MotorYP

Improving fuel economy in the Chevrolet Cruze consists of many small steps, including reducing the energy consumed by the alternator to help make the engine run more efficiently.

Officially, it is a patented General Motors technology called Regulated Voltage Control or RVC.

“We estimate RVC improves fuel economy on the Cruze by up to 1.5 percent,” said Doug Dickson, an electrical engineering specialist with the GM Global Energy Center. “To a Cruze customer, RVC enables them to get more than eight additional miles of range on every tank of fuel.”

With RVC, the power that runs from the alternator to the battery is reduced from 14 volts to 12.8 volts under normal driving conditions. This allows the alternator to focus the power on the vehicle’s electrical loads and avoid charging the battery with current it doesn’t need.

When the voltage to the battery is reduced, the demand on the alternator is reduced. That in turn reduces the alternator’s pull on the engine, allowing the engine to run more efficiently.  With the engine running more efficiently, fuel economy is improved.  

When the battery is in a high state of charge, regulated voltage control extends to supplying some of the power to handle the load created by vehicle electronics, such as the radio. The sharing further reduces the electrical demands on the alternator and the engine helping to gain further engine efficiencies.

When the battery charge drops below a pre-determined level, the alternator automatically knows to route the necessary voltage to recharge the battery.  This regenerative recharging automatically occurs when the vehicle is decelerating. So even though the battery is handling more of the vehicle’s electrical load, it will remain at a high state of charge.

“Engineers left no stone unturned when it came to implementing fuel saving technologies on the Cruze,” Dickson said.  ”Fuel economy is becoming a greater factor in purchasing decisions.”

About Chevrolet

Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 120 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free” solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com

Saving money is on the mind of any smart consumer. Ideally many people would prefer to not need a car due to the extensive cost in maintenance and fuel. Unfortunately, since most cities lack reliable transportation, this is not a realistic proposition. For the most part, the public transportation system budget are being consistently cut by state government, which shorten route availability for many Americans. Left with few options, American consumers need to consider several options when choosing a car.

Areas of the country, such as California, have the highest gas prices, therefore fuel inefficiency isn’t an option. Buying a car can be an expensive endeavor, but with poor credit and rising a cost of living, it can be difficult to make the most socially-conscience decision. Car title loans in Los Angeles and other areas of the country have increased as the public are struggles to get by with less, but consumers should realize how much they can save in the long-run.

Making the switch to a cost and energy-efficient vehicle is not only a socially-conscious decision but also one based in simple economics. They may be a little more expensive initially, but you save way more when you purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle. With skyrocketing global fuel prices and an increase in demand, the auto market has embarked on a trend of manufacturing an increasing number of fuel-efficient and hybrid vehicles.

Sales speak louder than words, with the market introducing cars like the Nissan LEAF and the Chevrolet VOLT. They’re both pricey vehicles, but with federal tax incentives and longer available warranties, these electric counterparts are becoming more affordable to the public. The Toyota PRIUS has seen a consistent increase in sales, and the latest model boasts an impressive 44 miles to the gallon. Consumer reports offers a current list of cars offering the best economy and efficiency in savings. Though eclectic isn’t the only option, the market is showing an increased demand for these products. With the increase in demand and higher production rates, the price will eventually lower.

Though the SUV hasn’t gone the way of the dinosaur just yet, some of the most efficient cars on the market are becoming hot commodities. This trend isn’t likely to change for the foreseeable future in a market where efficiency and affordability are key.

• Small car with aggressive, youthful design in five-door and sedan models
• Available Ecotec 1.4L turbo with an estimated 138 hp (103 kW)
• Engineered for agile, athletic ride and handling
• Smart connectivity features including MyChevrolet smart phone app
• Only small car built in America

Chevrolet displayed the all-new 2012 Sonic at the North American International Auto Show. Its youthful, aggressive design is backed by turbocharged performance and agile ride and handling, combining to deliver an efficient, fun-to-drive small car.

The Sonic is offered in two body styles: a stylish four-door sedan and a sporty five-door. Each delivers class-leading rear-seat roominess and cargo space. A variety of connectivity features enhance the driving experience.

“The all-new Chevrolet Sonic blends the practicality of a small car with the passion for driving that Chevrolet vehicles like the Corvette are known for,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “Its combination of great design, fun driving experience and the latest connectivity features create a serious competitor with a fun spirit.”

Production of the Sonic begins later in 2011 at the General Motors Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which received a $545-million investment in upgrades and retooling, and will help restore approximately 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area.

“Chevrolet is the only company building a small car in the United States,” said Perry. “We believe the Sonic will bring substance to the segment, with progressive styling, performance and value that will change perceptions of what a small car can be in America.”

Sonic’s highlights include:

Available efficient Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine rated at an estimated 138 horsepower (103 kW) – 18 horsepower (14 kW) more than Ford Fiesta – that delivers competitive fuel economy. It’s the same engine used in the Chevrolet Cruze in a smaller, lighter package for a greater feeling of performance.

Standard Ecotec 1.8L engine paired with five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions.

Ecotec 1.4L turbo available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Ride and handling tuned by Chevy Corvette engineers; standard electronic power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing.

Sedan model offers segment-best trunk capacity that is greater than most compact cars; hatchback and sedan offer better rear-seat roominess than Ford Fiesta. With a rear seat that folds nearly flat, the Sonic hatchback has greater cargo capacity than Fiesta.

Connectivity includes OnStar with six months of Turn-by-Turn navigation. Available features include XM Satellite Radio, USB and Bluetooth functionality and MyChevrolet mobile application with OnStar MyLink vehicle connectivity

Remote start, heated front seats and sunroof, all rarities in the segment.  

Comprehensive safety features include 10 standard air bags, antilock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response.

Progressive exterior design

From every angle, Sonic sedan and five-door models convey strength, stability and refinement. A wide, planted stance, with wheels-at-the-corners proportions, conveys performance. Progressive, raked body lines suggest movement even when the car is stationary.

Aggressive cues, including fender flares and motorcycle-inspired round headlamps, are blended with global design cues – a dual-element grille and round taillamps – for a design instantly recognizable as Chevrolet. The leading edge of the hood forms a character line above the headlamps, which flows in a sleek side profile characterized by uninterrupted body side lines, a high beltline and low roofline. The side mirrors carry the same shape as the car and seemingly disappear into the profile.

The sedan and five-door models are distinctively different. The five-door carries a tight, two-box shape with aggressive, diving feature lines, while the sedan’s “notchback” profile has a more upscale and mature presence. At first glance, the five-door model looks like a three-door hatch because the rear door handles are discreetly located in the “C”-pillar area. The rear of the five-door continues with unconventional details, including exposed, motorcycle-inspired rear taillamps.

Details that reinforce Sonic’s quality and attention to detail include chrome grille surrounds and matte black honeycomb grille inserts on all models, while a range of large wheel sizes, including 17-inch alloy wheels, reinforces its sporty demeanor.

Inspired interior

Sonic’s cabin complements the motorcycle-inspired exterior with a detailed instrument cluster featuring a large, round analog tachometer set within an asymmetrical LCD readout, with a large digital speedometer display.

Additional interior highlights include:

The mid-instrument panel surface is available in two colors (dark titanium and brick) and flows seamlessly into the upper doors, with premium low-glass finishes .

The automatic shift knob has a “cobra head” design, while the manual shifter has a chrome-finished knob .

Tubular outboard climate outlets protrude from the instrument panel surface.  

The interior includes storage compartments in the center stack and doors. The rear seats fold flat for carrying larger items. Front bucket seats are standard and heated front seats are available.  

Cruze-based powertrains

Chevrolet Sonic models are powered by efficient, power-dense, small-displacement engines, including the Ecotec 1.4L turbo and the Ecotec 1.8L – the same engines used in the new Chevrolet Cruze. Three transmissions are available: a five-speed manual and six-speed automatic with the 1.8L and a six-speed manual with the 1.4L turbo.

The Ecotec 1.4L turbo’s power ratings are estimated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 rpm and 4,900 rpm. The wide rpm range for the maximum torque – a specific trait of turbocharged engines – helps the engine deliver a better driving experience and performance.  Premium design elements give the engine world-class smoothness and durability. Features include:

• Low-mass hollow-frame cast iron block
• Dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing
• Chain-driven cams
• Roller-finger camshaft followers
• Piston-cooling oil jets and integrated oil cooler
• Variable-flow oil pump
• Electronically controlled thermostat.

The 1.4L’s turbocharger is integrated within the exhaust manifold, for reduced weight and greater packaging flexibility in small vehicles. A reinforced crankshaft and stronger connecting rods deliver additional strength to support the engine’s pressurized power and torque over a wide rpm band.  

The naturally aspirated Ecotec 1.8L engine has many of the same features of the Ecotec 1.4L turbo. It is a compact and durable four-cylinder engine designed for low maintenance, low emissions and fuel efficiency. Its two-stage variable intake manifold allows approximately 90 percent of peak torque to be available from 2,400 rpm to 6,500 rpm. It is estimated at 135 horsepower (101 kW), along with 123 lb.-ft. of torque (167 Nm) at 3,800 rpm.

Engineered for agile, athletic ride and handling

The Sonic brings agility and a fun-to-drive feel that is rare in the segment. Engineers who also work on the Corvette tuned the Sonic’s confident ride and handling, giving it a more direct and athletic feel, while balancing the vehicle for the broad range of driving conditions in North America.

All models feature a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension – featuring a robust, tubular V-shape beam – with gas-charged shocks. The front and rear tracks are identical at 59.4 inches (1,509 mm), for well-planted stability and excellent balance.

Electronic power steering is standard and features a wear compensator that continually adjusts the system interaction with the steering gear to ensure precise steering action over the life of the system.  

Sonic’s body structure is designed to be one of the stiffest in the segment. Its rigidity enabled engineers to tune the ride and handling more precisely. Sonic’s unique “flat top frame” cradle, for example, assures optimal stiffness in the front chassis portion of the vehicle. The rear axle is essentially a straight axle without contour for packaging restraints and reduced noise, vibration and harshness.  

A range of wheel sizes is available, including 17-inch wheels and sport tires. Power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes are standard, along with a four-channel antilock braking system. The four-sensor system – one at each wheel – incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on such factors as road conditions and the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Widely regarded as being the most forward-thinking of all the major shows, the latest in technology and design exhibited here will be finding their way into driveways across the country in the near future. The show will also feature more than 50 World and North American debuts, including the completely redesigned Hyundai Elantra, the next high-volume vehicle is being made at its Montgomery, Alabama factory. Lincoln is making automotive history with the launch of the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, offering luxury customers a premium hybrid sedan at the same base price as its conventional gas sibling. Subaru is showing an Impreza Concept Car that shows the direction that Subaru thinks all-wheel Drive sedans will be taking in the next few years. This new design theme seems to be working along with the well-known Subaru traits of all-wheel drive safety and reliability, since Subaru just set an all-time sales record for the US – beating last year’s all-time record by 25%.

This year’s show also marks the historic arrival of the modern electric car era. After years of anticipation, consumers can finally purchase mass-produced electric vehicles complete with factory warranties. One of the highly anticipated vehicles to kick-off this modern era of electric transportation is the Chevrolet Volt. It’s the world’s first mass-produced, plug-in electric vehicle with a range-extending onboard engine. 

Featuring more than a dozen electric drive vehicles arriving in the near future, the show will map out how electric transportation will progress in the coming years.  The show will also feature at least 15 concept vehicles ranging from futuristic design studies to realistic brand design directions.

The Chevrolet Camaro opens a new chapter as the 2011 Camaro convertible premieres at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The new convertible begins production in January and goes on sale in February. It includes an enhanced body structure and well-tailored top mechanism – a combination designed to deliver sports coupe-like driving fun and precise quality. The convertible will be offered in similar model configurations as the Camaro coupe. The standard model will have a 312-horsepower direct injection V-6 engine delivering 29 mpg highway. The SS model will feature the 6.2L V-8 engine producing 426 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, with an optional six-speed automatic.

Chevrolet affirms its commitment to fuel solutions and building refined, eco-friendly vehicles with the debut of the U.S. production version of the Cruze sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show, on Dec. 2. The Cruze, along with the much-anticipated Volt electric vehicle, will give visitors to the L.A. show a close-up view of Chevrolet’s expanding lineup of gas-friendly to gas-free products. [...]

The Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle is expected to achieve city fuel economy of at least 230 miles per gallon, based on development testing using a draft EPA federal fuel economy methodology for labeling for plug-in electric vehicles.

The Volt, which is scheduled to start production in late 2010 as a 2011 model, is expected to travel up to 40 miles on electricity from a single battery charge and be able to extend its overall range to more than 300 miles with its flex fuel-powered engine-generator. [...]