News From the Auto Industry

Medium Duty

“GM remains highly confident in the long-term prospect of the China market. With the world’s fastest-growing vehicle market, success in China is crucial to GM’s global success,” Murtaugh added. “GM has become a leader in China by taking advantage of opportunities with our strategic partner Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation Group (SAIC) and aggressively introducing new and upgraded products to meet local demand.”

Tahoe Special Services vehicles are available in 2wd or 4wd and a choice of standard 285-hp Vortec 4800 or 295-hp Vortec 5300 V-8, the latter capable of operating on E85 fuel. These are equipped for SWAT, daily patrol, K9 unit and other applications. A Chevrolet Express Prisoner Transport Van offers a 300-hp Vortec 6000 V-8 (prepped for alternative fuel conversion) and seating for up to 15 bad guys or gals.

The funds will be allocated for a number of new projects including the introduction of new vehicles and powertrains, the creation of new facilities at GM’s local engineering and design center, the expansion of GM’s existing manufacturing joint ventures, and the launch of a new financing joint venture. The new investment will be funded by profits from GM’s China joint ventures.

GM’s Stabilitrak stability control system became standard on GMC Savana and Chevy Express long-whedbase 12-and 15-passenger vans late in the ‘04 modal year and expands to regular-wheelbase 12-passenger models for ‘05. Four engines are available: 200-hp Vortec 4300 V-6, 275-hp Vortec 4800 V-8, 285-hp Vortec 5300 V-8 and 300-hp Vortec 6000 V-8. All are mated to either a Hydra-Matic 4L60-E or a 4L80-E transmission with a unique tow/haul feature that improves the predictability and reduces the frequency of shifting during towing.

Military

The Chevrolet Police Tahoe "engineered for high-speed and severe-duty law enforcement use" and powered by a 295-hp Vortec 5300 V-8 modified for quicker acceleration and higher top speed, features H-rated tires, heavy-duty suspension and cooling and Hydroboost ABS brakes. While most police still prefer RWD (despite its foul weather traction disadvantage), Chevy also offers 3800 V-6-powered Impala police-package vehicles for both overt and under cover law enforcement work. These are equipped with engine and transaxle oil coolers for extended high-speed duty plus H-rated tires on heavy-duty steel wheels, heavy-duty front brake pads, police-calibration ABS brakes and a 125-amp alternator.

Law Enforcement