7/30/15

Knapheide Develops Service Bodies For Half-Ton & Compact Trucks

The Knapheide Manufacturing Company introduces 
an exclusive service body product offering to the industry.


The Knapheide Manufacturing Company, the nation's leading provider of commercial vehicle solutions, announces the release of EC Series Service Bodies.  EC Service Bodies feature an optimized understructure for superior strength to weight ratio and possess many of the same tried and true standard features customers have come to expect in Knapheide Service Bodies.  Knapheide received a high volumne of positive feedback when customers got a sneak peek of the EC Series Service Body at the 2015 Work Truck Show, held in Indianapolis, IN at the Indiana Convention Center.      

"Customers have become very payload sensitive but still want the durability of steel," said Tony Marshall, Product Manager at Knapheide. "The combination of a half-ton or compact pickup with an EC Series Service Body give the owner/operator more than enough applicable payload.  The OEM approved bed delete option on half-ton and compact trucks has opened up a whole new segment for truck body manufacturers and upfitters."

Traditionally confined to utilizing only cross or side mounted toolboxes or toppers, half-ton and compact truck owners now have the ability to transition into a dedicated service body which promotes forced organization to drive increased efficiency and productivity.  Loaded with innovative standard features like automotive-quality rotary latches, stainless steel continuous hinges, and E-Coat prime paint protection, the EC Series Service Bodies are built to provide years of dependable service for owner/operators.
EC Series Service Bodies are available through Knapheide's extensive North American distribution network.  Visit the EC Series Service Bodies product page for more information or fill out the form below.

7/28/15

GM Invests $1.4 Billion for Arlington Plant Upgrades

Texas-sized investment reflects company commitment 
to full-size SUV customers
 

ARLINGTON, Texas – In its largest single plant investment in the U.S. this year, General Motors announced today $1.4 billion for a range of improvements to its Arlington Assembly Plant to more competitively produce high-quality full-size SUVs. 

The investment allows the plant to be reconfigured with a new paint shop, body shop and general assembly area upgrades. Construction is expected to begin this summer and take approximately three years to complete. Production schedules for Chevrolet Tahoes and Suburbans, GMC Yukons and Yukon XLs and Cadillac Escalades will be unaffected by the construction.

“This super-sized investment reflects GM’s commitment to our full-size SUV customers who expect nothing but the absolute best from us and their vehicles,” said Cathy Clegg, GM North America Manufacturing and Labor Relations vice president. “Today’s investment will contribute to Arlington Assembly’s winning tradition marked by strong customer focus, innovative thinking and teamwork.”

Since 2011, GM has invested nearly $2 billion in manufacturing improvements at Arlington Assembly including today’s announcement, the launch of the current full-size SUVs and a new stamping plant.

“I have seen first-hand the success that is possible for a city when GM supports the communities where they work and live,” said Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams. “The city of Arlington has benefited tremendously from the strong business and foundational support from GM. This new investment in Arlington solidifies its continued stewardship and commitment to our community.”

This has been a monumental year for the more than 60-year-old assembly plant. Arlington Assembly celebrated its 10 millionth vehicle build, hosted GM’s Board of Directors and provided $100,000 in GM Foundation grants to local community organizations. Meanwhile, the UAW-GM team continues to work regular overtime in the only GM plant to make award-winning full-size SUVs for Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac customers globally.

“By working together, the UAW and GM are making a difference in communities across the United States,” said UAW Vice President Cindy Estrada, who leads the union’s GM Department. “These investments represent the power of our collaboration to create jobs and improve competitiveness, quality and our manufacturing base in this country.” 
   
Today’s announcement is a part of the $5.4 billion GM announced it would invest in U.S. manufacturing over the next three years. Approximately $4.5 billion of the $5.4 billion has been identified, leaving about $900 million to be announced by year end.

Since June 2009, GM has announced U.S. facility investment of approximately $17.8 billion. About $12.4 billion of that has come since the 2011 UAW-GM National Agreement. In total, these investments have created 6,250 new jobs and secured the positions of approximately 20,700 others.

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com 

7/24/15

2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Reveals New Styling



The design gurus at General Motors are giving their GMC pickup trucks a new look, retouching the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 with a few front-end and tailgate upgrades. Like clockwork, now that the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 made its debut earlier this week, it's GMC's turn.

The 2016 GMC Sierra half-tons will get a larger grille and freshened look on all 2016 models (to go on sale by October). The new models revealed in this just-released YouTube video (see below) show that the new Denali, SLT and All Terrain trim levels have bolder grille designs, each offering a unique flavor.

The Denali will continue to lead the way with the most chrome and the flattest grille surface. The SLT will likely continue to be the most popular mid-trim model, and the All Terrain will fit into that mix as the new entry-level trim, with a unique color-coded bumper and grille. All grilles have a deeper trapezoidal cut into the lower bumper, a larger GMC logo and newly harmonized LED projector headlights. Additionally, all rear taillight designs have a C-shaped LED look to match the front daytime running lights.

Although not announced yet, we would expect GMC to follow with powertrain changes similar to Chevy's recent moves, making the eight-speed transmission more widely available for the smaller V-8 (5.3-liter) option. The V-6 and 6.2-liter V-8 engine options remain unchanged.

Manufacturer images

Source: http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2015/07/2016-gmc-sierra-1500-reveals-new-styling.html#more

7/22/15

GMC Adds Apple CarPlay to 2016 Canyon, Yukon and Sierra


Phone integration tech also includes Android Auto 
offered on some Sierra models



DETROIT – GMC adds Apple CarPlay capability to the 2016 Canyon, Yukon and Sierra, taking the iPhone features customers want to access while driving and putting them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner with the brand’s IntelliLink system.

Android Auto capability will also be offered on some Sierra models at the beginning of the model year and all Sierra, Canyon and Yukon models later in the year.

The features allow customers to use select smartphone apps through the touchscreen interface of GMC’s IntelliLink system. Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the steering wheel, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

“GMC IntelliLink is taking another step forward with this simple and intuitive functionality that makes phones and vehicles work better together,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing. “Like other GMC features, from OnStar 4G LTE connectivity and active safety features, it’s technology designed to enhance the driving experience without intruding on it.”

GMC’s latest infotainment systems include an eight-inch-diagonal screen version offered on Canyon, Yukon and Sierra, which will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. A seven-inch-diagonal screen radio is offered on Sierra base models and will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability at the beginning of the model year. Android Auto capability is expected to be available on the eight-inch system later in the 2016 model year.

Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features customers want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. This allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and third-party audio apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Apple CarPlay is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher.
Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto. Android Auto requires a phone running an Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above.
Using either application is simple. A “Projection” icon on the IntelliLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected via USB.

Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply.

Complementing OnStar 4G LTE connectivity
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability complement the OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot offered in all 2016 GMC models, including Acadia and Terrain.

The state-of-the-art technology provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected wherever and whenever they like with up to seven personal devices. The hotspot is on whenever the vehicle is on and comes with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial, after which there is an option to purchase additional data.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

7/20/15

A Very Versatile Harbor Flatbed with Underbody Tool Boxes



This sharp looking GMC 3500 has a Harbor flatbed with under-body tool boxes making for a great looking and functional truck. A flat bed is a very versatile work truck body, being that it can be configured for many different industries or trades and for a variety of uses. Not only can cargo be carried but tools and semi-permanent equipment can be carried for day-to-day use, for instance spray tanks, pumps, welding machines and air compressors.


The headboard on this Harbor body has laser cut openings for great visibility with a galvanized solid steel lower section for maximum corrosion protection. The body has a treated wood floor and under-bed boxes. Looks great in the daylight and the LED Lights will light this body up at night. This high quality flatbed that will last for years under all kinds of loads and uses


7/18/15

GMC U.S. Deliveries Up 12 Percent: Best May Since 2004

Acadia’s best month ever; 
 total Terrain sales up 11 percent, Sierra up 4 percent


DETROIT – GMC’s sales momentum in the U.S. far outpaced the industry in May on the strength of its crossovers and the brand’s reputation for precision design, execution, technology and capability. Sierra, Canyon, Terrain and Acadia all saw growth as more customers discover the premium attributes that define GMC.

GMC sold 50,657 trucks, sport-utility vehicles and vans in the U.S. in May – up 12 percent from a year ago and its best month of the year. Retail sales of 43,151 represented an 11-percent year-over-year increase, for GMC’s best retail May since 2004. The strong increases in May give GMC 16 consecutive months of year-over-year retail growth.

Total sales of the GMC Sierra were up 3.6 percent over a very successful May 2014, for its best May since 2007. Total Canyon sales were up 19 percent – its best month of the year – compared to April as production of the new midsize pickup continues to ramp up to meet customer demand. Sierra and Canyon have the highest average transaction prices in their respective segments, according to J.D. Power PIN data, and more than half of Canyon buyers (55 percent) are new to the brand.

For the year, total GMC sales are up 15 percent, its best sales performance since 2005.

“Our continued growth reflects customers’ appreciation for the precision that distinguishes the GMC brand,” said Duncan Aldred, U.S. vice president of GMC marketing. “Buyers also are responding enthusiastically to the Canyon as it continues to redefine the midsize pickup segment and bring new buyers into GMC showrooms.” 

Acadia retail and total sales jumped 75 percent and 67 percent, respectively for its best month ever. Total sales of the Terrain small SUV rose 11 percent for its best May ever.

Yukon total sales were up 9 percent from April but down 21 percent year over year. Last May, previous-generation Yukon models were being sold down in preparation for the introduction of current generation Yukon and Yukon XL models.

Customers continue to cite exterior styling, overall quality, ample seating capacity, premium amenities and positive previous GMC ownership experiences as their reasons for purchasing a GMC.

Retail sales of the Denali luxury trim level make up 21 percent of the brand’s overall sales, nearly half of Sierra HD sales, 53 percent of Yukon sales and more than 60 percent of Yukon XL sales.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

7/16/15

GMC Interactive Canyon Experience


Ever wondered what a new pickup might look like sitting in your driveway?

Thanks to GMC’s interactive Canyon Experience, you can find out without having to finance a new vehicle. Canyon Experience lets customers virtually “test drive” a Canyon in four lifestyle environments starting from their neighborhood – or anywhere else.



The Canyon Experience is the first with Google Maps and Google Street View technology that lets users “see” a Canyon in their neighborhood, close to their home.

“The Canyon Experience will appeal to the variety of lifestyles and interests of our very diverse audience,” says Kenn Bakowski, Canyon marketing manager. “Customers can learn about the various Canyon attributes that interest them, including capability, safety, the quiet cabin, connectivity and more.

When customers visit the site, they can choose different scenarios for their Canyon test drives – city, shore, mountains and rural. They can even ‘park’ a new Canyon close to their home to see how it looks, and share it socially.

“We set out to engage potential Canyon customers in a fun, creative way,” says Bakowski.

The Canyon Experience is designed to connect with customers in the early stages of the vehicle-buying process and is compatible with desktop (Internet Explorer 9 or higher), tablet and iOS and Android smartphones.

7/14/15

Sortimo + Knapheide - A PARTNERSHIP AT IT'S BEST.



Sortimo by Knapheide is a strategic partnership between Sortimo International, a global leader in mobile racking products and The Knapheide Manufacturing Company, the nation’s leading provider of commercial vehicle solutions. This partnership is focused on storage systems especially for commercial vans...our product is called EXXPAND.

Knapheide Manufacturing

Since 1848 Knapheide has provided its customers with high quality, work ready transportation solutions. The Knapheide family has owned and operated the company since its beginning over 165 years ago. Today, The Knapheide Manufacturing Company is the nation’s leading manufacturer and provider of commercial vehicle solutions. Knapheide’s main manufacturing facility is located in Quincy, Illinois and is over 480,000 square feet. This facility is highly automated and has the most technologically advanced equipment and processes in the industry. Products manufactured by Knapheide include: Service Bodies, KUV Bodies, Platform Bodies, Gooseneck Bodies, Dump Bodies, Forestry Bodies, Pick Up Accessories, Mechanics Trucks, Water Trucks, and Fuel/Lube Trucks. Knapheide’s vast distribution system includes 200+ distributors strategically located throughout North America. The ability to evolve into new technology, processes, and products has made Knapheide the leader in the industry and allowed the company to move into new markets to better serve our distributors, fleet customers and end users.
Sortimo International

Headquartered in Zusmarshausen, Germany Sortimo International has more than 40 years of experience in the in-vehicle equipment industry. Located in Bavaria, Sortimo International offers van racking solutions for all light commercial vehicles and has become a leader in van racking solutions of the automotive industry in terms of organization, safety and future-oriented concepts. Sortimo International works with materials of the highest quality that  are extremely resilient and long lasting. Well thought out ergonomics and the best level of passive safety are further factors which distinguish Sortimo products. With strength in innovation, Sortimo International has a solid position in the market and is a technological leader in van storage solutions.

7/12/15

GM Advances Vehicle Theft Notification Technology

If some thief decides to take your new GM pickup for a drive while you are out of sight and earshot, your cell phone will be dancing.


OnStar Theft Notification

GM’s Theft Alarm Notification will alert OnStar subscribers their vehicle is being broken into or stolen.

Chevrolet’s Theft Alarm Notification is an enhancement to the existing Stolen Vehicle Assistance service allowing OnStar subscribers to receive a real-time alert when the vehicle’s alarm sounds.

The service will be available to eligible subscribers later this summer.

The Theft Alarm Notification feature is another enhancement to OnStar’s existing security features, which include Remote Ignition Block and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown.

With Theft Alarm Notification, OnStar subscribers can opt in to receive an alert through text, email or phone if a theft attempt triggers their vehicle’s alarm system and the alarm sounds.

“Prompt response and quick awareness of theft situations give customers a greater chance to recover stolen property,” said Sandor Piszar, director of Chevrolet Truck Marketing. “By leveraging the connection that OnStar provides, Chevrolet owners can remain in contact with their vehicle, even when it is out of sight.”

If a properly equipped Chevrolet is stolen, OnStar advisors will work with local authorities and use GPS technology to pinpoint the vehicle’s location.

In certain models, if the conditions are safe, advisors can send a signal to slow down the vehicle, aiding police officers in its recovery and preventing a potential high-speed chase.

The Theft Alarm Notification feature is included within OnStar’s Stolen Vehicle Assistance service and is available to subscribers with the Security or Guidance package and a compatible vehicle.

Most 2014 model year and newer Chevrolet vehicles are equipped to offer Theft Alarm Notification. Subscribers can confirm if their vehicle is compatible here or by speaking with an OnStar advisor.

Click here to learn more about OnStar and Theft Alarm Notification.

7/10/15

2015 GMC Sierra Crew Cab - A Fortress of Strength


Exterior

Nearly two-thirds of the Sierra cab structure is made from high-strength steels. It’s a fortress of strength that contributes to the Sierra's quiet cabin. We also use high-strength steel in our fully-boxed frame rails and major frame cross-members, the 2015 Sierra is clearly a respected leader in the truck market…by example.



DESIGNED TO WORK SMART

Sierra 1500 has three available cab configuration options for easy entry and exit: Double Cab, Crew Cab and Regular Cab. In addition, the cargo box is designed with the following premium standard and available features:
  •     CornerStep rear bumper is standard and provides easy access to the box even with the tailgate lowered
  •     Four moveable upper tie-down hooks help you manage cargo of many shapes and sizes
  •     Available LED box lighting to help you see inside when a tonneau cover is installed or when a flashlight isn’t handy
  •     Available spray-on bedliner

 A STRONGER FOUNDATION

The powerful presence of the 2015 Sierra is built on a foundation of Professional Grade engineering. Delivering a ride that encompasses the capability and strength you expect, Sierra is built upon a foundation of Professional Grade Engineering.
  •     A fully boxed frame of high-strength steel for improved ride and handling
  •     A roll-formed pick-up box bed that is stronger, lighter, and more durable than a traditional stamped steel bed
  •     Shear body mounts that reduce vibration and deliver a smoother ride
It's attention to the little details that set the 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck apart



ATTENTION TO DETAIL

It’s the little things that set the all-new Sierra apart. That’s abundantly clear with design details such as:
  •     Projector headlamps
  •     LED signature front lighting on SLT models
  •     Chrome grille surround
  •     Chrome bumpers
  •     Wheel arch moldings
  •     Available rear wheelhouse liners
  •     Available chrome belt moldings


7/08/15

GM Earns Highest June Retail Market Share Since 2011



•    Chevrolet retail sales up 9 percent, surpassing Ford Division
•    Chevrolet total pickup deliveries climb 33 percent; Silverado outsells F-Series on a retail basis
•    Best June ever for Chevrolet crossovers
•    GMC retail sales up 12 percent; total pickup sales up 37 percent
•    Commercial deliveries up for 20th consecutive month

DETROIT – Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers in the United States delivered 259,353 vehicles in June 2015. Retail deliveries climbed 7 percent year over year, and they were up more than the industry for the third month in a row. The drivers were stronger Cadillac sales, a 12 percent gain at GMC and a 9 percent increase at Chevrolet. Together, they helped make the month General Motors’ (NYSE: GM) best June for retail deliveries since 2007 and its best June for retail market share since 2011.

GM increased its sales to commercial customers, and state and local government fleets, as well. Rental deliveries, which tend to be less profitable than retail sales, were down 45 percent as a result of GM’s previously announced plan. Total fleet sales in June were down 29 percent year over year, or 21,366 units. GM’s total sales were down 3 percent.

“We just wrapped up the U.S. auto industry’s best six months in a decade, driven by strong demand for pickups and crossovers,” said Kurt McNeil, GM’s U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “People feel good about their jobs and the direction the economy as a whole is taking, so the second half of the year should be strong too, and that’s especially good news for Chevrolet and GMC, brands that have very broad truck and crossover portfolios.”

Industry sales continue to exceed expectations. GM estimates that the seasonally adjusted annual selling rate (SAAR) for light vehicles in June was 17.3 million units. 
During the first half of 2015, GM gained retail market share in both the crossover and truck segments, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. GM’s crossover share is 12.6 percent, up 0.4 percentage points compared to a year ago. GM’s truck, van and SUV share is 38.9 percent, up 2.1 percentage points.

Most of the truck market share gain comes from the ongoing success of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups, which were redesigned for the 2014 model year. Since calendar year 2013, GM’s retail share of the segment has grown 0.9 percentage points to 38 percent, according to PIN.
Market share and average transaction prices (ATPs) were particularly strong in the second quarter of 2015. According to PIN, GM’s retail share in the segment was up 2.8 points year over year to 40.2 percent. ATPs were up almost $1,000 per unit, and incentives were flat.

June Sales Highlights vs. 2014 (except as noted)
Total Sales

Chevrolet
•    Pickup deliveries were up 33 percent.  The Silverado was up 18 percent.
•    Colorado sales were 6,558 units, and it remains America’s fastest-selling pickup with a “days to turn” of 15 days. The truck had its best June sales since 2007.
•    The Trax, Chevrolet’s newest crossover, had sales of 5,971 units for its best month since launch. It helped Chevrolet deliver its best June crossover sales ever.
•    The Spark, which was up 4 percent, had its best June ever.

GMC
•    GMC pickup deliveries were up 37 percent, with the Sierra up 21 percent. Deliveries of the new Canyon totaled 2,532 units.
•    The Acadia, GMC’s flagship crossover, was up 17 percent.

Buick
•    Encore deliveries were up 33 percent for the small crossover’s 18th consecutive year-over-year sales increase.

Cadillac
•    SRX deliveries were up 24 percent for its best June ever.

Fleet and Commercial
•    Commercial deliveries were up 4 percent in June, with full-size pickups up 18 percent. Through June, commercial deliveries have grown year over year for 20 consecutive months and they are up 20 percent calendar year to date.
•    State and local government sales were up 6 percent in June, with full-size pickup and Tahoe PPV deliveries more than doubling. State and local government sales are up 19 percent calendar year to date. 
•    Rental deliveries in June were down 45 percent, per plan. Through the first six months of 2015, rental deliveries are down 7 percent, per plan. Total fleet deliveries are up calendar year to date.
•    GM plans to reduce year-over-year rental deliveries in the second half of 2015 and in calendar year 2016.

Retail Sales

Chevrolet
•    The Silverado was up 22 percent, surpassing the Ford F-Series.
•    The Traverse crossover was up 3 percent, the Camaro was up 14 percent and the Spark was up 31 percent.
•    Both the Malibu and Impala posted sales increases.  

GMC
•    GMC has grown its retail sales for 17 consecutive months.
•    The Acadia was up 24 percent for its best June ever. Sierra was up 13 percent.

Buick
•    Encore deliveries were up 22 percent.

Cadillac
•    Cadillac was up 3 percent. The SRX was up 45 percent for its best June retail sales ever. The ATS was up 6 percent and CTS sedan sales were up 7 percent.

Average Transaction Prices (PIN)
•    June ATPs were approximately $34,000, up $880 per unit year over year. They are up more than $1,300 per unit calendar year to date.
•    Incentive spending as a percentage of ATP was 11.2 percent in June, up 0.1 percentage points year over year. Industry average spending was 9.9 percent of ATP.
•    In the first half of 2015, incentive spending was 10.4 percent of ATP, down 0.2 percentage points. Industry average spending was 10.1 percent, up 0.2 points.

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com

Forward-Looking Statements
In this press release and in related comments by our management, our use of the words “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “possible,” “potential,” “target,” “believe,” “commit,” “intend,” “continue,” “may,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “project,” “projected,” “positioned” or similar expressions is intended to identify forward-looking statements that represent our current judgment about possible future events. We believe these judgments are reasonable, but these statements are not guarantees of any events or financial results, and our actual results may differ materially due to a variety of important factors. Among other items, such factors might include: our ability to realize production efficiencies and to achieve reductions in costs as a result of our restructuring initiatives and labor modifications; our ability to maintain quality control over our vehicles and avoid material vehicle recalls; our ability to maintain adequate liquidity and financing sources and an appropriate level of debt, including as required to fund our planned significant investment in new technology; the ability of our suppliers to timely deliver parts, components and systems; our ability to realize successful vehicle applications of new technology; and our ability to continue to attract new customers, particularly for our new products. GM's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q provides information about these and other factors, which we may revise or supplement in future reports to the SEC.

7/04/15

GMC, Instagram Create One-of-A-Kind Images

 Campaign to convey precision of brand’s interiors, exteriors

 

DETROIT – If a picture is worth a thousand words, GMC hopes consumers will have a lot to say about #GMCprecision, a new Instagram campaign that uses dramatic panoramic photography to illustrate the attention to detail in its vehicles.

The month-long campaign launched May 22, with GMC among the first automotive brands to create “PanoGrams” via the Instagram Carousel format that debuted earlier this year. It allows consumers to swipe through a series of photos in a single ad, similar to the way a traditional magazine publishes a multi-page spread of a single image. GMC created “PanoGrams” which showcase a series of photos within the carousel that stitch into one panoramic image. These PanoGrams will then link consumers to GMC.com for additional information.

Instagram/Facebook’s Creative Shop team worked closely with GMC to identify, select and photograph the #GMCprecision venues. They include a wind farm – viewed from a GMC Sierra Denali pickup and made to look infinite because of how the photographer captured the towering turbines against clouds and filtered sunlight – and a meticulously designed private residence in southern California. The GMC Yukon Denali and Terrain Denali are featured in the architecture treatment.

“We chose Instagram because of its successful track record of creating communities of discerning photography enthusiasts who can rally around a brand,” said Duncan Aldred, U.S. vice president, GMC. “Highlighting the precision of our vehicles within the context of beautiful photography helps us connect with consumers who embrace precision in all aspects of their lives.”

GMC will integrate its PanoGrams and companion content into the brand’s other digital media channels, such as Facebook.

“GMC’s PanoGrams are an incredibly creative and beautiful use of Instagram’s Carousel format,” said Michelle Morris, group director, Auto, Facebook & Instagram. “Instagram is all about capturing striking moments, and combining the interiors of their new Sierra with breathtaking exteriors is an excellent way to call attention to GMC's great vehicles.”

The #GMCprecision social play is part of GMC’s larger, multimedia “Precision” campaign that launched with television ads in March. It runs throughout the year and features the entire GMC lineup. Partly on the strength of the campaign, through May 31, GMC sales are up 15 percent year over year as more customers shift to trucks, crossovers and SUVs.

About GMC

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

7/02/15

Spied: 2017 Heavy Duties

 

GM pickup truck engineers have been relatively quiet lately while both Ford and Ram Truck make news with new HD products, which includes exotic materials and increased capability. But it looks like that's about to change, given the size of this parade. Our spies have seen several three-quarter-ton and one-ton Chevrolet and GMC pickups doing quite a bit of tow testing and loaded laps around Michigan. That means GM is likely getting close to showing its new trucks to the media, and we can't wait. There's been lots of speculation about new power train ratings, but so far it is only that. Here's what we recently heard from our photographers.

    "We caught a convoy of heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra prototypes on the open roads, giving us our best look yet at the rugged remakes of the crew-cab versions of the single-rear and dual-rear-wheel trucks due out sometime in 2016. The goal must certainly be to bump the current 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel's horsepower, torque and towing capacity to counter Ford's recently upgraded 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbo-diesel. Ford's revamped 6.7-liter Power Stroke currently outguns GM's 6.6-liter unit, generating 440 horsepower and 860 pounds-feet of torque (GM is making 397 horsepower and 765 pounds-feet of torque).

    "We can clearly see that part of GM's strategy is to feed more air into the engine via a new functional hood air intake designed into the pickups' redesigned hoods. The new air duct sits prominently near the leading edge of the hood. The GMC gets a circular mesh intake grille, while the Chevy appears to get a diamond-shaped interweaving mesh grille insert. The Silverado and Sierra pickups had uncovered grilles and lightly camouflaged front bumpers, with a heavier vinyl hood hiding the hood's new air intake. We're guessing the new breathing apparatus has been added in conjunction with a revamped diesel engine, reportedly using a modified turbo and new engine management software resulting in a significant power boost.

    "Likewise, Ford is now nearly at completion of a significant aluminum-intensive overhaul of its Super Duty pickups, so GM had better hope that its changes are substantial enough to keep its pickups competitive."

KGP Photography images

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