Today is a very special day for all American muscle car fans – production of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has kicked off in Canada (ironic huh?) at GM’s Oshawa Assembly Plant.

Check out the Top 10 things you need to know about the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

“This is an exciting new chapter in the ongoing revival of the tremendously popular Chevrolet Camaro,” said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of GM of Canada. “The new 2012 Camaro ZL1 is the most-powerful Camaro ever produced by Chevrolet and further demonstrates the flexible capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant.”

On hand for the launch of production was R ick Hendrick, owner of NASCAR’s Hendrick Motorsports, to celebrate the start of regular production. Hendrick, a Camaro purchased the first 2010 Camaro Coupe, the first 2011 Camaro Convertible, has now also purchased the first 2012 Camaro ZL1 available for public sale. Lucky guy.

Prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 start at $54,995.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4 seconds when mated to the manual transmission and 3.9 when mated to the automatic. Top speed comes in at 180 mph for the manual and 184 for the automatic.

- By: Omar Rana

After a trip to the Nurburgring with the 2012 Chevy Camaro ZL1, the automaker says its model will be faster then the Ford Shelby Mustang GT500.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Al Oppenheiser, Camaro Chief Engineer says that “We’ve done simulations. We predict that the ZL1 will be quicker to 60mph than the [2013] GT500… We ran the Nürburgring and released a time. Ford took the GT500, too, and never released a time. I guess you can draw your own conclusions.”

While his assumption holds only a bit of weight, what really throws us about this statement is how the stats for the two models stack up. The Camaro is heavy, at 4,120 lbs, and makes 580hp and 556 lb-ft, while the lighter 3,850lb Shelby makes 650hp and 600 lb-ft of torque.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

What sets the two apart in the Camaro’s favor is the all-independent suspension is brings, over Ford’s solid rear axle. Magnetic Ride shocks can help transfer power more effectively, as well. So is Oppenheiser just talking to create a stir again? It’s possible, but no one will know for sure until they hit the track together.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012. Prices will start at $54,995.

By: Alexandra Koken

Source: AutoBlog

While it isn’t an official word from GM, the guys that have all the inside news say that a source has confirmed that the company is working on a sixth-gneration version of the Chevrolet Camaro. The unnamed source says that the model is scheduled for a production date of 2016.

Check out our Top 10 things you need to know about the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

The only other thing that was confirmed by the source was that it will be available with a Gen V 6.2 liter V8 engine. The engine will be a direct-injected version of Chevrolet’s small block and will have fewer displacements – fewer than 6.0 liters.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

Transmission choices may be upgraded from a 6-speed manual to a 7-speed manual and a dual-clutch automatic.

Chevy, how about some better visibility, less weight and a nicer interior?

- By: Omar Rana

Source: GMInsideNews

Click here for our original post on the Chevrolet Camaro COPO Concept.

GM has decided to resurrect the COPO Camaro with a concept debut at the 2011 SEMA Show last month. After several months of strategy and development, the newly formed Chevrolet Performance team is is now testing the COPO Camaro and the company says that the model could potentially be the quickest Camaro ever built by Chevrolet.

Check out a video of the initial COPO Camaro concept testing in Bradenton, Fla. after the jump.

- By: Omar Rana

“Chevrolet is hosting several military families and Achilles team members at the game, and is paying tribute to wounded servicemen and women and the team with a 30-second TV spot and a short tribute to members who participated in the recent Detroit Free Press / Talmer Bank Marathon,” GM said in a statement.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

“We at Chevrolet want to do all we can to show our gratitude to the men and women serving in our armed forces, those who come home with life-changing injuries, like Cpl. Gaertner, and our fallen heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet Global Marketing and Strategy.

The Chevrolet Military Tribute Camaro represents all five branches of the U.S. armed forces and some of the military’s highest awards and current campaign medals.

The car was designed by award-winning artist Mickey Harris.

- By: Omar Rana

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one of the most anticipated sports cars of 2012, so we figured what better car to feature in today’s episode of our ”top 10 most important things you need to know about” segment.

Check out our other Top 10 things you need to know lists.

Top 10 things you need to know about the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:

1. It is the fastest, most powerful Camaro in history. It’s so powerful that the ZL1′s chief engineer, Al Oppenheiser, wants Ford Mustang fans to thank the ZL1. “For Mustang fans, you’re welcome. Clearly the Camaro has encouraged Ford to throw everything they can at us,” Oppenheiser recently said.
2. Power comes from a supercharged 6.2L LSA engine making an SAE-rated at 580 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 556 lb-ft. of torque at 3,800 rpm.
3. Power goes to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
4. Performance? Apparently the automatic is faster in every way:
   

   	Manual	Automatic
   0 – 60 mph (from rolling start)	4.0 seconds	3.9 seconds
   1/4-mile (from a rolling start)	12.1 sec at 119 mph	12.0 sec at 119 mph
   Top speed	180 mph	184 mph
   Max lateral grip	1.0 g	1.0 g

5. It lapped the Nurburgring in 7:41.27.
6.  It will come with an standard Performance Traction Management (from the Corvette ZR1) and the third-generation Magnetic Ride Control. There are three settings for Magnetic Ride Control in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track. Those that opt for the 6-speed automatic will also three drive modes including Drive, Sport and Manual (learn more here).
7. Prices start at $54,995. Some supercars that have less power than the ZL1 but cost more:
   

   	Base price	Horsepower	Torque	Magnetic Ride
   Camaro ZL1	$54,995	580	556	Standard
   Audi R8 GT	$196,800	560	398	Standard
   Maserati GranTurismo	$122,800	405	339	Not available
   Mercedes SLS AMG	$185,750	565	479	Not available

8. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes standard with a 9-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-park assist with a rear-view camera in the center rear-view mirror. Only 6 options are available including: $1,185 for the automatic transmission, $470 for 20-inch wheels, $900 for a sunroof, $470 for stripes, $600 for carbon fiber hood insert and $500 for some suede on the inside.
9. It requires premium fuel and has a tank capacity of 19 gallons. Fuel-economy figures will be announced later but expect the numbers to empty out your wallet.
10. Sales will start in spring 2012. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible will arrive in summer of 2012.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

- By: Omar Rana

General Motors’ Al Oppenheiser, Chief Engineer on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has released a statement addressing the Camaro nation as well as Ford Mustang fans. The main reason for his address came after Ford dropped the new 650-hp 2013 Shelby GT500.

“As you know, the blogs lit up with the announcement of the new 650-horsepower Mustang GT500, and I wanted to give you my perspective on the latest challenge from Dearborn,” Oppenheiser said in his letter.”

He went onto say how the Mustang’s been playing catch up to the Camaro since it debuted in 2009 after a long hiatus.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

“For Mustang fans, you’re welcome,” said Oppenheiser. “Clearly the Camaro has encouraged Ford to throw everything they can at us.”

Check out his whole letter after the jump.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012. Prices will start at $54,995.

Camaro Nation:

As you know, the blogs lit up with the announcement of the new 650-horsepower Mustang GT500, and I wanted to give you my perspective on the latest challenge from Dearborn.

The Mustang has been playing catch up since the moment the fifth-gen Camaro arrived in 2009. Since then, Camaro has been the best-selling sports car in America, indicating that consumers know which car offers the best performance, style and safety.

It is no coincidence that Mustang has introduced three 100-horsepower increases to keep pace with Camaro: First their V-6 was bumped to 305; then their V-8 went to 412, and now the GT500.

Even with the 100-hp increase, the 2013 GT500 will still not match the technology and sophistication of the 2012 Camaro ZL1.

The days of “no replacement for displacement,” are over, and it’s not enough to be fast in a straight line. With the Camaro ZL1, we set out to deliver integrated performance, and be equally good at acceleration, braking, grip, and turning. As you will soon see, that’s why the Camaro ZL1 will set the performance benchmark for the segment.

Our approach was to make every Camaro ZL1 fully track-capable, from the factory. As we announced today, the ZL1 Coupe will start at $54,995 with standard Magnetic Ride Control, standard Performance Traction Management, and standard track-capable equipment such as a rear-differential cooler, brake cooling ducts, and an engine and transmission cooler.

None of our customers will have to buy extra options – or modify their ZL1 – for track-day usage. That is not the case for the current GT500, or their new car.

For Mustang fans, you’re welcome. Clearly the Camaro has encouraged Ford to throw everything they can at us.

For Camaro fans, trust me, we are always listening to your feedback, and working hard to keep the Camaro in the lead.

Al O.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Camaro5

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe hasn’t even made it to dealerships yet and GM is already releasing the drop top version of the car today in Los Angeles. Sales of the most power Chevrolet convertible ever will start in late 2012.

Like the ZL1 coupe, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible is powered by a 6.2 liter supercharged LSA V8 making 580-hp with a peak torque of 556 lb-ft. Chevy says that’s enough to exceed the output of 2+2 convertibles of many performance icons, including the Aston Martin DB9 Volante and Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG. Of course it also beats the car’s closest (and most realistic competitor) the 2011 Ford Shelby G500 Convertible, which produced 550-hp.

Prices and other specifications will be revealed closer to launch date.

Check out our original article on the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana

While FoMoCo celebrates the day with a 650-hp 2013 Ford Shelby GT500, General Motors is attempting to take away some of the spotlight by releasing the pricing details on the new 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe.

Prices for the Camaro ZL1 Coupe will start at $54,995, including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride suspension, when it hits showrooms early next year.

“From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing. “The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. With either transmission, the Camaro ZL1 delivers some strong performance figures:

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes standard with a bunch features including heated, powered-adjustable front seats, a 9-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-park assist with a rear-view camera (integrated in the center rear-view mirror). Only 6 options are available and they include:

• Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls: $1,185
• 20-inch, bright aluminum wheel package: $470
• Power sunroof: $900
• Stripe package: $470
• Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert: $600
• The suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot: $500

Pricing for the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be announced at a later date.

- By: Omar Rana

We’re not sure why General Motors isn’t making a big deal about this – but the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe has become the first vehicle to earn a perfect score in the recently revised crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s New Car Assessment Program.

The 2012 Camaro receives a 5-star overall rating with a 5-star frontal crash, 5-star side crash and a 5-star rating in a rollover crash.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

The new NHTSA rating came after too many cars were earning high-scores in the older style of testing.

The Honda Accord and the Kia Optima are the only two other cars that come closest to the Camaro’s performance in the tests.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: NHTSA (via Examiner)

Building the new Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 required much more than just throwing in a 580-hp 6.2 liter supercharged V8. GM engineers spent more than 100 hours in the wind tunnel with the Camaro ZL1, improving downforce, handling and ultimately track times for the new Chevy sports coupe. The company has now released a video showing us how all the aerodynamic testing was done.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

“The Camaro ZL1 lapped the Nürburgring in an incredible 7:41.27 seconds, which would not have been possible without work of our aerodynamics team,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “The design of the ZL1 creates downforce like a race car, harnessing air pressure to press the tires against the track for extra grip and control at high speeds.”

For the new Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, the aerodynamics team set out to generate downforce for improved handing at speed while minimizing the amount of increased drag that could reduce fuel economy and the vehicle’s top speed. After testing at the Auto Research Center in Indianapolis, the Camaro ZL1 produced 65 pounds of downforce at an equivalent 150 mph (241 km/h) – compared to 200 pounds of lift in a Camaro SS – which was offset by an increase of only 40 counts of additional aerodynamic drag.

Check out more details and a video after the jump.

7 elements contribute to the downforce of the ZL1:

1. Front fascia – The front fascia channels air for engine and brake cooling. The lower opening is larger than in a Camaro SS, providing greater airflow to the engine’s intercooler heat exchanger. Even the grille “fins” were shaped for optimal airflow. The corners of the front fascia, too, were reshaped to minimize lift, while the brake-cooling ducts in the outer corners of the lower grille opening provide a direct, high-flow path to the brake rotors. Cooling the brakes helps extend their life, particularly n the race track.

2. Hood – The ZL1’s hood has a vented, carbon fiber insert, contributing to both engine cooling and aerodynamic downforce. With traditional sealed hoods, air trapped in the engine bay creates lift at the front axle. With the ZL1, the specially shaped vents draw air up through the engine bay – allowing a significant volume of air flow while keeping the front tires firmly connected to the pavement.

3. Front splitter – Instead of a traditional front air dam, the ZL1 incorporates a racing-style splitter to help create downforce. Unlike some competitors’ vehicles that come with an add-on splitter, the ZL1’s does not have to be installed at the track – it is installed at the factory, and is designed with enough ground clearance for all driving conditions.

4. Front tire deflectors – The deflectors push airflow around the rotating wheels and tires more efficiently, reducing lift and drag. And by using deflectors in place of a traditional air dam, the downforce is less sensitive to pitch changes, making the ZL1 feel more stable at high speeds.

5. Belly pans – The ZL1 has two of them: one beneath the engine cradle and one at the rear of the engine assembly, just in front of the transmission. Both extend the width of the chassis out to the wheelhouse opening, to minimize airflow turbulence under the car. NACA-style ducts are incorporated into the rear belly pan for transmission cooling.

6. Rocker panels – Although subtle in appearance, the carefully shaped rocker panels help reduce lift and drag, while also contributing to stability during high cross winds. They also provide stone protection with the ZL1’s wider tires.

7. Rear spoiler – One of the most dramatic aero enhancements comes with the ZL1’s rear spoiler, which contributes approximately 150 pounds of down force at the cost of only 1 count of drag. It is taller and wider than the Camaro SS spoiler and incorporates the center high-mounted stop lamp.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012.

- By: Omar Rana

In October, General Motors sold a total of 6,119 units of the Chevrolet Camaro, making it the leading sports car in the segment and topping the Ford Mustang nine of 10 months so far in 2011.

Check out more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

At the 2011 SEMA Show, Chevrolet is showing off range of customized Camaro models.

Check out the complete list after the jump.

COPO Camaro – A conceptual exploration of a factory-built Stock Eliminator race car and the spiritual successor to the legendary special-order models from 1969.

Camaro Hot Wheels – This full-scale interpretation of a Hot Wheels toy is inspired by the “Custom Camaro” model, which was part of the original release of 16 Hot Wheels toys in 1968 – including a modern take on the chrome-style “Spectraflame” exterior finish.

Camaro Red Zone – A design statement in the new-for-2012 Crystal Claret exterior color and achieved with current and future accessories – and it debuts a new, heritage-inspired stripe graphic that will be available soon.

Camaro Synergy Series Concept – Using the best of the best Camaro accessories matched with a distinctive silver exterior with red accents, it’s the latest in the Synergy concepts that have debuted at SEMA. Chevrolet will be listening to the reaction it receives at SEMA, as it could be brought to production.

Camaro 1LE Concept – The legendary 1LE designation returns to the Camaro as a concept intended to carve up road courses. While only a concept, it borrows production components from both the Camaro SS and forthcoming Camaro ZL1 to deliver a competition-ready package.

Camaro ZL1 Carbon Concept – This concept incorporates all the technology and performance of the Camaro ZL1 – which goes on sale in 2012 – with an added layer of carbon fiber to add a decidedly sinister-looking element of form to a car that’s all about function.

- By: Omar Rana

Many childhood dreams are coming true this week at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. One of the many wishes of every child is having a life-size Hot Wheels Camaro become a reality. This year, Chevrolet did just that by teaming up with toy company.

“The Camaro Hot Wheels concept is inspired by the “Custom Camaro” – the dazzling Spectraflame 1:64-scale toy that was part of the original 16 Hot Wheels cars released in 1968, Chevrolet said in a statement. “The project was a collaborative effort between the General Motors Design studio in Michigan and the Hot Wheels Design studio in California. Each sketched its own ideas of a life-size Hot Wheels Camaro, compared notes and refined their visions until the concept hit the right note for each group of designers.”

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

“The Camaro has been a mainstay in the Hot Wheels lineup since 1968,” said Phil Zak, GM design director. “Several generations of car enthusiasts grew up playing with Hot Wheels Camaros, while dreaming of driving the real thing, so this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make that dream a reality.”

Power for the Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept comes from an all-aluminum 6.2 liter LS3 V-8 mated to a Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual transmission.

Check out more details and a video after the jump.

Chevrolet Camaro Hot Wheels Concept features include:

• Over Chrome Green paint with ghosted Hot Wheels logo on the quarter panels
• Satin black ground effects (splitter, rocker and rear fascia-side extensions)
• Satin black wheels with milled face and Torch Red stripe: 20×10-inch (front) and 20×11-inch (rear)
• ZL1 grille with Hot Wheels badging
• Hot Wheels badge on the decklid
• Euro-style taillamps with new inner smoked lens
• Euro-style rear fascia with new diffuser and exhaust bezels
• ZL1 rear spoiler
• Chevrolet Accessories Modified Satin Black Stripe
• Black aluminum “CAMARO” fender badges with milled face
• Black aluminum hood insert with milled hood vent extractors
• Chevrolet Accessories Synergy Series gill decals
• Black leather-wrapped  IP and door inserts with Torch Red accents, and cut-and-sew flames
• Hot Wheels sill plates
• Hot Wheels cut-and-sew embroidered logos in the front seatbacks
• Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit
• Chevrolet Accessories footwell and cup holder lighting (red)
• Brembo brakes: six-piston front with two-piece rotors and four-piston calipers (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Suspension lowering kit by Pedders (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Chevrolet Accessories strut tower brace
• Chevrolet Accessories black engine cover
• Chevrolet Accessories exhaust system

- By: Omar Rana

Chevrolet has long enjoyed a dominant position in this drag racing competition with a bunch of models including the ‘Fuelie’ ’57 Bel Air and the ’62 409 Impala. But none of those cars have ever dominated both the track and muscle car fans like the legendary COPO (Central Office Production Order) Camaros produced in 1969… well, it’s now back.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

At the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Chevrolet unveiled its new COPO Camaro Concept, designed to the specifications for Stock Eliminator drag racing competition.

“The COPO Camaro is a proof of concept for what a Chevrolet Stock Eliminator entry could look like,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “And it is a clear indication that Chevrolet intends to homologate the Camaro for sportsman drag racing.”

The Chevrolet COPO Concept has been designed to accommodate more than one engine option including the naturally aspirated 427 engine (7.0L) – the same displacement as the original 1969 COPO Camaros – and a supercharged 327 (5.3L) engine.

Check out a video and all the specs after the jump.

The basic content for the COPO Camaro Concept includes:

• Provisions for two engine configurations (see below for details)
• Provisions for a Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, a three-speed automatic or a five-speed manual
• High-rise cowl-induction hood
• Custom Aeromotive fuel system, with a fuel cell and integral high-pressure fuel pump
• Full, chrome moly roll cage
• Coil-over front suspension with Strange Engineering adjustable struts
• Custom rear suspension, based on NHRA requirements, with Strange Engineering shocks, Panhard bar and stabilizer bar
• Strange Engineering S-9 solid rear axle with aluminum third member, 35-spline spool, 35-spline axles and 4.10 gear set
• Lightweight, COPO-specific racing wheels
• 29×9-inch rear radial racing slicks and 4.5x28x15-inch front tires
• Manual steering system
• Strange Engineering lightweight racing brakes system with standard line lock.

The engines

The concept vehicle is powered by a prototype version of the supercharged 327 engine, featuring an LSX cylinder block.

- By: Omar Rana

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Corvette.

“Go to any Corvette or Camaro enthusiast event and you will have a hard time finding a factory-stock vehicle,” said Chris Perry, vice president, global marketing and strategy for Chevrolet. “These are cars that owners treat as canvases to express their personalization and high-performance dreams – and have been for decades. The SEMA Show is the perfect venue to test new customization concepts and to inspire new owners to start modifying their cars.”

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

Chevrolet will have many Camaros and Corvettes at SEMA this year – including a full-size tribute to the “Custom Camaro” that was part of the original Hot Wheels 1:64-scale line in 1968. All the concepts reflect the wide range of personalization possibilities, inspiring owners to build their own one-of-a-kind creation.

We’re really looking forward to the Camaro ZL1 Carbon Concept.

Hit the jump to learn about each concept.

The Camaros and Corvettes Chevrolet will debut at the 2011 SEMA Show:

Camaro Red Zone Concept

A design statement achieved with current and future accessories is the inspiration for the Camaro Red Zone Concept. It uses the Camaro convertible’s style to demonstrate what’s possible with a carefully selected collection of accessories – and it debuts a new, heritage-inspired stripe graphic that will be available soon. The result is a tasteful combination that blends contemporary style with a classic flair.

Vehicle highlights:

• New-for-2012 model year Crystal Claret exterior color with black convertible tonneau cover
• Chevrolet Accessories 21×8.5-inch silver/polished-face wheels
• Silver heritage stripe
• Chevrolet Accessories body-color grille and convertible wind screen
• Suspension lowering kit by Pedders (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Concept polished strut tower brace
• Concept “RS” underhood liner
• Titanium leather interior with Silver Ice accents
• Black soft instrument panel insert
• Chevrolet Accessories Silver Ice door and instrument panel inserts
• Chevrolet Accessories floor mats with silver “CAMARO” logos.

“This is a Camaro for those who want great looks and a performance personality,” said designer Adam Barry. “It’s a simple yet dramatic statement that is uniquely Camaro.”

Camaro Synergy Series Concept

The Camaro’s Synergy special editions were born at SEMA, and this vehicle is a new take on the concept, using the best of the best of Camaro accessories – as well as a distinctive silver exterior with red accents. Chevrolet will be listening to the reaction that this Synergy concept receives at SEMA, as it could be brought to production.

Vehicle highlights:

• Silver Ice exterior color with black Synergy stripes on the hood, with decklid and “mail slot” decals with red line inserts
• Synergy gill decals and no SS or RS exterior badges
• Chevrolet Accessories body-color ground effects and grille
• Chevrolet Accessories 21-inch wheels – black with red stripe
• Suspension lowering kit by Pedders (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Red Brembo^® brake calipers
• Chevrolet Accessories red engine cover
• Concept “SS“ underhood liner
• Concept polished strut tower brace
• Chevrolet Accessories floor mats (ebony with red and “CAMARO” logo in silver)
• Chevrolet Accessories lighting kit (displayed in red)
• Hurst^® short-throw shifter
• Black leather interior with red accent stitching on seats, console, doors, steering wheel and shifter boot
• Silver Ice instrument panel and door inserts
• Black leather instrument panel soft insert with red stitching
• SS logo with red outline on the head restraints
• Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit

Camaro 1LE Concept

Born in the Camaro’s third generation and refined further in the fourth generation as a road-racing performance package, the legendary 1LE option code designation returns to the Camaro as a concept intended to carve up road courses. While only a concept, it borrows production components from both the Camaro SS and forthcoming Camaro ZL1 to deliver a competition-ready package. Hash mark graphics on the front fender are pure Chevrolet racing cues, too.

Vehicle highlights:

• Victory Red exterior color, with flat black hood and hash mark extensions
• Satin black splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and outside mirrors
• Sport suspension featuring Magnetic Ride Control
• Electric power steering
• Six-speed manual close-ratio transmission
• Lightweight 20×10-inch (front) and 20×11-inch (rear) racing wheels (satin black)
• Goodyear^® Eagle F1 Supercar G asymmetrical tires (from the ZL1)
• Brembo^® six-piston front calipers, with two-piece front rotors, and four-piston rear calipers (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Dual exhaust outlets with ZL1-style active exhaust and diffuser
• Shock tower brace
• Chevrolet Accessories red engine cover
• Black leather interior with Light Stone stitching
• Graphite Silver door and instrument panel inserts
• ZL1 shifter with Light Stone stitching
• ZL1 flat-bottom steering wheel
• Chevrolet Accessories pedal kit

“The Camaro 1LE concept is all about the track,” said Al Oppenheiser, chief engineer for the Camaro. “It’s an all-out race car package that pays tribute to that special option from the past.”

Camaro ZL1 Carbon Concept

Welcome to the dark side of Camaro ZL1. This concept incorporates all the technology and performance of the Camaro ZL1 – which goes on sale in 2012 – but with an added layer of carbon fiber to add a decidedly sinister-looking element of form to a car that’s all about function. Included on this concept is the new Ashen Gray exterior paint (available on all 2012 Camaro models).

Vehicle highlights:

• Chevrolet Accessories exposed-weave carbon fiber “Mohawk” hood insert
• Carbon fiber rear spoiler with stainless-steel wicker bill
• Carbon fiber inserts on the interior door and instrument panel
• Lightweight 20×10-inch (front) and 20×11-inch (rear) wheels in satin black with machined faces
• Brembo^® six-piston front calipers, with two-piece front rotors, and four-piston rear calipers (Chevrolet Official Licensed Product)
• Magnetic Ride Control
• Dual exhaust outlets with active exhaust and diffuser
• Jet Black leather interior with sueded microfiber seat inserts and Torch Red stitching
• ZL1 short-throw shifter with suede and carbon fiber-trimmed shift knob
• Suede-trimmed flat-bottom steering wheel
• ZL1 pedals

“This concept’s dramatic appearance matches the extreme performance capabilities of the Camaro ZL1,” said Tony Roma, program engineering manager for the Camaro ZL1. “And even if its styling doesn’t intimidate you, its performance on the track will.”

Corvette Carlisle Blue Grand Sport Concept

This Corvette celebrates 30 years of “Corvettes at Carlisle,” one of the largest annual Corvette events in North America. It introduces a new Carlisle Blue exterior, new Silver-painted Torque 2 wheels and Pearl White full-length racing stripes. The Carlisle Grand Sport also showcases all-out performance with a dual-mode exhaust and Magnetic Selective Ride Control. Corvette was born to race, and that performance DNA runs through every inch of this unique Grand Sport.

Vehicle highlights

• LS3 6.2L with dry sump oil system – hand-built at GM’s Performance Build Center
• Six-speed manual transmission
• Magnetic Selective Ride Control
• Gray six-piston brake calipers (2012 option)
• Goodyear^® F1 Supercar Gen 2 tires
• Dual-mode exhaust system
• New Carlisle Blue Metallic exterior
• Cyber Gray headlamps (2012 option)
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Torque 2 silver-painted wheels in 18×10-inch (front) and 19×12-inch (rear)
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Carbon Fiber Ground Effects – front splitter and rockers
• Genuine Corvette Accessory full-width rear spoiler
• Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT hood blanket
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Pearl White full-length stripe kit
• 4LT trim level with Ebony/Titanium leather color interior and blue stitching
• New-for-2012 Bose^® Premium Audio with nine speakers, USB port and audio jack with iPod^®integration on the touch screen
• Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT Ebony floor mats
• Genuine Corvette Accessory GRAND SPORT console lid
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Racing Pedal Package

Corvette Z06 Ron Fellows ‘Hall of Fame’ Tribute

Ron Fellows has a long, distinguished racing career, including driving on the championship Corvette Racing C5.R and C6.R teams. That resume helped earn him an induction to the National Corvette Museum’s Hall of Fame in 2011. This Torch Red show car honors Fellows’ service behind the wheel, using accessories offered from Chevrolet matched with custom graphics. It’s a fitting salute to one of the fastest men ever to drive a Corvette.

Vehicle highlights

• Z06 Performance Package (Z07)
• Magnetic Selective Ride Control
• CFZ carbon fiber package with splitter and rocker moldings
• Carbon fiber raised hood
• Black headlamp housings and mirrors
• Red brake calipers
• Ebony interior with red stitching
• Suede-trimmed steering wheel, shift knob, parking brake handle and armrests with red stitching (from the 2012 Centennial package)
• Centennial-model seats
• Genuine Corvette Accessory Racing Pedal Package
• Racing-style graphics that honor racing wins, National Corvette Museum Hall of Fame, Spring Mountain Driving School and Mosport.

When the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 hits dealerships early next year it will make an SAE-rated 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. Those figures make the new Camaro ZL1 the most-powerful production Camaro ever… until Hennessey Performance Engineering gets its hands on it.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

The tuner has already released details on the upgrade packages for the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which range from 610-hp all the way up to 1,021-hp. Buyers will be able to choose from 5 performance upgrade packages including the HPE600 ZL1, HPE650 ZL1, HPE700 ZL1, HPE800 ZL1 and the HPE1000 ZL1.

Click here for more news on the Chevrolet Camaro.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will hit dealerships during the first quarter of 2012. It will be powered by a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque.

Hit the jump for the complete list of specifications.

Hennessey HPE600 ZL1 Performance Upgrade:

Power:
• 610 bhp @ 6,000 rpm

HPE600 Upgrade Includes:
• HPE Cold Air Induction System
• Supercharger Pulley Upgrade
• 160 Degree Thermostat
• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Hennessey HPE600 Exterior Badging
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Hennessey HPE650 Performance Upgrade

Power:
• 658 bhp @ 6,200 rpm

HPE650 Upgrade Includes:
• HPE Cold Air Induction System
• Supercharger Pulley & Snout Upgrade
• Stainless Steel Long Tube Headers
• High Flow Catalytic Converters
• Stainless Steel Mid Pipes
• Intercooler Heat Exchanger Upgrade
• 160 Degree Thermostat
• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Hennessey Embroidered Headrests
• Hennessey HPE650 Exterior Badging
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Hennessey HPE700 Performance Upgrade

Power:
• 707 bhp @ 6,300 rpm

HPE700 Upgrade Includes:
• HPE Cold Air Induction System
• Supercharger Pulley Upgrade
• Intercooler Heat Exchanger Upgrade
• HPE700 Camshaft Upgrade
• High Flow Cylinder Heads
• Stainless Steel Long Tube Headers
• High Flow Catalytic Converters
• Stainless Steel Mid-Pipes
• 160 Degree Thermostat
• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Hennessey HPE700 Exterior Badging
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• Hennessey Embroidered Headrests
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Hennessey HPE800 Twin Turbo Upgrade

Power:
• 800 bhp @ 6,200 rpm

HPE800 Twin Turbo Upgrade Includes:
• Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers
• HPE800 Camshaft Upgrade
• High Flow Cylinder Heads
• Fuel System & Injector Upgrade
• Stainless Steel Inlet Piping
• Dual Wastegates
• Electronic Boost Controller
• Air-to-Air Intercooler
• Dual K&N Air Filters
• Stainless Steel Exhaust System
• 160 Degree Thermostat
• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Hennessey Embroidered Headrests
• Hennessey HPE800 Exterior Badging
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Hennessey HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade

Power:
• 1,021 bhp @ 6,400 rpm

HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade Includes:
• 427 cid LSX Engine
• Forged Low Compression Pistons
• Forged Steel Connecting Rods
• Callies 4340 Forged Steel Crank
• Balanced and Blueprinted Rotating Assembly
• ARP Main Studs & Head Bolts
• High Flow Cylinder Heads
• Hennessey HPE1000 Camshaft
• Upgraded Fuel Injectors
• Upgraded Fuel System (Includes Lines, Rails & Pump)
• Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers
• Dual Wastegates
• Electronic Boost Controller
• Stainless Steel Piping and Exhaust
• Air-to-Air Intercooler
• High-Flow K&N Air Filter
• 160 Degree Thermostat
• Professional Installation
• HPE Engine Management Calibration
• Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
• Hennessey HPE1000 Exterior Badging
• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
• Hennessey Premium Floormats
• Hennessey Embroidered Headrests
• 1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

REQUIRED TRANSMISSION UPGRADE:
• Manual: Centerforce Dual Friction Clutch Upgrade

- By: Omar Rana

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the next big thing to come from the General. And although pictures of prototypes have been circulating around the Internetz and laptops news desks of automobile news firms, the car has yet to be official unveiled. Prototypes, rumors and other hints have been floating around, but no official specs.

However, thanks to the enthusiast community over at Camaro5’s message boards, some details have been discovered via various dealer ordering guides.

Supposedly listed in these guides are details that the ZL1’s LSA 6.2L supercharged V8—like that in the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1—will produce a tire roasting 580hp and 556 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. That power is then channeled through a six-speed Tremec manual with an optional six-speed Hydra-Matic auto.

Physically, the Camaro ZL1 is lower, longer and wider than its direct competitor, the Shelby Mustang GT500. And because of its size, the Camaro ZL1 is said to weigh in at a hefty 4,120 despite weight-saving touches like an aluminum/carbon fiber hybrid hood…yikes!

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Other hints include at packages like special lighting, which includes fog lamps, separate daytime-running lights and high-intensity discharge headlamps with BMW-like halo rings. A wheel package is said to be in the mix as well. The options for that include only two 20-inch setups: a 10-spoke wheel design and a five-spoke wheel design.

The ZL1 is also noted to come with a heads-up display complete with shift indicators, a lateral g-meter and other information.

To keep the ZL1 top spec, GM’s Magnetic Ride Control that’s found in the Cadillac CTS-V and the Chevrolet Corvette will be standard with an optional Performance Track Management upgrade. That will allow the driver to select up to five different modes ranging from touring to race or wet mode. And to keep that heavy body from plummeting into a ditch is a set of Brembo brakes.

Word is that the Camaro ZL1 coupe will arrive in dealers sometime in early 2012 with a price that will start in the low-$50,000 range. From the sounds of it, the Camaro ZL1—like the Shelby Mustang GT500—is shaping to be a real performance bargain. And we can hardly wait.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: Camaro5

GM North America President Mark Reuss has been recently busy overseeing the development of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the up coming Cadillac ATS. He recently took out some time from his busy schedule to pay Jay Leno a visit to show him the new high-performance Camaro, prior to it going on sale early next year.

Click here for more details the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

You check out the full video after the jump.

Refresher: Power for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes from a LSA 6.2L supercharged V8 making 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission with a new shorter-throw shifter that improves gear changes. It also features a dual-mode exhaust system which provides a very throaty and powerful sound. Sales begin in early 2012.

- By: Omar Rana