Autoblog

GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, SUV, Truck, Recalls, Safety, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Twelve different General Motors vehicles from the 2013 model year, up to 54,686 units in total, are being recalled over two potential issues with their steering columns. The models in question, all full-size trucks, SUVs or vans, are the: Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Savana, Sierra, Yukon and Yukon XL.

The affected vehicles were built with a fractured parking lock cable or "a malformed steering column lock actuator gear in the lock module assembly." As a consequence, they could shift out of park without the brake pedal being applied or with the key removed or in the off position.

A bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that the recall should begin on January 17. GM will notify owners, at which time they can take their vehicles to their dealers for repair free of charge. Have a look at the bulletin below for more information.

Continue reading GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism

GM recalls full-size truck, SUVs and vans over faulty shifter mechanism originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Expect greater differentiation in GM's next-generation SUVs

Zach Bowman — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 17:45:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, Design/Style

General Motors says its next-generation Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade models will offer shoppers improved interior differentiation. Car and Driver recently caught up with Chris Hilts, GM's creative manager of interior design, who said that the cabins will all feature unique instrument panels, consoles, center stacks and switchgear moving forward. Apparently GM is now aware that consumers may be bothered by the fact that today's $85,000 Escalade has effectively the same cabin as a $45,000 Tahoe. Hilts says SUV buyers want more refinement than their pickup purchasing counterparts - and those same buyers also want their SUVs to have more exterior differentiation between the company's Silverado and Sierra pickup lines. Shocking.

That all sounds good to us, but we've heard this song and dance before. GM made big waves about how different the new-for-2013 Silverado and Sierra would look from each other, but judging by what we've seen so far, GM's stylists are painting in shades rather than with the full spectrum. For more on the what to expect out of GM's new SUVs, click on the C/D link below.

Expect greater differentiation in GM's next-generation SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months

Jeffrey N. Ross — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, SUV, Truck, Crossover, Buick, GM, GMC, Luxury

While Chevrolet and Cadillac are the defining brands for General Motors, Buick and GMC seem to be the middle siblings of the auto giant and, therefore, are often overlooked and underappreciated. This might be changing over the next 12 months, though, as these brands are set to receive nine new or refreshed models in this timeframe.

The sole new model to join the lineup is the sub-$25,000 Buick Encore crossover, but the Regal and LaCrosse are all getting mid-cycle updates at some point over the next year, not to mention the refreshed Enclave that we've already seen. Not to be left out, the Buick Verano will be getting a little more pep under the hood courtesy of a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.

As for GMC, its full-size truck lineup is being completely overhauled. We've already seen spy photos of the new Chevrolet Silverado testing, and GMC confirmed that the Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra and Sierra HD will all be introduced by next fall. All four GMC models will continue to be offered with the added luxury of the Denali trim level as well.

Perhaps the biggest news that came from this announcement was that the GMC Canyon is confirmed for a next-generation model, and it will be built alongside the all-new Chevrolet Colorado at GM's Wentzville, Missouri assembly plant.

Continue reading GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months

GM promises new Buick Regal and LaCrosse along with new GMC Canyon, Sierra and Yukon in next 12 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM cancels next-gen hybrid truck/SUV program

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Truck, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

According to a report from GMInsideNews.com, General Motors has shut down its hybrid program for company's next-generation of full-size pickup trucks and sport-utility vehicles. Currently, the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon and Cadillac Escalade all use the two-mode hybrid technology.

Historically, the two-mode hybrid models have not sold well, and only yield minor improvements in overall fuel economy. In most applications, the two-mode hybrid system is rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg highway.

GMI reports that it's unusual for programs like this to be shut down so close to the launch of a new vehicle - the next-generation trucks/SUVs are scheduled to debut for the 2014 model year - but that many sources within GM are not surprised about the move. These new full-size hybrids were reportedly supposed to use an updated two-mode system, featuring a smaller displacement V8 engine, upgraded battery storage (using a more modern lithium-ion pack) and revamped electric motors, according to GMI.

When contacted by Autoblog, a GM spokesperson only stated that the automaker could "not comment on future products or related technologies."

GM cancels next-gen hybrid truck/SUV program originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 GMC Sierra and Yukon Heritage Editions say, "Happy 100th!"

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, SUV, Truck, GM, GMC

The GMC brand celebrates its 100th birthday this year, and the 1912 New York Auto Show is where it all started. To commemorate the occasion, General Motors' utility brand has created special Heritage Edition packages for both the Sierra pickup and Yukon sport-ute, and both make their public debut here at the 2012 New York expo.

An option group priced from $1,820 to $2,645, the Heritage Edition package adds cosmetic upgrades like new paint colors (including the Heritage Blue you see here), embroidered headrests and floor mats, large chrome wheels, chrome door handles, a power liftgate and an original GMC logo.

Scroll down to read the full details in GM's press blast and see the Heritage Edition package from all angles in our attached high-res image gallery. Oh, and happy hundredth, GMC!

Continue reading 2012 GMC Sierra and Yukon Heritage Editions say, "Happy 100th!"

2012 GMC Sierra and Yukon Heritage Editions say, "Happy 100th!" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GMC debuts 2012 Yukon and Sierra Heritage Editions

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 18:44:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, SUV, Truck, GMC, Specialty, Luxury

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the GMC brand - something that first appeared at the 1912 New York Auto Show with models like a five-ton dumptruck. It will be the smaller passenger vehicles that do the celebrating, though, with Heritage editions of the Yukon, Yukon XL and Sierra 1500 Crew Cab being unveiled next week.

The special edition tweaks are purely cosmetic, with exterior hues on offer such as Heritage Blue (pictured), White Diamond and Onyx Black paired with interiors in Ebony or Light Tan. Embroidered floor mats and headrests will let everyone know your truck or SUV is extra special, along with items like chrome door handles, larger wheels, a power liftgate and original GMC logo script depending on which model you choose.

Adding the Heritage packages adds anywhere from $1,820 to $2,645 to the price, and that's before you've paid for the premium paints. Scroll down for more info on the models, and we'll have more on them live from the New York show floor.

Continue reading GMC debuts 2012 Yukon and Sierra Heritage Editions

GMC debuts 2012 Yukon and Sierra Heritage Editions originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved

Zach Bowman — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:45:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Etc., Safety, Videos, GMC

For most of us, holiday travel is little more than a slight inconvenience, but an Amarillo, Texas family has found out just how treacherous taking to the road in winter can be. David Higgins, his wife and his five-year-old daughter packed into the family's GMC Yukon for a ski trip in New Mexico. Shortly after the trio crossed the state line, a severe snow storm descended, forcing Higgins off the road. The SUV quickly became mired in the white stuff, and it wasn't long before the entire vehicle was encased in a massive snow drift.

The Higgins called 911 for help, but dispatchers told the family the weather was too bad for anyone to come save them. Two days later, rescuers located the stranded family and pulled them from the vehicle. Presumably fearing exposure to subzero temperatures, the Higgins' stayed inside their vehicle, though it isn't clear why they didn't continually try to dig out a path to keep from being trapped inside. Fortunately, they brought along plenty of food and water, and huddled together to keep each other warm, but they say that they nearly ran out of oxygen. Hit the jump to watch an ABC report on the family's harrowing ordeal.

Continue reading Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved

Family buried in New Mexico snowdrift for two days saved originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM and Costco partner up to sell trucks

Jeff Sabatini — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Truck, Marketing/Advertising, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Now you can get a deal on a big box at your local big box. Costco is offering its members discounted General Motors trucks and SUVs as part of a new "brand-awareness program" for the automaker, according to Automotive News. Eligible vehicles include the Chevrolet Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, and Traverse, as well as corresponding GMC varaints, the Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Acadia.

GM will offer Costco shoppers special prices that are roughly equivalent to those it extends to employees of automotive suppliers, but the discounts won't be as steep as the ones GM employees get. Costco will also be throwing in a $500 gift card to members who purchase a new vehicle through the program, which runs through January 3, 2012.

With demand for large trucks and SUVs stagnating in recent years, the program seems like a no-brainer for GM, given that many Costco shoppers are likely prospective customers for these models. After all, you just can't fit a 36-pound roasted whole pig and an 96-roll case of toilet paper in the trunk of a Sonic.

GM and Costco partner up to sell trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Over 7,500 GM trucks recalled over two safety issues

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Recalls, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

2011 Chevrolet Colorado - Click above for high-res image gallery

A handful of General Motors trucks and sport utility vehicles need to head on in to their local dealerships. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has just issued a pair of recall notice for 7,507 vehicles as part of two separate safety actions.

The first covers 6,768 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon 2011 model year pickup trucks. According to NHTSA, an ornery transmission adjustment clip might not keep the shift cable in the correct position. This could cause drivers to think there truck is in park, when in fact it's just waiting to roll away in neutral.

A smaller recall notice has been issued for 739 trucks and SUVs due to a steering shaft bolt that's been improperly tightened. If loose, it could make for rather difficult steering and cause an accident. This recall affects the 2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL.

Click past the jump for the full NHTSA bulletins.

Continue reading Over 7,500 GM trucks recalled over two safety issues

Over 7,500 GM trucks recalled over two safety issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: GM SUVs to continue with full frame, Granite still on the table

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Crossover, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

The Sport Utility Vehicle is dead. Long live the Sport Utility Vehicle.

We all know by now that the SUV, considered the Official Car of the 1990s and early 00s, has mostly fallen out of favor. But that doesn't mean we should expect the large, body-on-frame behemoths - with the exception of impractical niche models like those from Hummer - to completely disappear from automaker showrooms any time soon.

Instead, the market may just right-size itself back to a more natural mix, with those users who really do need the off-road and towing capabilities of a proper SUV sticking with their 'utes and the rest of the population switching to crossovers. With that in mind, Automotive News reports that the redesigned GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe, due in 2013 or 2014, will likely stick to their truck-based roots. No surprise.

Nor should we be shocked by the revelation that the GMC Granite, which was first shown at the Detroit Auto Show early in 2010, is still in the works. In today's market conditions, an entirely truck-based lineup makes very little fiscal sense, but we'd imagine that General Motors' Lambda triplets will remain the automaker's volume sellers.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Report: GM SUVs to continue with full frame, Granite still on the table originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ouch: NHTSA reportedly investigating 2007 Tahoe, Yukon over sharp door handles

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Safety, Chevrolet, GMC, Luxury

If you own a 2007 Chevy Tahoe or GMC Yukon, you might want to watch your fingers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has begun an engineering analysis (the step before a potential recall) at the SUVs' door handles after 88 complaints of people cutting their hands on peeling metal plating. There are a possible 443,000 vehicles affected, but that's only if the NHTSA decides a full recall is necessary at the end of its analysis.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Ouch: NHTSA reportedly investigating 2007 Tahoe, Yukon over sharp door handles originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No Surprise: GM's next-generation of large SUVs reportedly due by 2013

Dan Roth — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Truck, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

75th Anniversary Diamond Edition Chevrolet Suburban - Click above for high-res image gallery

Listen to enough of the bloviation, and you'll start to believe that full-size, traditional SUVs are the root of all evil. While the hue and cry has gone up far and wide branding these truck-based vehicles as four-wheeled carcinogens, there are enough legitimate reasons to purchase a Chevrolet Suburban or Cadillac Escalade that General Motors is going ahead with the next generation.

SUVs have traditionally been healthy profit-earners for General Motors. Though sales dropped by 25 percent in 2009, sales are picking up once again and exports remain strong, all making a good case for the revamping and keeping the truck chassis. Work had been idled on the GMT900 architecture's replacement while GM went through its bout with Chapter 11 and fuel prices spiked. Moving the Tahoe, Escalade, Yukon, and Suburban to a version of the unibody Lambda platform had also reportedly been considered. In the end, buyers opting for the big SUVs really want and need what they do; from three rows of seats to truck-strong towing and heavy-duty four-wheel-drive systems, so General Motors is apparently keeping the basic formula, confirming to Automotive News that all current versions of GMT900 have a future. The fact that GM SUVs are practically ubiquitous as congressional transporters probably doesn't hurt the case for revamping the full-size SUV line, either. After all, Capitol Hill has a massive stake in GM, and they might as well get some new armored Escalades for politicians publicly stumping for small, fuel-efficient cars, right?

Gallery: Chevrolet Suburban 75th Anniversary Diamond Edition

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

No Surprise: GM's next-generation of large SUVs reportedly due by 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:40:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Safety, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

General Motors and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced a suite of recalls for the Chevrolet Camaro, Traverse and various body-on-frame SUVs and pickups (Cadillac's Escalade, Chevrolet's Avalanche, Colorado, Suburban and Tahoe, along with GMC's Canyon and Yukon).

The Camaro recall has been discussed before, but now we have the official language and affected unit numbers to share with you. The recall of 1,243 Camaros is due to the possibility of the positive battery cable rubbing against the starter motor housing. When the insulation is worn through because of that chafing, the system can short out and the car won't start (or continue running if the motor is already going). Dealers will reroute the positive cable to fix.

15,393 2009 model-year Traverse crossovers are being recalled for a parking brake cable link that is not to federal specifications. According to the official press release, the parking brake pedal may cause the cable link to snap. Dealers will replace the cable link connector for free. Oddly, the recall does not make mention of GM's other Lambda-based three-row crossovers, which include the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook.

Finally, 27,189 GM SUVs and pickups are being recalled due to potential faults with their fuel system control modules. The modules might have a seal problem that allows water in, which could then cause a short- or open- circuit, a development that could potentially trigger a host of warning lights or render the vehicle inoperable. Dealers will install a new fuel system control module unit at no cost. You can read all of the notices after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA - Camaro, Traverse, GMT900]

Continue reading GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues

GM recalls Camaro, Traverse, SUVs/pickups for various issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade not being replaced

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

The full-size SUV's future is on shaky legs and now, reports have surfaced that General Motors has killed the next generation Tahoe and Yukon 'utes, just weeks after announcing it would shutter its SUV plant in Janesville, Wisconsin. Of course, if that pair is buried, the Suburban and the Cadillac Escalade that use the same platform must also come to an end, at least in their current form.

Past reports indicate that the ultra-lux ride from Caddy will move to the Lambda platform for its next generation. The Tahukon pair had been slated for a redesign in 2011, and since that's reportedly not going to happen, the duo's future is definitely in question. GM will probably keep churning out the current version until it's no longer profitable to do so.

These days, any story about the General would be incomplete without some mention of Chrysler, and this one's no different. America's number three automaker just announced just last week that it would be phasing out its full-sized 'utes as well. Therefore, any possible merger of the two companies would carry on without a new large SUV platform at all. How the times have changed.

[Source: The New York Times via Inside Line]

Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade not being replaced originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GM closing Wisconsin SUV plant early, doors closed by end of year

Chris Shunk — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

General Motors has announced that it wil close its SUV plant in Janesville, Wisconsin by the end of this year in response to the woeful market for utility vehicles. The plant produces the GMC Yukon and Chevy Suburban and employs 1,200 UAW workers. GM was originally planning to shutter the plant sometime before 2010, but deteriorating market conditions have expedited the plant's demise. The news comes only one week after the General announced that it would be closing its Moraine, OH SUV plant early, as well.

Some analysts think GM could pull the plug on its Oshawa truck plant and Mexico facility in Toluca early too since truck sales are down as well, as GM has already announced that those plants are slated for closure. GM top dog Rick Wagoner stated last week that some stamping facilities could also face closure to help align production capabilities to demand.

[Source: CNN Money]

GM closing Wisconsin SUV plant early, doors closed by end of year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NHTSA investigating GM SUV fires

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:19:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Recalls, Safety, GM, GMC

You might remember a bout of fires consuming a handful of Ford trucks, SUVs and cars that was due to a faulty cruise control switch that could ignite even if the vehicles were parked. General Motors is apparently having a similar issue, and although it doesn't involve the same cruise control system, the potential outcome - a car fire - is the same.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into the 2007 GMC Yukon after two of the SUVs caught fire while parked in the owners' garages with the ignition turned off. The issue could affect some 423,000 vehicles, but according to a GM spokesperson, the automaker doesn't think it's a widespread pattern or trend. The NHTSA will have the final word on that, we suppose.

[Source: Detroit News]

NHTSA investigating GM SUV fires originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Will the real Tahoe/Yukon Hybrid MSRP please stand up?

Siddharth Raja — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 13:57:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Hybrid vehicles still don't make much sense for automakers. The cost of the technology is more than what consumers are willing to pay and in many cases the fuel-saving benefits can be achieved with a simple diesel motor (at least in Europe). Because of this, coming up with the right sticker price can be a major stumbling block. Price it too high and no one will want to buy your hybrid, but discount it too much and money will be lost on every model sold.

GM got into a spot of bother recently when alleged prices for its new full-size hybrids SUVs were released on its website last month. The problem was that the listed prices "were too low" according to GM spokesman Terry Rhadigan. The Chevy Tahoe 4-Door two-wheel drive hybrid was listed at $47,915 and the four-wheel drive was listed at $50,720. The GMC Yukon two-wheel drive hybrid came in at $48,370.

The 'correct' prices are scheduled to be announced next week, though Popular Mechanics already have the two listed as $49,270 for the Yukon Hybrid 2WD and $48,815 for the Tahoe Hybrid 2WD. If that's the case, then the prices accidentally released last month weren't off by all that much.

$49,270 and $48,815, respectively

[Source: The Detroit News]

Will the real Tahoe/Yukon Hybrid MSRP please stand up? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Overtime is done at six GM plants

Chris Shunk — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Truck, Chevrolet, GM, GMC, UAW/Unions

Vehicle sales are slow throughout the US right now, and a slumping housing market coupled with high gas prices means that trucks and SUVs are being hit extremely hard in particular. Large truck and SUV sales are down 9% through July year over year, and GM has halted overtime at six locations to help keep its large vehicle inventory under control. Workers from Flint; Oshawa, Ontario; Ft. Wayne, IN; Janesville, WI; Arlington, TX; and Silao, Mexico will need to punch out after completing eight hours work. GM wants to be sure inventories of its all-important large trucks don't get too high, which could necessitate higher incentives if available stock gets out of hand. GM looks very serious about keeping cash rebates in check, even with the possibility of a strike looming next month.

[Source: Freep]

Overtime is done at six GM plants originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Aug 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Want a hybrid Tahoe/Yukon? GM will help you buy one

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 10 Jul 2007 17:33:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, SUV, Green, Crossover, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM

Bob Lutz has apparently climbed down from the parapet of passing all costs onto the consumer... that is, when it comes to green tech. In fact, GM appears to be considering subsidizing the cost of its hybrids for consumers. The world's number two automaker has three hybrid transmissions in the works: a simple bolt-on starter/alternator combo called BAS, a BAS+ system that uses li-ion batteries instead of nickel metal hydride, and a dual-mode system with two electric motors that will debut later this year in the Tahoe and Yukon. The dual-mode is the priciest of the bunch, carrying a $10,000 premium per vehicle for a 25% fuel economy savings. Even though GM has licensed the technology to BMW and DaimlerChrysler to keep the costs down, Lutz declares that "if we price it at full cost recovery, I'd say we probably would sell -- not very many." Lutz didn't give any indication of what kind of subsidy might be offered to entice buyers, saying the question is "How much do you want to do and how much financial pain can you endure?"

Lutz also said that "nearly every Cadillac product could feature a hybrid variant as early as the next two years," but none of the hybrids detailed are meant for the Volt. That car is an electric car with range assist, not a hybrid.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Want a hybrid Tahoe/Yukon? GM will help you buy one originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Caddy considers adding hybrids to the mix

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 19:36:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Green, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

The combination of high gas prices and a sales slowdown at Cadillac have caused the heads of GM's luxury division to consider adding a hybrid to the mix. During an interview with the Detroit News, John Howell, Caddy's head product honcho was quoted as saying that, "Pretty much every program I am looking at going forward has got a hybrid as part of it."

He remained mum on a timeframe for the addition of gas-electric hybrids into the Cadillac lineup, but for 2009, the blingtastic Escalade will be sporting a two-mode hybrid drivetrain, much like its GMT900 platform siblings, the Tahoe and Yukon. Such a system is expected to boost fuel economy by 25-percent over the standard gas-powered model.

[Source: Detroit News]

Gallery: 2007 Cadillac Escalade - In the Autoblog Garage

Caddy considers adding hybrids to the mix originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 19:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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