Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Chevrolet to Provide Gas-Friendly Vehicles during GRAMMY Week

First Ever Gas-Friendly GRAMMY Fleet to Transport the Music Industry's Hottest Talent; Chevy Volt Concept Brings

LOS ANGELES – A fleet of gas-friendly vehicles from Chevrolet will bring an eco-friendly presence to the 50th Annual GRAMMY® Awards on Sunday, February 10. As the “official vehicle of the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards,” Chevrolet will provide both Hybrid and FlexFuel E85 ethanol SUVs to transport talent to the Awards telecast and other GRAMMY Week events. In addition, Chevrolet will “electrify” the red carpet with a show-stopping display of the extended-range electric vehicle Chevy Volt Concept car.

This marks the first time a “fuel-friendly” fleet of vehicles this size has been partnered with, and branded for a major awards show. The GRAMMY Fleet of Chevy vehicles will consist of a mix of 100 Tahoe Hybrids and FlexFuel E85 ethanol Tahoe and Suburban SUVs. GRAMMY presenters, performers and VIPs will not only arrive at their destinations in a fuel-efficient way, but also in grand style with each vehicle being customized with exterior GRAMMY badging.

“This is an unprecedented venture for an automotive manufacturer to provide a fleet of so many ‘fuel-friendly’ vehicles at a major awards show,” said Jay Flaherty, regional divisional marketing manager for Chevrolet in GM’s Western Region. “We’re delighted to celebrate our partnership with the 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards by providing fuel-friendly transportation for the music industry’s hottest talent.”

The Chevy Tahoe Hybrid – which was recently named Green Car Journal’s 2008 Green Car of the Year® – is one of two all-new hybrid models for 2008 (the other being the Malibu Hybrid sedan) featuring the affordable GM Hybrid System.

The Tahoe Hybrid boasts vastly improved fuel economy over its gasoline-only sibling, thanks in large part to a state-of-the-art hybrid system using GM’s all-new Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT), as well as Active Fuel Management and specific aerodynamic aids and lighter components. The Tahoe Hybrid 2WD achieves EPA city fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon, equal to the city fuel economy of the four-cylinder 2008 Toyota Camry.

Biofuels such as E85 ethanol have tremendous potential to help offset the world’s growing energy demands, and General Motors offers more FlexFuel E85 ethanol-capable models than any other brand (GM currently has 2.5 million FlexFuel E85 ethanol vehicles on the road). FlexFuel E85 ethanol vehicles – like the Tahoe and Silverado – can run on either gasoline or E85 ethanol – a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline – or a combination of both.

In addition to helping us reduce petroleum use and promote energy independence, E85 ethanol fuel produces fewer greenhouse gases during the combustion process and can enhance engine performance. It is a cleaner fuel made today from mostly U.S.-grown biomaterial, such as corn. But researchers are working on broadening the supply of ethanol by turning other non-food plant materials such as lumber mill waste, switchgrass, lawn clippings and even garbage into what’s called cellulosic ethanol. Unlike corn-based ethanol, the cellulose in the products used to make cellulosic ethanol must be pre-treated and then broken down into sugars before they can be fermented, a step called cellulosis. The technology required to do this is under development.

The Chevy Volt Concept sedan is powered by GM’s E-Flex electric propulsion system and exhibits the potential to greatly reduce trips to the gas station for many commuters, as well as reduce C02 emissions. More than 75 percent of drivers in the United States commute fewer than 40 miles a day, and for these drivers a fully-charged Chevy Volt will use no gas and produce no tailpipe emissions. It is easily recharged by plugging into a common 110-volt electrical outlet.

A battery-powered, four-passenger vehicle, the Chevy Volt uses a gas engine to create additional electricity to extend its range. The electricity to operate the Volt can come from a number of energy sources – including renewable ones such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and biofuels – or from traditional sources such as natural gas, clean coal, nuclear or even gasoline.

The 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on Feb. 10, 2008 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles. The show is scheduled to be broadcast live by the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), supported on radio via Westwood One worldwide, and covered on the Internet at GRAMMY.com.

Friday, January 18, 2008

First Retail Sale '09 Corvette ZR1 Auctioned at Barrett-Jackson

Proceeds From Sale and Other Chevy Collectables to Benefit United Way


2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - The first '09 Corvette ZR1 to go on sale will go to the highest bidder, Saturday, Jan. 19, at the prestigious Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event auction in Scottsdale, Ariz. Proceeds from the ZR1's sale, as well as a trio of collectable authentic NASCAR Chevy Monte Carlo racecar hoods, will benefit United Way for Southeast Michigan. Tonight Show host Jay Leno will help present the car, along with Troy Clarke, president, GM North America. Representing United Way for Southeast Michigan will be President and CEO Mike Brennan and Vice President Beth Noble.

The ZR1 - introduced January 13 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit - is scheduled to roll onto the auction block by 8:30 p.m. PST. The auction will be broadcast live during SPEED's televised coverage. In addition to claiming the first ZR1 offered for sale, the winning bidder will also receive a package that includes:

  • Delivery of the vehicle at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.
  • A three-day experience at the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving, with renowned Corvette racer Ron Fellows serving as a special instructor
  • Tickets to the Tonight Show with Jay Leno
  • A personal tour of Jay Leno's "Big Dog" garage

"The auction will be exciting and a great opportunity for the high bidder, but it also will do a lot of good -- 100 percent of the sale price will go toward helping United Way help those less fortunate in our community," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "The Barrett-Jackson auction is an ideal venue to showcase the generosity that is found in so many auto enthusiasts."2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Barrett-Jackson's auction in Scottsdale is one of the largest annual classic car auctions and a spectacle for all car lovers. This year marks the event's 37th anniversary and will see the auction of more than 1,100 classic cars, muscle cars, hot rods and other collectable automobiles.

About the ZR1

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1The 2009 Corvette ZR1 is Chevrolet's first entry into the world of supercars. It is the fastest and most powerful car ever built by General Motors. It is powered by a new, supercharged 6.2L LS9 V-8 that produces at least 620 horsepower and helps propel the car from 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds and to a top speed of more than 200 mph.

Supporting its prodigious power output are race-bred elements that include a six-speed manual transmission with a dual-disc clutch; massive Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes; 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels; the second-generation of GM's Magnetic Selective Ride Control; and stronger axles.

The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, thanks to unique exterior appointments that were developed to enable the car's performance, including extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber on the hood, fenders and roof. Some of the carbon fiber components, including the front splitter, rocker extensions and roof panel, feature a visible carbon fiber pattern coated with a unique, UV ray-blocking finish.

Distinguishing visual cues also include a polycarbonate window in the hood that offers a view of the LS9's intercooler below, new and wider front fenders that have a unique dual-vent design and a full-width rear spoiler. The large, 19- and 20-inch wheels also are specific to the ZR1.

Production begins in July 2008 and is limited to only 2,000 vehicles per year - each identified with a special VIN that denotes its sequential build number.

Cadillac CTS Recognized Again With Second Consecutive EyesOn Design Awards At North American International Auto Show

DETROIT – Cadillac was recognized with two EyesOn Design Awards for Design Excellence honors at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The 2009 CTS-V performance sedan captured the production car award and the concept car category honor went to the dramatic CTS Coupe Concept. It was the second straight year the CTS lineup was recognized by the EyesOn Design judges – the 2008 CTS sedan won the production car category at the ’07 NAIAS.

“We are extremely proud that the design of the CTS-V and the CTS Coupe Concept have been recognized by a global group of peers,” said John Manoogian, director of exterior design, Cadillac. “Both vehicles not only characterize that latest phase in Cadillac’s design renaissance, but emphasize the longstanding heritage of landmark designs that have helped define the brand over the decades.”

EyesOn Design Awards for Design Excellence are the only automotive design awards selected and judged by an international panel of top automotive design experts. For 2008, 20 panelists were led by a triumvirate of Chief Judges, including Chris Bangle, Jack Telnack and Nate Young.

CTS Coupe Concept

Generated from the spark of the CTS design team’s imagination, the CTS Coupe casts a profile unlike anything else on the road. Its fast-rake styling – it has the same wheelbase as the CTS, but an overall height that is approximately two inches (51 mm) lower and an overall length that is two inches (51 mm) shorter – blends with hand-sculpted bodywork that bulges around the wheels, giving the vehicle a ready-to-pounce stance that is dramatic, powerful and sleek.

Among the CTS Coupe Concept’s signature design cues are a number of elements that suggest the look of a carefully cut diamond – particularly at the rear. These elements are seen in everything from the chrome header above the rear license plate holder to the indents that comprise the basic form of the rear fascia.

The surfaces of the CTS Coupe Concept are complex, inviting careful inspection. The rear fenders, for example, were sculpted by hand in the design studio until they provided a perfect, muscular form that wrapped tightly over the wheels. At the top, the rear fenders are beveled – owing to the diamond-cut theme – and become part of a horizontal plane that runs from the leading edge of the taillamps and merges into the roof.

CTS-V

The 2009 CTS-V is Cadillac’s ultimate expression of performance and luxury – wrapped in purposeful design that extends the brand’s acclaimed design language. The CTS-V is powered by a new, supercharged 6.2L V-8 that produces an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), making it the most powerful Cadillac ever produced.

The exterior of the new “V” amplifies the assertive stance and elegant details of the CTS, with a blend of elegant and purposeful elements that support the car’s high-performance mission. The dihedral Cadillac grille, for example, is larger to ingest a greater volume of air and features a satin finish. The raised hood encompasses the supercharged engine, and new front and rear fascias identify the vehicle as a V-Series. The car rides on specific 19-inch wheels.

CTS-V’s distinctive, award-winning design will support Cadillac’s ongoing global expansion, as it is planned to be offered outside North America for the first time, including exports to Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Corvette Racing Goes Green with E85 Ethanol Fuel in 2008 American Le Mans Series

Chevrolet Factory Team to Demonstrate Performance and Environmental Benefits of E85 Ethanol in 12-Race Series

DETROIT - Corvette Racing will be powered by E85 ethanol, a high-octane, renewable alternative fuel, in the 2008 American Le Mans Series. As part of the series' "green racing" initiative, the most successful team in ALMS history will use a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline in the demanding arena of endurance road racing.

After winning its seventh consecutive GT1 manufacturers and team championships in 2007 using E10 (10 percent ethanol), Corvette Racing's twin Compuware C6.R race cars will make the transition to E85 for the 2008 season.

"Since its inception, Corvette has always been a platform for Chevrolet and GM to introduce and develop new technology," Chevrolet general manager Ed Peper said during today's announcement at the North American International Auto Show. "Like the Corvette Z06 E85 concept car that will pace the 2008 Indianapolis 500, the use of E85 ethanol fuel by America's premier production sports car racing team in a high-profile, high-tech racing series like the ALMS shows that Chevy is continuing to lead by example.

"By showcasing the capabilities of E85 ethanol before an audience of knowledgeable and technically astute race fans, we can demonstrate the benefits of a renewable fuel that helps to reduce dependence on petroleum, helps to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, and helps to create greater diversity in energy supplies," Peper said. "Of course, performance is what counts in racing, so E85 ethanol's higher octane rating than gasoline wasn't overlooked by the Corvette Racing engineers."

Corvette Racing has formed a technical partnership with the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC) to spotlight E85 in the ALMS. EPIC worked with ALMS officials to make E85 the fuel of choice for the series. E85 today is primarily made with grain-based ethanol that reduces carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 29 percent compared with pure gasoline.

E85 ethanol already is an option for millions of everyday drivers - and GM leads the automotive industry with more than 2.5 million E85-capable cars, trucks and SUVs on the road in the United States. GM produces about 400,000 E85-capable vehicles a year and will double that to 800,000 a year by 2010. Chevrolet offers seven E85-capable models in 2008.

"This is the first time a racing series has made a commitment to E85; the highest performing fuel available to consumers with flex-fuel vehicles," said Reece Nanfito, senior director of marketing for EPIC. "Our partnership with GM and Corvette Racing demonstrates ethanol's growing relevance in the consumer market."

Corvette Racing's transition from E10 to E85 ethanol will be seamless, according to Steve Wesoloski, GM Road Racing Group manager. "The race cars' fuel systems were already 100 percent compatible with ethanol," he said, "so our preparation for the change to E85 in 2008 basically comes down to recalibrating the engines.

"GM Racing has had an interest in 'green racing' initiatives worldwide for some time," Wesoloski said. "In 2007, Corvette Racing won the Michelin Energy Endurance Challenge in the GT1 class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the most efficient use of fuel during the race. We've participated in discussions with SAE International, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of Energy on programs to increase environmental awareness through racing. When it became apparent that the ALMS was going in this direction as well, the decision to use Chevrolet's factory Corvette Racing team to demonstrate both the alternative fuel technology that's available within GM and the capabilities of E85 ethanol was a logical step."

Corvette Racing is targeting the season-opening round of the 12-race series, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, on March 15, 2008, for the debut of its E85-powered race cars.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

The Ethanol Promotion and Information Council is a nonprofit organization of ethanol producers and industry leaders who have come together to spread the word about the benefits of ethanol through information and promotional programs. To learn more about ethanol, visit www.drivingethanol.org.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

General Motors North American International Auto Show Vehicles Are Driven By Design, Technology And Lower Environmental Impact

Introductions in Detroit Include Several World Premieres

DETROIT – General Motors will introduce several vehicles among its Cadillac, Saab and Saturn brands at the 2008 North American International Show. GM’s NAIAS portfolio emphasizes design and technology that deliver capability and performance while reducing environmental impact. The show opens to the public on Jan. 19.

“We intend to continue the buzz we created last year with the announcement of transformational technologies such as our E-Flex electric propulsion system,” said Mark LaNeve, GM North America vice president, vehicle sales, service and marketing. “The cars and trucks we’re bringing to Detroit this year combine exquisite design and technologies that deliver what customers want while saving fuel and reducing emissions.”

One of the vehicles making its world premiere is the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, an American supercar that establishes new benchmarks for production-based technology, power and performance. It was unveiled at the exclusive GM Style party on Saturday night and hits dealerships this summer.

Other introductions include the HUMMER HX concept, an E85-capable vehicle featuring a design based on the ideas developed by a trio of young designers who are new to the HUMMER studio; and a bioethanol concept by Saab.

Cadillac features the 2009 Escalade Hybrid, the world’s first fuel-saving hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV. Powered by an innovative, fuel-saving advanced hybrid system, Escalade Hybrid will deliver more than a 50-percent improvement in fuel economy in city driving – while delivering the same distinctive style, segment-leading features and full-size capability that have made the Escalade an icon.

Cadillac also brings the Cadillac Provoq concept featuring a fuel cell version of GM’s E-Flex electric propulsion system. It was unveiled last week at the Consumer Electronics Show.

Saturn, which has undergone a total product renaissance during the past two years, brings a fuel-saving production vehicle and concept vehicles to the show, demonstrating the brand’s continuing value-driven connection to its customers.

Chevrolet Malibu Named 2008 North American Car of the Year

DETROIT - For the second consecutive year, a car from General Motors Corporation has taken top honors in the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) awards, as announced today at the opening of the North American International Auto Show.

The Chevrolet Malibu was chosen by this year's media jury from a field of 15 cars and 13trucks. GM vehicles captured four of the final six candidate spots for the awards; last year the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Silverado were winners.

"This award is the result of our intensive efforts to put a renewed emphasis on design, execution and craftsmanship into our cars and trucks," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman. "We're honored that both automotive journalists and consumers are recognizing our efforts. The fact we had four of the six finalist vehicles is more than we could have hoped for."

The NACTOY awards are given annually by prominent automotive journalists who evaluate the vehicles on factors including value for the dollar, innovation, handling, performance, safety and driver satisfaction. This year's jury consisted of 45 automotive journalists from throughout the United States and Canada.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers strong performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in Chevrolet's global signature design. A broad range of detailed, well-appointed and efficient models is offered, including a fuel-saving Malibu Hybrid model. Sales of the new Malibu began last November.

"Our goal with the 2008 Malibu was to give customers a stylish, uncompromising package that can challenge even the most formidable competitors in the midsize segment," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Customers are getting that message, because the new Malibus are selling faster than we can put them on dealers' lots."

Starting at $19,995 in the U.S., the Malibu had a 99-percent increase in retail sales this past December. The 2008 Malibu was designed and engineered for sale not only in the U.S., but also in Canada, Mexico, Israel and the Caymen Islands.

Other 2008 Model Awards for Malibu:

In early December, Car and Driver magazine published its "10 Best Cars" for 2008, and the Malibu, along with the Cadillac CTS and Chevrolet Corvette, all made the list. The Malibu was also chosen by Kelley Blue Bookas "Best Redesigned Vehicle for 2008."

AboutChevrolet

Chevrolet is one of America's best-known and best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

In the first nine months of 2007, sales of Chevrolet models around the world were up 3.2 percent. The Chevrolet brand grew by 17.3 percent in Asia-Pacific, 31.6 percent in Europe and 24 percent n Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. Chevrolet vehicles are sold in 133 countries. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

NACTOY Juror Quotes about the Chevrolet Malibu:

Matt DeLorenzo,Road & Track: "Fresh new styling, high quality materials and a silky smooth drivetrain give this family car the feel of an entry level luxurycar. The 6-speed automatic and V-6 power are standouts."

Michelle Krebs,Freelance: "The Chevrolet Malibu sets a new standard for the mid-size class."

Gary Witzenburg,Freelance: "This fine, affordable beauty brings Chevrolet - and General Motors - back big time into the volume mid-size sedan game. It's easily asgood as anything near its price, and better than most."

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Cadillac CTS Receives IIHS Top Safety Pick Award

DETROIT – Cadillac’s new 2008 CTS sports sedan, already a hit with critics and luxury consumers, today earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick for 2008.

The award results from CTS earning the Institute’s highest ratings in front, side and rear crash testing, as well as standard application of Stabilitrak electronic stability control system, which can help drivers avoid crashes. The CTS is one of only three large luxury cars to earn this designation.

“All luxury cars should perform as well as the CTS. It’s a leader in its class for safety,” said Institute President Adrian Lund.

In 2007, the Institute toughened the Top Safety Pick award criteria by requiring electronic stability control, which can help drivers maintain vehicle control, particularly in severe conditions such as wet or icy surfaces, or during emergency maneuvers.

“IIHS is one of the top authorities on vehicle safety, making this award particularly meaningful for, and trusted by, consumers,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “As the new 2008 CTS wins praise from industry experts, media and consumers, it is a testament to our team’s comprehensive mission to make this car desirable in every facet and detail.”

Since the 2008 CTS debuted in September, sales have increased 59.5%. CTS has received wide critical acclaim, highlighted by earning Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year Award and selections on both Car and Driver magazine’s 10Best List and the finalist list for North American Car of the Year.

For more information on the Top Safety Pick award, visit www.IIHS.org

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

General Motors Demonstrates Self-Driving Chevrolet Tahoe 'Boss' At Consumer Electronics Show

Electronic Technologies, Computer Software Could Hold the Key to a Future With No Crashes, Traffic Congestion

LAS VEGAS – At the Consumer Electronics Show, General Motors will demonstrate an unmanned Chevrolet Tahoe that used electronics to successfully “drive” itself through a 60-mile urban course in November to win a prestigious U.S. Defense Department-sponsored competition. Its electronic technology is so promising that it could lead to production vehicles that eliminate the most common cause of crashes – driver error.

The Tahoe – named “Boss” after the nickname of GM research and development founder Charles F. Kettering, was developed by Carnegie Mellon University, General Motors and other partner companies. It uses a combination of LIDAR, radar, vision and mapping / GPS systems to see the world around it. It recognizes road geometry and perceives other traffic and obstacles on the road, and – using intelligent algorithms and computer software – figures out where it’s safe to drive in order to avoid obstacles while completing the driving mission. Boss recently navigated 60 miles of urban traffic, busy intersections and stop signs in less than six hours to win the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) 2007 Urban Challenge competition.

“Not only can we use electricity in place of gasoline to propel the next generation of vehicles, the electronic technology in vehicles such as Boss can provide society with a world in which there are no car crashes, more productive commutes and very little traffic congestion,” said Larry Burns, GM vice president of R&D and strategic planning, adding that the technology in Boss is a stepping stone toward a day when commuters can do their e-mail, eat breakfast and even watch the news while being ‘chauffeured’ to work.

“This competition significantly advanced our understanding of what is needed to make driverless vehicles a reality as we continue to reinvent the automobile,” Burns said.

Today’s vehicles already feature an emerging family of electronic driver-assist technologies – known as autonomous driving – aimed at reducing driver errors that can result in crashes. Electronics-enabled autonomous driving is a significant technology advancement that will impact future transportation.

Technologies already on today’s vehicles include adaptive cruise control; stability control systems such as GM’s StabiliTtrak; GM’s GPS-enabled OnStar safety and security system; pre-crash sensors; side blind zone assist; and lane departure warning systems. While these technologies are not a substitute for driver responsibility and attention, they can help reduce errors that can lead to crashes, enhance occupant safety and address traffic congestion.

In addition to its premier sponsorship of the Tartan Racing Team, which managed Boss through the DARPA competition, GM is working with Carnegie Mellon University on autonomous driving technologies through its collaborative research laboratory at the university in Pittsburgh. According to Alan Taub, GM executive director of research and development, collaboration with universities and supplier partners is vital to the development of this technology.

In addition to GM and Carnegie Mellon University, the Tartan Team’s winning DARPA Challenge entry was supported by Caterpillar; Continental AG; Intel; Google; Applanix; TeleAtlas; Vector; Ibeo; Mobileye; CarSim; CleanPower Resources; M/A-COM; NetApp; Vector; CANtech; and Hewlett Packard.

Cadillac To Showcase Future Design And Performance Technology

DETROIT - Cadillac extends its ongoing design and technology momentum with tomorrow's debut of the Provoq Concept, a vision for a petroleum-free future of luxury transportation. GM CEO Rick Wagoner will present the Cadillac Provoq concept vehicle January 8 at the influential Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, beginning a showcase of Cadillac's future performance technology and design that will continue at next week's North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

The Provoq Concept continues Cadillac's remarkable heritage of landmark concept vehicles, this time in a vehicle free from petroleum fuel and emissions, the ultimate luxury. Provoq will make its world premiere at one of the world's leading technology showcases at CES, appearing again at one of the foremost automotive stages in Detroit on Jan. 14.

Cadillac accelerates into Detroit with another dramatic demonstration of its design and performance technology, the world premiere of the 2009 CTS-V. Cadillac's high performance V-Series represents the ultimate expression of the brand's performance and luxury, and the much-anticipated new CTS-V will include many significant technical and design enhancements aimed at placing it within the elite group of the world's most capable cars.

The 2009 CTS-V extends the momentum created by Cadillac's 2008 CTS Sport Sedan, which is earning wide acclaim from critics and consumers alike. Since September, CTS sales are up 59.5% in the U.S. CTS was recently named 2008 Motor Trend Car of the Year, headlining a long list of accolades that also includes positions on Car and Driver magazine's 10Best list and as a finalist for 2008 North American Car of the Year.

Also appearing in Detroit next week will be the Escalade Hybrid, featuring a fuel-saving Two Mode Hybrid system combining a gas engine with electric battery power. The Escalade Hybrid, beginning production in mid-2008, extends the desirability of the leading large luxury SUV.