SPOTTED: 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe

BAY CITY, Mich. - The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe has been spotted, but not well observed. The vehicle is still being kept under literal wraps, so not much of the Tahoe could be speculated on.  With the launch of the redesigned Tahoe being pushed back until January 2014, we will have to wait a few months to get any real kind of information about the redesigned SUV.

The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe was spotted and revealed only a little about what design changes are happening with the Chevy vehicle.  The headlights now appear to have a tiered treatment, with the lights getting progressively bigger near the bottom. The face of the Tahoe also appears to have been reworked a little, as it now slightly resembles the new Chevy Silverado.

As for the 2014 Chevy Tahoe, the 202 in. long SUV seats 8 people with plenty of room to spare. It comes with a 5.3L V8 engine with 320 hp and 335 lb-ft torque. It's a 6-speed automatic that can get up to 21 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg in the city. The Active Fuel Management engine technology, and enhanced safety features make it a popular choice among full-size SUVs. This 2014 version of the SUV will be released by the end of this summer.

If you'd like to check out the ready to be sold Tahoe, take a look at our 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Brochure! We'd love to help you get the best deal, so stop in at our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership today and we'll show you our fine selection of New Chevrolet Vehicles!

We're 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 at www.GraffBayCity.com, www.HankGraffUsedCars.com, www.HankGraff-Chevrolet.com, orwww.GraffChevroletMidMichigan.com.

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Augmented-Reality Technology Could Change the Way You Drive

BAY CITY, Mich. - When you're dealing with the automotive industry, you're always thinking years ahead of where you are now; don't dwell on the past too much, just think forward to what the future holds. Chevy is doing just that right now, thinking about changing the way you drive completely. Forget tweaking your windshield only a little, Chevy wants to completely reconstruct by implementing augmented-reality technology that could change the way you drive.

For us everyday people, augmented-reality technology in your windshield would mean that you would be able to see a live view of a real-world environment on your windshield. Essentially, your windshield would work as a computer screen that would respond to voice-command. Now since it is something that you will be using in your car, the technology most likely won't allow you to post a status to Facebook, but it would change your driving experience.

The augmented-reality technology that could change the way you drive is one that is still in the works. But it has been discussed, for example, that this technology would have the power to illuminate your windshield in difficult to see surroundings. In a situation such as if you're driving in a foggy area, the windshield would be able to sharpen and illuminate curbs, pedestrians and fellow drivers nearby.

It is thought that this technology would also be able to eliminate the dashboard and rear-view mirrors completely. All the features on your dashboard would be on your windshield (speedometer, gas gauge, etc.), as well as a small window in the corner that would display what the rear-view mirror shows you. In all actuality this technology is still far from ready to be tested on our cars, but the discussion around it is certainly exciting!

Interested to see what technology Chevy vehicles can offer you now? Stop by our Birch Run Area Chevrolet Dealership and check out our huge selection of New Chevrolet Cars or Certified Pre-Owned Cars For Sale. Hank Graff Chevy 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 Chevrolet Impala 2LTZ Review

BAY CITY, Mich. - The 2014 Chevy Impala quickly became Chevy's fastest selling vehicle and there is a reason for that. Read our 2014 Chevrolet Impala 2LTZ review that is so good, you might want to run out and buy one for yourself.

On the outside, the 2014 Impala is quite different from the previous generation, with an extended rear end and strong, blocky front. LED lights are installed at the bottom of the grill, giving the car a slick look; especially when the sun goes down. 

From front to back, the car is a total of 201.3 inches in length, which makes the vehicle pretty big. However, this gives passengers a ton of space inside to stretch out and relax. One review even claims that a six foot man was able to sit comfortably in the backseat with knee and head room to spare. No more stiff legs and bent necks for those tall passengers!

As for how the car runs, it's a smooth ride that can go from 0-to-60 in 6.8 seconds. Although the Impala is almost silent when on, it gives a nice roar when you push the pedal to the metal. With a 305 horsepower, 3.6 liter direct-injected V6 engine, offering up 263 lb.-ft of torque, the Impala has plenty of power. This engine is also E85 compatible, so if you're worried about being green, there is a more environmentally friendly option. A 2.5L Ecotec 4 engine is available as well.

As for gas mileage, it averages about 22 to 23 mpg, with 17 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Like the 2014 Chevrolet Impala 2LTZ review and want to check it out for yourself? You can view our 2014 Chevy Impala Preview or come take one for a spin at your Birch Run Area Chevrolet Dealership! Hank Graff Chevy 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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Why Hire Gen Y and Millennials?

Recently at Graff Bay City we’ve begun to hire younger employees, most of which are either Generation Y or Millennials. Why are we concerned with hiring Gen Y and Millennials? The first reason that probably comes to mind is because they are the largest demographic group in our country. But that's not the only reason.

As a product of Generation X, I can confidently say that we need the creativity and the “not overly serious” type of attitude that both Generation Y and Millennials can bring to our workforce. I believe, especially as someone who is a type of a workaholic, that what our younger generation brings to us is a knowledge of balancing work life and home life. I admit that I get frustrated with my children at times because they don't have the same workaholic tendencies as myself and my husband, however they are teaching us to work smarter, not harder.

Growing up in the boom of early to mid-1970's and during the recession in the early 1980's, we didn't have much choice but to work very hard since when we were teenagers jobs were not easy to come by. Our parents were some of the first to have both the husband and wife working in the family and that is where I learned that if you worked hard and had a good head on your shoulders you would go very far. And when it comes to our kids, Generation Y and Millennials are the product of many in my generation and we have taught them that education and good work ethic will provide them a career and lifestyle that they dream of having.

But, a couple of mistakes that I believe we have made raising these children are first, trying to live the life we dreamed of having through our children and second, letting technology replace family time and face to face conversations that are so very important as our children come of age. With that being said I think the Generation X population is very quick to adapt and has learned that we need to teach our children that we are very lucky to have the freedoms we have in our country. Showing them that if they utilize their education, creativity, and good work ethic, there is still a lot of opportunity to make our country even better than what it is today. I see attitudes changing daily, whether it's conversations revolving around limiting technology time with children, focusing on making sure our children experience travel and the outdoors, along with teaching our children to be smart, respectful individuals that bring new ideas and work hard to implement these ideas. I believe it is okay to fail, as long as we learn from those failures.

Most recently, I have been watching my 17 year old son, Jack, work in a position at the dealership that I would normally fill with someone who is 25 years of age or older. This position with the T.E.C. Center (text, email, call center) is normally filled with someone a bit older so that we can ensure a mature attitude, since this position works with our guest first before anyone else in the store. But while experimenting with the T.E.C. Center for the last 2 years we are learning that in this first impression center, it's very important to have several different personalities present. Because, for example, if we want Gen Y and Millennials to eventually use our services and buy our products then we need someone whom they are comfortable communicating with; someone similar age in age to them to greet them first. During this learning process we have already incorporated two team members in this department under the age of 21.

That's not to say it's the perfect solution, Jack certainly makes his share of mistakes, as we all do. But having the opportunity to watch and learn from him, and the younger generations, has taught me that all industries need youth and creativity. Each of our departments now have a very good mix of long term team members (mostly Gen X) and younger team members that we will train and work with to become long term team members. These younger team members will be the ones that will drive us to learn how to communicate with Gen Y and Millennials, and show us why it is important that we do communicate with them. Us Gen X and Baby Boomers in the store definitely shake our heads at times (or should I say SMH) when working with the younger people, but we also see how important it is to have their influence. Even watching this younger generation work with Baby Boomers, we admire their unique ability to adapt to whomever they are communicating with, and do so without losing their individuality.

In coming to a close, this message isn't to say that we all haven't experienced frustration with Gen Y and Millennials, because at times we have. However, I don't blame the whole generation. I believe that with people of any age there are going to be those in the workforce that need more guidance, or have been put in the wrong role for their ability, and then there are going to be those who shine. There's the chance for becoming involved with less than enthusiastic employees no matter what age they are.

I plan to continue to mix our workforce and learn from all ages on our team. As we read in the news that Google, Apple, Intel, and many other technology companies are hiring more Gen Y and Millennials in order to evolve have capacity for a younger workforce. Through this experience, it has showed me that it is crucial for retail and service industries to incorporate our youth if they want to remain successful as the Gen X generation starts to age and we grow out of the Baby Boomer generation.

Take on the challenge and invite the youth into YOUR workforce, you won't be sorry. I also invite our youth to take on the challenge of working with Generation X and the Baby Boomer generation to learn from them the art of communication, negotiation, and great work ethic.



Lisa Rechsteiner
General Manager
Graff Chevrolet, Inc.

Graff Bay City is your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer 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 at www.graffbaycity.com.

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Car Maintenance Tips for a Safe Summer

BAY CITY, Mich. - With Friday being the official first day of summer, Americans all over the country will be hopping in their car to travel for vacation. Whether you're traveling across the state or across the country, it's important to know specific car tips for a safe summer.

Safety tips are not only to ensure you practice safe driving, but for the actual maintenance of your vehicle as well. The summer heat can be particularly harsh on a vehicle, much like the winter's freeze, so it's important to know what to expect when you're in your car and on the road.

Before we cover these car tips for a safe summer, you should know that it's important to have your car regularly maintained. Maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, etc. do a lot for your car, and can give you peace of mind that you're driving a vehicle that is running at peak performance. If you aren't one to get your vehicle regularly checked, or you don't recall the last time you stopped in at Brighton Ford, check out these car tips to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the summer:

Tires

Checking your tires regularly is very important, as you don't want a frightening blowout to make you aware of your tire's state. So check your tire's pressure at least once a month (along with your spare) just to make sure that you're not losing air. Also, check to make sure that your tires aren't showing signs of irregular or excessive wear. Ideally, you want to make sure that your tires are all wearing evenly and maintain the correct air pressure. Having your tires fully inflated improves your gas mileage along as ensuring you won't have a flat - consider the fuel efficiency a bonus!

Belts and Hoses

The high temperatures that accompany summer can be especially hard on your belts and hoses. As a lot of the belts and hoses are rubber, the excessive heat can cause them to crack, blister, or break all together. So make sure to check your belts and hoses, just to ensure that they won't break when you're actually driving. If you're unsure about what to look for, stop in at Hank Graff and we can look it over for you.

Coolant Levels

If you're driving in the car for any amount of time, you definitely want to eliminate the possibility of your engine overheating. By checking your coolant levels and making sure that they are at the proper level, you shouldn't encounter any problems.

Air Conditioning

While we're on the subject of overheating, it's important to think about yourself! On a really hot day, it can be potentially hazardous to be driving in a car without air conditioning - especially if you are a child, or a senior. So check your AC performance now, and make sure that you're driving in a cool vehicle on a hot summer day.

Fluid Levels

We discussed checking your coolant levels, but you're going to want to be aware of the oil, brake, transmission, power steering and windshield fluids as well. Check all the fluid levels and top off any that seem to be getting a little low. If it's time for an oil change, now is the time to stop in.

By regularly looking over your vehicle and following the above-mentioned car tips, you're extending the life of your vehicle and minimizing any problems you may encounter on the road.

Looking to get a new or used car to start the summer off right? Stop by our Birch Run Area Chevrolet Dealership where we can show you a great selection of Low Mileage Used Cars and Discounted Used Cars. Your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer 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 at www.graffbaycity.com.

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App Pays You to Spot Illegally Parked Cars

BAY CITY, Mich. - Do you ever see a car parked horribly and wish that a cop was around to take care of it? Well now there is a new phone application that pays you to spot and report illegally parked cars, which will have the cops on their way. By simply using your smartphone, you can spot offenders and get paid for it!

The app, called Spot Squad, will pay you to spot illegally parked cars; all from your smartphone. First, you take a photo of the car, choose from a list (seen above) the type of infraction that you're observing, and submit it. Then photo records your location, along with the offending vehicle's license plate number and sends all the information to the owner of the lot or the local law enforcement, if necessary. The parking enforcement will then issue a citation, or have the vehicle towed.

While it is still in the beginning stages, the app creators are hoping that eventually this system will be worked into the laws, allowing it to be directly involved in issuing citations. For now, however, it simply is a way to alert the proper authorities to the offense occurring. As the application continues to involve, they will also work out the kinks in how the user will get their portion of the fine paid. Eventually, the creators believe that the Spot Squad company will take a portion of the fine, which they will then distribute to the user.

With a vehicle like the Chevy Spark, you almost have to try to illegally park. With it's compact size, it fits easily into every space with room to spare! So check out our 2013 Chevy Spark Brochure, or stop by our Birch Run Area Chevrolet Dealership to test it's parallel parking ability for yourself!

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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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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SPOTTED: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD

BAY CITY, Mich. - SPOTTED: the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD was seen roaming desert streets pulling a trailer. Although the 2014 Silverado is not yet on the market, Chevy is hard at work updating and reworking the vehicle.  Despite being heavily camouflaged, it became apparent that Chevy is testing out a variety of body lengths and styles.

Little is known about what the spotted 2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD will contain, but we do know that it will be available as 2500HD or 3500HD models, with either a conventional gasoline V8 engine or Duramax Diesel. Since details of the redesign haven't been released, we can only speculate at the moment about what this upgraded model will bring to the table.

The 2014 Chevy Silverado has it's own improvements to be proud of, as it has been reworked to enjoy enhanced fuel efficiency through subtle design changes. There are three engine options available for the 2014 Silverado : 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8, and 6.2-liter V8. All three of these engines are light weight, as they use aluminum blocks and cylinder heads as opposed to iron.

While the neither the 2014 or 2015 models are on the market just yet, you can still check out our 2013 Chevy Silverado HD Brochure. If you have any questions about our Silverado trucks, you can stop in at Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership and check out our New Chevrolet Cars, or visit our Linwood Area Location for New Chevrolet Trucks.

Hank Graff Chevy 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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Apple Reveals "iOS in the Car", Lists Chevy As Partner

BAY CITY, Mich. - During the annual Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple revealed 'iOS in the Car' and listed Chevy as one of their partners.  The feature will use devices running iOS (any Apple product) and allow the driver to interact with it through the vehicle's infotainment system.

After Apple revealed the new 'iOS in the Car' and listed Chevy as a partner, many were left wondering how it will work. The available iOS in the Car will allow drivers to use the car's infotainment display to control their iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. They will be able to do a range of things, such as make calls, get directions, play music, send messages, and much more - all safely.  With texting and driving accidents on the rise daily, this will ensure that you can access all that you need while still driving responsibly.

Apple listed the following as specific things you will be able to do with iOS in the Car:

Commute Summary / Traffic Information
Leaving home a little late and worried you'll be late for work? This nifty system will display traffic conditions and estimated time of arrival, giving you piece of mind about whether you'll be late - and if you are, just how late. Your boss can thank us later.

Call Handling
Using the Siri Eyes Free control, you can listen to your voicemail and make phone calls. All hands free!

Music
Using the controls in your vehicle, you can listen to music through iTunes Radio streaming music service, your own library, or other music apps. You have millions of songs available to you, all with the swipe of your fingertips.

Get Directions
Using the Maps app on your Apple device, you can get directions to wherever you're going! Just plug in your address, or select an address that you've received in an email or text. You'll then get turn-by-turn navigation through your car speakers.

Text While Driving - Safely
You can now text and drive and know that you're not putting yourself or others in harms way. Texts that you receive will appear on the car's display, which Siri can then read aloud to you. Can't wait to respond? No problem, just tell Siri how to respond while keeping your eyes on the road.

With so much technology being put into 2014 models, it makes us excited to see what the next generation of cars will have in store for car buyers! If you're just as excited to see what Chevy has available for you, stop by our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership and we can answer any questions you might have! Not in the market for a new car just yet? No problem! We can show you our great selection of Discounted Used Cars and Certified Pre-Owned Cars For Sale.

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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Chevy's 3-D Prototype Process Makes Development of New Vehicles Easy

BAY CITY, Mich. - Chevrolet is using a new process to update and design new models, which involves lasers, specialized software, and stereo lithography. Chevy's new 3-D prototype process makes development of new vehicles easy.

The automaker used to use a clay sculpting process to develop new vehicles, which could take any where from weeks to months. But the new 3-D design process can be accomplished in just a matter of days. 3-D prototype processing, also known as Stereolithography, uses lasers to quickly build one-third scale and full-size test models, allowing designers and engineers to have a prototype that they can work with in person. Plus it also saves the company hundreds of thousands of dollars since the new 3-D prototype process makes developing new vehicles quick and easy.

This new 3-D prototype process was used to design Chevy's 2014 Malibu. It allowed designers to improve and expand knee room for rear passengers, and also elongate the center console. Finding it to be extremely useful, Chevrolet is looking to use the 3-D prototype process with future models as well.

So what are the pros and cons of using stereolithography? The number one advantage appears to be speed. Being able to quickly develop prototypes allows Chevrolet to adjust and redesign at a rapid pace, sometimes printing a piece within a day. One disadvantage is the price, since 3-D processing can be expensive. However, it is saving Chevy a great deal of money since clay modeling could be equally, if not more, expensive. Not to mention, the more popular that 3-D prototype processing becomes, cheaper options will be made available.

Are you interested in seeing what the 3-D prototype processed 2014 Chevrolet Malibu has in store for you? Stop in at our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership to learn more, or check out our 2013 Chevy Malibu Brochure if you just can't wait for the 2014 model! We also have a wide range of Discounted Used Cars that our staff would love to show you. We're positive you'll love all that Chevrolet has to offer!

Graff Bay City, your Mid-Michigan area new Chevrolet and used car dealer, 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 Graff Bay City Baby Photo Contest

BAY CITY, Mich. - Nothing brings a smile to your face like a cute baby, and that's why we are happy to announce our 2013 Graff Bay City Baby Photo Contest! Beginning on June 10th at 12 PM, our Baby Photo Contest will be open to submissions until June 17th at 12 PM when the photo entry point will close. But voting will continue until June 24th at 12 PM and the winners will be announced shortly after the contest closes at noon!

Are you as excited as we are? If you'd like to submit your adorable photo, just head to our Facebook page and click on the 2013 Graff Bay City Baby Photo Contest Application. Once the contest begins, the application will be located conveniently below our cover photo. This will allow you to submit your photos to us, where they will then be approved and uploaded to the application at our earliest convenience. Just remember that we will only accept ONE photo per Facebook user and fans will be able to vote for their favorite photo ONE time. All votes must be cast by June 24, 2013 at noon! The photo that receives the most votes will be named the winner, the second highest number will win Second Place and the photo with the third highest number of votes will win Third Place.

The prizes are as follows:
1st Place - $250 Travel Gift Certificate with Bay City Travel! This certificate can be used for any type of travel - from booking flights, to having them book a hotel/motel locally. No restrictions!
2nd Place - Professional Photo Session including a titting and two 5x7 prints!
3rd Place - $50 Gift Certificate for a night out at Bay City's Latitude 43!

Curious about what happens if there is a tie? The contestant that submitted their photo first will receive the prize, so make sure you get your photos in as soon as possible! If both pictures were submitted at the exact same time, the prize will be divided between the two contestants. If you still have any questions or concerns, check out the 2013 Graff Bay City Baby Photo Contest Official Rules.

While we know that looking at cute baby photos can make your day, we want to make it even better by helping you save money on a vehicle for your family with vehicle rebates like our Chevy Impala Rebates, Chevy Malibu Rebates, and Chevy Cruz Rebates! Graff Bay City, your Mid-Michigan area new Chevrolet and used car dealer, 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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Top Chevy Safety Features Make Preventing A Crash A Priority

BAY CITY, Mich. - When you're in your car, we know that you take the necessary means to make sure you reach your destination safely; especially with precious cargo like your friends and family in the car with you. Chevrolet also knows that you can only do so much to prevent an accident, and your car needs to be there for you if something unpredictable happens. Thats why top Chevy safety features make preventing a crash a priority.

Top Chevy safety features make preventing a crash a priority, so check out a few of the features that comes standard with any Chevy vehicle, and see how we are working to keep you safe and secure.

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
ABS is a safety feature that will keep your wheels from locking up when you encounter a slippery surface. While some vehicle's wheels will lock up, causing the car to skid uncontrollably, the ABS on a Chevy car allows your tires to maintain traction with the road. This is especially useful during the harsh Michigan winters, or during the rainy season.

Stabilitrak®
The Stabilitrak® Electronic Stability Control System is another feature that helps you during tricky weather. One of the scariest moments any driver can face is hitting a slippery spot and having your car start to slide in the opposite way that your steering wheel is turning. This can be especially terrifying for someone not used to driving in extreme weather conditions. The Stabilitrak® system keeps this from happening by calculating the position of the steering wheel, the amount of force that is preventing you from going straight, and the speed of the vehicle. By reading all that comes into play, your vehicle will then use the brake and/or adjust engine torque to keep you going straight. So when your mind freezes with panic during the event of a slide, rest assured that your car is 'thinking' straight for you.

Traction Control
Continuing with the slippery surface scenario, the Chevy traction control has you covered again.  If you're driving on slippery surfaces, it is important to keep steady. The traction control safety feature reduces wheel spin when accelerating, allowing your wheels to maintain traction. This keeps you in control of your vehicle, and your mind at ease.

Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps are another important safety feature, as they increase your visibility during daylight driving conditions. These lamps automatically turn on when your vehicle starts, allowing your vehicle to remain visible in all conditions. such as fog and/or rain.  These lamps are particularly useful for Michigan residents, as you never know what the weather will throw at you throughout the course of the day. Chevy's got you covered.

Driver Information Center (DIC)
The Driver Information Center is useful for all drivers, as it lets you know what is going on with your car. The DIC will light up, displaying different messages to let you know that something may be wrong with your car.  These messages range from letting you know how your engine temperature is doing, all the way to alerting you to an open trunk. This center alerts you to all that you need to know about your car, ensuring that a problem never sneaks up on you.

Side Blind Zone Alert
Every driver knows about the blind zone in a car, as well as how difficult it can be to ensure that you switch lanes safely. This Chevy system makes changing lanes extremely simple, with an amber light on your vehicle's outside rearview mirrors.  When the light is on, your car is alerting you that there is a vehicle in your blind spot. When the light is off, you are in the clear. This is just another simple solution that Chevy provides for it's customers, ensuring that their drive is as easy and safe as possible.

Forward Collision Alert
This safety feature is a great asset, especially for those with young drivers, since it encourages positive driving habits. We all have either been, or experienced, the parent that slams the imaginary passenger side brake pedal when the new driver fails to brake at the appropriate distance from another car. The Forward Collision Alert can help with that, as it alerts the driver with visual and audible signals if it detects a potential collision. The alert gives the driver plenty of time to become aware of the situation and maneuver safely.

Lane Departure Warning
Another safety feature to help us practice safe driving habits, the lane departure warning alerts drivers when they stray over the lines along the road.  If you switch lanes without using your blinker, or perhaps stray off to the side of the road, your car will alert you. As it will alert you both visually and audibly, you will not be able to ignore the warning as you safely maneuver back into your lane.

With all these safety features that come standard on any Chevrolet vehicle, you can be sure that your safety is a top priority. Did you know that the Chevy Sonic has received the highest safety rating possible? It's true! Check out our 2013 Chevy Sonic Brochure, or stop in at our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership to see it for yourself!

Graff Bay City, your Mid-Michigan area new Chevrolet and used car dealer, 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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GM Redesigns Midsize Car: 2014 Chevrolet Malibu

BAY CITY, Mich. - In need of a makeover, GM revealed on Friday the new and improved Chevrolet Malibu to consumers, with hopes that the vehicle will be able to compete with other midsize segment cars.  After the redesigned 2013 Malibu failed to keep up with other vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, and Honda Accord, GM regrouped and regathered their thoughts for the 2014 car.

GM's redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Malibu boasts a bolder and sleeker front, an improved powertrain and upgraded interior.  The Malibu's grille was lowered, while they reconfigured the center console inside the vehicle.  The console is now longer, with enough storage space for two cell phones. Engineers boosted rear-seat knee room by 1.25 inches and made chassis and suspension improvements. With all thoughts on the interior and front end, there is little to no change in its rear styling.

As for technology, the Malibu's standard 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine, now has 2 new features: start-stop technology and variable valve lift control. The start-stop technology allows the engine to turn off while the car is stopped and restart when the driver presses the accelerator, a feature boosts mpg. The refreshed 2014 Malibu will get fuel economy of 35 mpg on the highway (increase of 3%) and 23 in the city (increase of 5%).

GM North America President Mark Reuss says that GM has to effectively relaunch the vehicle, even though it spent a large portion of 2012 doing that for the 2013 car.  "In this hotly competitive segment, we can't afford to stand still, ever," he said. "We have to move quickly, invest heavily and strive for continuous improvement and perfection."

This strive for perfection is apparent, as most products get notable upgrades every three years, and GM has decided to redesign the Malibu a year after the redesign.

Reuss said he wouldn't hesitate to adjust quickly when a product is falling short.

"I'm not going to wait for the marketplace to tell us that. I live in the future," he told reporters. "When I think things are going to taper off, or we know there's competitive pressure and we know what's coming out in a competitive way, then we're going to go at it."

The new standard Malibu produces 196 horsepower and 186 pound-feet torque, down from 197 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque for the 2013 version. GM will continue to offer the LS, LT and LTZ trim options, as well as the Malibu Eco (which uses mild-hybrid eAssist system).

GM will offer an optional 2-liter turbocharged engine with 259 horsepower, the same as the previous turbo option, and 295 pound-feet of torque, a 14% improvement from its predecessor.

Although prices were not discussed, the 2013 Malibu starts at $22, 805. For more information, stop in at our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership to check out our New Chevrolet Cars. We also have Chevy Malibu Rebates and Chevy Malibu Employee Pricing!


Graff Bay City, your Mid-Michigan area new Chevrolet and used car dealer, 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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