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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
