GM to display commercial offerings at Chicago Auto Show

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GM Fleet and Commercial Operations says it will showcase a broad range of innovative commercial vehicles — including the new HHR Panel, which is designed for both commercial and private uses — at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show, scheduled Feb. 9-18 at McCormick Place.

FCO will display a variety of vehicles, including medium-duty trucks designed to meet nearly every customer need. “We don’t wait for change to dictate the development of our products,” says Mark Karney, GM FCO marketing director for vans and trucks. “We work with our commercial customers and anticipate their needs.”

FCO represents all GM car and truck divisions and has invested more than $2 billion in commercial products, including the Chevrolet HHR Panel, the Chevrolet Uplander with Sit-N-Lift power seat and the Chevrolet Kodiak/GMC TopKick. The company also added E85-compatible commercial vans to its product line. “GM is committed to this market and in providing our fleet and commercial customers with vehicles that enhance their core business,” says Karney.

  • The New HHR Panel: The 2007 Chevrolet HHR Panel adds a new dimension of functionality to the HHR’s lineup and features windowless side panels and rear cargo doors in place of conventional rear doors. A flat load floor provides more than 57 cubic feet (1,614 L) of cargo space, along with about 5 cubic feet (141 L) of additional covered, under-floor storage.
  • With expected production to start late in the first quarter of 2007, the HHR Panel will be offered in LS and LT trims, with 2.2L and 2.4L engines – both of which help the HHR deliver 30 mpg in highway driving. Inside, the HHR Panel has seating for two and a large, flat cargo floor, tie-down points and two large storage compartments with a lockable option.

  • Chevrolet Uplander with Sit-N-Lift: Sit-N-Lift is a fully motorized, rotating lift-and-lower passenger seat designed to allow passengers to enter and exit the second row of a vehicle at the touch of a button on a simple, handheld remote. FCO says it is the only automotive manufacturer in the United States to sell and service such a product.
  • The Sit-N-Lift power seat takes the right-side second-row passenger seat from the interior of the vehicle to the outside, down to a height of about 20 inches from the ground. With the push of a button either by the person in the seat or someone standing outside the vehicle, the seat can be swiveled outward and out of the vehicle or retracted back into the vehicle.

    Customers that purchase a 2007 Chevy Uplander are eligible for TTY services and equipment. The OnStar TTY Interface Module enables the deaf, hard-of-hearing and speech-impaired subscribers to receive most OnStar services in English text. The service is available for reimbursement under the GM Mobility Reimbursement Program and includes two additional years of standard OnStar service.

  • E85 Commercial Van: The Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana Vans now are E85-capable, and available in two wheelbase lengths, regular length (135 inches /3429 mm) and extended length (155 inches /3937 mm). FCO says both vehicles offer stable handling, precise steering, superior ride motion control and balance, supportive front seats, excellent interior lighting, glove-friendly door handles, convenient storage pockets, secondary power outlets and durable carpeting.
  • Also, FCO says an industry-first 60/40-split left-hand side-hinged door provides the segment’s most flexible loading capability. It is available on regular-length cargo vans and offers complete driver’s side access to the second-row seats and/or cargo compartment.

  • Chevrolet Kodiak/GMC TopKick: Designed to be what FCO calls “the ultimate towing vehicle,” the Chevy Kodiak/GMC TopKick by Monroe weighs 17,500 pounds with an 8-foot pickup box, spray-in bedliner and a retractable and extendable cover. Its overall payload is 7,500 pounds. One of the many options available for the Chevy Kodiak 4×2 model is the Monroe So-Low chassis air suspension for those hauling trailers, boats and fifth-wheel campers.
  • Enhancements for 2007 on the Kodiak consist of a smoother-shifting transmission, including the new 6-speed Allison 1000MH and 2200MH series; a revised stabilizer bar; and a riveted rear suspension attachment. Additional improvements include new two-person passenger seat without under-seat storage space, LED roof marker lights available on all models, Gramag air suspension seats, and improved maneuverability and visibility.

    For more information on the Chicago Auto Show, go to www.chicagoautoshow.com.

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