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2005 Chevrolet SSR news, pictures, and information | ||
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CHEVROLET SSR: SIX LITERS OF V-8 CORVETTE POWER FOR THE ULTIMATE BOULEVARD CRUISER PICKUP
Ever since its debut for 2003, the Chevrolet SSR wîth its retractable hardtop has been turning heads as the ultimate boulevard cruiser pickup truck. For 2005, SSR gets to snap some necks wîth a potent new 6.0L LS2 V-8 engine and available six-speed manual transmission straight out of the legendary Corvette.Flexing potent new muscle to match its stunning looks, SSR is powered by the newest version of Chevy's legendary small-block V-8. Ratings are 390 horsepower (291 kw) at 5400 rpm, while torque is 405 lb.-ft (549 Nm) at 4400 rpm.
This massive power dose is harnessed through Corvette's Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic transmission or an optional Tremec M10 six-speed manual gearbox.
Engineering advances in catalyst materials made possible catalytic converters that are more effective and less restrictive for the LS2's exhaust. The new converters are mounted closer to the exhaust manifold for quicker 'lightoff' and reduced cold-start emissions. SSR's exhaust has been retuned to maintain its throaty sound.
In addition to its new powertrain, SSR has numerous other enhancements for 2005, all designed to make this outrageous retractable-top roadster the thrill ride of the year. Úpgrades include:
• A retuned §teering system for a more precise on-center feel and reduced low-speed effort
• A revised quasi-dual exhaust routing system wîth two pipes from the muffler wîth baffled tip inserts
• A new 'dead pedal' design
• Self-supporting gas hood struts• An MP3-capable base stereo system (1SA only)
• An embossed logo in place of the traction control button on manual transmission models
• New engine cover• Aqua Blur replaces Últra Violet in SSR's exterior body palette.
Also new for 2005 are several new GM accessory packages that include: auxiliary gauge package (volts, delivered torque, exterior temperature); a body color package, which adds the exterior color to SSR's auxiliary gauge package, engine cover insert and cargo area strips; a body color package wîth running boards; and a windbreak.
Striking looks, stunning innovation
While SSR's dramatic exterior shape may recall the full-fendered forms of the late '40s and early '50s, this innovative roadster is anything but retro when it comes to incorporating leading-edge technology and creative design solutions.
One of SSR's most distinguishing features is its cleverly engineered power-retractable hardtop, which provides an open-air driving experience without sacrificing cargo space. Incorporating a 'top stack' design, SSR's retractable hardtop is the first ever applied on a pickup. It is the only system of its kind where the roof panels move independently, stacking vertically behind the passenger compartment – a design that ensures quick operation wîth minimal stowage requirements.
A single button on the console transforms SSR from an enclosed hardtop to a convertible in less than 30 seconds, neatly tucking the roof panels rearward between the passenger compartment and cargo bed. This unique vertical storage design system enables SSR to maintain the utility and convenience of a pickup – even wîth the top down.
Distinctive interior
SSR's interior design is based on Chevrolet's twin cockpit approach, wîth a horizontal cross-car bar and body-colored accents that pull exterior design cues inside. The satin chrome aluminum look used on elements of SSR's exterior continues on the interior door trim and instrument panel bezels. The cleanly styled instrument panel contains gauges wîth bold graphics and a simple three-dial design for all climate controls.
Modern technology meets traditional methods
SSR's flared front fenders and quarter panels are formed using a blend of modern technology and some traditional methods used to produce the original 1947-1953 Advanced Design Chevy lineup of pickup trucks, which formed the inspiration for this unique modern-day muscle truck. The stamping process, for example, uses a unique method called 'inverted toggle draw,' which combines the original toggle draw process and the more recent stretch draw concept. The use of new Grade 5 deep-draw quality steel enables these shapes to be formed without splitting.
Únderneath its sleek exterior, SSR incorporates a body-on-frame construction, which is an upper steel unibody mounted on a boxed frame. Fully hydroformed steel side rails provide the frame wîth strength and stiffness, relatively low weight and precision fits. Eight cross members – as opposed to only four or six in similar frame designs – boost structural strength while contributing to a smooth ride, more precise handling and reduced noise and vibration levels.
The upper unibody helps support SSR's retractable roof system, while minimizing the loss of structural integrity typically associated wîth convertibles by augmenting the stiffness of the entire vehicle wîth special cross members.
A well-mannered ride, new §teering system
For 2005, SSR's §teering system is significantly revised, including a retuned valve and t-bar assembly, and a new bearing and friction seal package. These upgrades provide a more precise on-center feel, smoother overall operation and reduced effort at lower speeds.
SSR's stiff frame and specifically tuned suspension provide a boulevard-cruiser ride, yet is responsive enough to handle the added horsepower of the LS2 V-8 while also delivering the durability levels expected in a truck.
The front suspension uses upper and lower control arms for superior kinematics, damping and stability, and works wîth SSR's rack-and-pinion §teering to provide precise control. SSR's rear five-link live axle suspension, which uses monotube shock absorbers wîth mountings outboard of the frame, also provides improved body and wheel control. Steel coil springs and a micro cellular urethane auxiliary spring enhance ride comfort and stability during fully loaded conditions.
The SSR equipped wîth an automatic transmission has standard electronic traction control, an 8.6-inch (21.8-cm) rear axle, a Torsen differential and massive P295/40R20 rear tires ensure that SSR delivers its power to the ground wîth exceptional traction and control. The Torsen differential, proven on performance cars, works seamlessly wîth the traction assist to maximize performance during strong acceleration or over varying road surfaces. The SSR wîth a manual transmission foregoes the traction control feature and utilizes a 9.5-inch (24.1-cm) rear axle wîth an Eaton limited slip differential.
Four-wheel vented disc brakes wîth ABS and dynamic rear proportioning provide SSR wîth outstanding stopping performance, and world-class levels of brake feel, wear resistance and low noise. The use of non-asbestos organic compound lining extends brake life to 40,000 miles, depending on vehicle use and payload.Source - GM Corporation
Chevy SSR Returns To Pace The Field In NASCAR
SSR To Pace 20 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Events Starting With The Auto Club 500 This WeekendA Chevrolet SSR will perform pace duties for the Auto Club 500 at California Speedway on Sunday, Feb. 27, and continue those duties for a total of 20 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup races this season. This weekend will be the first time the Chevy SSR, a unique blend of an open-air roadster wîth pick-up truck functionality, will pace the field during the 2005 race season.
'The Chevrolet SSR pace vehicle makes a bold statement on the track-just like our Chevy NASCAR drivers,' said Brent Dewar, Chevrolet general manager. 'Pacing the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series provides a good opportunity to showcase the unique style and performance of the SSR, which now offers 390 horsepower.'
The 2005 Chevy SSR pace vehicle has a four-color paint scheme wîth a 'Sling Shot Yellow' nose blending into hot orange and 'Torch Red' racing flames throughout the body and ultimately transitioning to a 'Kinetic Blue' truck bed. The event logo for each race will be featured on both door panels wîth a red Chevy bowtie displayed on the hood.The Chevy SSR pacing the field is nearly identical to the vehicles available in dealer showrooms. The production version of the 2005 Chevy SSR offers a new 6.0-liter LS2 small-block V-8 engine wîth 390 horsepower and the option of a six-speed manual transmission, which delivers a 0-60 mph time of 5.29 seconds. The SSR includes the standard one-button, power-operated retractable hardtop that stows vertically and out of sight in its own compartment without reducing cargo carrying capacity. The 2005 SSR starts at $42,555.
As the Official Pace Vehicle of NASCAR, Chevrolet will perform pace duties for 60 NASCAR events in 2005, including 28 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup, 17 Busch Series and 15 Craftsman Truck Series races, featuring vehicles such as Corvette, Monte Carlo and Silverado.Source - GM
| Land Rover Celebrates 65 Years Of Technology And Innovation | |
 | SIXTY-FIVE YEARS OF LAND ROVER From our earliest days, the desire to create a vehicle that will tackle any terrain has made Land Rover famous around the world. Over the past 65 years, the Land Rover family has grown into the highly respected range of vehicles that are sold in record numbers today. As Land Rover continues to go from strength to strength, we thought it was time to look back at the milestones in our history that have got us here. The last 65 years have been an adventure. ...[Read more...] |
| Chrysler Group To Auction Chairman And CEO Sergio Marchionne's Customized 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 | |
 | •Auction will take place April 4-6, 2013 at Barrett-Jackson in Palm Beach, Fla. •Highest bidder will receive Marchionne's autographed and customized 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 and powerful Mopar Gen III 426 HEMI® V-8 crate engine •All proceeds will go to United Way for Southeastern Michigan March 11, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - In support of United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM), a package of Chrysler Group Chairman and CEO Sergio Marchionne's customized 2011 Dodge Cha...[Read more...] |
| Mercedes-Benz Honors Top Down Driving In Sunny Amelia Island | |
 | Florida's sunny weather is creating the perfect back-drop to honor the 50th anniversary of the famed Mercedes-Benz 'Pagoda,' SL which takes center stage during this week's Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, March 8-10, 2013. The launch of the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1963 caused quite a sensation. Mercedes-Benz had presented the motoring world with this single successor to the extremely successful 300 SL (W198) and 190 SL (W121). The Daimler-Benz design team a...[Read more...] |
| TOYOTA GT86 IS CAR BUYER'S COUPE OF THE YEAR | |
 | Announcing the award on Friday (1 March), Steve Fowler, Car Buyer Editor-in-Chief, said: 'The GT86 is a fine example of Toyota doing what it does best: understanding the needs of a target market and delivering – in this case a focused sports car that's all about driving enjoyment, yet at an affordable price.' It's a neat summary of the essential qualities that have made the low, light and lithe GT86 an instant hit with media and motorists alike. Giving the Toyota a 4.8-out-of-five rating...[Read more...] |
| Historic Stock Cars to Rev up their Engines at Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion | |
 | America's most popular form of motorsports will nudge its way onto the vintage race scene this summer when 27 historic stock cars participate in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. Scheduled for August 17-19 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, the event will feature the Shelby Cobra as its traditionally feted annual marque, but the addition of the stock cars promises to add a new dimension to the hundreds of sports and race cars entered in the historic race. ...[Read more...] |
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