GM Launches a Car-Sharing Service Called Maven

BAY CITY, Mich. – GM launched a new car-sharing service called Maven in Ann Arbor, through which vehicles can be rented by the hour or the day.

The first group of people that will be able to use Maven are those from the University of Michigan, where it’s available to select faculty and students. However, in the next few weeks Maven will be made available to more than 100,000 people in Ann Arbor, with more cities to follow.

GM’s Car Sharing Service, Maven, will be used through a phone app that can be used to locate, reserve, and unlock the vehicle. Depending on the features of the car, you can also start and heat your vehicle with the app.

Why use Maven? Well, for a number of reasons:

• Free to join (limited time offer)
• No fuel costs
• Cars with tons of features and amenities
• Latest technologies
• Hourly and daily rates
• Insurance included
• Safe and reliable

For vehicle options range from small sedans like the Chevy Volt or Spark, to the midsize-sedan Chevy Malibu, and the Chevy Tahoe as a larger SUV option. Each vehicle is priced according to size, and car-sharing costs $6–12 for hourly payments, or $42–84 for daily fees.

Maven is super easy to use. Here’s how it works:

1. Get the app.
2. Choose your car.
3. Take a drive.
4. Just hit end.

If you’re interested in signing up go to: https://www.mavendrive.com.

If you choose to drive your own Chevy, you can come to Graff Bay City. We’ll find the best car for you! We have plenty of cars, trucks, and SUVs to choose from. Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help you find the perfect car, truck, or SUV for your new family! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2016 Chevy Spark Is Debuting A More Mature Look

BAY CITY, Mich. – You know that awkward few years that all human beings go through called “puberty”? Well guess what, tons of car models go through those same growing pains until they find that “just right” design, and that has happened with the 2016 Chevy Spark. The 2016 Chevy Spark is debuting a more mature look at the New York City Auto Show and it is causing a few heads to turn! With a longer wheelbase and lower roof, the completely redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Spark casts aside the gawky, tall stance for a more adult profile.

The new model looks sleeker and more refined, and gives drivers and passengers more headroom by lowering the seats. Speaking of seats, new seat designs find their way into the new Chevy Spark with high-density foam, promising an improved comfort all around.

The 2016 Chevy Spark is debuting a more mature look, and that extends to a bigger, 1.4-liter engine that packs in an extra 14 horsepower to bring the total up to 98. The most important feature for any small car is safety however, and the Spark will offer the latest in active safety equipment, such as forward-collision alert, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning.

These great updates and changes have really brought the 2016 Chevy Spark into the forefront of newly updated small cars. The new model goes on sale late this year, and we are beyond excited to see it! Come by and visit the experts at your Frankenmuth Area Chevy Dealer , if you have any questions or want to test drive a 2014 Chevy Spark!  Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2014 Chevy Spark Only Acceptable Minicar in Small Overlap Test

BAY CITY, Mich.- The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently put the tiniest cars on the road to the test and discovered that in the challenging new small-overlap crash test, many of them can actually put passengers at risk! Luckily, the 2014 Chevy Spark was the only Acceptable Minicar in the Small Overlap Test, earning an IIHS 2014 Top Safety Pick Rating!

Actually, it's not luck at all. Chevrolet's global safety team has invested intense efforts to deliver big safety in a small package with the 2014 Chevrolet Spark. The 2014 Chevy Spark was the only minicar to earn an "acceptable" rating in the new small overlap test. Coupled with earning the highest possible "good" scores in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests, the Spark was also the only vehicle in the minicar segment to earn a Top Safety Pick Rating! Further, the small overlap crash test results actually resulted in many of the other cars in the segment losing their top safety pick status from last year.

In the new small-overlap crash test, which was incorporated in 2012, the IIHS recreates what happens when the front corner of the vehicle strikes another vehicle or object, like a tree or utility pole. In the test, the front quarter of the driver's side of the vehicle strikes a barrier at 40 mph. Since this test bypasses the front-end crush zone, it has proved to be an especially difficult test, especially for small cars, since they are already at a safety disadvantage due to their size.

The great news is that the 2014 Chevy Spark, though small in size, still delivers top notch safety so you can downsize your vehicle without a worry! Check out our New Chevrolet Cars to learn more, or if you're interested in a bigger vehicle, check out our Certified Pre-Owned Trucks For Sale! Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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CD Players Make Quiet Exit From Chevy Vehicles

BAY CITY, Mich. -  With new technology being added daily, CD players are making a quiet exit from Chevy Vehicles. Much like the cassette players of the 90s, the compact disk player will slowly be phased out of Chevy Vehicles and be replaced with better and more efficient technologies.

While CD players make a quiet exit from Chevy vehicles, USB ports and other entertainment systems are making their way in. The Chevy Spark is one example, as it no longer comes with a CD player slot on the dashboard. Instead, the small vehicle offers a range of options including USB ports and a MyLink infotainment system that gives drivers the option to stream live music from Pandora or similar music apps.

The reason that CD players will no longer be found in vehicles is simply because they have become outdated. Mountains of CDs are no longer present in most vehicles, as people have found ways to store thousands of songs on their phones, iPods, and more. Automakers are excited that CD players will be pulled from vehicles since it will give them so much more space on the dashboard. Without the CD player hole, designers will have more room to add screens, newer technology, and more.

If you prefer to use a CD player, rest assured that we have a variety of vehicles both with and without the compact disk player.  So stop by our Caro Area Chevrolet Dealer today and let us show you our great selection of New Chevrolet Cars and New Chevrolet Trucks. If you're interested in the Chevy Spark, we recommend taking a look at our 2013 Chevy Spark Brochure and then stopping in to take it for a test drive! We're sure it's a vehicle you're going to love!

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Mr. Chevy Volt to be Inducted into Automotive Hall of Fame

BAY CITY, Mich. - Bob Lutz, AKA Mr. Chevy Volt is to be inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame for his work with electric vehicles. Having been quoted saying that "the electrification of the automobile is inevitable." Lutz is one member of the auto industry that saw Chevy's future involving clean energy.

Mr. Chevy Volt, as he is called, is to be inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, specifically for his work with the electric vehicle. Back in 2011, Lutz blatantly told the world that electric vehicles were the future, and we would soon see gasoline cars become antiques. While many scoffed at him in 2011, they are certainly taking his words into consideration now.

As of May 2013, electric car sales have increased 130 percent since this time last year. Almost every big automobile manufacturer currently produces at least one electric vehicle, with Chevrolet manufacturing two: the Chevy Volt and the Chevy Spark.

It is with the Chevy Volt that Lutz gained most of his reputation, as he remains the vehicle's biggest contributor. It is believed that without Lutz's support of the electric vehicle the Volt would never have made it from paper to production. It is because of Lutz and his belief in electric vehicles that the Chevy Volt is such a success, with Chevy Volt drivers having logged over 187-million electric miles to date!

With so much to be proud of, we want to congratulate Mr. Lutz! He certainly deserves recognition for his work with the electric vehicle industry.

If you'd like to check out the Chevy Volt for yourself and see what exactly Bob Lutz was raving about,  take a look at our 2013 Chevy Volt Brochure! If you'd like to take it for a test drive, come on in to our Birch Run Chevrolet Dealership Location where we have a large selection of both New Chevrolet Cars and Certified Pre-Owned Cars For Sale.

Hank Graff Auto Group is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2014 Chevy Spark EV Electric Range Revealed

BAY CITY, Mich.- It's been a long time coming, but the Chevrolet Spark EV which debuted at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show is almost here! As this urban mini car nears is market debut, General Motors has revealed more information on what we can expect when we get behind the wheel. Most recently, the automaker revealed the 2014 Chevy Spark EV's electric range!

Rated at a range of 82 miles by the Environmental Protection Agency, the Spark EV offers a combined 119 MPGe efficiency. Which means miles-per-gallon-equivalent–how far the car can travel electrically on the same amount of battery energy as contained in one gallon of gas, to give consumers an idea of potential savings even though the vehicle doesn't use gasoline. The 2014 Chevy Spark EV's 119 MPGe rating is higher than any other electric car on the market!

Not to mention, the Spark EV also beats out competing electric minicars with its 100-kilowatt (130 HP) electric motor that is built in the United States at GM's Maryland plant. Though small, the thrill of the drive is not sacrificed with this mini car thanks to its 400 lb-ft of torque. The eco-friendly Spark's battery pack also comes with an eight year/100,000 mile warranty.

Priced at $25,000 post-incentives, the 2014 Chevy Spark EV's 82 mile electric range ultimately aims to appeal to urban commuters. If you don't have to travel far and are looking for a vehicle that's easy to park, the 2014 Spark EV is a great pick! And with a smooth, peppy, and quiet ride, you'll enjoy driving it too. The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV makes is showroom debut this summer in California and Oregon, but we'll let you know when we expect it to arrive at our Hank Graff Dealership!

Until then, take a look at the 2013 Chevy Spark or 2013 Chevy Volt which are both eco-friendly too! We have Special Financing and Auto Loans to help you make your next vehicle a reality, so stop by to let us help you out. Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.


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Three Chevrolet Vehicles Nominated For Ward's 10 Best Interiors

BAY CITY, Mich.- When it comes to a vehicle's interior, it can't be judged by size, as we've just learned by Chevy's recent nominations for Ward's 10 Best Interiors. The three Chevrolet vehicles nominated for Ward's 10 Best Interiors range in size from a mini car to a crossover! Based on the vehicle's fit and finish, material selection, comfort, ergonomics, value, user-friendliness, and safety, the Chevrolet Spark, Chevrolet Impala, and Chevrolet Traverse were selected from a range of 46 new or refreshed vehicles. Even better, General Motors received 9 nominations, more than any other automaker!

In recent models, we've definitely seen a drastic improvement in the interior of Chevy's vehicles. Technological advancements like Chevy MyLink put entertainment at your fingertips, and as always safety continues to be a top priority. To get your hands on one of the three Chevrolet vehicles nominated for Ward's 10 Best Interiors, come check out our New Chevrolet Cars near Vassar, MI at Hank Graff Chevy. We can help with Car Loans and will consider KBB Values when your trade in your current vehicle! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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2013 Chevy Spark Technology Keeps You Connected

BAY CITY, Mich.- Though mini, the 9.3/10 Kelley Blue Book Rated 2013 Chevy Spark packs a technology punch! We know you feel lost when you leave home without your cell phone, that's why the 2013 Chevy Spark's technology keeps you connected with the latest MyLink system. Slip into the driver's seat and you're connected to your calls, music, and more with just the touch of your finger or sound of your voice!

Chevrolet's MyLink technology connects you to your compatible smartphone through Bluetooth audio streaming and the Chevy Spark's 7-inch color touch-screen display. Stream your favorite tunes through your cellphones Pandora Radio or Stitcher SmartRadio, or take advantage of the Spark's USB port to connect your iPod. New to the 2013 Chevrolet Spark, you can connect a flash drive or watch a stored movie while you're parked! You'll never be out of the loop since the 2013 Chevy Spark technology keeps you connected!

You'll never be disconnected; with the OnStar RemoteLink app you can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone! In the all new 2013 Chevy Spark mini car you can make calls, get directions, and listen to music with just the touch of a finger! Check out our 2013 Chevy Spark Brochure to discover even more about all that Chevrolet's mini car has to offer! The Spark is extremely affordable, but we can help you save even more with our Kelley Blue Book Values! Stop by your Vassar Area Chevrolet Dealer to test drive one today! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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General Motors 200 Mile Electric Car Confirmed

BAY CITY, Mich.- Recently General Motors' CEO, Dan Akerson, hinted at developments in the automakers battery technology and the push to develop different ranges. While at an energy conference this week, the CEO confirmed General Motors is in fact working on an electric car with a 200 mile range!

While GM's CEO didn't offer and details regarding the vehicles or batteries in question, the suggested breakthroughs have been on a development project to produce two different vehicles, one with a 100 mile range and the other with a 200 mile range. These efforts are combined with General Motors' goal to have a total of 500,000 electrified vehicles on the road by 2017.

While we don't know much about the Confirmed GM 200 Mile Electric Car, back in 2011 we found out that General Motors' venture capital arm had invested $17 million in Envia Systems, which is developing a lithium-ion battery that would offer 400 watt-hours per kilogram, much higher than the 140 watt-hours per kilogram offered by today's highest-volume electric car.

For more info on Chevrolet's latest electric car technology, check out the 2013 Chevy Volt Brochure. Or if you're interested in one of Chevy's most fuel efficient vehicles, take a look at the 2013 Chevy Spark Brochure. Hank Graff Chevy has a vast inventory of new and used vehicles to meet your needs! Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Small Chevy Cars Can Handle Winter

BAY CITY, Mich.- You may have noticed that there is an increasing number of small New Chevrolet Cars on the road as the weather remains unreliable, but Bay City Area Chevrolet Owners can drive confidently in conditions ranging from tropical storms to icy streets, knowing Small Chevy Cars Can Handle Winter.

The stereotype is that smaller vehicles can’t handle bad weather. However, Chevrolet is disproving these beliefs by testing the Chevy Cruze, Sonic and Spark in conditions beyond snow and ice, enabling class-competitive safety, and equipping the line-up with more advanced technologies than ever before. The Chevy small car trio also undergoes a variety of durability tests too. In addition to live road testing, Chevrolet also simulates unpredictable situations in a variety of tests at GM’s Milford Proving Ground.  Winter-mimicking tests like the Salt Mist Facility, Salt Splash Road, and Corrosion Booth repeatedly expose vehicles’ exteriors and underbodies to salt, water and dirt. 

GM dealers, including your Bay City Area Chevrolet Dealer, have seen an 11 percent sales increase of Chevrolet small cars since last year. This is due to the vehicles being designed for consumers, climates and terrains around the country. Coupled with a number of advanced technologies, Chevy small car owners can feel safe knowing that even our smallest cars will perform well when inclement weather rolls in.

Both the Chevrolet Cruze and Chevy Sonic have earned 5-star overall safety ratings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with the Sonic being the only car in its segment to achieve this. In addition, both vehicles also received Top Safety Pick designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Chevrolet small cars keep drivers safe out on the road due in part to similar safety technologies that are found in larger vehicles and SUVs, like standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. Not to mention, all of the vehicles include six months of standard OnStar, with specially trained emergency advisors that can send the vehicle’s precise GPS location to emergency responders, just in case.

To learn more about how Small Chevy Cars Can Handle Winter, come on in to Graff Bay City, located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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