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2015 Chevy Volt gets larger battery, though range remains the same

The Chevrolet Volt isn't changing much for the 2015 model year. According to specifications uncovered by Inside EVs, though, the new Volt's battery does have a slightly larger capacity. According to the spec sheet, this doesn't translate to increased range. Real world driving, though, might tell a different story. The 2015 Volt's battery storage is slightly higher than the outgoing model's, up from 16.5 kilowatt-hours to 17.1 kWh. According to GM's manager of electrification technology communications, Kevin Kelly, speaking to Green Car Reports, the increased capacity is "a late change done in the cell... just another continuous improvement to surprise and delight our customers." The stated electric range, however, stays at 38 miles. Inside EVs followed up on its original report, and found that drivers could see some advantage to the battery tweak. When they spoke to Kelly, he told them, "As a result of this change, we would expect that some customers may see a slight improvement in overall EV range." It's worth noting that when battery capacity increased from 16 kWh to 16.5 kWh for the 2013 Volt, electric range increased by three miles to the current 38, while MPGe went from 94 to 98. The price of the 2015 Chevrolet Volt remains steady, at $34,995. The actual cost to the customer is considerably less with the $7,500 federal tax credit, as well as any local incentives.

Hurst Edition Trans Am proves the Screaming Chicken will rise from the ashes

It seems the Pontiac Trans Am steadfastly refuses to die. Ever since Chevrolet was granted a retrofied Camaro to compete with the Ford Mustang, Pontiac lovers have lamented the loss of this 1970s icon. And, looking at the Hurst Edition from Trans Am Depot, shown here at the 2012 SEMA Show, may explain what all the fuss is about.
It's not going to appeal to everyone's muscle-car tastes, but there's certainly room for a brash-and-bold black-and-gold Special Edition in many a Trans Am lover's garage. After all, if you want the keys to a custom pony car, you'll certainly get noticed in this one. If this scheme isn't your bag,, you can alternatively order your Hurst Edition in white and gold or silver and black. Oh, and don't forget a color-coordinated Screaming Chicken on the hood.
No matter which way you choose to go, your inner Burt Reynolds will appreciate the Eibach suspension kit, forged wheels with Pirelli PZero tires, functional shaker hood, fender air extractors, rear spoiler and, of course, a Hurst shifter inside. The interior is emblazoned with all manner of special touches, including a Hurst dash plate and T/A stitching on the Katzkin two-tone leather seats.

GM expected to debut two new crossovers at Detroit Auto Show

Next month, General Motors is expected to debut two new crossovers at the North American International Auto Show. That's according to Automotive News and The Wall Street Journal, which reports that the successors to the aging Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain will finally make their debut. The two crossovers have been on sale since 2009 and 2010 respectively and are due for updates as the competition has newer models on the market. Both crossovers play in growing market segments where sales success is crucial for the respective brands. GM, and the automotive industry as a whole, has been shifting its focus towards crossovers in the last few years. The Traverse and the Terrain are some of the oldest SUVs on the market and are in dire need of an update. GMC's Acadia, the former corporate clone to the Traverse (and Buick Acadia), switched to a new platform in 2016. And the Terrain's platform-mate, the Chevrolet Equinox, was revealed a few months ago. Both the new Chevy and GMC models are expected to go on sale late in 2017 as 2018 models. Look for a follow up to the Traverse's sister, the Buick Enclave, to make an appearance soon. Related Video: News Source: The Wall Street Journal via Automotive NewsImage Credit: Reuters Rumormill Detroit Auto Show Chevrolet GMC Crossover SUV gmc terrain 2017 Detroit Auto Show