Sizing up the Chevrolet Sail

Chevrolet just officially launched the Sail, its contender in the Philippine subcompact car arena, a few weeks ago. After the initial unveiling to the motoring public last April, little has changed from the actual units that are now being sold. Everything on the show unit (from the 3 spoke steering wheel, the class leading 9 inch Touch Screen Display head unit, and even the sunroof) was retained. The only difference is that the highest variant (1.5 LTZ AT) gets all that along with 16 inch aftermarket gun metal wheels as standard.

By this time you’ve most likely caught a glimpse of how it looks like and probably sat in or even test drove a unit. But have you seen one being assembled? Our curiosity was answered when Chevrolet Philippines invited us to their state of the art production plant in China to see for ourselves how the Sail is built from the ground up.

Ground zero: GM’s Design, Technical, and Proving facility

GM did not skimp on constructing the facility that churns out the Sail. The design and production space is nestled on the eastern seaboard of China and is part of a network of 10 plants that have a combined output of about 1.2million cars annually. This means that dealer networks in all countries where the Sail is being sold won’t have any problems addressing potential demand.

They also have a separate 5.67 sq-km area that is dedicated to carry out rigorous tests (including crash tests) to all vehicles in a variety of driving and environmental conditions. This is significant because it proves to show, at least with Chevrolet, that Chinese made cars are no longer the unreliable death traps consumers feared they used to be. We learned that each Sail goes through at least 5 hours of testing to ensure that it is up to the quality and safety standards that they uphold.

Production line: Nuts, bolts, and robots too.

I have always been a big fan of that cable program that shows the details of factory production (whether if it’s your favorite candy bar or running shoe). So being in an actual production line was quite the treat.

GM’s advanced manufacturing facility is 91% automated. Which means that there is an assigned robot for almost every task imaginable – from welding the body seams, checking the electrical systems, and laying down the paint.

The remaining 9% of the production process is “manual” – attaching the dashboard, seats, and tires, do final meticulous quality checks on the produced vehicle, and supervise on loading up some of the raw materials that the robots will need. Despite this paltry number, GM still employs more than 3000 technicians on site to ensure that everything goes as planned.

Time to set Sail?

While the Sail is relatively new for the Philippines, it has been available in India, China, Mexico, and parts of South America for a number of years now. This third iteration has gone through a lengthy methodical process that considered every condition its potential buyers will throw at it. When Chevrolet showed the steps taken to develop this platform, especially the safety aspect, one can’t help but admire what it has to offer. Even if it may not be the popular kid on the block just yet, the process that each Sail goes through proves that it is definitely greater than the sum of its parts.

The Chevrolet Sail is now available in the Philippines and comes in the following variants and SRPs:
* 1.3L DOHC VVT, LT Manual Transmission (for cash purchases) – Php688,888
* 1.3L DOHC VVT, LT Manual Transmission – Php713,888
* 1.5L DOHC DVVT, LT Automatic Transmission – Php768,888
* 1.5L DOHC DVVT, LTZ Automatic Transmission – Php858,888
 

The post Sizing up the Chevrolet Sail appeared first on YugaTech | Philippines News & Tech Reviews.

Sizing up the Chevrolet Sail

Chevrolet just officially launched the Sail, its contender in the Philippine subcompact car arena, a few weeks ago. After the initial unveiling to the motoring public last April, little has changed from the actual units that are now being sold. Everything on the show unit (from the 3 spoke steering wheel, the class leading 9 inch Touch Screen Display head unit, and even the sunroof) was retained. The only difference is that the highest variant (1.5 LTZ AT) gets all that along with 16 inch aftermarket gun metal wheels as standard.

By this time you’ve most likely caught a glimpse of how it looks like and probably sat in or even test drove a unit. But have you seen one being assembled? Our curiosity was answered when Chevrolet Philippines invited us to their state of the art production plant in China to see for ourselves how the Sail is built from the ground up.

Ground zero: GM’s Design, Technical, and Proving facility

GM did not skimp on constructing the facility that churns out the Sail. The design and production space is nestled on the eastern seaboard of China and is part of a network of 10 plants that have a combined output of about 1.2million cars annually. This means that dealer networks in all countries where the Sail is being sold won’t have any problems addressing potential demand.

They also have a separate 5.67 sq-km area that is dedicated to carry out rigorous tests (including crash tests) to all vehicles in a variety of driving and environmental conditions. This is significant because it proves to show, at least with Chevrolet, that Chinese made cars are no longer the unreliable death traps consumers feared they used to be. We learned that each Sail goes through at least 5 hours of testing to ensure that it is up to the quality and safety standards that they uphold.

Production line: Nuts, bolts, and robots too.

I have always been a big fan of that cable program that shows the details of factory production (whether if it’s your favorite candy bar or running shoe). So being in an actual production line was quite the treat.

GM’s advanced manufacturing facility is 91% automated. Which means that there is an assigned robot for almost every task imaginable – from welding the body seams, checking the electrical systems, and laying down the paint.

The remaining 9% of the production process is “manual” – attaching the dashboard, seats, and tires, do final meticulous quality checks on the produced vehicle, and supervise on loading up some of the raw materials that the robots will need. Despite this paltry number, GM still employs more than 3000 technicians on site to ensure that everything goes as planned.

Time to set Sail?

While the Sail is relatively new for the Philippines, it has been available in India, China, Mexico, and parts of South America for a number of years now. This third iteration has gone through a lengthy methodical process that considered every condition its potential buyers will throw at it. When Chevrolet showed the steps taken to develop this platform, especially the safety aspect, one can’t help but admire what it has to offer. Even if it may not be the popular kid on the block just yet, the process that each Sail goes through proves that it is definitely greater than the sum of its parts.

The Chevrolet Sail is now available in the Philippines and comes in the following variants and SRPs:
* 1.3L DOHC VVT, LT Manual Transmission (for cash purchases) – Php688,888
* 1.3L DOHC VVT, LT Manual Transmission – Php713,888
* 1.5L DOHC DVVT, LT Automatic Transmission – Php768,888
* 1.5L DOHC DVVT, LTZ Automatic Transmission – Php858,888
 

The post Sizing up the Chevrolet Sail appeared first on YugaTech | Philippines News & Tech Reviews.

Chevrolet Motorama 2015 takes the ‘Bowtie’ on the road

Chevrolet Philippines presents a more exciting and a more accessible Chevrolet Motorama staring this October 2015. With the theme, “Live your Dream, Drive a Chevy Now”, the Chevrolet Motorama 2015 in 50s Diners style will be held in several major mall venues and will also be accessible to more Chevrolet fans in various schedules until December 2015. New and exclusive Chevrolet Motorama easy ownership All-in low down payment offers for as low as PhP 98,000 are also up for grabs.

The New 2016 Chevrolet Trax, city-smart urban SUV with a first-in-its-segment 1.4 Turbo gasoline engine and the iconic and commanding2016 Chevrolet Suburban shall also make their first public exhibition through the 2015 Chevrolet Motorama mall roadshow series.

From rock n’ roll and art deco to jukebox and neon lights, 1950s America gave birth to popular culture. Chevrolet, with its golden Bowtie badge, revved through those glory days with the brand’s iconic cars and now aims to showcase the theme as a nod to its more than 100 years of automotive engineering as it hosts this year’s Chevrolet Motorama.

Already on its 6th installment, the Chevrolet Motorama invites everyone to a three month-long celebration of non-stop Chevy thrills and great ownership offers starting October 2, 2015 all the way until December 30, 2015 at select mall locations nationwide.

Made even bigger and better than previous editions, the 2015 Chevrolet Motorama goes on tour to set up roving exhibitions in different malls within including the Fashion Hall of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong on October 2 to 4,2015, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay, Glorietta in Makati and Solenad in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and more. Car display roadshows in different areas outside of NCR will also be set up in different regional locations.

The exhibit will feature Chevrolet’s latest line of road conquering vehicles such as the award-winning, Chevrolet Trailblazer 4×4, Trailblazer 4×2 LTX and Chevrolet Colorado Tracker edition. The ‘Motorama on Tour’ also offers consumers a first look at the city-smart urbanSUV, the 2016 Chevrolet Trax, and Chevrolet’s iconic large SUV – The Chevrolet Suburban.

Chevrolet Philippines and its 23 dealer partners, puts forth dream deals for easier ownership of that Chevrolet you’ve always wanted. Starting October 2,2015, ownership packages for your dream purchase is now within reach through Chevrolet’s all-in, low-down payment promos on the compact SUV Captiva for as low as P98,000, the stylish multi-purpose Orlando for as low as P118,000 , Chevrolet’s powerful mid-sized pick-up – the Colorado for as low as Php119,000 and the award-winning mid- size SUV, the Trailblazer LTX variant at P168,000 and LTZ variant at Php188,000.

Ready for adventure and ready for fun, the Chevrolet Trailblazer beats with a 2nd generation Duramax turbo diesel engine. The line’s 2.8 liter variants produce an impressive 200 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, making the Trailblazer the most powerful vehicle in its class.

The Trailblazer LTX and LTZ each come equipped with features such as a built-in dash camera with 32GB memory, and a reliable Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to keep drivers blazing safe on the road. Standard features on the LTX model also include rugged yet elegant 18-inch alloy wheels, premium leather seats, rear back up camera with rear sensors.

Each LTZ variant also comes equipped with Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system that features touch screen technology and media connectivity through Bluetooth, AUX, USB, and Siri Eyes Free. The LTX AT variant’s Android Infotainment System is made even more versatile with a free one-year 4G internet connection powered by Globe Tattoo and comes with built-in apps like Waze and Spotify.

Chevrolet Philippines also assures its customers of a worry-free ownership experience by offering a special warranty that covers units for three years plus a two-year extended warranty for the vehicle’s Powertrain or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Chevrolet also provides its new clients with free three-year 24/7 roadside assistance. By simply dialing 328-CHEV, owners may avail of vehicle support, personal assistance, and information service round the clock.

Rock solid Colorado variants haul in more power features with Tracker and Tracker Pro

Chevrolet Philippines celebrates its Truck Month by making a Rock Solid offer available to its customers. This month, Chevy launches the Tracker and Tracker Pro editions that combine off-road truck capability, crossover refinement and best-in-class performance features.

Born to be strong and ready to haul or tow anything with ease, the Colorado Tracker variants are powered by a class-leading 2nd generation Duramax diesel engine producing 200 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters of torque. These translate to superior driving performance compared to other locally available pick-up trucks in its class. In addition, the Colorado Tracker’s 1-ton hauling capacity and the 3.5-ton towing capacity plus a 6,000-lb tow hitch with electrical receiver makes for a very able-bodied road companion.

The Tracker Pro is especially equipped with a standard 12,000-lb integrated power winch with recovery equipment package – critical equipment for serious thrill-seekers enabling the Tracker Pro to free itself from deep mud, sand or gravel or for climbing steep, slippery slopes.

Developed to be a go-anywhere vehicle, the Colorado has a game-changing combination of power, capability and right-size configuration. Built like a rock, it can face any road challenge – from floodwaters to shallow rapids, off-road jungles to scaling steep inclines – this all-terrain capable 4×4 is a must-have for any adventure.

With the Tracker and Tracker Pro, finding new roads are made even easier with a choice between 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The truck’s 8-crossmember ladder chassis configuration enables the vehicle to withstand high torture torsional stress whenever you go off-road. The Tracker’s suspension has an added 2-inch lift that affords increased ground clearance and offers best-in-class 880mm water wading capability while the built-in snorkel intake reduces risk of water intrusion into the engine. These 4×4 variants also feature aesthetic upgrades that enhance its unique and sporty stance. The brawniest looking in the Colorado bunch, the Trackers look tougher with 17” gunmetal gray wheels with all-terrain tires and aluminum skid plate that not only add to its very capable appeal, but more importantly, protect components from rocks and debris.

Backed by over 100 years of legendary truck-building expertise, Chevrolet Philippines assures its customers of a worry-free ownership experience. In addition to the brand’s hallmark dependability and high quality, Chevrolet also offers industry-leading warranty coverage for pick-up trucks. The bowtie brand is the only automaker in the local midsize pick-up segment that offers a 5-year warranty as standard. The Chevrolet Colorado offers a special warranty that covers the vehicle for 3 years plus a 2-year extended warranty for the powertrain or 100,000 kilometers whichever comes first. Chevrolet also provides its new clients with free 3-year 24/7 Roadside assistance. By dialing 328-CHEV owners may avail themselves of the following services: vehicle support, personal assistance and information service.

The Colorado Tracker Edition has the versatility and extreme driving capability necessary for the Philippines’ challenging road and weather conditions. In preparation for the coming rainy season, Chevrolet offers easy ownership experience through the Truck Month promo which includes a 119k All-in low down payment scheme available for the Chevrolet Colorado 4×2 LT MT.

Rock solid Colorado variants haul in more power features with Tracker and Tracker Pro

Chevrolet Philippines celebrates its Truck Month by making a Rock Solid offer available to its customers. This month, Chevy launches the Tracker and Tracker Pro editions that combine off-road truck capability, crossover refinement and best-in-class performance features.

Born to be strong and ready to haul or tow anything with ease, the Colorado Tracker variants are powered by a class-leading 2nd generation Duramax diesel engine producing 200 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters of torque. These translate to superior driving performance compared to other locally available pick-up trucks in its class. In addition, the Colorado Tracker’s 1-ton hauling capacity and the 3.5-ton towing capacity plus a 6,000-lb tow hitch with electrical receiver makes for a very able-bodied road companion.

The Tracker Pro is especially equipped with a standard 12,000-lb integrated power winch with recovery equipment package – critical equipment for serious thrill-seekers enabling the Tracker Pro to free itself from deep mud, sand or gravel or for climbing steep, slippery slopes.

Developed to be a go-anywhere vehicle, the Colorado has a game-changing combination of power, capability and right-size configuration. Built like a rock, it can face any road challenge – from floodwaters to shallow rapids, off-road jungles to scaling steep inclines – this all-terrain capable 4×4 is a must-have for any adventure.

With the Tracker and Tracker Pro, finding new roads are made even easier with a choice between 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions. The truck’s 8-crossmember ladder chassis configuration enables the vehicle to withstand high torture torsional stress whenever you go off-road. The Tracker’s suspension has an added 2-inch lift that affords increased ground clearance and offers best-in-class 880mm water wading capability while the built-in snorkel intake reduces risk of water intrusion into the engine. These 4×4 variants also feature aesthetic upgrades that enhance its unique and sporty stance. The brawniest looking in the Colorado bunch, the Trackers look tougher with 17” gunmetal gray wheels with all-terrain tires and aluminum skid plate that not only add to its very capable appeal, but more importantly, protect components from rocks and debris.

Backed by over 100 years of legendary truck-building expertise, Chevrolet Philippines assures its customers of a worry-free ownership experience. In addition to the brand’s hallmark dependability and high quality, Chevrolet also offers industry-leading warranty coverage for pick-up trucks. The bowtie brand is the only automaker in the local midsize pick-up segment that offers a 5-year warranty as standard. The Chevrolet Colorado offers a special warranty that covers the vehicle for 3 years plus a 2-year extended warranty for the powertrain or 100,000 kilometers whichever comes first. Chevrolet also provides its new clients with free 3-year 24/7 Roadside assistance. By dialing 328-CHEV owners may avail themselves of the following services: vehicle support, personal assistance and information service.

The Colorado Tracker Edition has the versatility and extreme driving capability necessary for the Philippines’ challenging road and weather conditions. In preparation for the coming rainy season, Chevrolet offers easy ownership experience through the Truck Month promo which includes a 119k All-in low down payment scheme available for the Chevrolet Colorado 4×2 LT MT.