2012 Camaro ZL1

[ZWEAPON]

Motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), the Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. And more than just power, the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems that help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output. Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car’s capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.

“Camaro ZL1 is about high-tech performance and design, and is a type of car no one has ever brought to this segment previously,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “It’s the most technically advanced Camaro ever, so we’ve chosen a name from the most elite and exclusive Camaro in history.”

The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they’ve achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance – until now. The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to be a major leap forward for the Camaro, bringing a new level of performance capability to the segment.

The central goal of the car’s development was creating something new – a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street. To achieve that goal, engineers evolved many of the existing Camaro’s systems, as well as incorporated new technologies such as electric power steering and Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension system.

Camaro ZL1’s design communicates and supports its performance mission. Rather than using decorative elements, ZL1 is visually differentiated from other current Camaro models with elements vital to the car’s elevated capabilities.

“Everything about the ZL1’s design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Our designers’ goal was to execute that function-oriented design with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car that delivers on the attitude it projects.”

Major elements of the ZL1’s design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling. The car’s hood includes a signature center section constructed of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips portray the car’s handling and power.
The ZL1 badge appears on the grille, hood and the brake calipers, all key areas portraying the technology within.

Tech overview
Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine, which will produce an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW) and 550 lb.-ft. of torque (677 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro. Built on GM’s legendary all-aluminum, small-block V-8 architecture, the LSA features an intercooled supercharger system, premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and other details designed to ensure its exceptional performance is delivered with smoothness and refinement. Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA’s performance include:

■Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly
■High-strength hypereutectic pistons
■Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors
■Piston oil squirters.
Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. This enhances performance, because no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley.

Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Key technical highlights include:

Transmission – The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. It is the “MG9” version of the transmission, with a higher torque capacity. It is used with a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch for easy operation and shift smoothness. A new, shorter-throw shifter actuates the gear changes.

Exhaust – ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. First used on the legendary Corvette, and specifically tuned for Camaro ZL1, the dual-mode exhaust will give the car a signature sound.

Drivetrain – It is revised with a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger and stronger cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1’s tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.

Suspension – The suspension features completely revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control. ZL1’s Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored for the preferred style of driving. It uses advanced magneto-rheological science to produce shock damping with the highest level of precision, enabling body control optimized for excellent performance in everyday driving as well as track situations. This technology appears on only a small roster of some of the world’s finest performance cars. Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car’s high-performance limits. Rear stabilizer bars have drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This makes the bars more effective in controlling body roll in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.

Brakes and Steering – Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. The large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. It is being developed to ensure precise control and feedback to the driver, with greater variability of effort for high-performance driving.


Exterior – ZL1’s signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The fascia includes a front splitter and new vertical fog lamps. The fog lamp area includes air intakes designed for brake cooling. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car. Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car’s high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car’s exterior color. Functionally, the air extractor is a key in connecting airflow closely to the bodywork, creating aerodynamic downforce. The carbon fiber center section reduces the mass of the hood. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and fog lamps are standard. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler, also functional elements that enhance the car’s aerodynamics.

Wheels and Tires – New-design, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Supercar F2 ties developed specifically for the ZL1.

Interior – ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving. The front seats feature microfiber suede inserts. Other enhancements include a redesigned steering wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts and the “four-pack” auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout.

Production details
All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color. The unique exterior features are complemented with a black center section on the hood. Inside, the Camaro ZL1 has heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior. The ZL1 will include the same content as the current 2SS package and include the following new or unique features:

■Six-way power driver and passenger seats
■Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates
■Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability
■Wireless PDIM and USB-port
■Boston Acoustics premium audio system
■Rear parking assist
■Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror).
Engineers have already driven Camaro ZL1 prototypes extensively at demanding road courses in the U.S. and Germany, with final testing being completed through the balance of 2011.

Wonder if Duncan will be getting 1...??...

[Jaypod]

Thats a lot of reading......trading in the vette for a camaro Steve?

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Jaypod

Thats a lot of reading......trading in the vette for a camaro Steve?

No..

[bunnn]

cliffs?

[Jaypod]

Originally Posted by bunnn

cliffs?

I stopped reading after "Motivated".....

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Jaypod

I stopped reading after "Motivated".....

Showing your age there JayPod....

[Jaypod]

Originally Posted by ZWEAPON

No..

Too much power??

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Jaypod

Too much power??

whats 2 much Power?....

[Jaypod]

Originally Posted by ZWEAPON

whats 2 much Power?....

Thought maybe you wanted to downgrade? maybe a Volt?

[Gearhead999s]

Originally Posted by ZWEAPON

Motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), the Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. And more than just power, the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems that help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output. Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car’s capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.

“Camaro ZL1 is about high-tech performance and design, and is a type of car no one has ever brought to this segment previously,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “It’s the most technically advanced Camaro ever, so we’ve chosen a name from the most elite and exclusive Camaro in history.”

The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they’ve achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance – until now. The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to be a major leap forward for the Camaro, bringing a new level of performance capability to the segment.

The central goal of the car’s development was creating something new – a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street. To achieve that goal, engineers evolved many of the existing Camaro’s systems, as well as incorporated new technologies such as electric power steering and Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension system.

Camaro ZL1’s design communicates and supports its performance mission. Rather than using decorative elements, ZL1 is visually differentiated from other current Camaro models with elements vital to the car’s elevated capabilities.

“Everything about the ZL1’s design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Our designers’ goal was to execute that function-oriented design with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car that delivers on the attitude it projects.”

Major elements of the ZL1’s design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling. The car’s hood includes a signature center section constructed of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips portray the car’s handling and power.
The ZL1 badge appears on the grille, hood and the brake calipers, all key areas portraying the technology within.

Tech overview
Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine, which will produce an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW) and 550 lb.-ft. of torque (677 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro. Built on GM’s legendary all-aluminum, small-block V-8 architecture, the LSA features an intercooled supercharger system, premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and other details designed to ensure its exceptional performance is delivered with smoothness and refinement. Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA’s performance include:

■Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly
■High-strength hypereutectic pistons
■Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors
■Piston oil squirters.
Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. This enhances performance, because no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley.

Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Key technical highlights include:

Transmission – The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. It is the “MG9” version of the transmission, with a higher torque capacity. It is used with a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch for easy operation and shift smoothness. A new, shorter-throw shifter actuates the gear changes.

Exhaust – ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. First used on the legendary Corvette, and specifically tuned for Camaro ZL1, the dual-mode exhaust will give the car a signature sound.

Drivetrain – It is revised with a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger and stronger cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1’s tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.

Suspension – The suspension features completely revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control. ZL1’s Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored for the preferred style of driving. It uses advanced magneto-rheological science to produce shock damping with the highest level of precision, enabling body control optimized for excellent performance in everyday driving as well as track situations. This technology appears on only a small roster of some of the world’s finest performance cars. Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car’s high-performance limits. Rear stabilizer bars have drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This makes the bars more effective in controlling body roll in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.

Brakes and Steering – Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. The large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. It is being developed to ensure precise control and feedback to the driver, with greater variability of effort for high-performance driving.


Exterior – ZL1’s signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The fascia includes a front splitter and new vertical fog lamps. The fog lamp area includes air intakes designed for brake cooling. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car. Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car’s high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car’s exterior color. Functionally, the air extractor is a key in connecting airflow closely to the bodywork, creating aerodynamic downforce. The carbon fiber center section reduces the mass of the hood. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and fog lamps are standard. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler, also functional elements that enhance the car’s aerodynamics.

Wheels and Tires – New-design, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Supercar F2 ties developed specifically for the ZL1.

Interior – ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving. The front seats feature microfiber suede inserts. Other enhancements include a redesigned steering wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts and the “four-pack” auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout.

Production details
All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color. The unique exterior features are complemented with a black center section on the hood. Inside, the Camaro ZL1 has heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior. The ZL1 will include the same content as the current 2SS package and include the following new or unique features:

■Six-way power driver and passenger seats
■Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates
■Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability
■Wireless PDIM and USB-port
■Boston Acoustics premium audio system
■Rear parking assist
■Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror).
Engineers have already driven Camaro ZL1 prototypes extensively at demanding road courses in the U.S. and Germany, with final testing being completed through the balance of 2011.

Wonder if Duncan will be getting 1...??...

Nope I have not warmed up to generation of Camaro at all.The ZR1 name on this car is a shame as the orginal one was something really special where this one will be owned by people who are pretty clueless about life in general who cannot afford a VetteWhen are you ordering yours Steve?

[BMRLVR]

Who cares about the engine and drivetrain improvements......... The regular Camaro SS is not a bad car in that respect. GM needs to do something about the Fisher Price interior and Fit and Finish in the Camaro.

This thing will probably be just like a Z06 or ZR1 Vette....... Amazing performance but lack of build quality.

GM needs to do like Ford has done in the last few years and actually start building a product that not only performs good but looks and feels good inside and out. The most frustrating thing about GM is that they have the ability to build the best cars in the world, for some reason they just don't ever seem to build them.

Enough of my anti-GM rant..... It will be interesting to see what this thing costs and how good the performance numbers are. Since it shares the engine and transmission with the CTS-V albeit in a lighter package it will be quick and fast. I wonder how they are going to set up the chassis....... This car has got the ingredients to be a pretty amazing performer.

[Gearhead999s]

Originally Posted by BMRLVR

Who cares about the engine and drivetrain improvements......... The regular Camaro SS is not a bad car in that respect. GM needs to do something about the Fisher Price interior and Fit and Finish in the Camaro.

This thing will probably be just like a Z06 or ZR1 Vette....... Amazing performance but lack of build quality.

GM needs to do like Ford has done in the last few years and actually start building a product that not only performs good but looks and feels good inside and out. The most frustrating thing about GM is that they have the ability to build the best cars in the world, for some reason they just don't ever seem to build them.

Enough of my anti-GM rant..... It will be interesting to see what this thing costs and how good the performance numbers are. Since it shares the engine and transmission with the CTS-V albeit in a lighter package it will be quick and fast. I wonder how they are going to set up the chassis....... This car has got the ingredients to be a pretty amazing performer.

LSA features a smaller 1.9L capacity supercharger rather than the 2.3L variant of the LS9. Other differences include a slightly lower 9.0:1 compression ratio, single unit heat exchanger and cast pistons.

Cast pistons so you cannot crank up the boost very far and thing will weigh at least 4100 lbs and it is ugly!

[OverDrive]

Originally Posted by BMRLVR

Don't hold back, say what you really mean. I was trying to be nice, but yes it will be heavy and ugly.

The really sad thing is they tout this as a successor to the original ZL1 yet all they did is some cosmetic mods to the body, took the engine, transmission, brakes and dampers out of the CTS-V and acted like they created a whole new performance car.

Parts sharing is one thing but GM takes it to a whole new level.

Yea, it's pretty much a CTS-V dressed as a Camaro minus the quality of the Caddy interior. Don't the CTS and the Camaro also share the same chassis?

[Gearhead999s]

Originally Posted by OverDrive

Yea, it's pretty much a CTS-V dressed as a Camaro minus the quality of the Caddy interior. Don't the CTS and the Camaro also share the same chassis?

YEP!

[BMRLVR]

Originally Posted by Gearhead999s

Cast pistons so you cannot crank up the boost very far and thing will weigh at least 4100 lbs and it is ugly!

Don't hold back, say what you really mean. I was trying to be nice, but yes it will be heavy and ugly.

The really sad thing is they tout this as a successor to the original ZL1 yet all they did is some cosmetic mods to the body, took the engine, transmission, brakes and dampers out of the CTS-V and acted like they created a whole new performance car.

Parts sharing is one thing but GM takes it to a whole new level.

Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car’s capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.

How this should read is: We didn't do any development on this ZL1 at all, we raided the CTS-V's parts bin for the engine, transmission, brakes and dampers and since the ZL1 will weigh close to the same as the CTS-V we think we can use the springs too. We are currently pulling all of our leather seat covers from the regular production Camaro assembly lines and the ZL1 logos and micro fibre inserts are being stitched into them as we speak. As soon as our new rockers, bumpers, and carbon fibre hoods are complete we can release the car to market. To hurry the car to market and to maximize proit we are going to skip quality control on the first model year of the ZL1's and deal with the issues by way of recalls.

[Gearhead999s]

The only Camaro worthy of the ZL1 name!

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Jaypod

Thought maybe you wanted to downgrade? maybe a Volt?

If I was going to do that I would Get a M3.....

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Gearhead999s

Nope I have not warmed up to generation of Camaro at all.The ZR1 name on this car is a shame as the orginal one was something really special where this one will be owned by people who are pretty clueless about life in general who cannot afford a VetteWhen are you ordering yours Steve?

Now thats Funny.....

[BMRLVR]

Originally Posted by Gearhead999s

The only Camaro worthy of the ZL1 name!

Look how nice and understated that thing was!!!

Now check out the new one, nothing understated about it at all:













There is already an M3 vs ZL1 thread started

[Turborulz]

Originally Posted by ZWEAPON

whats 2 much Power?....

Maybe too much reliability.

[Turborulz]

Originally Posted by ZWEAPON

If I was going to do that I would Get a M3.....

If you bought an M3 you'd spend less time in the pits and more time on track, sounds counterproductive to me.

[ZWEAPON]

Originally Posted by Turborulz

Maybe too much reliability.

You let Duncan drive your car...