traditional transmission fluids. Traditional transmission fluid is made with crude oil, and synthetic transmission fluid is made from specific chemical reactions that make it less likely to oxidize or break down in extreme heat.

What Does Transmission Fluid Look Like?

Transmission fluid is viscous and slick like motor oil, but it is dyed a dark translucent red color to help identify it. If it starts to turn darker or becomes black, it’s time to change your transmission fluid.

What Does Transmission Fluid Smell Like?

Transmission fluid has an odor similar to petroleum. If you notice it smells burnt, that means you should change your transmission oil soon.

How Do I Check My Transmission Fluid?

It’s smart to check your transmission fluid levels and condition about once a month to catch any issues before they become serious:

• Turn your vehicle on and make sure the engine is warmed up before checking the fluid. Under the hood, find the transmission fluid dipstick, which is usually to the right of the motor oil dipstick on front-wheel drive models.
• Use the dipstick to check the fluid level and make sure it reaches the “full” mark. Use a funnel to add more fluid if needed.
• Check the appearance and smell of the fluid to make sure it doesn’t need replacing.

How Often Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

If there are no issues you notice when you check your fluid, you should replace your transmission fluid between every 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the age of your cars, type of transmission, and driving conditions. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for more specific details.

How The New 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1 Compares To LT And SS

We’ve already taken a close look at what’s new for the 2020 Camaro. This time around, we’re taking a closer look at the new Camaro LT1 model for a better understanding of how it slots into the Camaro lineup.

For starters, we know the Chevrolet Camaro LT1 model is a response to slumping Camaro sales, and is aimed at attracting shoppers considering more affordable V8 sports cars – namely the Dodge Challenger R/T and Ford Mustang GT. With a starting price of $34,995 the LT1 is priced beneath the V8-powered Challenger and Mustang models, and is about $2,000 less than a 2019 Camaro 1SS.

Before diving into what makes the Chevrolet Camaro LT1 different from other Camaros, it’s important to understand that the point of this model is to provide an even more affordable option to those who want a Camaro with a V8 engine. 

This means only certain features and options are available for the frugal LT1 model, while others require buyers to bump up to 1SS and 2SS models.

1.    Brembo 4-piston front brakes available, like on LT1

2.    FE3 Suspension Available with LT 1LE Track Performance Package

3.    FE4 Suspension Available with SS 1LE Track Performance Package

4.    Available on 3LT trim

5.    Available on 2SS trim

6.    Available on 2SS trim

7.    Upgradable on 2LT, 3LT trim

8.    Upgradable on 2SS trim.

The Chevrolet Camaro LT1 is offered with a few options, including the sueded microfiber-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. However, there are notable options that are not available, including the 1LE Track Performance Package, Magnetic Ride Control, heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone automatic climate system, or the 8-inch Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Plus color touchscreen, and Bose premium speaker system.

Instead, the Camaro LT1 makes do with a single-zone automatic climate system, an FE3 suspension, non-heated or ventilated seats, and a 7-inch touchscreen radio. In other words, the new Chevrolet Camaro LT1 takes the LT-trim Camaro, complete with most of its features and with its exterior appearance, stuffs the 6.2L LT1 V8 from the Camaro SS, and calls it a day.

And it seems to be exactly what the sixth-gen Camaro was missing to fend off the entry-level rivals from Dodge and Ford. Here’s to hoping it’s enough to swing Camaro sales upward.

Going to be a Hot Day - to Purchase you New Car or Truck

Come down to see me to test drive a new or used Car or Truck Today.

A beautiful day to shop for a new rig.
Check out this short video to get an idea of what we have here on the lot today.

Call or text for your test drive today:  503-507-3123 Direct

#powerchevrolet; #findyourroad; #chevroletbyalex

A Beautiful Day to be car or Truck Shopping!

Today is a beautiful day to come for your test drive.

Call or text me today to set up your test drive.  :)

503-507-3123 Mobile

#powerchevrolet; #findyourroad; #chevroletbyalex 

Going to be a very hot day today!  

Check out this little short video.

Designed for Driving Pleasure

The Chevrolet Traverse - Red Line Edition

 

This vehicle is, literally, fully loaded.   Check out the entertainment package.

 Active Noise Cancellation 

 Audio system feature, Bose premium 10-speaker system with subwoofer in center console 

 Audio system, Chevrolet Infotainment System with Navigation and 8" diagonal color touch-screen, 

AM/FM stereo, includes Bluetooth streaming audio for music and most phones; featuring Android 

Auto and Apple CarPlay capability for compatible phones 

 Chevrolet 4G LTE and available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot offers a fast and reliable Internet connection

 for up to 7 devices; includes data trial for 1 month or 3GB (whichever comes first) (Available Wi-Fi requires compatible mobile device, active OnStar service and data plan. Data plans provided by AT&T. Visit onstar.com for details and system limitations.) 

 SiriusXM Radio Enjoy a 3-month All Access trial subscription with over 150 channels including commercial-free music, plus sports, news and entertainment. Plus listening on the app and online is included, so you'll hear the best SiriusXM has to offer, anywhere life takes you. Welcome to the world of SiriusXM. (IMPORTANT: The SiriusXM radio trial package is not provided on vehicles that are ordered for Fleet Daily Rental ("FDR") use. If you decide to continue service after your trial, the subscription plan you choose will automatically renew thereafter and you will be charged according to your chosen payment method at then-current rates. 

Fees and taxes apply. To cancel you must call us at 1-866-635-2349. 

See our Customer Agreement for complete terms at www.siriusxm.com. All fees and programming subject to change.)

 USB ports 

 Wireless Charging for devices

 

Air conditioning, tri-zone automatic climate control with individual climate settings for driver, right front passenger and rear seat occupants

Cargo storage, tray under rear floor

Compass display, digital

Console, front center with 2 cup holders, covered storage bin with storage and removable tray

Cruise control, electronic with set and resume speed

Cup holders, 10 total

Defogger, rear-window electric

Display, 4.2" driver instrument information, enhanced, multi-color

Door locks, power programmable with lockout protection

Floor covering, color-keyed carpeting

Floor mats, color-keyed all rows

Head restraints, front, 2-way adjustable

Head restraints, second and third row outboard, 2-way manual-folding

Heater ducts, 2nd row

Keyless Open, includes extended range Remote Keyless Entry

Lighting, interior with theater dimming, cargo compartment, reading lights for front seats,

second row reading lamps integrated into dome light, door-and tailgate-activated switches and illuminated entry and exit feature

Memory Package recalls 2 "presets" for power driver seat, outside mirrors and power tilt and telescopic steering column

Power outlet, 120-volt, located on the rear of center console

Remote Start

Remote panic alarm

Seat adjuster, driver 8-way power Seat adjuster, front passenger 6-way power

Seat adjuster, power driver lumbar control

Seat adjuster, power passenger lumbar control

Seat trim, perforated leather-appointed on first and second rows

Seating, 7-passenger (2-2-3 seating configuration)

Seats, front bucket

Seats, heated driver and front passenger

Seats, heated rear outboard seating positions

Seats, third row 60/40 split-bench, manual-folding

Seats, ventilated driver and front passenger

Sensor, humidity and windshield temperature

Steering column, power tilt and telescopic

Steering wheel controls, mounted controls for audio, phone and cruise

Steering wheel, heated includes AUTO heated steering wheel (selectable automatic activation)

Steering wheel, leather-wrapped, 3-spoke

Theft-deterrent system, electrical, unauthorized entry

Umbrella holders, driver and front passenger doors

Universal Home Remote, includes garage door opener, programmable

Visors, driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors, covered

Windows, power with driver Express Up/Down and front passenger Express-Down

 

 

Not only are the seats heated, but the steering wheel is also, "Heated"!

Wait, What?!  It is true.  This car also comes equipped with Wi-Fi, and is a moving "Hot-Spot!"

A great vehicle.

#powerchevrolet; #findyourroad; #chevroletbyalex