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AIMS: Holden Launches 'Ecoline' Actice Fuel Management, LPG, Diesel & Production Volt
Motor Show Line Up Promotes Energy Diversity
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden today gave Australia its first glimpse of the production version of the groundbreaking Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle.
Making one of its first global appearances at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, Volt can drive for more than 60 kilometres without using petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions by relying solely on its battery.
Scheduled for release in the US in late 2010, General Motors calculates that charging the vehicle at night through a standard power outlet will use less electricity annually than an average household refrigerator.
The electric-powered Volt is one of a number of fuel saving or alternative fuel technologies featured on the GM Holden stand. Another includes Active Fuel Management (AFM) which is being introduced across Holden's full range of automatic V8 vehicles from January 2009.
AFM enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions. In a combination of town and highway driving, the technology can deliver fuel savings of up to one litre per 100 kilometres, with potential for even better results at constant cruising speeds.
Vehicles fitted with AFM will form part of the Holden EcoLine brand launched today by GM Holden to highlight a broad range of vehicles using alternative fuels or fuel saving technologies, underlining the company's commitment to energy diversity.
Holden EcoLine will initially encompass GM Holden's wide variety of diesel, LPG and AFM-enabled vehicles, with more set to join the range in the future.
Five other vehicles on the GM Holden stand also make their Australian motor show debuts. Sportwagon 60th Anniversary Special Edition, the tough new Colorado, the refreshed Barina, the 2WD Captiva with segment leading fuel efficiency and the upgraded Epica are all on display for the first time.
For many visitors this will be the first opportunity to see these much-anticipated vehicles, all launched in the second half of 2008 and starting to arrive in showrooms.
The stunning Coupe 60 concept, revealed earlier in the year will be another show highlight, honouring 60 years of innovative design and engineering at GM Holden.
GM Holden's Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss, said Holden's impressive display stretches across nearly all segments and fuel types, representing one of the most extensive vehicle ranges in the Australian market today.
"With 24 vehicles on our stand, the Holden range covers a wide selection of top sellers, recent arrivals and future technology," said Mr Reuss.
"Our vision at Holden is to offer customers a range of options designed to meet their specific driving patterns and budgets, and if you look around our stand today you will see we are already starting to deliver."
Coupe 60 Concept
The Coupe 60 is the stunning two-door pillarless coupe boasting sophisticated technology and sports performance and provides a glimpse of Holden's future directions in design, engineering and emerging engine technologies.
Powered by a 6.0 litre V8 engine incorporating the latest technologies including AFM and calibrated for E85 ethanol fuel, Coupe 60 explores the limits of Holden's current rear-wheel drive capabilities, combining racing looks and technology in a road going sportscar experience.
Sportwagon
Putting excitement back in to practicality, the Sportwagon line-up will be on display offering new levels of comfort, safety and styling in a Holden wagon, combined with sedan-like ride and handling.
As part of Holden's celebrations to mark the 60th birthday of the 48-215, a Sportwagon 60th Anniversary Special Edition has been released and will make its Motor Show debut.
The special edition boasts 18 inch alloy wheels (4), leather appointed seats, Bluetooth for compatible mobiles, leather wrapped steering wheel and a 60th Anniversary badge, in addition to those features already standard on the Omega Sportwagon such as Electronic Stablity Control (ESC), six airbags and rear park assist.
The special edition Sportwagon is available in a range of seven colours including the newly introduced Cobra.
Colorado
This powerful light truck promises to deliver high levels of performance and load carrying capability, all with car-like interior comfort and value for money, for which Holden is renowned.
A three tonne braked towing capability on turbo diesel 4x4 variants adds to Colorado's rugged appeal.
The Holden Colorado offers consumers a wide choice of body styles, engine types and specifications with the durability, power and features to cover dual purposes of work and recreation.
Barina
Another stand highlight is the popular Barina 3-door hatchback which has received a fresh new look and feel, plus the addition of side impact airbags now standard across the range.
The Barina 3-door and 5-door hatchbacks have been given a more dynamic body design which is highlighted by a strong Euro-styled front fascia, rear end treatments and a significantly upgraded interior.
On all models, the Barina bodyshell has been enhanced with three clearly defined load paths designed to absorb the impact of an offset front-end accident and support the entire structure of the passenger cell over a large area. High-strength steel has been used to reinforce the B-pillar.
Captiva
The newly released 2WD Captiva SX diesel will also make its Motor Show debut, boasting segment leading fuel efficiency. This gives consumers all the benefits of a medium SUV with the fuel efficiency of a much smaller vehicle.
Powered by the same 2.0 litre diesel engine found in the Captiva AWD range, the manual 2WD model will lead its segment with fuel efficiency of 7.2 litres per 100 kilometres (ADR81/01), while the automatic returns an impressive 8.5 litres per kilometres. Both will feature under the Holden EcoLine brand.
The new five-seater 2WD Captiva will be available as an SX model which retains all the specifications of its AWD equivalent with Traction Control, Active Rollover Protection, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and curtain airbags as standard.
With recommended retail prices of $33,990 for the five-speed manual transmission and $35,990 for the five-speed automatic, the Holden Captiva diesel 2WD models are $2,000 less than their AWD equivalents.
Epica
GM Holden will showcase the value-packed mid-size Epica sedan. Epica has recently received a new fuel efficient four-cylinder turbo diesel engine plus six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and six airbags standard across the range.
Epica is the latest addition to Holden's growing diesel range, delivering not only great performance but impressive fuel efficiency of a low 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (ADR81/01). It will be another vehicle to feature under the Holden EcoLine banner.
The introduction of significant safety features such as ESC and six airbags as standard across the range compliment an already comprehensive list of safety features which includes ABS, Traction Control and Electronic Brake Force Distribution.
Commodore, Statesman and Caprice
Several of the award winning VE Commodore range and a WM Caprice will be on display including the value packed Commodore 60th Anniversary sedan, sporty SS V-Series and luxurious Calais V-Series.
Commodore SS V-Series with fuel saving AFM technology will make up part of the Holden EcoLine range, complete with new badging to highlight the innovative powertrain.
Offering the fuel running costs comparable to a small car, the Commodore 60th Anniversary Special Edition fitted with Holden's dual fuel LPG system also takes its place under the Holden EcoLine banner.
In another recent upgrade, the Commodore Omega and Berlina are now fitted with the Premium High Feature V6 engine delivering fuel efficiency improvements and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Ute
VE Ute offers more features, more useable interior space, greater storage flexibility and more performance than any of its Holden predecessors.
The Holden stand features an Omega Ute fitted with dual fuel LPG and demonstrates how the new LPG system is cleanly integrated into the Ute's tub liner.
Holden recently announced it has dramatically reduced the price of the dual fuel LPG system on Commodore and Ute, making it another attractive option under the Holden EcoLine banner.
GM Holden has reduced the cost of its dual fuel LPG system by $1500 on Commodore Omega, Berlina, Commdore 60th Anniversary Special Edition and Omega Ute. This means for private buyers eligible for the $2000 government rebate, the net cost of an LPG Ute would only be $1400 more than its petrol equivalent and only $400 more for the LPG sedan.
Small car range
A selection of Holden's small car range will be on display, including the versatile new Astra CDX wagon diesel which is part of Holden EcoLine, the Astra SRi 5-Door and SRi turbo coupe, the stylish Astra Twintop and the Astra CD 5-Door with new 'Style Pack'.
Astra boasts a number of standard safety features including Electronic Stability Control across the range.
These cars will be joined by the Viva hatch which represents outstanding value for money.
Holden Vehicle Display - Australian International Motor Show 2008:
Volt
Volt display chassis
Coupe 60 concept
VE Sportwagon "60th Anniversary Special Edition"
VE Sportwagon SV6
VE Sportwagon Calais V-Series
VE Ute Omega (LPG) - Holden EcoLine
VE Ute SS V-Series
VE Commodore "60th Anniversary Special Edition" (LPG) - Holden EcoLine
VE Commodore SS V-Series (AFM) - Holden EcoLine
VE Commodore Calais V-Series
WM Caprice (AFM) - Holden EcoLine
CG Captiva SX 2WD diesel - Holden EcoLine
CG Captiva LX AWD diesel
RC Colorado LT-R 4x4 3.0L turbo diesel
RC Colorado LT-R 4x4 3.0L turbo diesel
EP Epica CDX diesel - Holden EcoLine
TK Barina 3-Door
TK Barina sedan
AH Astra SRi 3-Door turbo
AH Astra SRi 5-Door
AH Astra CDX Wagon diesel - Holden EcoLine
AH Astra CD 5-Door with 'Style Pack'
AH Astra TwinTop
JF Viva 5-Door with optional pack
The Australian International Motor Show 2008 is at the Sydney Exhibition and Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, and runs from 9 October to 19 October 2008.
Holden Ecoline Highlights Alternative Solutions
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden today launched Holden EcoLine, a brand designed to highlight the company's broad range of vehicles that use alternative fuel or fuel saving technology.
The Holden EcoLine range will offer consumers affordable solutions to tackle rising fuel costs and Australia's dependence on foreign oil.
GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said Holden EcoLine gave a name to Holden's commitment to developing more sustainable and cost-saving transport solutions.
"The energy challenges we face require many answers. For Holden, the future of sustainable motoring is a clear strategy of energy diversity," Mr Reuss said.
"Holden EcoLine reinforces this approach by highlighting vehicles that use alternative fuels or fuel saving technologies. EcoLine vehicles suit a range of driving conditions and budgets and provide benefit for customers' hip pockets.
"Holden EcoLine is an easy way to communicate this 'Future Friendly' strategy to our customers. It highlights the ways we are making Holden a smarter choice for Australian motorists."
Launched at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, Holden EcoLine includes models from GM Holden's range of diesel, LPG and Active Fuel Management (AFM) enabled vehicles.
GM Holden offers an extensive range of diesel vehicles including the 2WD Captiva SUV which boasts segment leading fuel efficiency, the mid-size Epica and the small car Astra.
LPG is available on selected Commodore and Ute models, with Holden recently announcing it has significantly reduced the price of its dual fuel system.
The fuel saving technology AFM, which enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions, will be introduced as standard on all automatic V8 models in the Holden range from January 2009.
Holden Launches Fuel Saving Technology For V8 Automatic Range
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden will introduce fuel saving Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology on all its V8 automatic models from January 2009.
AFM, or cylinder deactivation, enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions, before restoring full power when engine demands increase.
In a combination of town and highway driving, the technology can deliver fuel savings of up to one litre per 100 kilometres, with potential for even better results at constant cruising speeds.
AFM will be standard on all automatic V8 models in the Commodore, Ute, Sportwagon, Statesman and Caprice ranges. GM Holden will be the first local manufacturer to introduce the fuel saving technology.
Announcing the introduction of AFM at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said this was another example of the company's commitment to providing fuel saving solutions to customers.
"AFM is a strong addition to our portfolio and to our Holden EcoLine range. It is one of many steps we are taking to provide fuel saving alternatives to Australian motorists," Mr Reuss said.
"AFM delivers the best of both worlds to performance enthusiasts - improved fuel efficiency with the power they want in a V8.
"For customers looking for V8 performance, AFM makes Holden the smart choice."
AFM Technology
GM Holden's AFM system is designed to improve fuel efficiency when high output is not required.
In certain conditions such as highway driving, AFM automatically closes the intake and exhaust valves in four of the engine's eight cylinders while ensuring the engine maintains vehicle speed, effectively operating as a four cylinder.
The engine's electronic throttle control is used to increase cylinder pressure in V4 mode so that the engine can preserve the torque which drivers expect from a V8 powertrain.
The fuel supply to the deactivated cylinders will resume seamlessly providing all-cylinder operation when the driver needs it for quick acceleration, or for hauling heavy loads.
GM Holden Showcases Chevrolet Volt In Australia
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
The much-anticipated Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle has made one of its first global appearances at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.
Volt, to be launched in the US in 2010, uses electricity to move the wheels at all times and speeds in a significant advance from conventional hybrids.
When operating solely on its battery, Volt can drive up to 64 kilometres without petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions. Once the battery's energy is depleted, a small petrol engine generates electricity to power the vehicle for hundreds of additional kilometres.
Volt is an important element of General Motors' strategy to provide a range of sustainable transport solutions to meet the current and future needs of motorists.
GM estimates that compared to similar sized petrol-powered vehicles, Volt will save motorists up to 1892 litres of fuel a year. This is based on US research that identifies 75 per cent of commuters travel an average daily distance of less than 40 miles (64 kilometres).
It also calculates that charging the vehicle at night through a standard power outlet will use less electricity annually than an average household refrigerator.
GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mark Reuss said Volt's Sydney reveal gave Australian audiences an early view of one of the most important technologies shaping the future of sustainable transport.
"It is a reflection of the importance of the Australian market for General Motors that a vehicle as significant as Volt has been provided for this show," Mr Reuss said.
"This technology is potentially the most exciting addition to GM's range of alternative fuels on the horizon.
"As we move forward, it will be innovative solutions such as Volt that will sustain global motoring by reducing our dependence on foreign oil."
Volt is planned for manufacture at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly and is scheduled for launch in the US in late 2010.
Volt - How The Technology Works
Volt is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV). In a significant advance from conventional hybrids, it uses electricity to move its wheels at all times and speeds.
For trips of up to 64 kilometres, Volt is powered solely by the electricity stored in its battery without using petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions.
When the battery's energy is depleted, a small petrol-powered engine generates electric power for the vehicle to travel hundreds of additional kilometres.
Advanced technology enables the vehicle's battery to be charged in less than three hours on a standard 240v power outlet. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted.
GM estimates that compared to petrol-powered vehicles that average 7.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, Volt will save motorists up to 1892 litres of fuel a year.
Volt - Vehicle Details
The design of the Volt production car has evolved from an original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
General Motors created an energy efficient design for the production vehicle, resulting in one of the most aerodynamic cars in the company's history.
Many of the design cues from the concept car have been carried over in the production Volt, including the closed front grille, athletic stance and rear design graphics.
Inside, Volt will offer the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan.
Preliminary Specifications
Vehicle Type: 5-door, front-wheel-drive sedan.
Category: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV).
E-REV Competitors: None.
Chassis: Independent MacPherson struts front, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes to maximise energy capture, electric power-assist steering.
Seating Capacity: Four
Top Speed: 160km/h
EV Range, City (km's): 64km
Wheelbase: 2685mm
Length: 4404mm
Width: 1798mm
Height: 1430mm
Cargo Volume: 301L
Battery System Type: Lithium-ion
Energy (kWh): 16
Electric Drive Unit Power (kW / hp): 111 / 150
Torque (Nm / lb-ft ): 370 / 273
Tyre and Wheel Size: Specially developed low rolling-resistance tyres on 17-inch forged aluminium wheels.
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Motor Show Line Up Promotes Energy Diversity
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden today gave Australia its first glimpse of the production version of the groundbreaking Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle.
Making one of its first global appearances at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, Volt can drive for more than 60 kilometres without using petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions by relying solely on its battery.
Scheduled for release in the US in late 2010, General Motors calculates that charging the vehicle at night through a standard power outlet will use less electricity annually than an average household refrigerator.
The electric-powered Volt is one of a number of fuel saving or alternative fuel technologies featured on the GM Holden stand. Another includes Active Fuel Management (AFM) which is being introduced across Holden's full range of automatic V8 vehicles from January 2009.
AFM enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions. In a combination of town and highway driving, the technology can deliver fuel savings of up to one litre per 100 kilometres, with potential for even better results at constant cruising speeds.
Vehicles fitted with AFM will form part of the Holden EcoLine brand launched today by GM Holden to highlight a broad range of vehicles using alternative fuels or fuel saving technologies, underlining the company's commitment to energy diversity.
Holden EcoLine will initially encompass GM Holden's wide variety of diesel, LPG and AFM-enabled vehicles, with more set to join the range in the future.
Five other vehicles on the GM Holden stand also make their Australian motor show debuts. Sportwagon 60th Anniversary Special Edition, the tough new Colorado, the refreshed Barina, the 2WD Captiva with segment leading fuel efficiency and the upgraded Epica are all on display for the first time.
For many visitors this will be the first opportunity to see these much-anticipated vehicles, all launched in the second half of 2008 and starting to arrive in showrooms.
The stunning Coupe 60 concept, revealed earlier in the year will be another show highlight, honouring 60 years of innovative design and engineering at GM Holden.
GM Holden's Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss, said Holden's impressive display stretches across nearly all segments and fuel types, representing one of the most extensive vehicle ranges in the Australian market today.
"With 24 vehicles on our stand, the Holden range covers a wide selection of top sellers, recent arrivals and future technology," said Mr Reuss.
"Our vision at Holden is to offer customers a range of options designed to meet their specific driving patterns and budgets, and if you look around our stand today you will see we are already starting to deliver."
Coupe 60 Concept
The Coupe 60 is the stunning two-door pillarless coupe boasting sophisticated technology and sports performance and provides a glimpse of Holden's future directions in design, engineering and emerging engine technologies.
Powered by a 6.0 litre V8 engine incorporating the latest technologies including AFM and calibrated for E85 ethanol fuel, Coupe 60 explores the limits of Holden's current rear-wheel drive capabilities, combining racing looks and technology in a road going sportscar experience.
Sportwagon
Putting excitement back in to practicality, the Sportwagon line-up will be on display offering new levels of comfort, safety and styling in a Holden wagon, combined with sedan-like ride and handling.
As part of Holden's celebrations to mark the 60th birthday of the 48-215, a Sportwagon 60th Anniversary Special Edition has been released and will make its Motor Show debut.
The special edition boasts 18 inch alloy wheels (4), leather appointed seats, Bluetooth for compatible mobiles, leather wrapped steering wheel and a 60th Anniversary badge, in addition to those features already standard on the Omega Sportwagon such as Electronic Stablity Control (ESC), six airbags and rear park assist.
The special edition Sportwagon is available in a range of seven colours including the newly introduced Cobra.
Colorado
This powerful light truck promises to deliver high levels of performance and load carrying capability, all with car-like interior comfort and value for money, for which Holden is renowned.
A three tonne braked towing capability on turbo diesel 4x4 variants adds to Colorado's rugged appeal.
The Holden Colorado offers consumers a wide choice of body styles, engine types and specifications with the durability, power and features to cover dual purposes of work and recreation.
Barina
Another stand highlight is the popular Barina 3-door hatchback which has received a fresh new look and feel, plus the addition of side impact airbags now standard across the range.
The Barina 3-door and 5-door hatchbacks have been given a more dynamic body design which is highlighted by a strong Euro-styled front fascia, rear end treatments and a significantly upgraded interior.
On all models, the Barina bodyshell has been enhanced with three clearly defined load paths designed to absorb the impact of an offset front-end accident and support the entire structure of the passenger cell over a large area. High-strength steel has been used to reinforce the B-pillar.
Captiva
The newly released 2WD Captiva SX diesel will also make its Motor Show debut, boasting segment leading fuel efficiency. This gives consumers all the benefits of a medium SUV with the fuel efficiency of a much smaller vehicle.
Powered by the same 2.0 litre diesel engine found in the Captiva AWD range, the manual 2WD model will lead its segment with fuel efficiency of 7.2 litres per 100 kilometres (ADR81/01), while the automatic returns an impressive 8.5 litres per kilometres. Both will feature under the Holden EcoLine brand.
The new five-seater 2WD Captiva will be available as an SX model which retains all the specifications of its AWD equivalent with Traction Control, Active Rollover Protection, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and curtain airbags as standard.
With recommended retail prices of $33,990 for the five-speed manual transmission and $35,990 for the five-speed automatic, the Holden Captiva diesel 2WD models are $2,000 less than their AWD equivalents.
Epica
GM Holden will showcase the value-packed mid-size Epica sedan. Epica has recently received a new fuel efficient four-cylinder turbo diesel engine plus six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and six airbags standard across the range.
Epica is the latest addition to Holden's growing diesel range, delivering not only great performance but impressive fuel efficiency of a low 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (ADR81/01). It will be another vehicle to feature under the Holden EcoLine banner.
The introduction of significant safety features such as ESC and six airbags as standard across the range compliment an already comprehensive list of safety features which includes ABS, Traction Control and Electronic Brake Force Distribution.
Commodore, Statesman and Caprice
Several of the award winning VE Commodore range and a WM Caprice will be on display including the value packed Commodore 60th Anniversary sedan, sporty SS V-Series and luxurious Calais V-Series.
Commodore SS V-Series with fuel saving AFM technology will make up part of the Holden EcoLine range, complete with new badging to highlight the innovative powertrain.
Offering the fuel running costs comparable to a small car, the Commodore 60th Anniversary Special Edition fitted with Holden's dual fuel LPG system also takes its place under the Holden EcoLine banner.
In another recent upgrade, the Commodore Omega and Berlina are now fitted with the Premium High Feature V6 engine delivering fuel efficiency improvements and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Ute
VE Ute offers more features, more useable interior space, greater storage flexibility and more performance than any of its Holden predecessors.
The Holden stand features an Omega Ute fitted with dual fuel LPG and demonstrates how the new LPG system is cleanly integrated into the Ute's tub liner.
Holden recently announced it has dramatically reduced the price of the dual fuel LPG system on Commodore and Ute, making it another attractive option under the Holden EcoLine banner.
GM Holden has reduced the cost of its dual fuel LPG system by $1500 on Commodore Omega, Berlina, Commdore 60th Anniversary Special Edition and Omega Ute. This means for private buyers eligible for the $2000 government rebate, the net cost of an LPG Ute would only be $1400 more than its petrol equivalent and only $400 more for the LPG sedan.
Small car range
A selection of Holden's small car range will be on display, including the versatile new Astra CDX wagon diesel which is part of Holden EcoLine, the Astra SRi 5-Door and SRi turbo coupe, the stylish Astra Twintop and the Astra CD 5-Door with new 'Style Pack'.
Astra boasts a number of standard safety features including Electronic Stability Control across the range.
These cars will be joined by the Viva hatch which represents outstanding value for money.
Holden Vehicle Display - Australian International Motor Show 2008:
Volt
Volt display chassis
Coupe 60 concept
VE Sportwagon "60th Anniversary Special Edition"
VE Sportwagon SV6
VE Sportwagon Calais V-Series
VE Ute Omega (LPG) - Holden EcoLine
VE Ute SS V-Series
VE Commodore "60th Anniversary Special Edition" (LPG) - Holden EcoLine
VE Commodore SS V-Series (AFM) - Holden EcoLine
VE Commodore Calais V-Series
WM Caprice (AFM) - Holden EcoLine
CG Captiva SX 2WD diesel - Holden EcoLine
CG Captiva LX AWD diesel
RC Colorado LT-R 4x4 3.0L turbo diesel
RC Colorado LT-R 4x4 3.0L turbo diesel
EP Epica CDX diesel - Holden EcoLine
TK Barina 3-Door
TK Barina sedan
AH Astra SRi 3-Door turbo
AH Astra SRi 5-Door
AH Astra CDX Wagon diesel - Holden EcoLine
AH Astra CD 5-Door with 'Style Pack'
AH Astra TwinTop
JF Viva 5-Door with optional pack
The Australian International Motor Show 2008 is at the Sydney Exhibition and Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, and runs from 9 October to 19 October 2008.
Holden Ecoline Highlights Alternative Solutions
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden today launched Holden EcoLine, a brand designed to highlight the company's broad range of vehicles that use alternative fuel or fuel saving technology.
The Holden EcoLine range will offer consumers affordable solutions to tackle rising fuel costs and Australia's dependence on foreign oil.
GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said Holden EcoLine gave a name to Holden's commitment to developing more sustainable and cost-saving transport solutions.
"The energy challenges we face require many answers. For Holden, the future of sustainable motoring is a clear strategy of energy diversity," Mr Reuss said.
"Holden EcoLine reinforces this approach by highlighting vehicles that use alternative fuels or fuel saving technologies. EcoLine vehicles suit a range of driving conditions and budgets and provide benefit for customers' hip pockets.
"Holden EcoLine is an easy way to communicate this 'Future Friendly' strategy to our customers. It highlights the ways we are making Holden a smarter choice for Australian motorists."
Launched at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, Holden EcoLine includes models from GM Holden's range of diesel, LPG and Active Fuel Management (AFM) enabled vehicles.
GM Holden offers an extensive range of diesel vehicles including the 2WD Captiva SUV which boasts segment leading fuel efficiency, the mid-size Epica and the small car Astra.
LPG is available on selected Commodore and Ute models, with Holden recently announcing it has significantly reduced the price of its dual fuel system.
The fuel saving technology AFM, which enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions, will be introduced as standard on all automatic V8 models in the Holden range from January 2009.
Holden Launches Fuel Saving Technology For V8 Automatic Range
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
GM Holden will introduce fuel saving Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology on all its V8 automatic models from January 2009.
AFM, or cylinder deactivation, enables an eight cylinder vehicle to automatically operate on four cylinders in certain driving conditions, before restoring full power when engine demands increase.
In a combination of town and highway driving, the technology can deliver fuel savings of up to one litre per 100 kilometres, with potential for even better results at constant cruising speeds.
AFM will be standard on all automatic V8 models in the Commodore, Ute, Sportwagon, Statesman and Caprice ranges. GM Holden will be the first local manufacturer to introduce the fuel saving technology.
Announcing the introduction of AFM at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said this was another example of the company's commitment to providing fuel saving solutions to customers.
"AFM is a strong addition to our portfolio and to our Holden EcoLine range. It is one of many steps we are taking to provide fuel saving alternatives to Australian motorists," Mr Reuss said.
"AFM delivers the best of both worlds to performance enthusiasts - improved fuel efficiency with the power they want in a V8.
"For customers looking for V8 performance, AFM makes Holden the smart choice."
AFM Technology
GM Holden's AFM system is designed to improve fuel efficiency when high output is not required.
In certain conditions such as highway driving, AFM automatically closes the intake and exhaust valves in four of the engine's eight cylinders while ensuring the engine maintains vehicle speed, effectively operating as a four cylinder.
The engine's electronic throttle control is used to increase cylinder pressure in V4 mode so that the engine can preserve the torque which drivers expect from a V8 powertrain.
The fuel supply to the deactivated cylinders will resume seamlessly providing all-cylinder operation when the driver needs it for quick acceleration, or for hauling heavy loads.
GM Holden Showcases Chevrolet Volt In Australia
GM Holden
9 October 2008
www.holden.com.au
The much-anticipated Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle has made one of its first global appearances at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.
Volt, to be launched in the US in 2010, uses electricity to move the wheels at all times and speeds in a significant advance from conventional hybrids.
When operating solely on its battery, Volt can drive up to 64 kilometres without petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions. Once the battery's energy is depleted, a small petrol engine generates electricity to power the vehicle for hundreds of additional kilometres.
Volt is an important element of General Motors' strategy to provide a range of sustainable transport solutions to meet the current and future needs of motorists.
GM estimates that compared to similar sized petrol-powered vehicles, Volt will save motorists up to 1892 litres of fuel a year. This is based on US research that identifies 75 per cent of commuters travel an average daily distance of less than 40 miles (64 kilometres).
It also calculates that charging the vehicle at night through a standard power outlet will use less electricity annually than an average household refrigerator.
GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mark Reuss said Volt's Sydney reveal gave Australian audiences an early view of one of the most important technologies shaping the future of sustainable transport.
"It is a reflection of the importance of the Australian market for General Motors that a vehicle as significant as Volt has been provided for this show," Mr Reuss said.
"This technology is potentially the most exciting addition to GM's range of alternative fuels on the horizon.
"As we move forward, it will be innovative solutions such as Volt that will sustain global motoring by reducing our dependence on foreign oil."
Volt is planned for manufacture at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly and is scheduled for launch in the US in late 2010.
Volt - How The Technology Works
Volt is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV). In a significant advance from conventional hybrids, it uses electricity to move its wheels at all times and speeds.
For trips of up to 64 kilometres, Volt is powered solely by the electricity stored in its battery without using petrol or producing exhaust pipe emissions.
When the battery's energy is depleted, a small petrol-powered engine generates electric power for the vehicle to travel hundreds of additional kilometres.
Advanced technology enables the vehicle's battery to be charged in less than three hours on a standard 240v power outlet. Charge times are reduced if the battery has not been fully depleted.
GM estimates that compared to petrol-powered vehicles that average 7.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, Volt will save motorists up to 1892 litres of fuel a year.
Volt - Vehicle Details
The design of the Volt production car has evolved from an original concept that was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
General Motors created an energy efficient design for the production vehicle, resulting in one of the most aerodynamic cars in the company's history.
Many of the design cues from the concept car have been carried over in the production Volt, including the closed front grille, athletic stance and rear design graphics.
Inside, Volt will offer the space, comfort, convenience and safety features that customers expect in a four-passenger sedan.
Preliminary Specifications
Vehicle Type: 5-door, front-wheel-drive sedan.
Category: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV).
E-REV Competitors: None.
Chassis: Independent MacPherson struts front, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes to maximise energy capture, electric power-assist steering.
Seating Capacity: Four
Top Speed: 160km/h
EV Range, City (km's): 64km
Wheelbase: 2685mm
Length: 4404mm
Width: 1798mm
Height: 1430mm
Cargo Volume: 301L
Battery System Type: Lithium-ion
Energy (kWh): 16
Electric Drive Unit Power (kW / hp): 111 / 150
Torque (Nm / lb-ft ): 370 / 273
Tyre and Wheel Size: Specially developed low rolling-resistance tyres on 17-inch forged aluminium wheels.
