Articles by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

After development of a next-generation Commodore was confirmed recently, Holden was then picked to spearhead the development of two new cars for the Chinese market.Those two new cars will be based on what GM describes as “global platforms” and are believed to be Chinese versions of the next-generation Holden Commodore and its long-wheelbase variant, the Caprice, both due out around 2016 and likely to be sold in China either as Buicks or Chevrolets.And on top of all that, there’s speculation that a facelifted version of the Commodore due out next year, or at least the Caprice, will be sold in the US as a Chevrolet SS (short for SuperSport) and even raced in NASCAR. Assuming the speculation turns out to be accurate, the success of the Australian-built Chevrolet SS in the U.S. market will determine if a successor is launched.Carsguide has previously reported that GM bosses are already considering launching a successor for the Chevrolet SS based on the next-generation Commodore, but instead of sourcing it from Australia GM would like to build a local version. Not only would local production avoid the shortfalls of exchange rate fluctuations and shipping costs, a locally-produced Commodore derivative would be more desirable to law enforcement agencies--a vital element for increasing sales. GM found out with the current Australian-built Chevrolet Caprice PPV, many departments would like the vehicle but are prevented from purchasing it due to its foreign production.Additionally, local production would provide GM with the opportunity to launch low volume models like a wagon or ute pickup as it wouldn’t be as risky compared to a full import program as all three variants could be built from the same production line. For this reason, GM is reportedly considering launching locally-built versions of the next-generation Holden Commodore ute and wagon for the U.S. market.A few years back when GM showed off the Pontiac G8 Sport Truck, which was essentially rebadged Commodore ute. The vehicle proved extremely popular with enthusiasts who quickly branded it a modern-day El Camino. Perhaps, one day, the U.S. will have such a vehicle again. Stay tuned for an update.MotorAuthority  

The bad news for Australia: we can't have it here. The Viper is unlikely to ever be produced in right-hand drive as the engine placement is offset to that side, making it difficult to convert.The introduction of the latest Viper also marks the beginning of a new brand, Street and Racing Technology (SRT), which evolves from its performance and tuning roots into a standalone brand complete with its own flagship.As for the new Viper, the basic recipe is much the same, although it’s been enhanced in almost every possible way. The Viper, now in its fifth generation, returns to the market with more power and performance, superior craftsmanship, new technologies and more creature comforts.There are also three models being introduced, two for road use and one for racing. The road cars are the Viper and Viper GTS, while racing fans will soon be lapping up the awesome Viper GTS-R in endurance racing. Power for both comes from an aluminum, front mid-engine 8.4-liter V-10 tuned to an estimated 477kW of power and 814Nm of torque --the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world.It is based on the previous model’s V-10 but improvements for 2013 include a new, ultra-high flow and lightweight composite intake manifold, high-strength forged pistons, sodium-filled exhaust valves, new catalysts to reduce back pressure and an aluminum flywheel that reduces reciprocating losses. The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission has been improved with a shorter throw shifter, closer gear ratios and a final drive ratio that has been shortened to 3.55 from 3.07. The 2013 Viper models should thus be more engaging to drive and top speed is now achieved through 6th gear with maximum engine speed (redline) at 6200 rpm.Starting with a stiffer structure that provides 50 per cent more torsional rigidity, the chassis of the 2013 SRT Viper also benefits from numerous enhancements -- many learned through racing efforts with Viper GTS-R and Competition Coupe models.Major updates include the addition of a new aluminum “X” brace under the hood that ties the suspension pickup points to the magnesium cowl super casting and contributes to improved torsional rigidity and stiffness. A new aluminum impact beam at the front of the car contributes to overall mass savings and improved weight distribution while providing improved crashworthiness.Structurally, many areas of the chassis were reworked to take advantage of new materials, reduce thickness in some areas and reshape components for more structural rigidity in others. The result is an overall weight saving of approximately 100 pounds, making this the lightest Viper yet.At the rear, the suspension has been re-engineered with the toe link moved forward of the axle for better tow control and dynamic stability. A new, driver selectable two-mode suspension system, featuring Bilstein DampTronic Select shock absorbers with both street and track settings, is standard on GTS models.For 2013, SRT Viper models ride on standard Pirelli P Zero, Z-rated tires. An optional SRT Track Package features Pirelli P Zero Corsa, “soft”-tuned, "racing-type" compound tires that improve handling and precision further on the road or the race track.For the first time, however, standard safety technologies such as electronic stability control and traction control are fitted. Additionally, all Vipers now come with a steering-wheel-mounted launch control switch, allowing for optimal acceleration from standing starts.Four-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers, and vented rotors with a diameter of 355 mm by 32 mm, are used at all four corners as standard. An available SRT Track Package features lightweight and slotted two-piece rotors from StopTech, among other upgrades.The latest Viper also offers new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials and new exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details that are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fiber and aluminum skin.Inside the plush, driver-oriented cabin are a number of premium features. On the Viper GTS model, all surfaces are fully leather skinned, and standard accent colors are applied to the seats, doors, center console and stitching. Standard high-performance racing seats from Sabelt feature a lightweight Kevlar/fiberglass shell created by resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability.Seating position in the 2013 SRT Viper models is 20 mm lower for more room and enhanced performance-driving ergonomics. Seat travel is extended by 90 mm overall, which enables expanded seating options from a more rearward positioned bulkhead. For the first time, seat height can be adjusted by up to 40 mm -- manually on the Viper model and power controlled on the Viper GTS. Some of the other goodies, either standard or available, include a 7-inch customizable instrument cluster display, connectivity and infotainment system and a Harman Kardon sound system with up to 18 speakers.The iconic supercar will be hand built at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit starting later this year. They will be sold through specialist Dodge dealers in the US, just like the previous models, but unless each US buyer is a loyal and dedicated long-term member of the Viper Club of America, they won't be eligible for the first batch of cars produced.SRT is expecting first-year demand to far outstrip its ability to build a few thousand Vipers. Even 1994’s production quantity of 3,083 units (a record for the Viper) may not satisfy pent-up demand for the new 2013 model.http://www.motorauthority.com/