Smartphone Overheating? Chevrolet Impala Can Help

Posted on August 11, 2015 by admin

While occasional smartphone overheating is normal, it can be disconcerting as it saps the phone’s battery life and slows processing speeds. Industry-first technology coming soon to some Chevrolet models can help cool down this problem for drivers.

Engineers regularly subject vehicles to the most extreme climates to ensure subsystems work properly. While testing a smartphone wireless charging feature, they noticed some smartphones would suspend charging or shut off altogether after only a few minutes in high temperatures inside a car’s cabin.

Engineers added a cold air vent to certain Chevrolets for the 2016 model year to help keep smart phones wirelessly charging in the car from overheating. The industry-first feature will be available in 2016 Chevrolet Impala, Malibu, Volt and Cruze models equipped with wireless charging and Chevrolet MyLink. The Active Phone Cooling feature works when the car’s heating, ventilation and cooling system is on.

Most smartphones have built-in thermal protection features to protect battery life, but that protection – which can cause the phone to pause charging or turn off until it has cooled down – is inconvenient for customers on the road who rely on their smartphones for streaming music, navigation or receiving phone calls.

Chevrolet is addressing this with a system called Active Phone Cooling in several vehicles, including the 2016 Impala and Malibu equipped with available wireless charging. No other automotive manufacturer offers a similar solution for in-vehicle smartphone cooling.

An air vent connected directly to the car’s air conditioning and ventilation system is directed to the charging bin where the phone rests for wireless charging, sending cool air to help lower the phone’s temperature. Active Phone Cooling operates only when the HVAC system is turned on by the driver.

“Over time, regular overheating can do permanent damage to the lithium ion batteries that power our smartphones. I always recommend keeping your phone in a cool, ventilated place, where it can stay at a comfortable room temperature, whether it’s charging or discharging,” said Jeffrey Van Camp, deputy editor of Digital Trends.

Active Phone Cooling will also be available in the 2016 Chevrolet Volt and Cruze equipped with available wireless charging.

2016 Silverado: The New Face of Strong

Posted on August 6, 2015 by admin

2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Z71. Available fall of 2015.

Chevy Trucks are on a roll, with pickup sales up, Chevrolet intends to strengthen this momentum with significant updates for the 2016 Silverado 1500 full-size pickup.

“The redesigned 2016 Silverado will build on Chevy Trucks’ legacy of dependability. It will feature a more muscular appearance and offer new customer-focused technologies,” said Sandor Piszar, marketing director for Chevy Trucks. “New front end designs with bold horizontal elements, sculpted hoods and dramatic lighting reflect the strength and refinement that have helped make Silverado the fastest growing full-size pickup brand this year.”

Other changes for 2016 will include expanded use of 8-speed automatic transmissions, updated Chevy MyLink with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and additional safety technologies.

Truck owners count on their pickups for everything from work to play. We look forward to welcoming the 2016 Silverado into the showroom and we know our customers are excited to get behind the wheel, too.

Chevrolet Introduces Colorado Duramax Diesel

Posted on August 6, 2015 by admin

2016 Chevrolet Colorado 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel

The fastest-selling truck in the market now offers an available turbo-diesel engine. The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Duramax diesel takes midsize truck capability and efficiency to unprecedented levels.

With 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm) generated by its all-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel, the Colorado’s maximum trailering capacity rises to 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) on 2WD models, with estimated fuel economy projected to top the already segment-leading efficiency of the gas models.

“The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Duramax diesel offers drivers capability, efficiency and control in a fun to drive package, allowing more possibilities when exploring on and off the road,” said Tyson Gamblin of Gamblin Motors “Our customers will also appreciate that it is the cleanest diesel truck engine ever produced by GM.”

The new Colorado diesel goes on sale this fall, offered in LT and Z71 Crew Cab models, with 2WD or 4WD. It is priced $3,730 more than a comparably equipped 3.6L V-6 model.

Features included with or exclusive to Colorado diesel models:

Smart diesel exhaust brake system that enhances vehicle control and reduces brake wear on steep grades.
Standard Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission matched with a Centrifugal Pendulum Vibration Absorber (CPVA) in the torque converter, which reduces powertrain noise and vibration.
The Z82 trailering package is standard and includes a hitch receiver and seven-pin connector.
An all-new integrated trailer brake controller is standard and exclusive on diesel models.
The G80 automatic locking rear differential is standard.
A 3.42 rear axle ratio is standard.
A new, electronically controlled two-speed transfer case is included on 4WD models.
Maximum trailering rating of 7,700 pounds (3,492 kg) for 2WD models and 7,600 pounds (3,447 kg) for 4WD.
GVWRs of 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) for 2WD and 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) for 4WD.

Chevrolet Lifts Lid on 2016 Camaro Convertible

Posted on July 11, 2015 by admin

The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro convertible benefits from a stiffer, lighter structure that helps reduce total vehicle weight by at least 200 pounds compared to the model it replaces. In addition, it introduces the most sophisticated convertible top in the segment, with fully automatic operation, hard tonneau cover, and the ability of opening or closing at speeds up to 30 mph.

Let the sun shine in. Chevrolet will offer a convertible model of the all-new 2016 Camaro, featuring the segment’s most advanced top, arriving in early 2016.

The 2016 Camaro is the only convertible in the segment to offer all of the following:

Fully automatic operation with latches that automatically release and secure the top.
Capability of opening or closing at speeds up to 30 mph.
Remote opening with the key fob.
A hard tonneau cover that deploys automatically, providing a more refined, finished appearance when the top is lowered and stowed.

The electro-hydraulic power roof system features multilayer construction – including acoustic and thermal barriers – designed for a comfortable, quiet driving experience in all seasons. The top emulates the sleek silhouette of the Camaro coupe.

Like the Camaro coupe, the convertible benefits from a stiffer, lighter structure that helps reduce total vehicle weight by at least 200 pounds compared to the model it replaces. Consequently, the Camaro convertible retains the coupe’s sharp chassis tuning and nimble reflexes.

The architecture also enables the Camaro convertible’s sleek design, allowing the top to fold down completely beneath the belt line. The hard tonneau cover automatically covers the folded top, creating a finished appearance.

About the 2016 Camaro

The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro offers higher levels of performance, technology and refinement and is designed to maintain the sporty car segment leadership earned over the past five years.

Offered in LT and SS models, it provides a faster, more nimble driving experience and a broader powertrain range.

Six all-new powertrain combinations are offered, including a 2.0L Turbo rated at an SAE-certified 275 horsepower, an all-new 3.6L V-6 producing and SAE-certified 335 horsepower, and the LT1 6.2L V-8, which is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque – the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Each engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.

Camaro’s leaner, stiffer platform and slightly smaller dimensions are accentuated by a dramatic, sculpted exterior. Meticulously tuned in the wind tunnel, the exterior contributes to performance through reduced aerodynamic lift for better handling, while enhancing highway fuel efficiency.

Inside, the driver-focused cabin integrates class-leading control technologies, including a new Driver Mode Selector, configurable instrument cluster and a customizable ambient lighting feature.

FAST FACT: In 1967 – Camaro’s first model year – the available convertible model came with a manually operated top. A power-operated top was a $52.70 option selected by 47 percent of buyers.

Sophisticated Sophomore: All-New 2016 Chevrolet Cruze

Posted on July 11, 2015 by admin

The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze – a larger, lighter, more efficient and more sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car.

Chevrolet recently introduced the all-new 2016 Cruze – a larger and lighter, more efficient and more sophisticated evolution of the brand’s best-selling global car.

Packed with new technologies such as available Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and new active safety features, as well as a more spacious interior and an athletic, aerodynamically optimized design, the 2016 Cruze elevates the compact car segment.

The all-new Cruze will be on sale in early 2016. A new, standard 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection and an SAE-certified 153 horsepower (113 kW) helps enable a General Motors-estimated 40 mpg on the highway with the available six-speed automatic transmission. Stop/start technology helps enhance the Cruze’s efficiency in stop-and-go driving.

The new turbo engine and a leaner architecture that reduces up to 250 pounds (113 kg) also contribute to the new Cruze’s stronger performance, with expected 0-60-mph acceleration of eight seconds.

“We’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of the all-new Cruze at Gamblin Motors,” said Tyson Gamblin. “From its updated design and safety features, to its innovative technologies, we’re confident the Cruze will fit our customers’ wants and needs while on the road.”

Vehicle highlights include:

Next-generation Chevrolet MyLink with smartphone integration capability, including a standard seven-inch-diagonal screen and available eight-inch-diagonal screen (at launch, eight-inch screen only with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto coming later)
New 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection and stop/start technology matched with a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission (North America)
Maximum highway range of 530 miles per tank
All-new, stronger and lighter body structure enhances agility, efficiency and safety – with an approximately 250-pound (113 kg) lower curb weight
Class-leading 106.3-inch (2,700 mm) wheelbase enhances roominess, contributing to greater rear-seat legroom and more rear knee room
Projector headlamps with light-emitting diode (LED) signature lighting – and LED daytime running lamps on uplevel models
More standard features than most competitors’ small cars such as 10 air bags, four-wheel disc brakes, rearview camera and available OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot
New, available features including wireless phone charging, heated rear leather seats and heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
Available advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert
New model range for North America including L, LS, LT and Premier – and a more expressive RS package

Five Cars + One Truck = Six Million Dollars (part 3)

Posted on July 1, 2015 by admin

By: Alan Gamblin

It’s not every day you get to drive a million dollar car; let alone six of them. That was my experience yesterday in the desert of Nevada. Chevrolet invited their dealers to a race track in Spring Mountain, Nevada to drive prototypes of the redesigned 2016 Camaro, Malibu, Spark and Colorado Duramax Diesel. Earlier I had the opportunity to drive the new 2016 Volt at a facility in Las Vegas. As these vehicles are pre-production cars, each car cost one million dollars or more to build. I can only say it was six million dollars of awesome. Let me share some thoughts on each vehicle.

2016 Chevrolet Volt

The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Volt electric car with extended range, showcasing a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.

The all-new 2016 Volt has been refined and reengineered, based on customer input. Volt owners are the most satisfied in the industry and are very loyal, 90% say they would own another one. Current Volt owner feedback drove the changes in the new Volt. Many of you know that I love the Volt. Not only have I owned one, but I have leased Volt to family members as well. Driving the new Volt confirmed that Chevy listened to us.

Let me start out by highlighting the nuts and bolts changes before I talk about styling. The new Volt has more electric range. Now 50 EV miles, up from 38 miles with an estimated 102 MPGe (Combined). MPGe is the energy equivalent to a gallon of gas. While in gas mode the car will deliver more than 41 MPG’s. Chevy achieved this with a two-motor drive which increases acceleration and increased efficiency. Something else that is new is the ability to set your charging preferences for home and the car’s GPS will adjust to home settings automatically. You will save at the pump as Volt now runs on regular unleaded when your charge runs out. All new is Regen on Demand, which enables the driver to initiate regenerative braking using a steering wheel button. The vehicle’s kinetic energy is captured and sent back to the battery, while the vehicle is slowing down.

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt electric car with extended range is unveiled Monday, January 12, 2015 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. The next-generation Volt has a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration. (Photo by John F. Martin for Chevrolet)

Inside are where some fantastic improvements have been made. Volt has greater rear leg room and is now capable of carrying five people. I need to qualify that as the Volt propulsion system still limits the size of the new fifth seat. My favorite change is the better intuitive instrument panel controls. I drive a lot of different vehicles and remembering how to turn on my heater in a Volt was aggravating. Now the controls are easy to see and operate. New Smartphone technology connects to MyLink and displays on Volt’s color screen through the Apple CarPlay feature.

Outside the new 2016 Volt offers a muscular and sleeker design. If I could use only one word to describe the new outside appearance it would be ‘athletic’.

Chevy asked Volt owners for opinions, we responded and Chevy listened. The new Volt certainly exceeded my expectations. I shouldn’t be surprised because we Volt owners redesigned this new generation.

Five Cars + One Truck = Six Million Dollars (Part 1)

Posted on July 1, 2015 by admin

By: Alan Gamblin

2016 Chevrolet Camaro

Every year my new year’s resolution is to shed some pounds and become more athletic. While I never seem to accomplish this

goal, the engineers for the new Camaro did just that. The car is lighter, quicker and more agile. I drove a 455 horsepower Camaro SS while following a race instructor around a road track. The beauty of a track is you can do things with a car you would never do at home. I admit I didn’t exactly follow the rules as I let the instructor get way ahead of me. This allowed me to open up the car full throttle so I could catch up. However, playing catch up didn’t prepare me for the hairpin turn at the end of the straight away. Yes, I scared myself and the Chevy employee next to me. I really thought I was going to be the only guy to spin out and go off roading in the desert with a million dollar car. To my amazement the SS stayed glued to the track. As I steered out of the turn I was saying to myself, “thank you God”; but it felt like the Camaro was calling me a whimp. I attest this car not only goes fast but handles amazing. Even by shedding almost 300 pounds, the new Camaro is stronger or stiffer meaning it hugs the road better. I didn’t feel any body roll in any of the turns.

From pictures the Camaro seems not to have changed much in design. In person you see the distinct Camaro look but also realize this is a completely different car. In fact only two parts were kept from the 2015 model; the Chevy logo on the back of the car and the SS badge. Everything else is brand new including the interior which is amazing. Lighter and more athletic will be my goal next year. Maybe I’ll achieve it by driving a 2016 Camaro.

Malibu Hybrid

Posted on April 22, 2015 by admin

The next generation Chevy Mailbu 2016 will include a hybrid that offers an estimated combined fuel economy rating exceeding 45 mpg. Using technology from the 2016 Chevrolet Volt propulsion system, Malibu Hybrid will offer a higher combined mileage rating than the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata hybrid variants.

“Besides leveraging innovation from the Chevrolet Volt, the Malibu Hybrid also has unique features that help improve aerodynamics, like upper and lower grille air shutters to improve airflow and a reduced ride height, all of which help reduce fuel consumption,” said Jesse Ortega, Chevrolet Malibu chief engineer.

An 80-cell, 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides electric power to the Hybrid system. The advanced lithium-ion based chemistry can power the Malibu hybrid at up to 55 miles per hour on electricity alone. The gasoline-powered engine will automatically come on at higher speeds and high loads when necessary to provide additional power.

Chevrolet revealed the 2016 Malibu Hybrid at the New York International Auto Show.

Chevy Confirmed Production on the Bolt EV

Posted on March 13, 2015 by admin

Chevrolet confirmed production of its next-generation pure electric vehicle, based on the Bolt EV concept. The Bolt EV concept was introduced a few months ago at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. “The message from consumers about the Bolt EV concept was clear and unequivocal: Build it,” said Batey, GM North American President “We are moving quickly because of its potential to completely shake up the status quo for electric vehicles.”

Using the industry-leading battery technology found in the Chevrolet Volt and Spark EV, the Bolt EV was developed as a game-changing, long-range pure electric for all 50 states, designed to offer more than a 200 miles of range at a target price of around $30,000. This exciting announcement signals Chevrolet’s commitment to meeting customer demand by delivering an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle to market.

Take a Peek at the New 2016 Equinox

Posted on February 25, 2015 by admin

Chevrolet’s second-bestselling vehicle in North America is the Equinox. A lot of attention is giving to Chevy’s number one selling and award winning Silverado, but the Equinox accounts for over 9% of US sales in the compact SUV market. More than 242,000 were sold last year, so we shouldn’t be surprised that Chevy gave the Equinox a whole new look.

Chevy revealed the newly made over Equinox at the Chicago Auto Show in February. The all new 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is ready to step out with a whole new look, safety features, and connectivity options. Updates include new styling with premium accents, new wheel designs and new available safety features, as well as a larger color touchscreen radio and a standard rear-vision camera for entry-level models.

Most of the new design focuses largely cosmetics and tech options. The front fascia is now accented with a chrome dual-port grille design, new premium projector-beam headlamps, and new daytime running lamps. The engine choices for the Equinox are unchanged, and that is fine because the 2.4 liter direct-injection four–cylinder engine still makes it the most fuel-efficient engine in its class. The Equinox will still get its 32-mpg EPA highway rating, which is great for the family on the go.

Another great feature on the 2016 Equinox is OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built in Wi-Fi is offered across all models. This is the first compact SUV on the market to offer built in 4G LTE connectivity. To keep those kids happy, a new universal table holder is available to mount on the rear of the front seats. In addition to available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features, Equinox also offers Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning as part of comprehensive safety packages. The 2016 Equinox is expected to hit our showroom in the fall. We will keep you updated on its arrival.

Art Gamblin Motors

1047 Roosevelt Avenue East, Enumclaw, WA 98022 1-888-895-2244

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