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Chevrolet previews Spark EV Tech Performance concept, other performance concepts including Cruze Diesel for SEMA

2013-SEMA-Chevrolet-SparkEV-010
Chevrolet Spark EV Tech Performance concept. Click to enlarge.

Chevrolet previewed the Spark EV Tech Performance concept, as well as other performance-oriented concepts of the Sonic, Malibu, new Impala, and Cruze Diesel. The cars will debut at the SEMA Show, 5-8 Nov. in Las Vegas. SEMA is the world’s largest convention of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories.

The basic Spark EV is a battery-electric urban mini-car delivering 400 lb-ft (542 N·m) of instant torque—more than the classic 1969 Camaro SS muscle car with a 350 V-8. (Earlier post.) The EV It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. The Spark EV Tech Performance concept builds on Spark EV’s performance with a unique power-delivery algorithm that enhances acceleration.

Stronger axles support the greater power. Additional features on the performance concept include:

  • Custom exterior color and graphics, a unique backlit Chevrolet “bowtie” emblem in the grille and performance billet aluminum wheels;

  • Chevrolet Accessory sill plates, floor mats and pedal covers;

  • Body-color trim plates and green stitching on the shifter boot and steering wheel;

  • A military-style flip-up “activation switch” on the instrument panel to add a fun, high-performance-oriented touch of style; and

  • Lightweight features that enhance performance.

Sonic concepts. Chevrolet is bringing a pair of Sonic concepts to SEMA, each packing enhancements for their respective 1.4L turbo engines, along with suspension, exterior and interior accessories and distinctive color-and-graphic packages.

The Performance Sonic RS concept features engine performance, suspension/brakes and appearance upgrades developed by Chevrolet Performance engineers and designed to be installed by Chevrolet dealers. Features include:

  • A Stage Kit, cold-air induction and a high-flow exhaust system allow the 1.4L turbo engine to produce more power;

  • The engine enhancements are complemented by a track-tuned suspension system and higher-performance brake upgrade kit, featuring Wilwood front calipers;

  • The suspension kit lowers the ride height for a sportier stance; and

  • Chevrolet Performance 18-inch, split-five-spoke wheels complement the lowered look with aggressive style.

The All-Activity Sonic concept returns for the 2013 SEMA Show with a new performance package with parts from Chevrolet Performance. Highlights include:

  • Chevrolet Performance 1.4L Turbo Stage Kit with high-flow exhaust;

  • Chevrolet Performance cold-air induction;

  • Chevrolet Performance suspension kit with lowered ride height;

  • Chevrolet Performance brake package with Wilwood front calipers; and

  • Chevrolet Performance 18-inch wheel-and-tire package featuring custom gloss black with green lip.

A Personalization Sonic concept puts a larger emphasis on personalization.

Cruze Diesel concept. The basic Cruze Diesel (earlier post) delivers 258 lb-ft of torque (350 N·m), with and 0-60 capability of 8.6 seconds. The performance concept adds a ground effects package by 3dCarbon, as well as an updated front fascia and chin spoiler.

Impala concept. The Urban Cool concept builds on the Impala LTZ with custom-painted grille accents, Chevrolet Accessories concept ground effects and Chevrolet Accessories concept 20-inch wheels painted to match the grille accents.

Malibu LTZ concept. The Malibu LTZ SEMA features performance-style ground effects and Chevrolet Accessories 19-inch wheels with a Sterling Silver finish. A Borla exhaust system lends a throatier note to the 259-hp, 2.0L turbocharged engine. A concept Stage Kit and cold-air induction system support greater performance, from an engine that already delivers 295 lb-ft of torque (400 N·m), the most in its class.

All the SEMA concepts feature accessories designed to allow personalization while maintaining refinement and ride characteristics. General Motors’ engineers developed most of the accessories shown on the concept vehicles. Some of the accessories are available from Chevrolet dealers. Others are being evaluated for production.

The enhancements are designed, engineered, tested and backed by Chevrolet to be installed by a Chevrolet dealer, which maintains the vehicle warranty.

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