2014 Spark EV test drive: affordable green fun (video)

Spark EV test drive affordable green fun video

We've driven a number of EV's over the years -- from the Ford Focus Electric to the Tesla Model S -- but none have been as affordable as the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV. It costs $19,995, including the $7,500 federal tax credit, and just $17,495 in California, thanks to an additional $2,500 credit. The Spark EV is GM's first pure electric car since the company scrapped the EV1 program in 2002. It's a five-door supermini designed to carry four people plus luggage in comfort. While it's primarily a city car, it's perfectly at ease on the highway. We recently got the chance to take one for a spin in lovely Portland, Oregon, so hit the break for our impressions and hands-on video.

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2014 Chevrolet Impala Protects Your Gear and Data in a Hidden Cubby

Chevrolet has announced an cool new protection feature available in properly equipped 2014 Impala sedans. The feature is available on vehicles that have the Chevrolet MyLink system installed it features an eight-inch center stack display supporting touch. Behind that screen is a hidden storage locker that is large enough for items such as your smartphone, wallet, or iPod.

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The driver can set a four-digit PIN that prevents anyone from being able to see or access the items placed in the cubby, which is hidden behind the eight-inch touchscreen. Not only does that PIN number protect your items stashed away in your secret hiding place, it also protects the data stored in the infotainment system. When you enter your pin number, the system locks down your contacts and addresses preventing unauthorized people from viewing them, which provides additional protection when valet parking.

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Chevrolet says that the idea is to make the hidden storage container similar to a hotel safe. When you enter the code, the screen slides up allowing you to access the storage space. Chevrolet says that the storage cubbt was made possible by moving the electronics for the MyLink system from behind the touchscreen to another part of the vehicle.

GM launches API framework to let developers put wheels on apps

GM launches API framework to let developers put wheels on apps

So far we've gotten a look at some Siri / OnStar canoodling here at CES 2013, and iHeartRadio flaunted its new GM liaison yesterday. But the automaker wants to let all comers in on the MyLink action, so it's just announced a new developer portal, SDK and forum for would-be in-vehicle app creators. The site will allow apps to be coded and gain approval "in a secure and controlled manner" with a helping hand from GM, so that users can purchase and download apps directly to the vehicle's infotainment system. New programs could join the aforementioned CES debuts, along with the likes of TuneIn, Slacker and The Weather Channel, where the General sees a need for vehicle-appropriate categories like fuel efficiency and driver safety. Or you could just, you know, keep your eyes on the road. Check the PR after the break for more.

Continue reading GM launches API framework to let developers put wheels on apps

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Chevy details 2014 Spark EV: under $25,000, 0-60 in 8 seconds and a 20-minute fast charge

Chevy prices 2014 Spark EV under $25,000, plans launches in Canada and beyond

News of Siri integration isn't the only tool in Chevy's belt today, as it's also unveiling key details of the 2014 Spark EV. The all-electric subcompact won't reach dealers until the summer, but it may be worth waiting for given a surprising emphasis on speed. Its 130HP motor puts out 400lb-ft of torque, or enough to reach 60MPH in under 8 seconds -- quite a bit of pep for any stock compact car, let alone one with green credentials. Drivers who don't always mash the throttle will still get a dose of speed through industry-first support for SAE Combo DC Fast Charging, which delivers an 80 percent charge in 20 minutes. The cabin technology parallels developments in the powertrain through its two customizable, 7-inch screens and the expected smartphone tie-ins for MyLink and Siri. Combining the tarted up performance and interior tech makes the Spark EV's sub-$25,000 price (after EV tax breaks) seem like a better value than usual for lower-cost electric vehicles -- and with Chevy's expanded plans to sell in Oregon, Canada and elsewhere, more of us can actually take the plunge.

Continue reading Chevy details 2014 Spark EV: under $25,000, 0-60 in 8 seconds and a 20-minute fast charge

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Chevy launches iPhone Siri support for Spark, Sonic vehicles, aims to keep your Eyes Free

DNP Chevrolet Spark

If you're looking at getting a 2013 Chevrolet Spark or Sonic LTZ / RS, you'll be able to drag Siri along for the ride, provided that you have an iPhone 4S or later running iOS 6, according to GM. It'll pair with Chevy's MyLink entertainment system using Bluetooth, ensuring you avoid distractions via Apple's new Eyes Free mode that lets you disable the smartphone's screen via a steering wheel button. Using voice-activated commands, you'll be able to prompt the system to make hands-free calls, play songs from your iTunes library, listen to and compose text messages and access calendar appointments. If you ask a question that requires a web page to be displayed, however, Siri will decline to answer -- ensuring your eyes stay where they should.

The automaker also announced an upcoming version of MyLink for the Chevrolet Impala that will let buyers "skin" the instrument panel with four different themes: Edge and Velocity for the younger set, and Contemporary or Main Street aimed at "busy moms" or business types. It'll also have an optional 8-inch touchscreen and let you link up to ten devices via Blutetooth or USB. Check the sources for info on all the new vehicles or the video after the break.

Continue reading Chevy launches iPhone Siri support for Spark, Sonic vehicles, aims to keep your Eyes Free

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Via: Slashgear

Source: GM (1), (2)