Future Chevrolet Models

Chevrolet Camaro

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro should arrive in early 2009 looking much like the concept. Test mules have been spotted testing in Detroit and on the Nurburgring test track in Germany. Power for the base models will most likely come from one of GM's DOHC V6s, while the higher spec versions will get a version of the LS3 V8 currently found in the Corvette. Look for the official debut of the next-generation Camaro at the 2008 Woodward Dream Cruise in August.

Chevrolet Traverse

The 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be the fourth crossover vehicle based on GM's Lambda vehicle architecture. It will join the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook in the rapidly expanding midsize crossover segment. The Chevrolet Traverse gets its own unique styling that reflects the brand's latest design language. The Traverse is fitted with a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 281 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque with single exhaust, 286 hp and 255 lb-ft with dual exhaust. The transmission is a six-speed automatic. Chevy is offering a choice of 17-, 18- and 20-inch wheels. Among the options are ultrasonic rear parking assist, a rearview camera, rear-seat entertainment system, power liftgate, heated windshield fluid, DVD navigation with XM Satellite Radio and traffic routing, and a panoramic power sunroof. The Traverse shares many of the features of its siblings, including three rows of seats with accommodations for eight, four-wheel independent suspension, electronic stability control, six airbags and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. It will come in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ.

Chevrolet Volt

General Motors unveiled the Chevrolet Volt concept, the company's first plug-in hybrid vehicle, at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Chevrolet Volt concept is the first vehicle to use GM's new E-flex family of propulsion systems. GM claims the Volt delivers triple-digit fuel economy and can travel up to 640 miles without a fuel fill-up or a battery recharge. While current hybrids employ a battery-powered electric motor to supplement or complement a gasoline-powered engine, the Volt runs only on electric power until the battery runs down. Then and only then does the internal combustion engine kick in but not to propel the car but to feed the onboard generator that produces electricity while the car is operating. The electricity is then stored in the battery. Energy normally lost in braking also is recaptured and sent to the battery. The batteries can also be recharged by plugging into an electrical outlet. The Volt features a front-mounted electric motor that generates 120 kilowatts of power (160 horsepower) and 236 pound-feet of torque. Lithium-ion batteries are housed beneath the Volt's floor. Also onboard is a 53-kilowatt electric generator. The turbocharged, 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine also fits up front, while the 12-gallon fuel tank is in the rear. The Volt will drive about 40 miles on pure electric power. GM readily admits E-flex and the Chevrolet Volt are not ready for prime time. While GM says it intends to produce the E-flex systems, significant advancements must first be made in battery technology. Batteries for future cars must be able to last the full useful life of a vehicle and endure extreme hot and cold temperatures.