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| Tuesday June 17, 2008 | | So, what do you get with the 2009 Corvette? |  Discussion
| After a milestone year in 2008 that saw the introduction of the LS3 6.2L V-8 as the new standard engine, a custom, leather-wrapped interior and more upgrades, the Corvette powers into 2009 with a raft of enhancements that further distinguish it and give customers more choices – including a lower-priced convertible model.
Of course, that range of choices also includes the ZR1, with its 6.2L supercharged engine that produces 638 horsepower (476 kW).
“The Corvette is an American icon with world-class credentials,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “It’s the car we all aspire to own and the 2009 edition, with more choices and features, only amplifies that craving.”
The ’09 Corvette lineup includes the Corvette coupe and Corvette convertible, each powered by the 430-horsepower (321 kW) LS3 V-8, and the incomparable Corvette Z06. Equipped with the 505-horsepower (377 kW) LS7 engine and built on a lightweight chassis, the Z06 is a street-going descendent of the championship-winning Corvette racing program.
New for 2009
Here is a rundown of the new features and content changes for the ’09 Corvette lineup:
Corvette 1LT convertible – Customers can slip into a Corvette convertible for a lower MSRP with this 1LT-equipped model. Additionally, a power top is now standard on 2LT convertible models.
Two new exterior colors – Cyber Gray Metallic and Blade Silver Metallic are added, while Machine Silver Metallic is discontinued. This brings the Corvette’s exterior palette to nine colors.
Revised crossed flags emblem – The iconic Corvette crossed flags emblem is distinguished with a new, bright surround.
Two new custom leather-wrapped interiors – Dark Titanium and Ebony join Sienna and Linen as available selections.
Bluetooth capability – This option enables the Corvette to offer the convenience and safety of Bluetooth hands-free phone service.
Standard power hatch pull-down – This convenient feature is now standard on Corvette coupe and Z06 models.
Additionally, steering wheel audio controls and variable-ratio steering are standard on all models. Revisions also are incorporated to the hardware and software of the anti-locking braking, traction control and Magnetic Ride Control systems.
Several trim and content changes are incorporated on the Z06, too. They include:
· New, “spider”-design 10-spoke Z06 wheel available in four versions: Sparkle Silver, Competition Gray and chrome
· Color-keyed door and instrument panels with red and titanium interiors
· Power-operated pull-down hatch now standard
· Gray stitching on Ebony base seats (previously red)
· New door sill plates with the Z06 logo
· Acoustic package standard on all Z06 models
The Z06 also receives a larger-capacity dry-sump oiling system. It upgrades to the 10.5-quart (9.9 liters) system of the new ZR1. The previous oil system held eight quarts (7.5 liters).
The popular museum delivery option (RPO R8C) remains available for all Corvette models.
LS3 engine
The 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in coupe and convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system. An optional two-mode exhaust system brings a power rating increase to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm) .
The LS3 features an aluminum cylinder block with cast iron cylinder liners. The cylinder bores measure 4.06 inches (103.25 mm) in diameter and combine with a 3.62-inch (92 mm) stroke to deliver a 376-cubic-inch (6.2L) displacement. Breathing is accomplished via high-flow cylinder heads. They’re based on the large port/large valve design found on the LS7 engine, with larger-capacity, straight
er intake ports. The design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber and the exhaust ports are also designed for better flow.
Complementing the large-port design of the heads are commensurately sized valves. The intake valve size is a large, 2.16 inches (55 mm). The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engine’s 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.
To accommodate the engine’s large valves and enable more direct intake port flow, the intake-side rocker arms are offset 6 mm between the valve tip and the push rod. Actuating the valves is a camshaft with 0.551-inch (14 mm) lift.
Dual-mode exhaust system
Optional on coupe and convertible models is a dual-mode performance exhaust system. It gives the Corvette a more aggressive exhaust sound character that appeals to performance enthusiasts, as well as a boost in horsepower.
Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06 and ZR1, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. It is not identical to the Z06 system; it uses a 2.5-inch-diameter exhaust, while the Z06 uses a three-inch system.
Transmissions and axle ratios
The Corvette is offered with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with paddle-shift control. When ordered with the Z51 Performance Package, the six-speed manual comes with a more performance-oriented gearing, including a “shorter” 2.97:1 first gear.
The shifting feel for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions were improved in ’08, with the manual transmission shifting improvements include a more positive and direct feel during gear changes, with better gate-to-gate location.
The six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission on the coupe and convertible delivers quick shifts, with the ’08 enhancements bolstering the feeling of performance and driver control when using the shifting paddles. A 2.73 performance axle ratio is available with the automatic transmission. It is included with the Z51 package.
Driving dynamics
Corvette coupe and convertible have a hydro-formed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.
Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.
The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. Cross-dilled brake rotors are included when this feature is selected, allowing customers to combine the larger brakes from the Z51 performance package with the comfort of Magnetic Selective Ride Control.
The Z51 Performance Package brings coupe and convertible performance very close to the widely admired previous generation Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches / 340 mm in front and 13 inches / 330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.
With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control s
yst ems – anti-lock braking, traction control and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.
Corvette design
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round tail lamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.
The Corvette convertible now features a power-operated soft top with the 2LT package; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard on the new 1LT convertible. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.
Interior details and technology
Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim with the look of a leather panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.
An AM/FM/XM radio with CD player and audio input jack is standard. An optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer adds to the choices available to the audiophile owner. Steering-wheel mounted audio controls are included on all models. XM Satellite Radio is standard.
A full-function OnStar system with Turn-by-Turn Navigation capability is standard and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on two discs.
Corvette also features k eyless access. When the owner is in close proximity to the door, the key fob’s signal unlocks the door. The system’s emergency key and other remote-function controls are integrated in a single unit.
Custom leather-wrapped interior package
Available on coupe, convertible, Z06 and ZR1 models is the custom leather-wrapped interior package. It offers a stylish, two-tone leather-appointed cabin with details that enhance the feeling of Corvette’s craftsmanship. Details include:
· Leather-wrapped upper and lower instrument panel, door pads and seats
· Choice of new, exclusive colors: Dark Titanium, Ebony, Linen or Sienna, with unique color breakup
· Padded door panel armrests
· Corvette” embroidered on passenger-side dash pad
· Embroidered crossed flags logo on headrests
· Unique center trim plate with Bias pattern.
Corvette Z06 details
As the fastest, most powerful and most technologically advanced production model in Corvette’s history, t he Corvette Z06 offers an unprecedented level of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.
Design – The Z06 has an unmistakable and aggressive appearance, with design cues that include:
· A wide front fascia with a large, forward-facing grille opening, a splitter along the bottom and wheel opening extensions along the sides to provide aerodynamic down force
· A cold-air scoop in front of the hood that integrates an air inlet system for the engine
· The trailing edge of the front wheel opening is radiused to achieve improved drag, but protects the body finish with a tough molding, and a large air extractor is located behind the
whe el
· A fixed-roof body style optimizes body rigidity and mass
· Wider rear fenders with flares cover the massive rear tires and a brake cooling scoop in front of the wheels visually balances the fender extractor
· A tall rear spoiler houses the CHMSL on the top of the rear fascia
· 10-spoke spider-design wheels (18-inch, front; 19-inch, rear)
· Four large stainless steel exhaust outlets
· Z06 badging on the carbon fiber front fenders
The aerodynamics of the Z06’s exterior were shaped by the experiences of the Corvette racing program, where high-speed stability and cornering capability are paramount. And while the race cars use large rear wings, the Z06’s elevated spoiler provides sufficient downforce to balance the road-worthy front splitter without adversely affecting aerodynamic drag. The Z06’s Cd is 0.34.
For all its race-inspired functionality, the Z06 is designed to be a daily-driveable high-performance vehicle. To that end, comfort and convenience are held to a very high standard. High-Intensity Discharge lighting, fog lamps, leather seating, dual-zone air conditioning, cabin air filtration and head-up display (HUD) with track mode and g-meter are standard.
The Z06 gauge cluster displays the Z06 logo on the 7000-redline tachometer and has a readout on the oil pressure gauge to reflect the higher standard pressure of the dry-sump oiling system. The seats feature two-tone leather surfaces, with Z06-logo embroidery and contrasting stitching.
Z06 options include a Bose audio system with an in-dash six-CD changer, Competition Gray or chrome wheels, a telescoping steering wheel, heated seats, side-impact air bags, a navigation system with GPS and universal home remote.
LS7 engine – The Z06’s LS7 7.0L engine delivers 505 horsepower (377 kW) in a 3,180-pound (1,442 kg) package – a combination that delivers 0-60 performance of 3.7 seconds in first gear, quarter-mile times of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph and a top speed of 198 mph (as recorded on Germany’s Autobahn). It also provides maximum lateral acceleration of 1.04 g and 60-0 braking in 111.3 feet; it also circuited Germany’s famed N ü rburgring in a time of 7:43 from a standing start.
The LS7 reintroduced the 427-cubic-inch engine to the Corvette lineup. It is easily identified under the hood by red engine covers with black lettering. The LS7 shares the same basic Gen IV V-8 architecture as the Corvette’s 6.2-liter LS3, but it uses a different cylinder block casting with pressed-in steel cylinder liners to accommodate the engine’s larger diameter, 4.125-inch (104.8 mm) cylinder bores.
Internally, the LS7’s reciprocating components make use of racing-derived lightweight technology, including titanium connecting rods and intake valves, to help boost horsepower and rpm capability. The rpm fuel shut-off limit is 7,100 rpm. The LS7’s details include:
· Dry-sump oiling system
· Unique cylinder block casting with large, 104.8-mm bores and pressed-in cylinder liners
· Forged steel main bearing caps
· Forged steel crankshaft
· Titanium connecting rods with 101.6-mm stroke
· Cast aluminum flat-top pistons
· 11.0:1 compression
· High-lift camshaft
· Racing-derived CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads with titanium intake valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves
· Low-restriction air intake system
· Hydroformed exhaust headers with unique “quad flow” collector flanges.
One of the clearest examples of the LS7’s race-bred technology is its use of titanium connecting rods. They weigh just 464 grams apiece and besides being lightweight, which enhances high-rpm performance and rpm range, titanium makes the rods extremely durable.
The LS7’s CNC-ported aluminum cylinde
r hea ds are designed to meet the high airflow demands of the engine’s 7.0-liter displacement. A hydraulic roller camshaft with 0.588/0.593-inch valve lift is used to allow plenty of air to circulate in and out of the engine.
To ensure optimal, uninterrupted airflow, the LS7’s heads have straight, tunnel-like intake runners. Very large by production-vehicle standards – even racing standards – they are designed to maintain fast airflow velocity, providing excellent torque at low rpm and exhilarating horsepower at high rpm. The heads feature 70-cc combustion chambers that are fed by huge, 56-mm-diameter titanium intake valves. They are complemented by 41-mm sodium-filled exhaust valves.
To accommodate the large valve face diameters, the heads’ valve seats are siamesed; and, taken from experience with the engines of C6.R race cars, the LS7’s valve angles are held at 12 degrees – vs. 15 degrees for the LS2 – to enhance airflow through the ports.
The LS7 has a dry-sump oiling system designed to keep the engine fully lubricated during the high cornering loads the Corvette Z06 is capable of producing. An engine compartment-mounted 10.5-quart (9.9 liters) reservoir delivers oil at a constant pressure to a conventional-style oil pump pick-up at the bottom of the engine. The pressurized oil feed keeps the oil pick-up continually immersed in oil at cornering loads exceeding 1 g.
Oil circulates through the engine and down to the oil pan, where it is sent back to the reservoir via a scavenge pump. The large-capacity reservoir, combined with a high efficiency air-to-oil cooler, provides necessary engine oil cooling under the demands of the engine’s power output. With the dry-sump system, oil is added to the engine via the reservoir tank – which includes the oil level dipstick.
Drivetrain – The Corvette Z06’s powertrain and drivetrain systems are matched to the LS7’s performance capability. The light, four-into-one headers discharge into close-coupled catalytic converters and through two-mode mufflers. The mufflers each feature a vacuum-actuated outlet valve, which controls exhaust noise during low-load operation but opens for maximum power.
At the rear of the LS7 engine, a single-mass flywheel and lightweight, high-capacity clutch channel torque to the rear transaxle. The six-speed manual transmission has been strengthened to handle the LS7’s increased torque load. The transmission includes a pump that sends transmission fluid to the front radiator for cooling. Upon its return, the fluid removes additional heat from the differential lube before returning to the transmission. The six-speed transmission connects to a limited-slip differential, with enlarged ring and pinion gears. Stronger axle half-shafts with tougher universal joints transmit power to the rear wheels.
Structure – The Z06 has a unique aluminum body structure for optimum stiffness and light weight for the fixed-roof body style. Perimeter rails are one-piece hydroformed aluminum members featuring cast suspension nodes, which replace many welded steel components on other Corvette models. Other castings, stampings and extrusions are combined into the innovative structure with state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.
Advanced structural composites featuring carbon-fiber are bonded to the aluminum structure. The wider front wheelhouses, for example, are carbon composites and the passenger compartment floors combine carbon-fiber skins with an ultra-lightweight balsa wood core.
The Z06 has a new magnesium cradle that serves as the attachment point for the engine and some front suspension components. Magnesium is lighter than aluminum yet incredibly strong. The magnesium cradle helps improve the front-to-rear weight distribution, as do carbon-fiber front fenders and wheelhouses. Engineers also moved the battery from underhood to a position in the rear cargo area, behind one of the rear wheels.
The mass reductions are offset by some added performance enablers, including dry-sump lubrication, exhaust system with outlet valves, larger wheels and tires, larger brakes and larger roll stabilizers.
Suspension and brakes – The Z06 retains the 105.7-inch (2686-mm) wheelbase of other Corvette models, as well as the short-long arm suspension and transverse spring design, but it rides on all-new wheels, tires and brakes, as well as its own rear spring and roll stabilizer.
The firmer suspension works harmoniously with large 18 x 9.5-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels and 275/35ZR18 tires in the front, and 19 x 12-inch cast-spun aluminum wheels with 325/30ZR19 tires in the rear. The tires use the latest extended-mobility technology from Goodyear to provide a satisfactory ride, but still allow the vehicle to achieve lateral acceleration of more than 1 g. The extended-mobility tires eliminate the need – and weight – for a spare tire and jack or inflator kit, while also reducing the chance of a sudden loss of handling capability.
Complementing the suspension system and large rolling stock is an equally capable four-wheel disc brake system, consisting of 14-inch (355 mm) vented and cross-drilled front rotors and 13.4-inch (340 mm) vented and cross-drilled rear rotors.
The front rotors are acted upon by large, red-painted six-piston calipers that use six individual brake pads. Individual brake pads are used because they deliver more equalized wear compared to what would otherwise be a pair of very long single-piece pads. For the rear brakes, four-piston calipers with four individual brake pads are used. A four-channel ABS system is standard, as is a very competent active handling system – complete with a Competitive Driving mode.
*SAE certified.
 | | Source: General Motors |
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| Thursday June 12, 2008 | | Help Push for June 30 To Be Declared National Corvette Day | Discussion
| Mid America Motorworks Behind Grassroots Movement To CelebrateThe Birthday of America’s Sports Car! EFFINGHAM, IL – Long a supporter of the Corvette hobby and creator of “Drive Your Corvette To Work Day”, Mid America Motorworks has petitioned the United States Congress to declare June 30th "National Corvette Day" - in honor of America’s First Sports Car. The Corvette first rolled off a Flint, Michigan assembly line on June 30, 1953. The petition is being presented by United States Congressman John Shimkus (R-Illinois). All Corvette enthusiasts are urged to contact their U.S. Congressional Representatives to pass this resolution. “As the longest running, most widely respected production sports car in United States history, the Chevrolet Corvette is more than a material possession. It is truly a symbol of American pride. For this reason Mid America Motorworks is launching a grassroots movement to honor America’s True Sports Car with a National Day of Recognition.” said Mike Yager, Chief Cheerleader and founder of Mid America Motorworks, the world’s leading supplier of Corvette parts and accessories. Mid America Motorworks has a history of creating national movements to honor the Corvette. In June of 2001, Mid America Motorworks created Drive Your Corvette To Work Day as an annual event to celebrate Corvette’s Birthday on the Friday closest to June 30. On Friday, June 27th 2008, thousands of Corvette lovers will drive their Corvette to work to pArcticipate in the 8th annual event. In September of 2001, Mid America Motorworks orchestrated a massive grassroots movement, called the Corvette Stampede, to petition the United States Post Office to create a Corvette Stamp. The stamp was to honor of the 50th Anniversary of Corvette. Finally released in 2005, the USPS debuted the stamp at Mid America Motorworks Corvette Funfest. This year, as GM celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2008, a National Day of Recognition is a fitting tribute to Corvette – GM’s greatest contribution to the automotive industry. Every Corvette owner is encouraged to petition his or her congressional representative to pass the resolution declaring June 30th "National Corvette Day". Click Here to find out how contact your Representative You can discuss this story with other Corvette Enthusiasts on the Kerbeck Corvette Message Board! | | Source: MidAmerica Motor Works |
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| Monday June 9, 2008 | | Hertz Does It Again; Now Renting Corvette ZHZ, an Exclusive, Limited-Edition, Performance Car for Customers Seeking to Add More Fun and Excitement | Discussion
| PARK RIDGE, NJ--(Marketwire - June 9, 2008) - Get ready to start your engines! The Hertz Corporation has teamed up with General Motors to launch the Corvette ZHZ, a special limited-edition, high-performance super-car now available for rental exclusively through Hertz. Equipped with a 436-horsepower, V-8 engine, the Corvette ZHZ is the newest showcase car in the Hertz Fun Collection, which features a series of sporty vehicles designed to make the drive a key part of the journey. 
Recognizing the special appeal of Corvettes to owners and would-be owners, Hertz is adding 500 Corvette ZHZ models to its airport locations in 24 major metropolitan cities across 14 states and Washington, D.C. through June 16, 2008, so this summer you can take to the road in style, wherever your trip takes you. The first Corvette ZHZs debut this month at Hertz airport locations in major cities including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle.
"We are thrilled to be able to offer the limited-edition Corvette ZHZ as part of our Fun Collection fleet," said Mark P. Frissora, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Hertz. "With the launch of this exclusive program, customers can experience the thrill of renting a high-performance car that provides the utmost in driving experiences while adding a splash of fun with its distinctive look."
Finished in Hertz' iconic yellow with an exclusive center exterior black stripe, the Corvette ZHZ features a paddle-shift automatic transmission and 6.2-liter engine with plenty of reserve power for passing. The Corvette ZHZ also features a dual-mode exhaust system, magnetic selective ride control with "tour" and "sport" settings for a customized ride, and specific 18-inch front and 19-inch rear chrome seven-spoke performance wheels. The Corvette ZHZ's performance exhaust system ensures the aggressive sound performance loved by auto enthusiasts.
The Corvette ZHZ also features a distinctive look, with dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combined with the grille and center-exit exhaust, round tail lamps, tapered rear deck, a rear spoiler and body color door handles to create a dramatic visual identity. In addition, the car comes equipped with a screen mesh package that provides side covers, exhaust plate screen and a grille mesh; under-hood blanket with the Corvette emblem and lamp kit; specific console armrest with ZHZ embroidery and a Hertz fender emblem and floor mat embroidery designed by GM.
The Corvette ZHZ will be available as part of the Fun Collection fleet at the following Hertz airport locations: Phoenix, AZ; Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, CA; Denver, CO; Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Miami, Orlando, Palm Beach and Tampa, FL; Savannah, GA; Maui and Oahu, HI; Boston, MA; Newark, NJ ; Charlotte, NC; Portland, OR; Charleston, SC; Nashville, TN; Dallas and Houston, TX; Seattle, WA; and Washington, DC (Dulles Airport).
Hertz Fun Collection Highlighting its position as a leader at U.S. airports in the leisure car rental market, Hertz's Fun Collection features vehicles tailor-made for travelers seeking exciting driving experiences. The Fun Collection, with cars that can be reserved by specific make and model, adds even more entertainment to the driving experience as each car comes equipped with SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
With the addition of the Corvette ZHZ, Hertz offers 9 Fun Collection cars that can be specifically reserved. More than 12,000 Fun Collection vehicles are available at approximately 24 major airport locations in the United States.
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| | Source: Market Wire |
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| Saturday June 7, 2008 | | Corvette Helps Turn Motor City Into Hockey Town! | Discussion
| First, let it be said that as a fan of the Philadelphia Flyers, I've waited a long time to see a parade town Broad Street. In fact, that goes for all of the Philly teams that have many times come close but haven't seen a championship since 1983...but I digress. The fans of the NHL Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings took time off from work, school, and whatever else they had planned for the day, to celebrate the championship team members with a parade Woodward Ave in Detroit. So, why am I writing about this in a Corvette blog? We'll what better way to escort the Detroit players than in a series of Red and White Corvette Convertibles with the sign on the side giving the name of the occupant! Of course, there were a few Chevy Silverados thrown in with the players riding in the truck bed. Then, in the middle of the parade, was a solitary black Corvette Convertible with no nameplate and no need for it since everyone recognized one of the greatest hockey player in history, Gordie Howe waving to throngs of hockey-crazed fans. I'm hoping that when my beloved Flyers bring the Cup down Broad Street Chevy will give them the same honor. Of course, the way Philly's luck goes, they won't be making Corvettes in Orange and Black by the time that happens. However, when that time comes, we'll probably have those Hover Cars promised us by the Jetsons. Boy it's tuff to be a Philly sports fan. Maybe a ride in the Vette will cheer me up! | | Source: Detroit Free Press |
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| Thursday June 5, 2008 | | 8th Annual Drive Your Corvette to Work Day, June 27, 2008 | Discussion
| It doesn't matter what the weather is, you are hereby granted dispensation in the event that it rains on your ride. This is the one day you need to get your Corvette on the road! Friday, June 27th, is the date of the 8th Annual Drive Your Corvette To Work Day, sponsored by Mid America Motorworks. In honor of Drive Your Corvette To Work Day, enthusiasts across the United States make "America's Sports Car" their commuter car for the day. Every year, the Friday closest to June 30, Corvette's official birthday, is chosen to observe Drive Your Corvette To Work Day. Mid America Motorworks promotes Drive Your Corvette To Work Day among Corvette owners and clubs. The goal is to have as many Corvette owners as possible drive their car to work that day. Launched in 2001, Mid America Motorworks' Drive Your Corvette To Work Day is an annual event celebrated by thousands of Corvette owners. "We understand why many owners consider their Corvette to be a special car and only drive it occasionally," said Mike Yager, founder and "Chief Cheerleader" of Mid America Motorworks, the world's leading supplier of Corvette parts and accessories, "but we think driving your Corvette to work, at least one day a year, is an excellent way to demonstrate just how popular Corvettes are. And it is a chance for Corvette owners to meet new Corvette owners." Corvette owners who observe "Drive Your Corvette To Work Day" are encouraged to send high resolution digital pictures of their car at work to mailto:clubs@mamotorworks.com?subject=dyctwd. Mid America Motorworks will post as many pictures as possible right here. Of course, here at Kerbeck Corvette, everyday is Drive Your Vette to Work Day! You can discuss this story (or plan your event) with other Corvette Enthusiasts on the Kerbeck Corvette Message Board! | | Source: Mid America Motorworks |
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| Monday June 2, 2008 | | Corvette Racing Makes Most of Test Day | Discussion
| It was a cloudy day with on and off rain showers that had the LeMans track stopping and starting practice sessions all day. Team Corvette was looking to evaluate chassis and gearbox setups as well as test a range of Michelin tires. All in all, the team was happy with the results. "I think we maximized the opportunities that we had today," said Corvette Racing program manager Doug Fehan. "It certainly wasn't the test plan we had laid out, but the conditions were the same for everybody. When it's all said and donqe, it may actually be to our advantage when a day like this happens because we're well prepared when we arrive, and more practice time tqends to narrow the gap. "The drivers are very satisfied with the development work we've done," Fehan continued. "When we briefly had a dry track this morning, the cars were very stable. I think this is probably the best start we've had at Le Mans from the standpoint of having cars that are really good out of the box, and everyone is very encouraged by that." All six drivers rotated through the cars and evaluated tires, suspensions, and gearboxes. The No. 64 Corvette turned 39 laps, while the No. 63 completed 42 circuits. A sudden shower and a final red flag at 5:30 p.m. effectively ended the session 30 minutes before its scheduled conclusion. "It was definitely an eye-opening experience in the beginning of my stint with the track half dry and half wet," said Papis. "It was fortunate that we could run today because we learned quite a lot. This test was really more a session for the drivers than anything else, an opportunity for us to get acquainted with different track conditions and different Michelin tires for wet weather. I feel confident about the race, and up to now it's been a great exercise." The Corvette team is looking to take home another 24 Hours at Lemans Championship in this years race which will be held on June 14th and 15th. You can read this entire Arcticle on the Corvette Racing Team website. | | Source: http://www.corvetteracing.com |
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| Saturday May 31, 2008 | | Over 200 Workers from the Corvette Assembly Plant Take Early Retirement Package | Discussion
| A labor agreement reached last year with the UAW commits GM to hiring up to 16,000 non-assembly workers at half the old wage of $28 per hour. GM offered buyouts to all 74,000 of its U.S. hourly employees in February, and 19,000 reportedly accepted including 206 or the little over 1,000 workers from the Bowing Green Assembly Plant where the Chevrolet Corvette as well as the Cadillac XLR are produced. Retirement-eligible employees were offered the chance to retire with full pension and benefits, while employees within four years of their 30th anniversary at GM were allowed to retire early and get reduced pay until they could receive their benefits, according to reports. The buyout also included offers of up to $140,000 to employees to leave the company without taking a pension or health benefits. In a recent interview with the Bowling Green Daily News Eldon Renaud, president of United Auto Workers Local 2164 in Bowling Green commented on the new retirees. “It’s understandable that the people with the time and the financial capacity could retire when they wanted to,” Renaud said. “We will continue to build great Corvettes and keep our economic level at a similar rate that it is now.” | | Source: Bowling Green Daily News |
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| Thursday May 29, 2008 | | Cracking the Code of the Z06 Model Name | Discussion
| Strangely enough, the Detroit Free Press is filled with tidbits from the General Motors. I'm not sure why, but they must have some connection. Recently, Corvette Production Manager Harlan Charles spoke with the Phelan's Corner Blog about Corvette model names. Much to the chagrin of many Corvette Enthusiasts, the name Z06 does not stand "Zora's Outstanding" race package as a salute to the legendary cheif engineer of the Corvette. In fact, the O in Z06 is a zero, not a letter. Z06 was originally a manufacturing code for a competition-ready package in 1963, of which only 199 were sold. To further shatter the illusions of Corvette lovers, the name ZR1 has nothing to do with the beloved Zora either! "I have been told that ZR1 was Zora's Racer One also, but the reality is the codes are usually random and get meaning from enthusiasts," Charles says. Well, at least it shows the ingenuity and creativeness of the Corvette community. It's no wonder that Harlan and the rest of the Corvette Team travel to Corvette shows all over the country to meet with Corvette owners and listen to their ideas and suggestions. Of course, I'm still waiting for them to move forward on my Corvette/Suburban Crossover. Harlan says he'll get back to me about that one. | | Source: Detroit Free Press |
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| Wednesday May 28, 2008 | | Emerson Fittipaldi Orders New ZR1 Corvette!!! | Discussion
| After driving the 2008 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car Corvette around the brick yard, Emo got bitten by the Corvette bug! Yahoo's UK sport site, " Eurosport" recently caught up with Fittipaldi and did a 60 second interview where they asked him questions like what's your favorite food, favorite movie and other such bio info! The question that got a surprise was about his driving habbits. Eurosport writer Jonathan Symcox asked him, "What car do you drive?" Fittapaldi answered, "Always a Mercedes. But I've just ordered the fastest car in the world. It's amazing, the new Corvette. It costs over 100,000 dollars. It has amazing handling, amazing speed - they have made a car that would beat any Ferrari, any Lamborghini in the world. Test drive it in the future, and remember what I told you." Coming from a multiple time winner of the Indy 500, the Formula One World Championship, and too many other accomplishments to list here, that's a pretty impressive endorsement!  | | Source: Yahoo Sports |
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