Chevy trucks celebrate 100 years of shaping how Americans work and travel

Forget the ’57 Chevy, the Corvette and Camaro.

With 100 years of production and the auto industry’s oldest continually used nameplate, the archetypal hero vehicle for General Motors’ biggest brand is a Chevrolet truck, and it’s celebrating a century on the market.

Chevy trucks turn 100 this fall, just in time for the brand to capitalize on its hard-earned, hardworking reputation with new models in the hottest parts of the market with the Traverse SUV on sale now and a new generation of pickups coming soon.

“GM’s been in the truck market forever, even when it was less popular,” IHS Markit senior analyst Stephanie Brinley said. “The Silverado pickup and Suburban SUV grew up with America.” Engineered was about as basic as it gets: a one-ton flatbed with no cab, roof, doors or padding on its wooden bench seat. It was literally a horseless carriage, a mild adaptation of the age-old design that put a 36-hp 3.6L four-cylinder engine in front of the driver, where a horse would have gone a year earlier.

Prices started at $1,325, a pretty penny at the time, and more than double the $600 Ford charged for the Model TT that had debuted as its first pickup a few months earlier.

“Chevrolet’s trucks have been a critical part GM’s business model for much of the company’s history,” said Karl Brauer, executive publisher of Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book. “The Ford/GM rivalry has forced both companies to repeatedly up their game over the past century.”

Until Ford and Chevrolet hit on essentially the same idea of developing a vehicle specifically to haul and tow, pickups had been modified cars. A customizer would buy a car from the factory, chop its frame up to create a longer cargo bed and get rid of unnecessary frills such as rear seats and doors. The 1918 Chevy One-Ton and Model TT created a new class of more capable and durable vehicles.

GM built a whopping 384 of those Chevy trucks in 1918, all of them at a factory in Flint, not far from where GM still has a huge pickup plant. A second plant in Oakland, Calif., started building Chevy trucks for customers on the West Coast in 1919.

1939 – 1946 “Arsenal of Democracy” — In 1942, all Chevy factories were converted to support the war effort. Chevy built military 6×6 trucks, aircraft engines parts, 90 mm cannon barrels and the T17E1 “Staghound,” a 14-ton armored car equipped with two 6-cylinder engines. (Photo: Chevrolet)

People began to expect more from their trucks by the 1930s. The vehicles began doubling as family transportation for farmers and Chevy responded with niceties such as windows, doors fenders and running boards on its second-generation pickup. Prices started at $400.

The Chevrolet Suburban essentially invented the SUV and the luxurious, truck-based people hauler when it went on sale in 1935. “It was built on a truck chassis and shared lots of sheet metal and mechanical parts with the pickups,” GM Heritage Center director Greg Wallace said.

The Suburban is the auto industry’s longest continually used model name, and the progenitor of modern family-carrying 4WD vehicles.

1935 THE FIRST CHEVROLET SUBURBAN Chevrolet introduced the Suburban Carryall, a closed body one half ton truck platform with seating for eight people. It would evolve into today’s SUV.  (Photo: Chevrolet)

Pickups gained style and panache when legendary GM design chief Harley Earl lent his magic to the 1938 half-ton pickup, which shared some design cues with Chevrolet cars.

When Detroit reinvented itself as the Arsenal of Democracy during World War II, civilian vehicle production stopped and GM plants built engines, axles and more for hundreds of thousands of troop- and cargo-carrying Chevy and GMC trucks.

After the war, aerodynamic styling wraparound windshields made pickups more socially acceptable and introduced the first trucks that enthusiasts would customize and turn into hot rods. Chevy’s 1955 Cameo Carrier pickup was called “the Gentleman’s Truck,” thanks to features such as an automatic transmission and chrome bumpers. It was a signature vehicle for future GM design chief Chuck Jordan, whose other work included the ultimate expression of tail fins on the 1959 Cadillac.

Pickups and SUVs grew more popular for the next four decades despite a few lulls when fuel prices rose and the economy faltered.

Chevy has provided its own list of iconic pickups from 1918 to the current Silverado:

• 1918 One-Ton
• 1929 International Series Light Duty
• 1938 Half-Ton
• 1947 3100 Series
• 1955 3124 Series Cameo Carrier
• 1967 C10 Fleetside
• 1973 C30 One-Ton Dually
• 1988 K1500 Sportside Silverado
• 1999 Silverado 1500 LT Z71
• 2007 Silverado 1500 LTZ
• 2017 Colorado ZR2
• 2017 Silverado All-Star Edition

It was the most recent step in Chevy trucks’ 100-year evolution from a doorless buckboard that just happened to have an engine instead of a horse.

Chevy trucks through the years:

1918 One-Ton

MSRP: $1,325 (Chassis), $1,460 (Express)

Engine: 3.67L OHV 4-cylinder (224 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 36

U.S. population: 103.2 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.25

Price of a gallon of milk: $0.29

Average household income: $1,518 per year

 

 

1929 International Series Light Duty

MSRP: $400 (Chassis), $595 (Sedan Delivery)

Engine: 3.18L OHV 6-cylinder (194 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 46

Torque: 125 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 121.8 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.21

Price of a gallon of milk: $0.56

Average household income: $1,582

Price of a new home: $7,246

 

1938 Half-Ton

MSRP: $592

Engine: 3.5L I-6 (216.5 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 78

Torque: 170 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 129.8 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.16

Price of a gallon of milk: $0.17

Average household income: $1,730

Price of a new home: $3,900

 

1947 3100 Series

MSRP: $1,087

Engine: 3.5L I-6 (216.5 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 78

Torque: 170 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 144.1 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.19

Price of a gallon of milk: $0.33

Average household income: $2,850

Price of a new home: $6,600

 

1955 3124 Series Cameo Carrier

MSRP: $1,981

Engine: 3.85L Inline Six (235 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 123

Torque: 210 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 165.9 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.25

Price of a gallon of milk: $0.38

Average household income: $4,130

Price of a new home: $10,950

 

1967 C10 Fleetside

MSRP: $2,408

Engine: 4.79L Inline Six (292 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 153

Torque: 255 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 198.7 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.33

Price of a gallon of milk: $1.03

Average household income: $7,143

Price of a new home: $24,600

 

1973 C30 One-Ton Dually

MSRP: $4,388

Engine: 5.03L V8 (307 cubic inches)

Horsepower: 130

Torque: 220 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 211.9 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $0.39

Price of a gallon of milk: $1.31

Average household income: $10,512

Price of a new home: $35,500

 

1988 K1500 Sportside Silverado

MSRP: $12,747

Engine: 5.7L V8

Horsepower: 185

Torque: 295 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 244.5 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $1.08

Price of a gallon of milk: $2.30

Average household income: $27,225

Price of a new home: $138,300

 

1999 Silverado 1500 LT Z71

MSRP: $31,384

Engine: 5.3L V8

Horsepower: 270

Torque: 320 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 279 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $1.17

Price of a gallon of milk: $3.32

Average household income: $39,973

Price of a new home: $195,800

2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ (Photo: Chevrolet)

 

2007 Silverado 1500 LTZ

MSRP: $34,990

Engine: 5.3L V8

Horsepower: 315

Torque: 338 lb.-ft.

U.S. population: 301.2 million

Price of a gallon of gas: $3.38

Price of a gallon of milk: $3.87

Average household income: $50,823

Price of a new home: $313,600

 

Information was reblogged from http://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/mark-phelan/2017/09/28/chevy-trucks-general-motors/702921001/

To shop Jack Maxton Chevy Truck inventory, please visit www.jackmaxton.com

Vehicle Profile: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevrolet Silverado, like many other models in the brand’s lineup, is an American icon, and it gets even better for 2017.

The full-size 2017 Chevrolet Silverado starts at an MSRP of $27,585 and is available in six trim levels: WT, LS, Custom, LT, LTZ and High Country. There are three cab styles with Regular Cab, Double Cab and Crew Cab, three box lengths (5’8”, 6’6” and 8’) and all models can be equipped with four-wheel drive.

With all of the recent additions to the Silverado lineup, AutoTrader noted “the latest Silverado makes an excellent case for itself as one of today’s top pickup trucks.” That’s no surprise for the pickup that was named “Highest Ranked Large Light Duty Pickup in Initial Quality, Two Years in a Row” by J.D. Power.

That didn’t stop Chevrolet from making the 2017 model even better. There are two new exterior colors (Pepperdust Metallic and Graphite Metallic) and a capless fuel fill, and the newest model is standard with the Teen Driver feature that promotes safe driving habits by letting parents view various driving information during their child’s time out with their vehicle. The Enhanced Driver Alert Package now features Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking, and Crew Cab models now have the segment’s best max trailering rating of 12,500 pounds.

Safety is a Silverado highlight with six airbags, StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, Rollover Mitigation technology, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control, all standard. A rear vision camera is available. The Enhanced Driver Alert Package (standard on High Country models) adds IntelliBeam headlamps with automatic high-beam control, Front and Rear Park Assist, the Safety Alert Driver Seat, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and the new Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. You also get the peace of mind that comes with the OnStar® vehicle telematics system.

There are three engines available for the Silverado, including a 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8. The V6 makes 285 hp and 305 lb/ft of torque, while stepping up to the 5.3-liter V8 gets you 355 hp and 383 lb/ft of torque, with more than 300 lb/ft of torque available from 2,000 to 5,600 rpm. The 6.2-liter V8 produces a potent 420 hp and 460 lb/ft of torque. All engines employ a trifecta of technologies including direct injection, Continuously Variable Valve Timing and Active Fuel Management to make the most out of every drop of fuel. An eight-speed automatic transmission is also available.

The exterior of the Silverado is rugged yet refined with available unique features like the CornerStep rear bumper, EZ Lift and Lower Locking Tailgate, cargo box LED lighting, and power-articulating running boards. Wheels range from 17-inches to 20-inches so you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Inside, Chevrolet MyLink® with an eight-inch color touch screen helps keep you connected and you can also add supple leather upholstery. Wireless phone charging, a Bose® sound system, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, dual zone automatic climate control and a heated steering wheel are also available. You can also add an abundance of packages and accessories to make the Silverado as unique as you are.

Add in two years/24,000-miles of complimentary maintenance (two visits), a three-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty and five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty with courtesy transportation and roadside assistance, and the Silverado is hard to beat.

Stop by today to let us know you’re interested in the Silverado and we’ll show you some of the impressive models that can help you get the job done.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

5 places to go in your Chevrolet

Take a drive in your Chevrolet – 5 Places to Go Canoeing or Kayaking in Ohio 

Though they may be pretty far from both the East and West Coasts, Ohioans still have plenty of water activities to keep them cool and active during the summertime.

From Lake Erie to the Ohio River, the Buckeye State is full of scenic creeks and waterways that are perfect for paddling. Here are just some of the best places in the state to go canoeing or kayaking.

Mohican River

The village of Loudonville, which is located in between Cleveland and Columbus, has actually earned the nickname “Canoe Capital of Ohio” due to the many liveries located along the Mohican River. Paddling down the river will take you through the beautiful Mohican State Park, which contains three separate camping areas for those looking to turn their trip to Loudonville into a weekend-long getaway. And with nearby hiking trails and zip-lining available, there is no reason not to make the most of your visit. Get a list of nearby rental facilities at http://discovermohican.com/what-to-do.php?UID=24.

Lake Erie

There are many potential launching off points for those looking to paddle Lake Erie, but perhaps the most scenic is found in the Marblehead area. On a clear day, those canoeing and kayaking off the shores of Marblehead will enjoy views of the historic Perry’s Monument on South Bass Island, the towering roller coasters at Cedar Point and the picturesque Marblehead Lighthouse which stands on the rocky shores of the peninsula. For those who do not own their own canoe or kayak, there are many boat rental services in the area, including Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals and Kayak the Bay, Ltd on South Bass Island. Learn more about paddling in this area at http://paddling.net/places/showReport.html?2078.

Big Darby Creek

Central Ohio’s Big Darby Creek runs 84 miles from Champaign County down to Franklin County. One of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in all of the Midwest, the river is home to the only known population of the Scioto madtom species of fish. Those paddling Big Darby Creek should be sure to stop in Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, which is home to bison and other fascinating wildlife. Trapper John’s Canoe Livery in Grove City is one of the most popular boat rental services in the area, and trips and pricing can be found at http://trapperjohnscanoeing.com/#!trips/czpx.

Little Miami River

The 111-mile Little Miami River flows through five counties in southwestern Ohio, beginning in Clark County and emptying into the Ohio River. One of the best stretches of the Little Miami can be enjoyed at Scenic River Canoe Excursions, located in the Greater Cincinnati area. Scenic River Canoe Excursions offers group outings and canoe, kayak and tube rentals for a peaceful, relaxing paddle down one of the state’s most beautiful waterways. To learn more, visit http://scenicrivercanoe.com/.

Hocking River

The rolling Hocking Hills of southeastern Ohio provide some of the most beautiful views in all of Appalachia. While most residents, visitors and students at the nearby Ohio University have hiked through Hocking Hills State Park at one time or another, fewer have experienced the pleasure of paddling down the Hocking River. Fox’s Hocking Hills Canoe Livery in Logan rents out canoes, kayaks and rafts to those wishing to explore the Hocking River, while also providing campsites, cabins and fun Moonlight Tours. For more information, visit http://hockingriver.com/.

From the Big Darby Creek to the Little Miami River, there are waterways of all shapes and sizes in Ohio just waiting to be explored. Hop into a kayak or canoe and paddle your way through some of these scenic spots.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio

 

Car Care: Give Your Car Its Spring Physical

It’s the right time to have your vehicle serviced

Today’s cars and trucks last longer than ever. They are generally more trouble-free than ever before, also, and the best way to keep them that way is the automotive equivalent of a physical. Just as your doctor checks over your systems and structure, your dealership’s service department will look over your vehicle with expert eyes.

Don’t wait until a “Service Engine Soon” warning pops up on the instrument panel or a tire blows out. By then, it may be too late to avoid an expensive repair or considerable inconvenience. Prevent problems on the road with a spring checkup. Here are some items that should be included.

Electrical System: Your car’s battery and alternator should be checked to be sure the charging system is up to snuff, the battery is within its serviceable lifespan and has enough reserve, and all cables and connections are clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Belts should also be checked for tightness, cracks and excessive wear, as a broken belt will stop you in your tracks.

Tires and Wheels: Whack a few killer potholes lately? Modern tires are also better than ever before, but you need to keep an eye out for problems that can lead to tire failure. Have a trained technician examine your tires for cuts in the tread or sidewalls, bulges, bubbles, dry rot, signs of belt separation or other problems that could leave you stranded, and make sure tires are properly inflated. Wheel damage is common, too, so be sure to include them in the inspection.

Suspension and Alignment: At the same time your tires and wheels are inspected, your suspension and wheel alignment should also be examined. Shock absorbers can fail, steering components can bend or become loose, and bushings can wear out. Winter conditions can be hard on the parts designed to support you, as can rough roads or frequent trips into the back country. For predictable handling, even tire wear and maximum fuel efficiency, it’s important that all four wheels––not just the drive wheels–– are properly aligned. If you can’t remember the last time you had it done, now is the time to have an alignment performed. Your tires will last longer and you’ll avoid spending the extra money at the pump that can result from misaligned wheels.

Fluid Levels and Filters: Because today’s cars can click off tens of thousands of miles without problems, it can be easy to forget about checking, topping off and replacing its vital fluids. Coolant and brake fluid both have finite lifespans and require replacement, as indicated in your owner’s manual. Your dealership’s technicians have special tools to check the age and protection level of the engine coolant, and they’ll also have the coolant specified by the manufacturer for use in your car. Brake fluid needs attention as well, and your routine driving conditions––frequent towing, heavy stop-and-go driving, etc.––can make it necessary to have these systems serviced more frequently than indicated in the manufacturer’s basic schedule.

Spring is a great time to treat your car to an oil and filter change. Whether it’s hot or cold where you live, idling a lot, sub-zero temperatures or excessively hot conditions can all degrade engine oil, leaving delicate components more vulnerable to premature wear and corrosion. Moisture and acids can build up in the oil, as well, so getting it changed in the spring ensures proper protection. Don’t forget to have the engine’s air filter and, if equipped, the cabin air filter checked and replaced if needed. Also remember that necessary chassis lubrication is part of the usual “L.O.F.,” or “Lube, Oil, Filter,” service. Those parts are especially susceptible to wear and corrosion, whether salt is used on the roads where you live or not.

As the seasons change again, it’s a great time to rejuvenate your automobile. Good planning and preventative maintenance can ensure a worry-free summer ahead.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

OnStar AtYourService Partners With Groupon and ExxonMobil

OnStar AtYourService Partners With Groupon and ExxonMobil

New joint venture allows for more savings and convenience

Owners of GM vehicles who have OnStar AtYourService are in for some good news: This multichannel platform, which provides users with money-saving offers, has officially signed on with Groupon and ExxonMobil as its newest partners, providing consumers even greater savings on an array of new products and services.

In addition, even more useful functions will be added later in the year with RemoteLink and future vehicle owner apps, allowing users to utilize mobile ordering, mobile payments and fuel pump activations with participating AtYourService partners.

“The AtYourService platform is all about delivering daily relevance and value to our connected customers, enhancing their ownership experience,” said Mark Lloyd, consumer online officer with OnStar. “Integrating great new partners like Groupon and ExxonMobil helps us deliver content and services that simplify our customers’ lives and save them money.”

With the addition of Groupon, new and exciting offers for places such as restaurants, salons, spas and retailers will be added to the platform, which are offered to users based on the phone’s location. Also new will be active Groupon promotions as a separate search category, which will help users find offers from local businesses. In addition, new fuel and convenience store offers will be incorporated by ExxonMobil beginning early this year.

Just some of the companies with offers on AtYourService include Dunkin’ Donuts, Priceline.com, Parkopedia, RetailMeNot and Audiobooks.com.

Just in the last quarter of 2015, AtYourService opened more than 130,000 money-saving offers. And, since its launch, more than 6,400 hotel reservations were made through a joint venture with Priceline.com.

GM continues to provide more value for its owners and with their latest venture. For more information about OnStar, AtYourService and RemoteLink, visit http://www.onstar.com or stop by and let us explain more.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio. http://www.jackmaxton.com 

Why do we recommend ACDelco dexos™1 certified engine oil?

GM dexos™ Engine Oil Increases Engine Efficiency New for the 2011 model year, GM will introduce ACDelco dexos™1 certified engine oil as a factory fill and service fill for its gasoline engines worldwide. The new engine oil specification has been developed to help meet the increased demands for enhanced engine efficiency. dexos™ oil helps deliver increased fuel efficiency and reduced engine emissions. dexos™ is a GM proprietary engine oil specification that has been designed to:

• Further improve fuel economy (to meet future Corporate Average Fuel Economy, CAFE, requirements) and fuel economy retention through improved viscometric properties that create less friction in the engine, which allows the oil to maintain its fuel economy benefits throughout the longer life of the oil
• Provide a more robust formulation for added engine protection that offers improved oxidation and deposit-forming tendencies and aeration performance, which enables fuel-saving devices, such as January / February I 2011 January / February 2011 ACDelco News Page 2 Variable Valve Timing, to work optimally
• Support GM’s Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS) by resisting degradation between oil changes
• Ensure worldwide availability of equal quality oil while reducing the duplication of a large number of internal GM engine oil specifications, replacing GM specifications GMLL-A-025, GM6094M and GM4718M. dexos™1 also is backward compatible for older vehicles; however, the owner manual oil specification in prior model years remains acceptable.

dexos™ Classifications

The dexos™ specification includes two classifications.

1. GM will require dexos™1 for global factory fill in spark ignited engines worldwide and service fill for gasoline engines worldwide. It will replace the GM6094M specification for most GM gasoline engines.
2. dexos™2, required for diesel engines as well as a service fill for gasoline engines in Europe, was introduced in Europe late last year.

GF-5 Standard

In addition to GM dexos™, a new International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) standard, GF-5, was introduced in 2010. There is a new API engine oil service category – SN Resource Conserving. The current GF-4 standard was put in place in 2004. The GF- 5 standard will use a new engine fuel economy test, called Sequence VID (six D), which provides a statistically significant increase in fuel economy versus the Sequence VIB (six B) test that was used for GF-4. Like dexos™, the new ILSAC GF-5 standard will call for more sophisticated additives.

It’s expected that all dexos™1 approved oils will meet GF-5. However, not all GF-5 engine oils will necessarily meet the dexos™ specification.

Fuel Economy

Since CAFE standards were first introduced in 1974, the fuel economy of cars has more than doubled, while the fuel economy of light trucks has increased by more than 50 percent. Proposed CAFE standards call for a continuation of increased fuel economy in new cars and trucks. To meet these future requirements, all vehicle operation aspects are being looked at more critically than ever before.

New technology being introduced in GM vehicles designed to address vehicle efficiency and fuel economy include direct injection, cam phasing, turbocharging and Active Fuel Management. The demands of these technologies on engine oil also are taken into consideration when determining new oil specifications. Active Fuel Management, for example, can help to achieve improved fuel economy, however, alternately starting and stopping cylinders puts a lot of stress on engine oil.

To meet tough fuel economy mandates, the industry will shift toward lower viscosity oils. Testing has shown that thinner 0W-20 oil, for example, can provide as much as a 4-percent improvement in fuel economy over 15W-40 oil.

dexos™1 will be offered in these viscosities: SAE 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30 and 5W-30. dexos2™ will be available in SAE 5W-30, 0W-40 and 5W-40. Please check the appropriate vehicle owner manual for the proper viscosity grade.

Increased Service Intervals

To help reduce the consumption of oil while maintaining proper engine protection, many GM vehicles equipped with the GM OLMS have a maximum oil change interval that is much longer than what was considered a normal interval just a few years ago.

ACDelco News Page 3 If all GM vehicle owners follow the OLMS intervals in their vehicles as intended, GM estimates that more than 100 million gallons of oil could be saved annually.

The second generation OLMS will rely on significantly more engine operating information than the current system, which, combined with dexos™ certified oil, could allow a significant extension of the maximum oil change interval. dexos™ specifications call for improved oil robustness to support extended drain intervals over a vehicle’s lifetime.

When the OLMS determines that an oil and filter change is needed, the driver is notified by a Change Oil message on the instrument panel. The oil change should be performed within 600 miles (1,000 km). The OLMS must be manually reset when the oil is changed.

dexos™1 Availability: Currently, ACDelco Synthetic Blend dexos™1 5W30 engine oil is available through the GM Oil Program in 55 gallon drums (which can be pumped into bulk tanks). Quart-size packaged product is now available. Orders may be placed through your local ACDelco oil distributor http://www.jackmaxton.com.

More Information can be found at

http://www.acdelcotechconnect.com/pdf/newsletters-press-releases/acdelco/2011/11jti-007-acdelco-news-2011.pdf

Chevrolet is Global Leader for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay

All-new 2016 Cruze is one of 14 Chevrolet models to offer compatibility
LOS ANGELES – According to Strategy Analytics, there are more than 2.3 billion
smartphones in use globally, and that number continues to rise. And on the road,
customers are demanding better integration between phones and their vehicles.
Whether they have an Apple or Android phone, Chevrolet is committed to providing
the smartest, simplest connected driving experience possible to owners across the
globe.

For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
compatibility in more models than any automotive brand. The 14 Chevrolet models
include the all-new 2016 Cruze, which will debut on June 24. Cruze is Chevrolet’s
best-selling passenger car, with more than 3 million sold since launch. Additional
models are listed in a chart below.

“For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General
Motors. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto
compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example
of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our
customers.”

Chevrolet’s seven-inch MyLink system gives owners a smart and simple way to
access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The eight-inch version of MyLink will
be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year.
While development and testing is not yet complete, Android Auto compatibility may
be available on the eight-inch version of MyLink later in the 2016 model year.

Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto
is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well
as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype,
Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is
available at Android.com/auto.

Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts
them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to
make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the
touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone,
Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can
be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay.

Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the
steering wheel, helping drivers spend more time with eyes on the road and hands
on the wheel.

Chevrolet has a strong track record when it comes to broad availability of
customer-centric innovation as the first brand to introduce Siri Eyes Free
functionality and the first and only car company to offer available OnStar 4G LTE
connectivity across a range of cars, trucks and crossovers in the U.S. and Canada.
In less than one year, Chevrolet has connected more than a half-million customers
to high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

Chevrolet customers in markets around the world including Brazil, Mexico and
Canada will benefit from this new level of smartphone integration. Specific market
availability for Android Auto can be found here. Current Apple CarPlay markets can
be found here.

In 2014, the 14 models included in this rollout accounted for more than 2.4 million
vehicle sales, or 51 percent of Chevrolet’s total global sales.
Using either application is simple in a compatible 2016 Chevrolet. A “Projection”
icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes
to indicate either CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a
compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the
Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an
iPhone 5 or later.

Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and
Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also
apply.

For Release: Wednesday, May 27, 2015, 3 p.m. EDT Information provided by http://www.chevy.com

Places to go in your Chevrolet: 5 Great Camping Sites in Ohio

5 Great Camping Sites in Ohio

Get away from it all in the heart of it all

Camping season is in full swing. Most parks opened up last month and with school’s dismissing soon for the summer, these five great campgrounds in Ohio are sure to be bustling with activity.

Tappan Lake Park

Located in Deersville, Tappan Lake accommodates more than 500 campsites with full hookups and electric, vacation cabins and camper cabins. More than 2,300 acres of water surface are on hand, ready for swimming, boating and fishing. Meanwhile, the 5,000 acres of land are great for hiking a trail that connects the park to the Tappan Wetlands, a designated watchable wildlife area. You can also play on one of the three playgrounds or engage in some sporting activities such as basketball, tennis, volleyball or horseshoes. The activity center has free Wi-Fi, a laundromat and a nature center, which is the home for many daily programs and activities for children. For more information, visit http://tappanpark.mwcd.org/.

Alum Creek State Park

Alum Creek’s 3,387-acre reservoir and 4,630 acres of gently rolling fields and woodlands provide a nucleus of recreational activity just minutes from Ohio’s capital city. Quiet coves nestled among shale cliffs await the solitary fisherman in the park’s northern reaches, while sun-seekers mingle on the state’s largest inland beach. Playground equipment, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a swimming beach and a boat ramp are designated for campers’ use only, while seemingly endless miles of hiking biking trails run throughout the park, as well. There are camping experiences for everyone here — with almost 300 campsites with 50-amp electrical hookup, three sites that provide a full hookup service including sewer, electricity and water, 30 primitive sites and a group camping area for reserved retreats. For more information, visit http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/alumcreek.

Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills in Logan provides a variety of recreational opportunities in a grand natural setting. The 2,356-acre park has towering cliffs, waterfalls and deep shaded gorges to lure the hiker and naturalist and serve as a backdrop to popular facilities and accommodations. Activities include archery, fishing, nearby hunting, picnicking, pool swimming, hiking and cave exploring, biking and horseback riding. There is no shortage of room for you, as Hocking Hills boasts 15 resorts and campgrounds ranging from cabins to tents to tepees. For more information, visit http://www.hockinghills.com/camping.html.

Indian Lake State Park

The 5,800-acre Indian Lake in Lakeview offers a variety of water-related recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, skiing, hiking, biking and more. Two public beaches provide 1,400 feet of shoreline access to the lake that is surrounded by the 800 acre multi-use park. Nearly 450 family campsites suitable for tents or trailers are available near the lakeshore, and three deluxe cabins can be rented from May through October each year. For more information, visit http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/indianlake or http://www.indianlakearea.com/indian_lake_state_park.htm.

Shawnee State Park

This 1,095-acre park is nestled in the woodlands of Appalachia near the banks of the Ohio River in Portsmouth. Once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee Indians, the region is renowned for its rugged beauty. Roosevelt and Turkey Creek Lakes provide two public beaches for swimming and 68 acres for boating and aquatic sports and fishing.

Six hiking trails traverse the park, along with two bridle trails for 60 miles of backpacking through the wilderness of Ohio. An 18-hole championship golf course is located nearby, along with mini golf, volleyball, basketball and courts, playground equipment and more to be found at the park. The nature center is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with more than 100 sites suitable for camping in tents or trailers there, plus two camper cabins, 25 cottages and a 50-room lodge. For more information, visit http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/shawnee.

Enjoy all the environment of Ohio has to offer, anywhere in Ohio, at the stellar above campsites or any of the many others throughout the state.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio

Motor Trend named the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup its Truck of the Year

Motor Trend named the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado pickup its Truck of the Year, edging out Ford’s aluminum-bodied F-150.

The award from the influential magazine should give General Motors a marketing boost as it seeks to revive interest in the market for midsize pickups. It launched the Colorado and sibling GMC Canyon this fall.

“The editors were particularly impressed with Colorado’s handsome, clean-sheet design, ‘right-sized’ package, excellent handling, and overall capability,” the magazine said.

The company’s ability to “create a true North American capable truck for this part of the planet and beat a serious new competitor is just spectacular,” he added.

Chevrolet plans to market a diesel version of the truck and Reuss predicted today the diesel variant and its fuel economy “will surprise people.”

Motor Trend editors tested seven truck nameplates and three variants of those competitors, for a total of 10 entries. They rated each on design, engineering excellence, efficiency, safety, value and “performance of intended function.”

“Colorado is a smart, capable, and refreshingly honest truck that makes a strong value and efficiency statement,” Motor Trend editor-in-chief Edward Loh said. “It’s perfectly sized and suited for the needs of many of today’s truck users.”

The magazine also praised the Colorado’s “potent yet efficient powertrains,” which include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V-6.

The models tested included:

• Chevy Colorado WT and Colorado Z71
• Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
• Ford F-150 2.7-liter EcoBoost and 3.5-liter EcoBoost
• Ford F-450
• Ford Transit 350 HR and Transit 150 MR
• GMC Canyon SLT
• GMC Sierra Denali 2500 HD

Editors put each truck through the paces in real-world road tests without payload or trailered loads, including a 0-60 mph and quarter-mile acceleration, 60-0 mph braking and maximum lateral grip tests. Testing with payload and trailers was done in the Arizona desert and at a proving grounds.

The contest also included a test to record “accurate, real-world fuel economy” through use of exhaust gas and “flow rate” analyzers to measure tailpipe emissions each second during a three-hour, 88-mile drive around the Los Angeles area, near the magazine’s headquarters in El Sugundo, Calif.

Sandor Piszar, Chevy’s marketing director for trucks, said in a statement that the award “shows how Colorado is changing the game by offering truck customers fresh new choices.”

http://www.jackmaxton.com

Car Care: Why Winter Tires Are Necessary

Even if you don’t get snow, winter tires are important…

Getting out and conquering the weather provides a welcome respite from the winter doldrums, so don’t let foul weather or cold keep you from doing the things you enjoy. A simple yet effective way to get around safely in the colder months is to invest in a set of winter tires.

While not every area of the country experiences snow or even brutally cold temperatures, the fact is that summer and “all-season” tire rubber begins to lose its flexibility and ability to grip the road when the temperature drops below just 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter-specific tire rubber is specifically formulated to perform in colder temperatures, and winter tires also have added features and specific tread patterns to help maximize traction in poor driving conditions. In addition, summer and all-season tire tread patterns are designed to channel away water; when it gets colder, those channels can get filled with snow or ice and slush, creating a dangerous situation. Winter tires feature tread “sipes” – tiny slits in the tread blocks that enable the tires to flex and rid themselves of the snow that packs in when you drive. Even on sheets of ice, winter tires will give you better traction than non-winter tires can provide.

Winter tires are just as important on four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles in order to realize the benefits of the 4WD/AWD system; it doesn’t matter how many wheels are getting power if the tires they wear can’t hold the road. AutoExpress magazine compared two vehicles of the same make and model––one equipped with AWD and summer tires and the other a front-wheel drive model with winter tires––and the FWD/winter tire model simply outperformed the AWD model, specifically because of the difference in tires.

A study done a few years ago in Canada saw accidents drop by five percent when winter tires were mandated, partially due to the fact that winter tires have been shown to help cut braking distances by as much as 30 percent.

Some manufacturers recommend a specific make and style of winter tires for their vehicles. Ask your dealer’s service department for information about what is suitable and/or recommended for your particular make and model.

A pair of proper winter tires can mean the difference between confident winter driving and potential trouble, and it’s not too late to make the switch. There are plenty of affordable choices available, and your dealer’s factory-trained personnel can help get your vehicle ready for anything winter brings.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.