Officials said details on 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra full-size pickups, including SAE horsepower certification, EPA fuel economy estimates and base pricing, will be released at about 11 a.m. Monday.

DETROIT- General Motors Co. is set to release pricing and performance details for its new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra later today.

Officials said details on the full-size pickups, including SAE horsepower certification, EPA fuel economy estimates and base pricing, will be released at about 11 a.m. Monday.

Kurt McNeil, GM vice president of U.S. sales operations, previously said GM is aiming to delight customers when it announces the specifications for its new lineup of full-size pickup trucks.

“We plan to put smiles on the faces of our customers,” he said during a conference call March 1 to discuss GM’s February sales.

The specifications were previously supposed to be out by the end of March, but officials told MLive.com that March didn’t work due to scheduling conflicts. The trucks, according to GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson last month, continue to be on track.

“There’s not any delay, but there’s not any reason to short-cut anything,” he told MLive.com. “We’re on schedule.”

Among the many updates to the Silverado and Sierra, are new, aerodynamic designs inside and out; quieter, more comfortable cabs; and three new, more fuel-efficient engines.

The all-new EcoTec3 engines were designed specifically for the needs of full-size truck customers, according to Reuss. The new engine family includes a 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8.

All of the new engines include direct injection, cylinder deactivation that “seamlessly” switch to four-cylinder mode to improve efficiency;" and continuously variable valve timing and other technologies.

The cylinder deactivation -- featured in all the V6 and V8 engines -- changes the engine to four-cylinder mode to save fuel when full-power isn’t needed.

The device, according to Honda, snaps into the newly announced Odyssey Touring Elite's standard HondaVAC vacuum. The powerful suction then allows users to create any style cut, officials said. While the video is most likely a hoax to bring attention to the automaker’s new minivan vacuum, which was unveiled at the 2013 New York International Auto Show; it is an interesting market strategy for April Fools' Day.

Honda YouTube: HondaHAIR

DETROIT- Honda Motor Co. is really customizing its new minivan ... or so it appears.

Following the debut of a vacuum in its new 2014 Honda Odyssey minivan last week in New York, the Japanese automaker today released a press release and YouTube video about the “HondaHAIR,” the “first-ever mobile barbering tool for busy, cost-conscious families.”

"We recognize that our Odyssey drivers are busier than ever, which is why we've packed the car with so many conveniences, including this HondaHAIR forward-thinking technology," said Parsley Thyme, American Honda head of public relations, in a statement.

While the video is most likely a hoax to bring attention to the automaker’s new minivan vacuum, which was unveiled at the 2013 New York International Auto Show; it is an interesting market strategy for April Fools' Day.

The device, according to Honda, snaps into the newly announced Odyssey Touring Elite's standard HondaVAC vacuum. The powerful suction then allows users to create any style cut, officials said.

In the YouTube video (embedded above), “Vehicle Research Engineer Spencer Larson,” voiceovers the 1 minute 21 second video says the tool works great for all types of hair, including canine.

"Our research has revealed new cultural trends in hair maintenance," says the man in the video. "That’s where the HondaHAIR comes in, it’s simple, efficient and an enjoyable way to cut hair on the go."

Honda said the HondaVac HondaHAIR accessory is the "perfect complement to the do-it-yourself mobile haircut movement," which can be seen on more than 6,500 Pinterest boards, 100 Facebook groups and thousands of YouTube videos.

In the release, the automaker also included footnotes saying, "Driver should not operate HondaHAIR, or have hair bobbed, while the vehicle is in motion. Some states may require cosmetology license."

A Honda spokesperson was not immediately available to comment on the release or video.

The new vacuum, called the HondaVAC, was developed in conjunction with Shop-Vac, and is composed of a powerful vacuum, replaceable filter and canister bag, with nozzle accessories neatly integrated into a dedicated space on the driver's side bulkhead of the rear cargo area.

The Detroit-based automaker today announced that the 2014 Silverado regular cab will start at $24,585, including a $995 destination freight charge, the same base price as the 2013 model. The 2014 GMC Sierra will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,085, including a destination charge of $995.

DETROIT- General Motors Co.’s new lineup of full-size pickup trucks will start at about $25,000.

The Detroit-based automaker today announced that the 2014 Silverado regular cab will start at $24,585, including a $995 destination freight charge -- the same base price as the 2013 model. The 2014 GMC Sierra will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,085, including the same destination charge.

“The 2014 Silverado is new from hood to hitch,” said Alan Batey, vice president, U.S. sales and service, in a statement. “When you combine the innovative features of the new Silverado with base pricing equivalent to 2013 models and standard scheduled maintenance, Silverado becomes a great choice for pickup customers, helping them save money when they buy – and when they drive.”

GM also announced the fuel economy for the trucks’ 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine. The two-wheel drive versions will achieve 19 combined miles per gallon – 16 city and 23 highway – and the 4x4 versions are rated at 18 mpg combined –16 city and 22 highway.

The 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8 is SAE certified at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, with more than 300 lb-ft of torque available from 2,000 to 5,600 rpm for responsive performance under a broad range of real-world conditions.

GM officials are expected to speak with media at noon today in more detail about the highly-anticipated full-size pickups.

Among the many updates to the Silverado and Sierra, are new, aerodynamic designs inside and out; quieter, more comfortable cabs; and three new, more fuel-efficient engines.

The all-new EcoTec3 engines were designed specifically for the needs of full-size truck customers, according to Reuss. The new engine family includes a 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8.

GM did not release specifications on the 4.3-liter V6 or 6.2-liter V8. Final performance data and EPA estimates for these engines will be available in the coming months, according to officials.

All of the new engines include direct injection, cylinder deactivation that “seamlessly” switch to four-cylinder mode to improve efficiency;" and continuously variable valve timing and other technologies.

The cylinder deactivation -- featured in all the V6 and V8 engines -- changes the engine to four-cylinder mode to save fuel when full-power isn’t needed.

Double cab and crew cab models for each vehicle will add to the base pricing. Here’s a look at the starting prices:

2014 Silverado base MSRP:

- Regular cab: $24,585

- Double cab: $28,610

- Crew cab: $32,710

2014 Sierra base MSRP:

- Regular cab: $25,085

- Double cab: $29,110

-  Crew cab: $33,210

The Detroit-based automaker Monday said its 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra will achieve not only the best fuel economy of any V8 pickup, and top Ford Motor Co.'s F-150 pickup with its highly-touted EcoBoost V6 engine.

DETROIT- General Motors Co. isn’t shying away from its crosstown rivals in the full-size pickup truck segment.

The Detroit-based automaker Monday said its 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra will not only achieve the best fuel economy of any V8 pickup, it will top Ford Motor Co.’s F-150 pickup with its highly-touted EcoBoost V6 engine.

“This sets a new bar for mainstream pickups,” said Jeff Luke, GM full-size trucks executive chief engineer, during a conference call Monday afternoon. "We think this is really important. These are not just plain trucks. These are trucks that most customers will actually buy and drive.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has certified the vehicles’ 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine to achieve up to 23 miles per gallon highway. The two-wheel drive versions will achieve 19 combined mpg – 16 city and 23 highway – and the four-by-four versions are rated at 18 mpg combined –16 city and 22 highway.

The improvements, according to GM, are 2 mpg higher than a comparative 2013 Ford and 3 mpg higher than some of Chrysler Group LLC’s Ram trucks. 

Ford’s current F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and two-wheel-drive has a combined rating of 18 mpg and the four-by-four with the same engine offers 17 mpg combined. 

The 2013 Ram 1500’s most fuel-efficient engine option -- a 3.6-liter V6 with eight-speed transmission -- is rated at 21 mpg combined, including 25 mpg highway, according to the EPA. The V8 engines for the Ram four-wheel-drive options, according to the EPA, achieve about 17 combined mpg. 

GM only released specifications for the 5.3-liter engine. Officials said performance for the 4.3-liter V6 and 6.2-liter V8 will be available in the coming months.

The 5.3-liter V8 is expected to account for 75 percent of full-size pickup truck sales, officials said. The expected high-volume is why it will be the first option when the vehicle arrives in showrooms later this spring. Officials said currently about nine out of 10 GM truck buyers go for the V8, which will cost $895.

“These (5.3-liter V8 crew cabs) are the backbone of the Silverado and Sierra lineups,” said Luke, adding crew cabs will be the first to market.

The all-new EcoTec3 engines were designed specifically for the needs of full-size truck customers. All of the new engines include direct injection, cylinder deactivation that “seamlessly” switch to four-cylinder mode to improve efficiency;" and continuously variable valve timing and other technologies.

The 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 is SAE certified at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, with more than 300 lb-ft of torque available from 2,000 to 5,600 rpm for responsive performance under a broad range of real-world conditions.

The new pickups will be capable of towing 11,500 pounds with an optional max trailer package available on the new double cab. Without the package, towing rating is about 9,700 pounds for a crew cab powered by the mainstream V8 engine.

Luke said the new vehicles will be priced competitively as well. The Silverado will offer the same starting price as the current model for all cab types.

The 2014 Silverado regular cab will start at $24,585, including a $995 destination freight charge -- the same base price as the 2013 model. The 2014 GMC Sierra will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,085, including the same destination charge.

Double cab and crew cab models for each vehicle will add to the base pricing. For Silverado, double cab will start at $28,610 and crew cab will be at $32,710. For Sierra, double cab will begin at 29,110 and crew cab will start at $33,210.

“(The base pricing) demonstrates our intention to compete aggressively and regain leadership in the full-size pickup truck market,” said GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson during the conference call.

Buyers of the full-size pickups also will receive a standard scheduled maintenance program for two years or 24,000 miles.

However, GM regaining total leadership may be more easily said than done.

The Detroit Three have each recently unveiled their next steps in the extremely loyal full-size pickup truck segment, which represented 12 percent -- about 1.74 million vehicles -- of the 14.5 million cars and trucks sold in 2012.

In 2012, Ford, the “pickup king” for decades, continued to lead the way in the full-size segment with a 38.5 percent market share, according to TrueCar.com. The Dearborn-based automaker’s crosstown rivals, GM trailed with 35.8 percent – Chevrolet with 26.4 percent and GMC with 9.4 percent – and Chrysler’s Ram brand came in third with 17.5 percent.

Analysts previously told MLive.com that even with new pickup truck offerings coming to market before Ford's F-150, which in expected in 2014, the Dearborn-based automaker is expected to continue its reign of pickup king, primarily thanks to loyalty.

Ford’s F-Series has been America’s best-selling pickup for 36 straight years and America’s best-selling vehicle for 31 years.

Overall, 645,316 F-Series were sold in 2012, a 10 percent increase versus 2011. Total Ford brand truck sales – including Transit Connect and E-Series – were up 2 percent for the year at 829,477 vehicles sold.

The U.S. truck industry is significantly important to the Detroit Three for reputation, as well as the revenue side of things.

Led by an aging fleet, pent-up demand, a recovering housing market and new debuts, the U.S. full-size pickup truck market is expected to outpace the 14.5 percent sales growth of the entire auto industry through 2015, according to TrueCar.com.

GM sold 418,312 Silverados and 157,185 Sierras in 2012. The Silverado’s market share has remained between 25 percent and 29.2 percent since 2002, according to Edmunds.com.

Email Michael Wayland: MWayland@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/MikeWayland 

The Auburn Hills-based automaker Tuesday sales increased 5 percent last month compared to 2012, marking its 36th-consecutive month of year-over-year gains. The sales milestone tops a previous sales streak of 35-consecutive months that occurred from February 1992 through December 1994.

AUBURN HILLS- Chrysler Group LLC marked its third full-year of sales growth in March.

The Auburn Hills-based automaker Tuesday said sales increased 5 percent last month compared to 2012, marking its 36th-consecutive month of year-over-year gains. The sales milestone tops a previous sales streak of 35-consecutive months that occurred from February 1992 through December 1994.

“With our 5 percent sales increase in March, Chrysler Group has now achieved year-over-year sales gains in every month for the past three years,” said Reid Bigland, Chrysler head of U.S. Sales, in a statement.

Bigland said in spite of inventory restraints last month on some of Chrysler’s most popular models, including Jeep, the company managed to record its strongest monthly sales since December 2007.

Chrysler sold 171,606 cars and trucks in March, helping sales rise 8 percent during the first three months of the year compared with the first quarter of 2012.

The Ram Truck brand’s 24 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler brand in March. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 25 percent in March, its best sales ever. Both the Light-Duty Ram and Heavy-Duty Ram pickups were substantially refreshed for the 2013 model year. 

March was the pickup truck’s 35th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains for Ram. Sales of the Light Duty Ram pickup were up 30 percent in March led by the Quad Cab pickups. Heavy Duty Ram sales were up 28 percent, driven by the Crew Cab model. 

Other vehicles to have all-time sales last month included the Dodge Dart compact car, which had sales top 8,000 units; Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan; Dodge Challenger muscle car and Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan.

Following Ram's increase, the Dodge brand recorded a 15 percent uptick last month compared to March 2012, followed by the Fiat brand up 3 percent, Chrysler down 2 percent and Jeep down 13 percent.

Jeep's sub par performance, according to Chrysler, due to inventory constants due to Jeep Liberty production ending in August and the ongoing product launches and launch preparations for the new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Cherokee (the Liberty replacement), and the Jeep Compass and Patriot.

Despite March being Jeep's best sales month so far in 2013, Jeep sales are down 12 percent compared to the same time last year.

Chrysler’s two best-selling vehicles in March remained the same from February, but the Jeep Wrangler jumped from fifth to third and the Grand Cherokee and dodge Avenger jumped back on the list:

Top five Chrysler models by units sold in March (2013 sales):

1. Ram pickup- 33,831 (77,594)

2. Chrysler 200- 16,593 (36,885)

3. Jeep Wrangler- 12,901 (31,846)

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee- 12,629 (33,133)

5. Dodge Avenger- 12,439 (32,047)

Top five Chrysler models by year-over-year sales in March (units sold):

1. Dodge Challenger- 42% (6,132)

2. Dodge Avenger- 33% (12,439)

3. Jeep Compass- 28% (5,111)

4. Ram 1500- 25% (33,831)

5. Dodge Durango- 19% (5,441)

Automotive analyst research firms Edmunds.com and Kelley Blue Book predict sales last month will total about 1.5 million new cars and trucks, marking the best month of sales since 2007.

Edmunds.com expects sales to total 1,478,208 million vehicles, which would mark the biggest single month since 1,555,945 new cars and trucks were sold in May 2007. KBB expects sales to come in at about 1.45 million vehicles sold, which would be the highest monthly sales total since August 2007.

Chrysler is the first of the Detroit Three to report its March sales. General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and non-domestic automakers are scheduled to release their results later today.

The car, one of just four Grand Rapids-made Austins still known to exist, was one of the headliners at RM Auction's Amelia Island sale, which attracts car collectors from around the world.

Car collector Mark Hyman says he "fell in love" with the enormous and rare 1909 Austin, made in Grand Rapids.Courtesy photo 

“It’s an enormous, massive, bigger-than-life machine that is not only important because it’s rare, it’s important because it’s enormous,” said Mark Hyman, who bought the car March 9 at the RM Auctions annual sale on Amelia Island.

The car, one of just four Grand Rapids-made Austins still known to exist, was one of the headliners at the annual auction, which attracts car collectors from around the world.

Hyman, owner of Hyman Ltd. Classic Cars of St. Louis, Mo., said he’s not planning to put rare vehicle in his company’s inventory of more than 100 classic cars for sale.

Instead, Hyman plans to have it tuned up and sorted out so he can drive it to and at classic car shows.

“I bought the car to drive it, enjoy it, play with it and have fun,” said Hyman, who said he usually keeps about 20 classic cars in his personal collection.

“I’ve always wanted a bigger-than-life brass-era touring car,” said Hyman. With an 800 cubic-inch engine producing 90 horsepower, the Austin 60 stood when most cars produced 20 horsepower or less, he said.

The auction was only the fourth time this only known surviving Austin 60 went on sale, according to local automotive historian George Ferris, a retired counseling director at Northview High School.

The hand-built Austin is highly regarded among antique car collectors, Ferris said. “It rates up there among the top desirables of that era,” he said in an interview prior to the auction.

Sometimes confused with the British-made Austin, the Grand Rapids-based Austin Automobile Co. was a “vanity project” started in 1903 by Walter Austin, son of Grand Rapids lumber baron James Austin.

The company, which made about 30 cars a year, stopping producing cars in 1918 when the Austin family went into the real estate business, according to local historians.

The Austin Model 60 was a magnificent machine when it rolled off the line at the
company’s assembly plant on S. Division Avenue.

Carrying a lofty list price of $7,000, the touring car was one of the finest on the market with its 141-inch wheelbase, brass hardware and a muscular 784 cubic-inch engine turning out 90 horsepower. The car was sold for $5,000 after it was displayed at the Chicago Car Show., according to RM Auctions.

“The automobilist seeking such a car in 1909 would certainly have considered the Austin Model 60, the flagship of the Austin Automobile Company, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, the “manufacturers of strictly high grade pleasure cars,’” according to RM Auction’s description.

E-mail Jim Harger: jharger@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/JHHarger

Led by pickup trucks and all-time monthly sales records of its Fusion full-size sedan and Escape utility, the Dearborn-based automaker reported sales of 236,160 vehicles in March – a 6 percent increase from a year ago.

DEARBORN- Ford Motor Co. today reported its best monthly U.S. sales since May 2007.

Led by pickup trucks and all-time monthly sales records of its Fusion full-size sedan and Escape utility, the Dearborn-based automaker reported sales of 236,160 vehicles in March – a 6 percent increase from a year ago.

“Customers are buying our all-new Fusion and Escape in record numbers, and we are working harder than ever to keep pace with demand for these fuel-efficient vehicles,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president of U.S. marketing, sales and service, in a statement. “Full-size pickup demand continues gaining momentum, outperforming the industry for the third consecutive month.”

Ford F-Series sales increased 16 percent to 67,513 pickups in March. This was F-Series 20th straight month of monthly sales increases and represented F-Series’ best March and first quarter sales performance since 2007.

According to analysts, pickups are expected to play a crucial role in March sales.

Ford’s namesake brand saw sales increase about 7 percent last month compared to March 2012, but its luxury Lincoln brand continues to weigh it down. The brand’s sales dropped nearly 23 percent 20 6,825 units sold.

Through the first quarter of 2012, Ford’s U.S. sales were up 11 percent compared to last year to 598,483 cars and trucks sold.

Ford’s best-selling vehicles remained unchanged for a third straight month.

Top five Ford models by units sold in March (2013 sales):

1. Ford F-Series- 67,513 (168,843)

2. Ford Fusion- 30,284 (80,558)

3. Ford Escape- 28,934 (72,983)

4. Ford Focus- 24,929 (61,898)

5. Ford Explorer- 17,509 (48,649)

Top five Ford models (excluding police units) by year-over-year sales in March (units sold):

1. Ford Explorer- 32.5%- (17,509)

2. Ford Escape- 27.6% (28,934)

3. Ford Transit Connect- 22.9% (3,655)

4. Ford F-Series- 16.3% (67,513)

5. Ford Fusion- 6% (30,284)

The Detroit-based automaker sold 245,950 vehicles in March, up 6 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales increased 4 percent, fleet sales were up 12 percent and the fleet mix was 27 percent of total sales.

DETROIT- General Motors Co. today reported its best March sales in the U.S. in five years.

The Detroit-based automaker sold 245,950 vehicles in March, up 6 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales increased 4 percent, fleet sales were up 12 percent and the fleet mix was 27 percent of total sales.

Kurt McNeil, vice president of U.S. sales operations, attributed the sales increases to the strengthening economy and GM's new products.

“We are expecting our third consecutive increase in market share versus last year,” he said in a statement. “Sales of smaller cars have been robust for some time. Trucks have improved in lockstep with the housing market and the strength of the crossover market signals that America’s families are more confident about their financial health.”

All four of GM’s brands posted higher year-over-year sales: Cadillac was up 49.5 percent; Buick was up 37.4 percent; GMC was up 11.6 percent; and Chevrolet was primarily flat, up 0.5 percent.

GM’s sales through the first quarter of 2013 were up 9.3 percent compared to last year to 664,963 cars and trucks sold.

1. Chevrolet Silverado- 39,561 (116,649)

2. Chevrolet Cruze- 23,260 (55,731)

3. Chevrolet Equinox- 20,997 (58,869)

4. Chevrolet Malibu- 18,539 (49,179)

5. Chevrolet Impala- 14,766 (44,343)

1. GMC Acadia- 77.1% (10,006)

2. Chevrolet Captiva Sport- 71.4% (4,576)

3. Yukon XL-  64.5% (2,292)

4. Escalade EXT- 55.1% (211)

    Buick Enclave- 55.1% (5,676)

5. Chevrolet Traverse- 54.5% (10,944)

Through the first quarter of 2013, General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC have combined to sell about 1.7 million cars and trucks, including 653,716 vehicles in March.

DETROIT- March could turn out to be the U.S. automotive industry’s best sales month since before the Great Recession.

Automakers, including the Detroit Three, are not only reporting year-over-year increases, but some of their best sales since 2007.

“March is coming in as another very strong sales month,” said Edmunds.com senior analyst Michelle Krebs in a statement. “American consumers appear to be quite confident in the economy, with snow storms and sequesters not deterring them a bit.”

Analysts say pent-up demand from old vehicles on the road, easily available credit and new products are all driving consumers into dealerships.

Through the first quarter of 2013, General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC have combined to sell about 1.7 million cars and trucks, including 653,716 vehicles in March.

The increases for the domestic automakers last month were led primarily by new models and pickup truck sales.

“Full-size pickups continue to outpace the industry,” said Ford sales analyst Erich Merkle during a conference call Tuesday, adding full-size pickups are expected to represent nearly 12 percent of industry sales in March

Ford F-Series sales increased 16 percent to 67,513 pickups in March. This was F-Series 20th straight month of monthly sales increases and represented F-Series’ best March and first quarter sales performance since 2007.

Ram Truck brand’s 24 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler brand in March. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 25 percent in March, its best sales ever. Both the light-duty Ram and heavy-duty Ram pickups were substantially refreshed for the 2013 model year.

GM’s leading trucks – the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra – both experienced double-digit gains during the first quarter of the year, as dealers attempt to make room for the 2014 models. Silverado sales are up 22 percent compared to the first three months last year, including an 8.4 percent increase in March. Sierra sales are up nearly 18 percent, but were primarily level last month.

1. Ford F-Series- 67,513 (168,843)

2. Chevrolet Silverado- 39,561 (116,649)

3. Ram pickup- 33,831 (77,594)

4. Ford Fusion- 30,284 (80,558)

5. Ford Escape- 28,934 (72,983)

6. Ford Focus- 24,929 (61,898)

7. Chevrolet Cruze- 23,260 (55,731)

8. Chevrolet Equinox- 20,997 (58,869)

9. Chevrolet Malibu- 18,539 (49,179)

10. Ford Explorer- 17,509 (48,649)

1. GMC Acadia- 77.1% (10,006)

2. Chevrolet Captiva Sport- 71.4% (4,576)

3. Yukon XL- 64.5% (2,292)

4. Escalade EXT- 55.1% (211)

Buick Enclave- 55.1% (5,676)

5. Chevrolet Traverse- 54.5% (10,944)

6. Dodge Challenger- 42% (6,132)

7. Dodge Avenger- 33% (12,439)

8. Ford Explorer- 32.5%- (17,509)

9. Jeep Compass- 28% (5,111)

10. Ford Escape- 27.6% (28,934)

Detroit Electric, a resurrected name brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, plans to unveil the limited-edition two-seat sports car based on the Lotus Elise’s platform during a private event from the Fisher Building, its new global headquarters.

DETROIT- A newly recharged electric vehicle manufacturer is set to unveil its first sports car tonight in the Motor City.

Detroit Electric, a resurrected name brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, plans to unveil the limited-edition two-seat sports car based on the Lotus Elise’s platform during a private event from the Fisher Building, its new global headquarters.

Don Graunstadt, Detroit Electric CEO of North America Operations, told MLive.com that the unveiling is on schedule and those wo were unable to attend can get their first glimpse of the vehicle at 9 p.m. at Detroit-Electric.com.

“It’s all going good in spite of all the little things that could go wrong,” he said Monday afternoon. “We’re a go.”

The first Detroit Electric sports car -- set to go on sale in target markets by the end of August 2013 -- is planned to spearhead a “diverse family” of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that are planned to enter production by the end of 2014.

Detroit Electric, according to officials, will only create 888 models of the vehicle that is being unveiled tonight.

Detroit ElectricDetroit Electric

Graunstadt previously told MLive that unveiling the vehicle in Detroit was important to the company and its new founder, Albert Lam, former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and executive director of Lotus Cars of England. The brand was revived by Lam in 2008.

The ideal plan, according to Graunstadt, was to unveil the vehicle at Detroit’s 2013 North American International Auto Show in January, but company officials did not want to rush its release.

The vehicle is set to make its global public debut later this month at the Shanghai Motor Show, where officials will announce a “major partnership with a global carmaker.” Graunstadt said Detroit Electric has a licensing agreement to use Lotus platforms for at least the first two vehicles, but the partner is a “much larger Chinese OEM (original equipment manufacturer).”

When announcing the vehicle and company last month, Graunstadt said the vehicles will be produced in Metro Detroit, and the production facility is expected to have an annual capacity of 2,500 sports cars and about 180 employees. The company also released a teaser photo of the vehicle (embedded above).

Check back to MLive.com/detroit for more information about the company and vehicle from the unveiling.

General Motors Co. appears to be sticking to its guns more than any other domestic automaker when it comes to full-size pickup trucks. Upon releasing the first specifications for its new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra on Monday, the Detroit-based automaker said it will continue to rely on its V8 engines to pave the way for the vehicles.

DETROIT- General Motors Co. appears to be sticking to its big guns more than any other automaker when it comes to full-size pickup trucks.

Upon releasing the first specifications for its new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and 2014 GMC Sierra on Monday, the Detroit-based automaker said it will continue to rely on its V8 engines to pave the way for the vehicles.

Officials said about 90 percent of consumers last year opted for a V8 engine in their trucks, and GM expects that trend to continue.

The new 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine alone is expected to account for 75 percent of full-size pickup truck sales. 

“These are the backbone of the Silverado and Sierra lineups,” said Jeff Luke, GM full-size trucks executive chief engineer, during a conference call Monday afternoon.

The expected high-volume is why it will be the first option when the vehicle arrives in showrooms later this spring. The V8 engines will be an $895 option.

The 5.3-liter V8 is the first of three engine options consumers will eventually be able to choose from for the pickups. The other EcoTec engines are a 4.3-liter V6 and 6.2-liter V8, which GM will release specifications for in the coming months. 

GM’s expectations for the V8 engines buck recent trends from its crosstown rivals Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Group LLC -- the three main players in the U.S. pickup truck industry.

“The story right now is they’re both (GM and Ford) standing on their own philosophical direction that they think the market’s going to go and that the trucks should go in,” said Karl Brauer, editor in chief and CEO of TotalCarScore.com. “It’s interesting because GM’s in the minority here now.”

Brauer said while Ford and Chrysler are looking to turbocharging (EcoBoost), more V6 options and higher transmissions, such as an eight-speed for Chrysler, GM is continuing to stick with improving its V8 options.

During a sales conference call Tuesday, Vice President of GM U.S. Sales Operations Kurt McNeil said the "death of the V8 engine has been greatly exaggerated, at least to General Motors, thanks to technologies."

Ford, which has had America’s best-selling pickup for 36-straight years and America’s best-selling vehicle for 31 years, reports its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 represents about 40 percent of total sales for its F-150.

Chrysler’s Ram Truck brand also launched its new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, which can achieve up to 25 miles per gallon highway, with an eight speed transmission. It also continues to offer its 5.7-liter HEMI V8. Both engines, which Chrysler declined to release a breakdown of, offer a host of fuel-saving systems and first-in-segment technologies, including eight-speed transmission, stop-start and active aerodynamics.

GM’s all-new EcoTec3 engines were designed specifically for the needs of full-size truck customers. All of the new engines include direct injection, cylinder deactivation that “seamlessly” switch to four-cylinder mode to improve efficiency;" and continuously variable valve timing and other technologies.

GM officials said there will be engine improvements during the lifetime of the vehicles, but would not offer specifics or a time table.

“GM wants to stick with the V8 philosophy,” Brauer said. “I think they’re going for the more traditional truck buyer.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has certified the vehicles’ 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine to achieve up to 23 miles per gallon on the highway. The two-wheel drive versions will achieve 19 combined mpg – 16 city and 23 highway – and the four-by-four versions are rated at 18 mpg combined –16 city and 22 highway.

Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst at Kelley Blue Book, said the fuel economy improvements show further escalation of the “competitive war” in the highly-important full-size pickup segment.

“Fuel economy is continuing to be a major consideration in the purchase process, and the GM announcement indicates manufacturers are creating various ways to approach that critical technological challenge,” he said in a statement to MLive.com.

The improvements, according to GM, are 2 mpg higher than a comparative 2013 Ford and 3 mpg higher than some of Chrysler's Ram trucks.

Ford’s current F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 and two-wheel-drive has a combined rating of 18 mpg and the four-by-four with the same engine offers 17 mpg combined, according to the EPA.

The 2013 Ram 1500’s most fuel-efficient engine option -- a 3.6-liter V6 with eight-speed transmission -- is rated at 21 mpg combined, including 25 mpg highway, according to the EPA. The V8 engines for the Ram four-wheel-drive options, according to the EPA, achieve about 17 combined mpg.

The 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 is SAE certified at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, with more than 300 lb-ft of torque available from 2,000 to 5,600 rpm for responsive performance under a broad range of real-world conditions.

The new pickups will be capable of towing 11,500 pounds with an optional max trailer package available on the new double cab. Without the package, towing rating is about 9,700 pounds for a crew cab powered by the mainstream V8 engine.

The 2014 Silverado regular cab will start at $24,585, including a $995 destination freight charge -- the same base price as the 2013 model. The 2014 GMC Sierra will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,085, including the same destination charge.

Double cab and crew cab models for each vehicle will add to the base pricing. For Silverado, double cab will start at $28,610 and crew cab will be at $32,710. For Sierra, double cab will begin at 29,110 and crew cab will start at $33,210.

“(The base pricing) demonstrates our intention to compete aggressively and regain leadership in the full-size pickup truck market,” said GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson during the conference call.

Buyers of the full-size pickups also will receive a standard scheduled maintenance program for two years or 24,000 miles.

GM hopes the new pickups will help it gain ground on crosstown rival Ford, which has led the pickups industry for decades.

In 2012, Ford, the “pickup king” continued to lead the way in the full-size segment with a 38.5 percent market share, according to TrueCar.com. GM trailed with 35.8 percent – Chevrolet with 26.4 percent and GMC with 9.4 percent – and Ram Truck came in third with 17.5 percent.

The U.S. truck industry is significantly important to the Detroit Three for reputation, as well as revenue.

Led by an aging fleet, pent-up demand, a recovering housing market and new debuts, the U.S. full-size pickup truck market is expected to outpace the 14.5 percent sales growth of the entire auto industry through 2015.

March proved to be a great month for the U.S. automotive industry. Automakers, including the Detroit Three, reported strong year-over-year sales growths and even stronger month-to-month increases for the highest monthly total since August 2007.

DETROIT- March proved to be a great month for the U.S. automotive industry.

Automakers, including the Detroit Three, reported strong year-over-year sales growths and even stronger month-to-month increases for the best monthly sales total since August 2007.

The overall industry came in at about 1.45 million vehicles sold, a 22 percent growth from February and a 3 percent uptick from March 2012 – the strongest month of last year.

“If you look at where we are today, it was a good test to the strength of the industry,” said Jessica Caldwell, Edmunds.com senior editor. “It shows that people are still buying cars out there.”

Caldwell said over the last decade March has averaged to be the second-strongest month of vehicle sales, only trailing May.

Automotive industry analysts and experts continue to say pent-up demand, low interest rates, cheap credit, new products and leasing are all driving consumers into dealerships.

Through the first quarter of 2013, U.S. auto industry sales were near 3.7 million units, a 6 percent increase from the same time last year.

Two segments that really helped propel sales last month were mid-size sedans and pickup trucks. The two segments combined for about 30 percent of all sales, including pickup trucks coming in at about 12 percent, or 174,000 units.

“Full-size pickups continue to outpace the industry,” said Ford sales analyst Erich Merkle during a conference call Tuesday. "This represents a departure from what we’ve been seeing since the recession.”

The Detroit Three experienced particularly high pickup truck sales in March that lead to combined overall sales of 653,716 cars and trucks last month.

Ford F-Series sales increased 16 percent to 67,513 pickups in March. This was F-Series 20th straight month of monthly sales increases and represented F-Series’ best March and first quarter sales performance since 2007.

Ram Truck brand’s 24 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler brand in March. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 25 percent in March, its best sales ever. Both the light-duty Ram and heavy-duty Ram pickups were substantially refreshed for the 2013 model year.

GM’s leading trucks – the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra – both experienced double-digit gains during the first quarter of the year, as dealers attempt to make room for the 2014 models. Silverado sales are up 22 percent compared to the first three months last year, including an 8.4 percent increase in March. Sierra sales are up nearly 18 percent, but were primarily level last month.

“We definitely expected to see a strong market there and the automakers certainly delivered,” said Alec Gutierrez, Kelley Blue Book senior market analyst of automotive insights.

Analysts expect the release on GM’s new full-size pickups this spring and the recovering housing market should keep the segment around 12 percent of the industry, if not more.

Overall last month, the Detroit automakers all increased sales at least 5 percent over a strong March 2012. GM and Ford both experienced sales growths of 6 percent and Chrysler marked its 36th-consecutive month of year-over-year gains with sales up 5 percent.

Experts mostly expect total industry sales for the year to come in between 15.3-15.5 million units, which would be about 1 million more than last year but still below pre-recession levels.

“Through the first quarter, it looks like were on pace to hit that,” said Gutierrez, adding sales growth is expected to remain steady throughout the year.

KBB anticipates sales of about 15.3 million units in 2013 compared to Edmunds.com, which recently raised its full-year U.S. sales forecast from 15 million to 15.5 million.

Here’s a quick look at how other automakers performed, according to Autodata Corp.:

- Nissan, which had its Altima top the Camry for best mid-size sedan sales, experienced a 1 percent growth to 137,726 vehicles sold.

- Volkswagen's sales were up 3 percent.

- Toyota’s sales remained steady, up 1 percent to 205,342 cars and trucks sold.

- Honda’s sales were up 7 percent to 136,038 vehicles sold.

- Hyundai saw sales drop 2 percent to about 68,300 vehicles sold.

- Kia experienced a nearly 15 percent sales decrease to less than 15,000 vehicles sold.

DETROIT- It’s been one week since General Motors Co. announced the surprise return of the Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.

DETROIT- It’s been one week since General Motors Co. announced the surprise return of the Chevrolet Camaro Z/28.

The vehicle, dubbed code-word “HP” inside of the Detroit-based automaker, stole a lot of headlines last week during the 2013 New York International Auto Show, and the excitement and nostalgia hasn’t worn off a week later.

MLive.com readers continue to click and comment on articles, photo galleries and videos of the resurrected vehicle, which is expected to generate about 500 horsepower and get 470 foot-pounds of torque thanks to its LS7 engine that is also used in the C6 Corvette Z06.

“It’s one of those halo cars that sells in small quantities to a very hardcore audience that makes a lot of noise,” said Jesse Toprak, TrueCar.com senior analyst, during an interview last week. “These muscle car enthusiasts create a proportionally high level of buzz in the media and especially on the web.”

To bring out the full potential of the vehicle and reduce weight, GM did some customizing of its own. By doing things like taking out the trunk carpet and insulation, installing thinner glass for the rear window, making air conditioning optional and removing all but one speaker, the vehicle weighs about 300 pounds less than a supercharged Camaro ZL1. 

Reuss said GM will begin building the Z/28 this fall for testing. The vehicle will be produced at GM’s Oshawa assembly plant in Ontario, Canada.

GM did not announce pricing, but Reuss said it will be the most expensive Camaro offered. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – the brand’s current most expensive Camaro -- starts at about $55,000.

If you’re one of those people who can’t get enough of the new 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, we have you covered. Here’s a look at all of MLive.com’s coverage of the vehicle so far, as well as a link to all the most-recent Camaro news:

Articles

- 2014 Chevy Camaro Z/28: How'd it become a reality?

- 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, Honda minivan vacuum top stories from New York

- Detroit Three shine during first day of New York Auto Show

- 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28: Specs

- 2014 Chevy Camaro Z/28: A resurrected, street-legal track car

- 2014 Chevrolet Camaro, Camaro Z/28 debut at New York Auto Show

- Live video: GM unveils 2014 Chevrolet Camaro

Multimedia

- Photos: GM unveils 2014 Camaro Z/28 during Chevy performance press conference

- Photos: 2014 Camaro Z/28 and 2014 Camaro SS

- Video: GM exec talks 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

Click here for all the most recent news on the Chevrolet Camaro

"I know that car better than anybody alive," said Gary Meyer, who drove the one-of-a-kind Buick Century around West Michigan cruising circuits and beaches for three years in the 1960s."

This was the 1956X Buick when Gary Meyer was cruising West Michigan in the early 1960sCourtesy photo 

“I know that car better than anybody alive,” said Meyer, who drove the one-of-a-kind Buick Century around West Michigan cruising circuits and beaches for three years in the 1960s.

Meyer, a retired school teacher who now lives in North Carolina, said he bought the car for $195 on a trade-in from Steigenga Auto Sales in Standale after he graduated from Wyoming’s Lee High School in 1963.

View full size

Gary Meyer still has the letter confirming his convertible's special status
Courtesy photo




 

“I had the sharpest car around,” said Meyer, who said the car was a standout as he cruised the beaches at Holland State Park and Grand Haven.

It also was the fastest car in town, Meyer said, recalling how he beat a 1962 Chevy with 409 engine in a street race long Lee Avenue SW. one summer night.

After he and his father realized they had a one-of-a-kind car on their hands, Meyer said he drove to Flint in the fall of 1963, where an employee of Buick’s styling department confirmed its special status.

Though he tried to contact Mitchell for information and got him on the telephone twice, Meyer said the styling legend hung up on him.

RELATED: One-of-a-kind Buick built for General Motors styling legend finds new life in Zeeland barn

Don Mayton, who has been restoring the car in a Zeeland barn with a group of friends, said Meyer helped him clear up some of the mysteries surrounding the car, built to one-of-a-kind specifications for Mitchell during his glory days atop the GM styling department.

Meyer was able to tell them the car’s original convertible top was made of a light blue vinyl, said Mayton, who is planning to restore the car to the specifications it had when Mitchell took delivery of it in 1956.
When he bought it, Meyer said the blue vinyl was in tatters and they replaced it with a white top they found on a wreck in a Grand Rapids junkyard. He had it repainted midnight blue by a local painter who did the job in his driveway for five dollars.

Meyer also was able to tell them about a dashboard plaque indicating Mitchell had raced the car at the Road America road course in Lake Elkhart Wisconsin, Mayton said.

Mayton said he plans to contact track officials to see if they have any photographs of the car or Mitchell at the track. “I’d love to have a photograph of Mitchell with the car,” he said.

RELATED: Click here to see the web site on which they are posting their progress on the car.

For Meyer, the restoration project has brought back a flood of memories from his teenage years, when he drove the car to his summer job at Miracle Mart along 28th Street SE and attended Grand Rapids Junior College.

“The car was always full of people. We were always having a lot of fun in it,” said Meyer, who said he still collects cars at his home in North Carolina.

E-mail Jim Harger: jharger@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/JHHarger

The first Detroit Electric sports car is planned to spearhead a ''diverse family'' of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that are planned to enter production by the end of 2014.

UPDATED: Detroit Electric unveils all-electric $135,000 sports car

DETROIT- Detroit’s new electric vehicle manufacturer is just hours away from debuting its first vehicle in the Motor City.

The company, Detroit Electric, plans to unveil a limited-edition two-seat sports car based on the Lotus Elise’s platform during a private event tonight at the Fisher Building, its new global headquarters.

The company, a resurrected name brand made popular in the early 1900s for producing electric vehicles, will only create less than 1,000 models of the vehicle that is being unveiled tonight. The sports car is slated to go on sale in target markets by the end of August 2013 for "in the neighborhood" of $135,000.

Unveiling the vehicle in the Motor City, according to Detroit Electric CEO of North America Operations Don Graunstadt, was important to the company and its new founder, Albert Lam, former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and Executive Director of Lotus Cars of England. The brand was revived by Lam in 2008.

Embedded above is a look at all of MLive.com’s coverage of Detroit Electric since its public return last month, and be sure to check back to this article for more information from the unveiling.

Detroit Electric has arrived. The resurrected company, named after the brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, unveiled its first vehicle Wednesday night in the lobby of Detroit’s iconic Fisher Building, where the company’s new headquarters will be located.

DETROIT- The new Detroit Electric has arrived.

The resurrected company, named after the brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, unveiled its first vehicle Wednesday night in the lobby of Detroit’s iconic Fisher Building, where the company’s new headquarters will be located.

The vehicle, called the SP:01, is a limited-production two-seat sports car that the company will only produce 999 units of to build up its reputation and create a niche for itself. 

 The vehicle -- starting at $135,000 -- is planned to spearhead a “diverse family” of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that are planned to enter production by the end of 2014.

SP:01, an acronym for “Sports Pure” and originally a company code name for “Sports Prototype 01,” features a 180-mile driving range, top speed of 155 miles per hour and goes 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds, making it the world’s fastest pure-electric production car.

Hundreds of people attended the private unveiling Wednesday night in Detroit, including Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and other Detroit public officials.

Detroit Electric chairman, founder and CEO Albert Lam and Detroit Electric Head of Design Jerry Chung unveiled the vehicle following comments from Don Graunstadt, Detroit Electric CEO of North America Operations.

Graunstadt previously told MLive.com that unveiling the vehicle in Detroit was very important to Lam, former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and Executive Director of Lotus Cars of England. The brand was revived by Lam in 2008.

The vehicle is set to make its global public debut later this month at the Shanghai Motor Show, where officials will announce a “major partnership with a global carmaker.”

Embedded above is a video of the unveiling, and continue to check back to MLive.com for more information on the company and vehicle.

The investments – announced today at Michigan’s Flint Engine Operations and Bay City Powetrain, as well as facilities in Toledo, Ohio, and Bedford, Ind. – will support production of a new Ecotec small gas engine, a new V6 engine, 8-speed transmission and tooling for an existing 6-speed transmission.

DETROIT-General Motors Co. will invest big in Michigan and two other states to produce more fuel-efficient engines and transmissions.

The Detroit-based automaker plans to invest $331.8 million in six facilities, including  $246.7 million for facilities in Flint and Bay City.

“We’re investing in technologies and manufacturing capabilities that produce high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles and components for our customers,” said GM Manufacturing Manager Arvin Jones during a media briefing conference call Wednesday afternoon.

The investments – expected to be announced today at Flint Engine Operations and Bay City Powetrain in Michigan, as well as facilities in Toledo, Ohio and Bedford, Ind. – will support production of a new Ecotec small gas engine, a new V6 engine, 8-speed transmission and tooling for an existing 6-speed transmission.

GM would not release any details regarding what vehicles the new powertrains are set to be installed in or timing of the investments due to “competitive reasons,” according to Jones.

“The investment has different timings based upon the product, but more information will come out at a later date that will specify timing, variance and application,” he said.

No new jobs are expected to be created from the new investments, but about 1,650 jobs at the six facilities will be retained..

The 8-speed automatic transmission -- to be installed on “numerous GM vehicles” by 2017 -- will assist with fuel economy and performance. Details about the new V6 engine program will be announced later.

Dick and Judy Tithof, of Chesaning, get a closer look at an assembly line while taking a tour of Flint Truck Assembly plant in 2011 as part of General Motors open house at five area plants.Flint Journal File Photo

GM also said plans to increase previously announced investments at facilities in Saginaw and Romulus from $600 million to $646 million to support production of the new V6 engine.

Although no new jobs will be made, United Auto Workers Vice President Joe Ashton, who directs the union’s GM unit, touted the investments as good things for both the union and company.

“This investment goes a long way to ensuring GM remains a marketplace leader and our members can continue to support and share in the company’s growth,” he said in a statement.

The investments are a part of GM’s plans to reveal $1.5 billion in new investments for North American facilities this year.

GM is in the midst of overhauling the majority of its vehicle lineup. Chevrolet alone is planning to release 13 new or significantly redesigned vehicles this year, including its best-selling Silverado full-size pickup.

Officials previously said an all-new family of EcoTec3 engines for the Silverado and Sierra were designed specifically for the needs of full-size truck customers. The new engine family includes a 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8 and 6.2-liter V8.

Since 2009, GM has announced nearly $1.8 billion of investments for the six Powertrain facilities involved in today's announcements, officials said.

Below is a look at the nearly $380 worth of investment announcements made by GM on Thursday.

Newly announced $331.8 million investments:

- $215 million in Flint Engine Operations for a new small Ecotec gasoline engine, which is part of a new family of engines that includes 3- and 4-cylinder variants with displacements ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 liters.

- $215 million in Flint Engine Operations for a new small Ecotec gasoline engine, which is part of a new family of engines that includes 3- and 4-cylinder variants with displacements ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 liters.

- $31.7 million in Bay City Powertrain including $19.2 million to produce components for a new V6 engine and $12.5 million to produce components for the small Ecotec gasoline engine.

- $31.7 million in Bay City Powertrain including $19.2 million to produce components for a new V6 engine and $12.5 million to produce components for the small Ecotec gasoline engine.

The additional $46 million to the already announced $600 million for the V6 project including:

- A $41 million increase to $256 million for Saginaw Metal Castings Operations to produce castings for the new V6 engine.

- A $5 million increase to $390 million for Romulus Engine Operations to build the new V6 engines.  

Detroit Electric, a resurrected name brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, unveiled its first vehicle Wednesday night in Detroit.

DETROIT- Detroit Electric, a resurrected name brand made popular in the early 1900s for electric vehicles, unveiled its first vehicle Wednesday night in Detroit.

The limited-edition sports car, named the SP:01, is based off the Lotus Elise’s aluminum platform and is set to go on sale in target markets by the end of August 2013. 

SP:01 features a 180-mile driving range, top speed of 155 miles per hour and goes 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds, making it the world’s fastest pure-electric production car, according to officials.

The SP:01 -- starting at $135,000 -- is planned to spearhead a“diverse family” of all-electric production cars, including two other high-performance models that are planned to enter production by the end of 2014.

Detroit Electric unveiled the vehicle at a private event at the Fisher Building, its new global headquarters. Less than 1,000 models of the SP:01 will be produced in order to generate a reputation for the brand, according to officials.

The vehicle is set to make its global public debut later this month at the Shanghai Motor Show, where officials will announce a “major partnership with a global carmaker.”

Don Graunstadt, Detroit Electric CEO of North America Operations, previously told MLive.com that Detroit Electric has a licensing agreement to use Lotus platforms for at least the first two vehicles, but the partner is a “much larger Chinese OEM (original equipment manufacturer).”

When announcing the vehicle and company last month, Graunstadt said the vehicles will be produced in Metro Detroit. The company and production facility is expected to have an annual capacity of 2,500 sports cars and about 180 employees.

Unveiling the vehicle in the Motor City, according to Graunstadt, was important to the company and its new chairman and CEO, Albert Lam, former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and Executive Director of Lotus Cars of England. The brand was revived by Lam in 2008.

Every SP:01 will come with a three year, 30,000 mile manufacturer's
warranty with an optional extension to five years and 50,000 miles for the
battery. 

Check back to MLive.com for more information regarding Detroit Electric and its new vehicle.

The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and Impala will be atop the fountain in Comerica Park's center field for the American League Champion Detroit Tigers' home opener on Friday.

DETROIT- The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and Impala will be atop the fountain in Comerica Park’s center field for the American League Champion Detroit Tigers’ home opener on Friday.

The full-size pickup truck and full-size sedan were picked by General Motors Co. to take the well-marketed spots atop the Chevrolet Fountain inside the park for the Detroit Tigers 2013 baseball season.

During last season, the Detroit-based automaker chose the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro and Malibu Eco to be on top of the fountain.

The Silverado and Impala, which were both hoisted into place on Monday, are expected to be two of the most important vehicles for the brand, as it overhauls its vehicle lineup.

The Silverado theatrically debuted late-last year during a special event in Pontiac prior to the 2013 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle is expected to debut this spring and, according to GM, will not only achieve the best fuel economy of any V8 pickup; it will top Ford Motor Co.’s F-150 pickup with its highly-touted EcoBoost V6 engine.

“This sets a new bar for mainstream pickups,” said Jeff Luke, GM full-size trucks executive chief engineer, during a conference call Monday afternoon to announce the pickup's specifications. "We think this is really important. These are not just plain trucks. These are trucks that most customers will actually buy and drive.”

The Impala, which debuted about a year ago, features an aggressive exterior redesign that takes distinctive cues from vehicles such as the Chevy Camaro and Malibu.

The “flagship" sedan will be offered in LS, LT and LTZ models, and three direct-injected engines: a 3.6-liter V6, new 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with eAssist,

Impala production began Monday in Oshawa, Ontario, and will go into product at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant later this month.

In 2012, at the end of their vehicle life cycles, the two vehicles combined for more than 380,300 sales -- 169,351 Impalas and 210,951 Silverados.

Chevrolet has been the Tigers automotive sponsor since 2010. Before that, from 2000-2008 Comerica Park's fountain was called the General Motors Fountain.

In 2009, when the automaker cutback its advertising during its restructuring, the Tigers did not sell space on the fountain. The organization instead put Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler logos up alongside GM's sign. Then in 2010, Chevrolet renewed sponsorship of the fountain at the start, according to GM.

The Detroit Tigers will take on the New York Yankees starting at 1:08 p.m. Friday for their home opener in Detroit’s Comerica Park. Click here for full coverage of all Opening Day events.

The 2,403-pound carbon fiber and aluminum vehicle, which will start at $135,000, features an up to 180-mile driving range, top speed of 155 miles per hour and a zero to 62 mph rating in 3.7 seconds. For a closer look at the vehicle's performance, here's a look at the specifications released by Detroit Electric.

DETROIT- The SP:01, the first vehicle from the newly announced Detroit Electric car company, was unveiled Wednesday night in Detroit.

The 2,403-pound carbon fiber and aluminum vehicle, which will start at $135,000, features an up to 180-mile driving range, top speed of 155 miles per hour and a zero to 62 mph rating in 3.7 seconds.

Pricing and equipment

The price of SP:01 starts at $135,000 USD, and will vary according to specification and local taxes.

The SP:01 comes with a range of optional extras for those who want to tailor the finish and performance of their vehicle.

Optional equipment:

• Lacquered carbon-fiber hard top
• Blue, red or tan leather for seats, dashboard and doors
• Black leather seatbelt guides
• Gearbox:
• Fifth gear activation
• Twinspeed automatic gearbox

Technical specifications

Body and chassis

Two-seater, two-door open top roadster with bonded aluminum unitary structure with front and rear subframes and carbon-composite body panels.  Mid-mounted electric motor driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission.

Motor

Name                          ACP

Type                            Air-cooled asynchronous AC motor

Max power                  150 kW / 201 hp

Max torque                  166 lb ft / 225 Nm

Efficiency rating                      91.0%

Weight                                     110 lb / 50 kg

Transmission ratios

1                      3.538               2 1.913

3                      1.31                 4                      0.971

Final drive       4.29:1

Power Pack

Name                          Detroit Electric

Type                            Lithium Polymer

Max power                  37 kWh

Weight                                     660 lb / 300 kg (both packs)

Vehicle range              180 miles / 288 km (maximum over NEDC)

Suspension and damping

Front                                  Double wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar.

Rear                                   Double wishbones, coil springs and telescopic dampers.

Steering

Type                            Non-assisted rack-and-pinion

Gearing / Turns                       1 / 2.8 lock-to-lock

Turning circle              10.6m

Brakes

Front ad rear               11.3 inch / 282 mm ventilated & cross-drilled discs

Assistance                   ABS anti-lock braking

Wheels and tires

Front                            16-inch x 6.5J with 175/55 R16 tires

Rear                            17-inch x 7.5J with 225/45 R17 tires

Dimensions (inches / mm)

Exterior

Overall length              153 / 3880

Overall width               69 / 1751

Overall height              44 / 1117

Wheelbase                  90.6 / 2,300

Weights (lb / kg)

Kerb weight                 2403 / 1090

Performance

Top speed                    155 mph / 249 km/h

0-to-62 mph / 100km 3.7 seconds