'06 Chevy Express and GMC Savana Full-Size Vans to Offer Duramax 6600 Turbodiesel

INDIANAPOLIS, March 2, 2005; General Motors announced today the availability of the Duramax 6600 turbodiesel engine in the 2006 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana G2500 and G3500 series commercial models. This sophisticated diesel engine offers more horsepower and torque than the primary competitor, as well as a quieter driving experience and better projected fuel economy.

The Duramax 6600 delivers 250 horsepower (186 kw) and a class-leading 460 lb.-ft. of torque (624 Nm). It is teamed with the Hydra-Matic 4L85-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, which is specially tuned for diesel-engine compatibility, giving the Express and Savana exceptional towing and grade capability.

Preliminary testing shows composite fuel economy of 20.2 mpg -- an advantage of more than 2 mpg when compared against the primary competitor. That's approximately 85 fewer gallons of fuel used during 15,000 miles of travel. The Duramax 6600 also is compatible with biodiesel fuel.

"With the inherent capabilities of a diesel engine and excellent fuel economy, the Duramax 6600 is a win-win scenario for van customers," said Ray Chess, vehicle line executive. "This engine also is quiet, refined and delivers a smoothness that is unexpected in a powerful diesel-powered vehicle."

Features such as electronic throttle control, fast-heating glow plugs and easy-service items enhance the driving and ownership experience. Minimal changes to support the new powertrain were made to the vehicle structure, thereby reducing the impact of equipment changes by upfitters.

With the Duramax 6600, the Express/Savana's maximum GVWR is 12,300, with a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds -- specifications that meet or exceed those of the primary competitor. A 3.73 axle ratio is standard and the RPO G80 limited-slip differential is optional.

Quietness and smoothness, particularly at idle, are traits designed into the Duramax 6600. They've been enhanced in the '06 engine, thanks to a strengthened iron cylinder block and revised piston design which reduces the compression ratio. The lower compression reduces the "clattering" sound of the engine at idle, while also helping to improve overall smoothness during driving. The lower compression also helps reduce NOx emissions.

Even the engine's turbocharging system is revised for quieter, more efficient performance. A variable-geometry turbocharger with aerodynamically- tuned impellers is used to enhance full-throttle response while also contributing to reducing emissions. Also, the variable-geometry turbocharger is used in cold weather to enhance heater warm-up (similar to GM medium-duty trucks).

To support the new powertrain, Express and Savana models equipped with the Duramax 6600 also include:

* Revised front floor panel and underbody heat shielding * New interior engine cover * High idle switch added to instrument panel (optional) * Instrument cluster revised to reflect diesel engine functionality * Standard 145-amp alternator * Primary battery located underhood, with secondary battery mounted on left-hand frame rail * Ambulance package equipped with a 50-amp Maxifuse connector at the B- pillar

A fuel-operated heater (FOH) also is available for vans equipped with the Duramax 6600 -- the industry's first factory-installed application for full- size vans. It quickly provides heat to the vehicle interior in cold weather. The seamlessly integrated system is designed into the Express and Savana's chassis, saving customers the time and labor of upfitting an aftermarket system.

The electronically controlled fuel-operated heater operates automatically, turning on and off within load parameters that include outside air temperature, fuel level, coolant temperature and whether the engine is running. It features a self-contained, pressurized auxiliary coolant heater (with a surge tank) that uses diesel fuel to generate up to 17,200 Btu/h (5 kw) of heating energy.

Express/Savana advantages

The Chevy Express and GMC Savana commercial models continue to offer uncompromising versatility in the full-size van segment. Both vehicles are available with two wheelbase lengths: regular length (135 inches / 3429 mm) and extended length (155 inches / 3937 mm). Stable handling, precise steering, superior ride motion control and balance, as well as a quiet, isolated driving experience are hallmarks of all vehicles in the lineup.

Express and Savana also benefit from continual refinements to an already solid structure. The three-piece frame features fully boxed sections for superior strength and rigidity, while extended and tapered front frame rails are used for improved crashworthiness. Also, additional tubular frame cross members are used to increase torsional stiffness.

Confidence behind the wheel is enhanced with a standard four-wheel antilock disc brake system with Hydroboost. This system works with a high- volume brake master cylinder to provide increased stopping power with an easy, linear feel on the brake pedal. Dynamic rear proportioning also is used and helps apply the correct amount of pressure to the rear wheels, depending on whether the van is loaded. StabiliTrak stability control system is standard on passenger models.

Surprising details are found throughout Express and Savana -- items that become important to customers who use their van as a mobile office -- including supportive front seats, excellent interior lighting, glove-friendly door handles, convenient storage pockets, secondary power outlets and durable carpeting. Also, 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 and/or seats or cargo compartment.

Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans also are available as cutaways, which can be converted to various commercial, school bus and recreational vehicles. The vehicles are assembled at the GM assembly plant in Wentzville, Mo.

General Motors Corp. , the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader since 1931. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 324,000 people around the world. It has manufacturing operations in 32 countries and its vehicles are sold in 200 countries. In 2004, GM sold nearly 9 million cars and trucks globally, up 4 percent and the second-highest total in the company's history. GM's global headquarters are at the GM Renaissance Center in Detroit. More information on GM can be found at http://www.gm.com .