Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Badass Chevy Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-badass-chevy-chevelle-isnt-as-fuelish-as-it-seems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


1970 Duramax Chevrolet Chevelle custom - Click above for high-res image gallery

The clean exterior of this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle hides a wicked little secret - if you take a look at the photo above, you'll see what we mean. The bundle of plumbing you see spilling out of the engine bay tells only part of the story - that's no overworked Chevy small block in there, it's a Duramax diesel that has been pushed to new heights thanks to an outrageous custom twin-turbo setup. The stripped-out interior and racing slicks out back show the true purpose of this ride.

The Chevelle was built by Mike Racke and was recognized as one of Popular Hot Rodding magazine's Top Ten Builds this year. We couldn't agree more.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Duramax Chevelle


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Badass Chevy Chevelle isn't as fuelish as it seems originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1970 Chevelle1970 Chevrolet1970 Chevrolet Chevelle1970 Chevy Chevelle1970Chevelle1970Chevrolet1970ChevroletChevelle1970ChevyChevellechevellechevroletChevrolet ChevelleChevroletChevellechevyDuramaxduramax Chevelleduramax drag racerduramax dragsterDuramaxChevelleDuramaxDragRacerDuramaxDragsterMike RackeMikeRackePopular Hot RoddingPopularHotRoddingSEMAsema 2009Sema2009Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM halting Duramax production for 10 weeks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-gm-halting-duramax-production-for-10-weeks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-gm-halting-duramax-production-for-10-weeks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/report-gm-halting-duramax-production-for-10-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The revamped 6.6-liter Duramax V8 engine will go into production in April 2010 and the current Duramax, which doesn't meet emissions requirements that go into effect January 1, 2010, will cease production the day before the new year begins. In the interim, GM will be retooling the factory and won't be producing any of the engines to go in the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra.

This has some dealers and outside observers wondering if GM will run out of 2009 Duramax engines before the new ones are built and installed in engine bays. One dealer says GM will take orders for extended cab models with the big diesel, but no longer accepts orders for Duramax regular cabs. Analysts believe that with the car and work truck market showing some recovery, that demand will grow just as GM is trying to play the inventory game.

While the General prepares it's urea-infused powerplants, any engines that GM builds through the end of 2009 can be installed in vehicles even if those vehicles are ordered and built next year. For now, GM says it is padding its stocks of Duramax engines and is confident about being able to meet the need.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: GM halting Duramax production for 10 weeks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 chevrolet2010 chevrolet silverado2010 gm sierra2010Chevrolet2010ChevroletSilverado2010GmSierra6.6 liter duramax6.6LiterDuramaxchevroletchevrolet silveradoChevroletSilveradochevyduramaxduramax dieselDuramaxDieselfalsegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgmcgmc sierraGmcSierramanufacturingpickupplantsWed, 30 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[GM's Duramax diesel goes under the knife, loses weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/21/gms-duramax-diesel-goes-under-the-knife-loses-weight/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/21/gms-duramax-diesel-goes-under-the-knife-loses-weight/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/21/gms-duramax-diesel-goes-under-the-knife-loses-weight/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



GM's new 4.5L Duramax diesel engine promises a 25% increase in fuel economy while providing 310 hp and 525 lb-ft. The new oil-burning powerplant also needs to pass 50 state emissions while providing the efficiency customers are demanding. GM has already provided some details of the Duramax 4.5L, including that the new diesel is roughly the same size as the General's compact small block V8, which means it can fit in more than just trucks and SUVs. The 4.5-liter also reduces the parts count with integrated aluminum cylinder head exhaust manifolds and an integral cam cover intake manifold. GM talked to Automotive News about new features of the lower half of the 4.5L Duramax, and they're just as extensive as the top.

[Source: Automotive News subs req'd]

Continue reading GM's Duramax diesel goes under the knife, loses weight

GM's Duramax diesel goes under the knife, loses weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009dieselduramaxgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmTue, 21 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Looks can deceive: 6.6L Duramax-powered Buick GNX clone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/looks-can-deceive-6-6l-duramax-powered-buick-gnx-clone/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/looks-can-deceive-6-6l-duramax-powered-buick-gnx-clone/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/looks-can-deceive-6-6l-duramax-powered-buick-gnx-clone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The car you see here is not a GNX. Hell, it's not even a Buick. You'd be forgiven if you thought it was, though, and it does sport a turbocharger underhood. David Morad was so enamored with the 6.6L LB7 Duramax diesel in his truck that he wanted to put it into something lighter and more fun. He decided to build a Grand National around the engine, and started buying up whatever applicable Buick body parts he could find -- right down to legit GNX dash plates. Next, he bought an '82 Buick Regal diesel that was to be the subject of the transformation. Unfortunately, that car literally self-immolated as he drove it home, sending Morad straight back to square one.

He subsequently found and bought an '81 Olds diesel and got to work. The car was cut in half so that a Regal rear end could be welded on, and then a laundry list of major modifications followed. To retain the stock Buick exterior appearance while incorporating the new powertrain, everything under the skin is is either extensively modified or custom fabricated in order to allow for the deception. Sure, it looks like a GNX, but this is really a scratch-built machine. Wilwood brakes lurk behind some absolutely wicked deep-dish Budnik wheels (dig those steamrollers in back), which nicely compliment the menacing black bodywork. Diesel Power magazine covers all the build's specifics in detail, and it's well worth a read.

If you're gonna masquerade as a GNX, you'd better bring some punch to the costume party, and Morad's car does. As of Diesel Power's publication, it ran an 8.25-second eighth of a mile, which they figure works out to somewhere in the 12s for the quarter. He'll be gunning for the 11s next, and additional performance upgrades are in store. Best of all? This is Morad's daily driver! He reports that it gets around 28 mpg in regular use and in the mid-30s on the highway. Not a bad combination: the looks of a GNX, the grunt of a big turbodiesel, and the fuel economy of cars that are a lot more boring. This thing had to cost a fortune to make, but Morad's clearly getting his money's worth on the fun scale.

[Source: Diesel Power via Next Autos]

Looks can deceive: 6.6L Duramax-powered Buick GNX clone originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6.6buickclonecustomdieselduramaxgm lb7GmLb7gnxgrand nationalGrandNationaloldsmobileSun, 24 Aug 2008 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[GM bets $69 million on diesel plant in Ohio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/05/gm-bets-69-million-on-diesel-plant-in-ohio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/05/gm-bets-69-million-on-diesel-plant-in-ohio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/05/gm-bets-69-million-on-diesel-plant-in-ohio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New emissions standards in 2010 will make things too stringent for GM's Duramax diesel, in its current form, to make the grade. To help its prize student pass the looming tests, GM is investing $69 million in its DMAX plant (a joint venture diesel engine factory in Moraine, Ohio) for plant renovations and new machinery and tooling.

While GM doesn't really rate the uptake of diesel in the American market in passenger cars, the Duramax is an engine that has powered its fair share of GM sales. Since its introduction in 2001, more than one million Duramax diesels have found their way on the road in Chevy Silverados, GMC Sierras, full-size vans and some medium duty trucks. The current 6.6-liter Duramax V8 has a diesel particulate filter to meet today's standards. For 2010, GM will add a selective catalytic reduction NOx after-treatment system (along with the particulate filter) to meet the Tier 2 BIN and LEV 2 emissions standards. It will remain good to go in all 50 states.

[Source: GM]

GM bets $69 million on diesel plant in Ohio originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 emissions2010Emissions6.6 liter duramax6.6LiterDuramaxdieseldieselsdmaxdmax plantDmaxPlantduramaxemissionsgmlev 2Lev2tier 2 binTier2BinTue, 05 Feb 2008 16:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Spied HUMMER H2T actually a diesel?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/spied-hummer-h2t-actually-a-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/spied-hummer-h2t-actually-a-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/17/spied-hummer-h2t-actually-a-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

At least one person has lamented the lack of diesel options for the H2 SUT. In case that's you, PickupTruck.Com speculates that the coming H2T (the new name for the H2 SUT, to bring it in line with H3T naming) could be offered with a diesel. The clue is in the big-bore tailpipe seen in the spy shots, which could indicate the use of a 'venturi-effect' tailpipe. It's the kind of setup GM uses on its Silverado and Sierra HDs to keep the oil burners from spewing black smoke.

PickupTruck also wonders if this is the first truck we'll see with GM's 4.5-liter light-duty diesel. Sure, it's all guesswork right now, but we're betting GM would make more than one person happy by offering diesels in its revamped H2 line -- especially if, as some people are saying, it's going to get even larger in its next iteration.

[Source: PickupTruck.Com]

Spied HUMMER H2T actually a diesel? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duramaxh2suth2thummerMon, 17 Dec 2007 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2007: Chevy Silverado HD Crew Z71 "Big Red"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/29/sema-2007-chevy-silverado-hd-crew-z71-big-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/29/sema-2007-chevy-silverado-hd-crew-z71-big-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/29/sema-2007-chevy-silverado-hd-crew-z71-big-red/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click the image above for more "Big Red"

Even though Chevy denies buyers a Z71 version of the Silverado 2500HD, it wants you to know how cool it could be. Say hello to "Big Red," powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel backed by a six-speed Allison transmission, it combines a number of GM performance accessories with Rancho shocks and an "Earnhardt Red" paint scheme similar to that found on last year's NASCAR-legend inspired offering.

Chevy's full press release is posted after the jump.

Gallery: Chevrolet HD Crew Z71 "Big Red"

Continue reading SEMA 2007: Chevy Silverado HD Crew Z71 "Big Red"

SEMA 2007: Chevy Silverado HD Crew Z71 "Big Red" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2500 hd2500Hdbig redBigRedchevroletchevychevy silverado hdchevy silverado z71 2500 hdChevySilveradoHdChevySilveradoZ712500Hddale earnhardtDaleEarnhardtdieselduramaxnascarsilveradoz71Mon, 29 Oct 2007 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Pickuptruck.com concludes 2007 Heavy Duty Shootout... who won?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/10/pickuptruck-com-concludes-2007-heavy-duty-shootout-who-won/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/10/pickuptruck-com-concludes-2007-heavy-duty-shootout-who-won/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/10/pickuptruck-com-concludes-2007-heavy-duty-shootout-who-won/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



In Parts 1 and 2 of his 2007 Heavy Duty Shootout, Mike Levine and his cohorts from Pickuptruck.com compared the acceleration of gas three-quarter ton and diesel one-ton pickups from Dodge, Chevy/GMC and Ford on flat surfaces, both unloaded and loaded with 10,500-lb trailers. For the third and final report, however, Levine introduced grades of 7% and 15% to the equation.

The results were surprising, and really had the most influence on Pickuptruck.com's final conclusions. We won't spoil the dramatic tail of each hill climb at Ford's Michigan Proving Grounds, but the 2007 Ford F-250 with its 6.8L Triton V10 was particularly impressive in the gasser category, and as anyone who has driven one would expect, the 2007 Chevy Silverado 3500 and its 6.6L Duramax diesel/6-speed transmission combo proved overly dominant among the oil burners. That said, the conclusions are only half the story, as Pickuptruck.com follows each truck through every gear as they climb their grades. These rigorous tests brought every truck's weakness, which were glaring in some cases, as well as their strengths.

Click the Read link below to read the conclusion to the 2007 Heavy Duty Shootout and learn once and for all what pickup these guys would park in their garage.

[Source: Pickuptruck.com]

Pickuptruck.com concludes 2007 Heavy Duty Shootout... who won? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevydodgeduramaxfordhaulingheavy dutyHeavyDutypickupsRAMshootoutsuper dutySuperDutytowingtrucktrucksTue, 10 Jul 2007 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Pickuptruck.com hosts Heavy Duty Truck Shootout to end all shootouts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/pickuptruck-com-hosts-heavy-duty-truck-shootout-to-end-all-shoot/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/pickuptruck-com-hosts-heavy-duty-truck-shootout-to-end-all-shoot/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/03/pickuptruck-com-hosts-heavy-duty-truck-shootout-to-end-all-shoot/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Mike Levine from PickupTruck.com is our go-to guy for truck news. His brain is like the bed of a Ford F-450 filled with the esoteric details of heavy duty diesel pickups and 3/4-ton gassers. Plus, he's from the old school of automotive journalism and has made a successful transition to the web, which means his reporting is always knowledgeable and balanced despite it being delivered digitally. When Levine told us he was planning on doing a comprehensive comparo of today's heavy duty pickups, however, we were unprepared for the depth of the final product.

The 2007 PickupTruck.com Heavy Duty Shootout pits six HD pickups from Chevy/GMC, Ford and Dodge against each other on a totally level and unbiased playing field. Levine went so far as to hire a third-party company to perform all of the instrumented testing to remove any trace of subjectivity in the results. The players are three gas-powered 3/4-ton pickups including the 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT Quad Cab 4x4, 2008 Ford F-250 FX4 Super Duty Crew Cab 4x4 and 2007 GMC Sierra 2500 HD SLE Crew Cab 4x4, and three diesel-powered one-ton pickups including the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 LT Crew Cab 4x4, 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 SLT Quad Cab 4x4 and 2008 Ford F-350 King Ranch Super Duty Crew Cab 4x4. Ford also threw in a 2008 Ford F-450 Lariat Super Duty Crew Cab 4x4 so that Levine and his team could attempt to prove how powerful this big rig really is.

We've just finished reading Part 1 and 2 of the three-part series, which includes an extremely knowledgeable and fact-filled introduction as well as the first battery of tests, including a "squat" test and 1/4-mile performance runs. Each part may appear like a lot to read, but we flew threw it faster than an unloaded GMC Sierra 2500 through the quarter mile.

Check out Part 1 here and click here for Part 2. The final installment should be out sometime this week, and we'll be eager to find out definitively which of these pickups outperformed its competitors in PickupTruck.com's battle royale of heavy duty trucks.

[Source: PickupTruck.com]

Pickuptruck.com hosts Heavy Duty Truck Shootout to end all shootouts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisoncomparocumminsdieselduramaxgashaulHDheavy dutyHeavyDutypickuptruck.compowerstrokesuper dutySuperDutytowTue, 03 Jul 2007 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GM announces new 4.5L V8 Duramax diesel for half-ton trucks and HUMMER H2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/gm-announces-clean-diesel-v8-for-pickups-and-the-hummer-h2/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/gm-announces-clean-diesel-v8-for-pickups-and-the-hummer-h2/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/gm-announces-clean-diesel-v8-for-pickups-and-the-hummer-h2/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Mark your calendars, because we're calling today a watershed moment for the advancement of diesel's acceptance in the U.S. General Motors has just announced a new 4.5L V8 Duramax turbo-diesel powerplant it plans to use in the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra half-ton pickups, as well as the HUMMER H2. The new oil burner is expected to produce at least 310 horsepower and 520 ft-lbs. of torque. It features dual-overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, a variable-vane turbocharger and aluminum cylinder heads with integrated manifolding that helps keep the overall package small enough to fit in the same space as the automaker's small-block gas V8s.

That's right, just imagine the possibilities. Wherever GM uses a small-block V8 gas engine, it could potentially use the 4.5L V8 Duramax diesel. In a few years we could be driving diesel Impalas, diesel Camaros, maybe even a diesel Corvette! To quote GM's press release, the engine's small size gives it "the flexibility to introduce this engine in a wide variety of vehicle applications should there be future market demand." Indeed.

GM estimates that the engine will improve fuel efficiency by 25%, reduce CO2 emissions by 13% and decrease particulate and NOx emissions by at least 90% in its GMT900 pickups and the HUMMER H2. Whoever said the HUMMER H2 was on its way out will likely be proven incorrect after this engine debuts. Scheduled to be built at the GM Tonawanda engine plant outside Buffalo, NY, the 4.5L V8 Duramax diesel will be 50-state emissions compliant and meet 2010 diesel emissions standards, as well. GM claims its new diesel will also have NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels approaching those of today's current gas V8s, though we'll have to wait and see if that wish comes true. That wait should end in a couple of years, as the automaker states the engine will be available in Silverado, Sierra and H2 models built after 2009.

UPDATE: Pickuptruck.com's Mike Levine has learned from GM that despite sharing its name with the older 6.6L Duramax diesel that was developed in partnership with Isuzu, the new 4.5L Duramax was developed completely in-house by GM.

Check out GM's full press release after the jump for more details.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading GM announces new 4.5L V8 Duramax diesel for half-ton trucks and HUMMER H2

GM announces new 4.5L V8 Duramax diesel for half-ton trucks and HUMMER H2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 15:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4.5 liter4.5L4.5LiterChevy SilveradoChevySilveradodieselDuramaxGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGMC SierraGmcSierraHUMMER H2HummerH2turbo-dieselFri, 15 Jun 2007 15:49:00 EST<![CDATA[New standards for heavy-duty diesels means more problems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/new-standards-for-heavy-duty-diesels-means-more-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/new-standards-for-heavy-duty-diesels-means-more-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/new-standards-for-heavy-duty-diesels-means-more-problems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Those looking for a glimpse into the future of light-duty diesel reliability may be interested in a new study by J.D. Power on customer satisfaction with modern heavy truck powertrains. The 2006 Heavy Duty Truck Engine/Transmission Study ranked engines from the 2004 model year by quality, performance, cost of ownership, and warranty, and revealed what one would reasonably expect from new technology.

An average of 74 problems per 100 vehicles was reported, which represents a 60% increase in trouble over the prior year. This was attributed directly to the emission control systems that were phased in during 2003 and 2004. Fuel economy also declined from 6.04 MPG in the 2004 study to 5.72 MPG - a drop of over 5%. Ranked highest in the study was Caterpillar, and the company's ACERT technology allowed the C12 and C15 (pictured above) to lead the ratings of individual engines. Unfortunately, unless you hold a CDL, it's highly unlikely that either one of them will find their way into your personal fleet.

So, what does this mean for consumers of passenger vehicles? Just as we've experienced the evolution of emission controls on gasoline engines, problems can be expected as manufacturers roll out clean diesel technology. How long it will take to sort out these issues is not yet clear, but we're guessing that things get sorted out rather quickly, and indeed some of the problems that are currently affecting heavy trucks may very well be eliminated before it trickles down to smaller oilburners.

[Source: J.D. Power; the complete press release is posted below the jump]

Continue reading New standards for heavy-duty diesels means more problems

New standards for heavy-duty diesels means more problems originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Oct 2006 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caterpillarclean dieselcumminsdetroit dieselduramaxemissionsj.d. powerJ.d.Powerjd powerpowerstrokequalitysatisfactionsuvtditruckwarrantyFri, 06 Oct 2006 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[GM grants first drive of its new diesel V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/14/gm-grants-first-drive-of-its-new-diesel-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/14/gm-grants-first-drive-of-its-new-diesel-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/14/gm-grants-first-drive-of-its-new-diesel-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

General Motors' recent (and vague) announcement of a new V8 diesel has led to significant speculation, especially with regard to power output and packaging size of the engine. As a preemptive strike against doubters, the company recently allowed Diesel Forecast to take a spin in a Buick Rainer equipped with the mystery oil-burner.

For starters, the "light duty" (intended for vehicles with a GVWR of under 8,600 lbs) will produce somewhere in the neighborhood of 330 HP and 520 lb-ft of torque. All that torque comes online around 1800 RPM and extends to 4500 RPM. We feel that these numbers should keep the average driver quite happy (diesel power junkies will just have to wait until aftermarket PCM tuners become available). For this we can credit the wonders of variable-geometry turbocharging, although at this point GM is not saying how many hairdryers they are using (two would be our guess, given the direction in which others are moving).

We were skeptical that a DOHC turbocharged V8 would fit into the same space as GM's ultra-compact pushrod gasoline V8s, but this does indeed appear to be the case (see the above outline drawing from GM, where its outline is shown against the GenIV L92). The fact that it fits under the hood of a GMT360 - a surprisingly tight environment, given the vehicle's external dimensions - speaks to the compact packaging of this engine, and means that we could see it popping up in just about any RWD product from the General.

On the emissions front, GM sees the engine utilizing urea injection with selective catalyst reduction to meet the EPA's 2010 Bin 5 regulations.

[Source: Diesel Forecast]

GM grants first drive of its new diesel V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Sep 2006 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cumminsdieselduramaxemissionsforecastgeneral motorsGenIVgmgreenL92powerstrokescrturboturbochargedureaThu, 14 Sep 2006 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Round-up: Detroit's big new diesels for next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/round-up-detroits-big-new-diesels-for-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/round-up-detroits-big-new-diesels-for-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/12/round-up-detroits-big-new-diesels-for-next-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Over the years, the big two-point-five may have lost market share to their overseas counterparts, but one segment that no foreign manufacturer can touch is Detroit's diesel pickup offerings. With that in mind, GM and Ford will announce the power ratings of their newest oil burners during, where else, the Texas State Fair.

For General Motors, Ford and Dodge, the magical torque figure is 650.

Dodge's newly redesigned 6.7-liter, inline-six will dole out 350 hp and 650 ft./lbs. of torque when equipped in their 2500 and 3500 lines of pickups. Ford will follow Dodge's lead and boost displacement of their Powerstroke V8 to 6.4-liters, from the previous model's 6-liter powerplant, with horsepower expected to crest the 350 hp mark as well. Both vehicles will go on sale this January.

The General, whose offerings should hit dealer lots in the first quarter of 2007 as 2008 models, will attempt to win back some of its 'Professional Grade' consumers with the new Duramax. According to GM, the new diesel will make approximately 360 hp and, you guessed it, 650 ft./lbs. of torque.

Expect to see more specific figures over the next few months.

[Source: GM and Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Round-up: Detroit's big new diesels for next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Sep 2006 09:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieseldieselmaxdodgeduramaxfordgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmpickup trucksPickupTruckspowerstroketexas state fairTexasStateFairtorqueTue, 12 Sep 2006 09:12:00 EST<![CDATA[EPA mulls over urea-injection rules]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/epa-mulls-over-urea-injection-rules/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/epa-mulls-over-urea-injection-rules/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/29/epa-mulls-over-urea-injection-rules/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Environmental Protection Agency is considering a variety of rules that it might apply to urea injection for diesel engines, and is said to ready to issue rules for such emission-control devices in upcoming weeks. The regulations are expected to address potential issues arising with urea injection, such as the availability of the substance, making sure that the system and its low-fluid-level warning system are tamperproof, and dealing with urea's freezing point of 11F. One of the largest areas of contention between the EPA and automakers involves a proposed interlock between the urea level-monitoring system and the engine that would perhaps disable the starter or lock the vehicle's fuel cap if urea levels drop too low to ensure proper function.

Starting in 2010, all diesel vehicles sold in the US must meet or exceed "Bin 5" classification of the Tier II clean air standards, which would effectively make oilburners as clean as gasoline engines. Urea injection helps reduce the level of oxides of nitrogen when injected into the tailpipe, and does so at a cost perhaps 10% lower than the competing NOx trap technology. Bosch sees the combination of urea and selective catalyst reduction as the path toward diesel cleanliness, and GM has shown off the technology on a diesel light-truck prototype. VW's emission certification problems with the diesel Touareg last year elevated the profile of urea injection - and the problems surrounding it - here in the United States, and prompted the EPA to start moving.

[Source: Autoweek/Automotive News]

EPA mulls over urea-injection rules originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Aug 2006 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>catalystCumminsdieselDuramaxemissionsenvironmental protection agencyEPAPowerstrokescrtailpipeTDIureaTue, 29 Aug 2006 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[GM announces revised Duramax 6.6L and new light-duty diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/24/gm-announces-revised-duramax-6-6l-and-new-light-duty-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/24/gm-announces-revised-duramax-6-6l-and-new-light-duty-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/24/gm-announces-revised-duramax-6-6l-and-new-light-duty-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



General Motors made two big announcements today about the state of its current diesel engine offerings. The company was forced to make a move in the face of upcoming stricter emissions standards that require a 90-percent reduction in particulate matter compared with the current standard, which was introduced in 2004, and a 50-percent reduction in NOx. The first big news is that the Duramax 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V8 used in various heavy-duty applications has been revised to meet the new standards.

Changes to the 2007 Duramax 6.6-liter V8 engine include:
  • Additional combustion control, including an even more efficient variable-geometry turbocharging system, cooled (enhanced) Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and closed crankcase ventilation to reduce NOx
  • Additional exhaust control, including oxidizing catalyst and new Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to reduce soot and particulate matter
  • Increased-capacity cooling system
  • New engine control software
  • Use of low-ash engine oil

While GM is not telling us how much power the new Duramax will produce in the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 HD pickups, it has revealed that versions will be available producing 300 hp and 520 ft-lbs. of torque and a new option that produces 330 hp and 620 ft-lbs. of torque.

But GM didn't stop there. The company announced that a new, light-duty V8 turbo-diesel will be available after 2009. The dual-overhead cam, four-valve V8 will fit in the same space as a small-block V8, meet even more stringent 2010 emissions standards and be 50-state legal. GM states explicitly the engine is for pickup trucks under 8,600 lbs. gross vehicle weight, which means the new diesel engine will find a home in GM's half-ton pickups and probably its GMT900 full-size SUVs.

(Both press releases can be found after the jump)

[Source: GM]

Related posts

Continue reading GM announces revised Duramax 6.6L and new light-duty diesel

GM announces revised Duramax 6.6L and new light-duty diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Aug 2006 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselDuramaxemissionslight-duty dieselLight-dutyDieselstandardsturbo-dieselThu, 24 Aug 2006 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[The 10 best diesel engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/the-10-best-diesel-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/the-10-best-diesel-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/07/the-10-best-diesel-engines/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Diesel Power magazine, a publication dedicated to compression-ignition pickup trucks and the people that love them, has released its list of the Top 10 Diesel Engines. Now, considering the difficulty of naming 10 diesel engines that have been sold here in the US - much less making a case for the inclusion of each on a top-10 list - the editors decided to have a bit of fun with this task. How much fun? Well, the massive Wartsila-Sulzer ship engine and its 1,556,002 cubic inches of displacement (that's no typo, and it works out to over 25,000 liters) slotted in at #9 on the list.

For those not willing to think outside the world of passenger vehicles, the relevant entries break down like so - the B-series Cummins squeaked in at #10, the GM/Isuzu Duramax slots in at #6, the Ford/International 7.3L Powerstroke slides in at #5, and the VW 5.3L V10 is a bit of a surprise at #3. Now, it remains to be seen how Diesel Power's readers accept this rankings, and we're guessing that it's going to be a busy month in its mailroom.

[Source: Diesel Power]

The 10 best diesel engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Aug 2006 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6.07.3CumminsDetroit DieselDodgeDuramaxFordGMPowerstrokeRamTDIV10VWMon, 07 Aug 2006 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Dodge announces plans for heavy-duty diesel RAM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/07/dodge-announces-plans-for-heavy-duty-diesel-ram/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/07/dodge-announces-plans-for-heavy-duty-diesel-ram/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/07/dodge-announces-plans-for-heavy-duty-diesel-ram/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Dodge is the last of the full-size truck producers to indicate its plan of attack concerning the conversion of its diesel engine used in heavy-duty Ram pickups to meet new federal diesel emissions standards that take effect January 1st. Frank Klegon of the Chrysler Group says that heavy-duty diesel Rams sold after January 1st will feature expensive diesel particulate filters and oxides of nitrogen absorber. The two components will reduce the amount of oxides of nitrogen, but will also reduce the engine's performance as it further restricts the flow of exhaust through the exhaust system. The modified engine will be able to run on new Ultra-Low Sulfur diesel fuel that began being produced on June 1st and will available nationwide beginning January 1st.

GM has announced similar modifications for its Duramax diesels that include a new variable geometry turbo and exhaust gas recirculation system. Ford, meanwhile, will be dumping its troubled 6.0L Powerstroke diesel in favor of a new, cleaner 6.4L unit with equally expensive Piezo injectors.

AutoWeek indicates that both Dodge and GM may release new diesel powerplants in the near future since their current units will likely see a performance loss from these modifications.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Dodge announces plans for heavy-duty diesel RAM originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Jul 2006 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselDuramaxheavy-duty RamHeavy-dutyRamPowerstrokeRAMRAM 2500Ram 3500Ram HDRam2500Ram3500RamHdFri, 07 Jul 2006 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[GM revamping Duramax diesel for new standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/gm-revamping-duramax-diesel-for-new-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/gm-revamping-duramax-diesel-for-new-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/19/gm-revamping-duramax-diesel-for-new-standards/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



General Motors has decided to go ahead with plans to rework its 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 engine in anticipation of the new Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards that will take effect on January 1st. The new standards call for a 90-percent reduction of oxides of nitrogen and particulate matter. Though the changes won't interrupt production of the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty pickups in which the engines are used, they will sharply increase the cost of building the engines. GM Powertrain expects to meet the standards by using a new variable geometry turbo, enhancing the engine's exhaust gas recirculation and using a closed crankcase ventilation system. The exhaust system will also be supplemented with an oxidizing catalytic converter and particulate filter like those first introduced on many European diesels a couple of years ago.

You may remember Ford's plans to meet the new standards, which include using expensive piezo injectors on its new 6.4L twin-turbo Powerstroke diesel. Dodge has not revealed yet how it plans to get the Ram's Cummins diesel up to snuff by January 1st.

[Source: Autoweek]

GM revamping Duramax diesel for new standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jun 2006 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cumminsdieselduramaxe.p.a.emissionsepaeuro dieselEuroDieselheavy dutyHeavyDutyinternational dieselInternationalDieselparticulate filterParticulateFilterpowerstrokesierrasilveradotier 2 bin 5Tier2Bin5Mon, 19 Jun 2006 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Banks D-Max Type-R GMC race truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/02/video-banks-d-max-type-r-gmc-race-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/02/video-banks-d-max-type-r-gmc-race-truck/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/02/video-banks-d-max-type-r-gmc-race-truck/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Okay... our love for rattling heavy-duty pickups notwithstanding, the idea of a Duramax-powered GMC race truck still seems odd, even though a half-year has passed since we first mentioned this monster. But with Audi's oil-burning R10 taking the checkered flag last month at Sebring, maybe Gale Banks doesn't have a proverbial loose rod bolt or two.

To prove that progress has been made on this monster over the winter, Banks has posted an update with some video clips on the company's website. None of them will raise goosebumps like Climb Dance, but it's still pretty cool to see a big red pickup truck doing skidpad testing without looking like one of those Consumer Reports rollover tests. And we definitely feel sorry for the Miata driver at Buttonwillow that was overtaken by the D-Max - that had to be a somewhat scary (and humbling) experience.

Video: Banks D-Max Type-R GMC race truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 May 2006 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ButtonwillowdieselDuramaxGale BanksGaleBanksSidewinder: D-MaxturbodieselTue, 02 May 2006 15:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2007 Ford Super Duty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/05/spy-shots-2007-ford-super-duty/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/05/spy-shots-2007-ford-super-duty/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/05/spy-shots-2007-ford-super-duty/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As noted by Inside Line, Ford decided not to go with the locomotive-inspired theme of the Super Chief concept for its refreshened Super Duty pickups due out this summer. Too bad, as the Super Chief was super cool. Regardless, the new Super Dutes will get bigger and bolder in the front and back, with larger, one-piece headlights that extend down to a one-piece bumper, bigger vents in the grille, quarter panel vents behind the front wheels and the words "Super Duty" branded everywhere it will fit.

The bigger news for the new Super Dutes will be the arrival of an all new Powerstroke diesel to replace the current one that's been plagued with problems from the get-go. The new oil burner will displace 6.4 liters and employ a pair of sequential turbos to help produce 350 hp and 650 ft-lbs of torque. Those numbers would put the Super Duty ahead of both Dodge's 5.9L Cummins turbo diesel (325 hp/610 ft-lbs.) and GM's 6.6L Duramax diesel (310 hp/605 ft-lbs.), in which case it's time for another race.

[Source: Inside Line]

Spy Shots: 2007 Ford Super Duty originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Apr 2006 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevy SilveradoChevySilveradoCumminsdieseldieselsDodge RamDodgeRamDuramaxFordFord Super Dutyford trucksFordSuperDutyFordTrucksGMheavy duty trucksHeavyDutyTrucksPowerstrokeSuper ChiefSuperChieftrucksWed, 05 Apr 2006 12:33:00 EST