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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