GM Investing in Tire Tech to Improve Fuel Economy

General Motors is investing in the new National Tire Research Center with hopes to help produce new low-rolling resistance tires that will help the automaker’s fuel efficiency. 

The General contributed $5 million to the new tire research facility, that is located in Halifax County, Va. GM engineers and scientists will begin work on the new tires in January, 2013.

Tire design alone can add up to seven percent better fuel economy for a vehicle, based on tread pattern, construction, material quality and processing techniques. The facilities $11.2 million tire testing equipment, known as Flat-Trac LTRe, is capable of replicating real-world driving condition, and top speeds of 200 mph. It will also replicate handling, ride, torque, and braking capabilities on various surfaces.

“This facility’s test equipment is like going from a basic telescope to the Hubble – it opens up a whole new world of possibilities,” said Frank Della Pia, a former GM vehicle dynamics manager and the current executive director for the tire research center.

Hot Wheels Camaro Headed into Production

It’s no joke, either: Beginning early next year, Chevrolet will offer a very limited number of Chevy Camaros fully decked out as life-size Hot Wheels cars, complete with a wild metallic paint scheme and red-accented wheels. It’s the first time any automaker has ever sold production vehicles with the Hot Wheels seal of approval, and it makes perfect sense that Chevy is setting the pace. After all, the Chevrolet Camaro was one of the original 16 Hot Wheels toys introduced by Mattel back in 1968.





“Millions of us grew up playing with Hot Wheels,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “Offering a special production model of the Camaro Hot Wheels is an opportunity to bring those memories to life, for kids of all ages.”

Needless to say, drivers will be able to make plenty of new memories, too, thanks to features like:

• A choice between coupe and convertible models, with either a potent 323-hp LFX V6 or a ferocious V8 that delivers 426 hp
• Six-speed manual or automatic transmissions
• A Kinetic Blue exterior with flame graphics, Hot Wheels logos, and a two-tone, matte-finished hood graphic
• Ground effects enhancements, including a front splitter and new rockers
• A Camaro ZL1 rear spoiler (coupe models only) and upper grille
• 21-inch black wheels with red accents
• Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen

“It’s been nearly 20 years since I started designing cars for Hot Wheels and I have yet to drive one home,” said Felix Holst, vice president of creative for the Mattel Wheels Division. “Personally, I can’t wait to open the doors and see the Hot Wheels Camaro sitting in the garage.”