General Motors (GM) has confirmed that two new Chevrolet models are on their way – a new City car and a revamped Malibu model.
Speaking at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Chevrolet general manager Ed Peper confirmed that the Chevrolet Beat concept car, which was approved by 1.9 million online voters, is set to be the basis of the next Chevrolet city car, with a launch date set for 2010.
Peper commented: "The people have spoken. The vote count tripled all previous GM online consumer surveys, telling us Beat resonated with customers all around the world."
Chevrolet revealed that the production model will have compact dimensions and a fuel efficient small-displacement engine .
The American carmaker hopes it will be one of the most significant additions to Chevrolet’s UK product range.
Meanwhile, the company also announced that a remodelled Malibu will hopefully go on sale next autumn – a boost for buyers who can’t for the futuristic edition of the city car .
Attempting to regain the good reputation the model once had as a rival of the top-selling Toyota Camry, Chevrolet hopes the new Malibu’s design will wipe out memories of the heavily criticised 1990s versions.
The new model has significantly increased the safety features in order reinforce its family-orientated image, with side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted thorax bags, and anti-lock brakes all included as standard, and stability control available as an extra option.
