- 2001 VU Holden Ute: a much-anticipated mix of sports styling, performance and practicality
- Sandman Panel Van concept: back to the future with a Mambo design theme
- Holden Telematics System: on-the-move service of the future
- VX Commodore Lumina: a sporty, value-packed special edition available soon
- 2001 Astra and Vectra: new engines, feature upgrades
- Opel Astra OPC 3-door, Opel Zafira Snowtrekker, Opel Speedster: sports-oriented, Euro styled special displays
The biggest spotlight at Holden's Sydney Motor Show stand will be on an exclusive preview of the first all-new Holden Ute in a decade. The stylish and eagerly awaited 2001 VU Ute is due for release early next year. It will be displayed alongside a strong 'Lion' line-up that features model previews, recent releases, design concepts highlighted by a retro Sandman panel van concept, special imports and displays that demonstrate Holden's safety technology, advanced engineering, and high-tech customer communications.
Striking S and SS models of the all-new 2001 VU Ute demonstrate a clear sports! recreational design theme, highlighted by flowing, rounded lines, a unique flush-fitting tonneau cover and bold front-end styling. Generously proportioned inside and out and with greater cargo-carrying capacity than before, the VU Holden Ute combines the flexibility of a smart workhorse with sedan styling and comfort. Reflecting shifting consumer lifestyle considerations, the VU Holden Ute delivers passenger car performance, particularly in the ride and handling department. In a world-first move, Holden has equipped its new Ute with independent rear suspension (IRS), formerly the exclusive domain of passenger cars.
The Sandman Panel Van concept is a one-off design exercise that pays modern homage to Holden's automotive icon of the seventies. Emblazoned with a flame motif and uniquely decorated inside and out, it's the striking result of a creative collaboration between Holden designers and Australian surf and streetwear company, Mambo.
Motor show patrons can also preview the Holden Telematics System, an advanced in-car communications service that will be offered to Commodore, Calais, Statesman and Caprice buyers next year as an optional fitment. Using GPS satellite and cellular technology, the hands-free system links driver and vehicle to a Holden Customer Assistance Centre manned by advisors 24 hours a day. Key features provided by this personalised service include remote door unlock, pinpoint location roadside assistance, emergency services alert and automatic response following airbag deployment. In the case of unauthorised vehicle entry, advisors can contact police and give vehicle location details. If the Assistance Centre believes the car has been stolen, its location can be monitored and following police authorisation its immobilisation system can be triggered remotely.
Latest Releases
2001 model year upgraded versions of Holden's strong-selling Astra compact models, scheduled to appear in Holden dealer showrooms in late November, make their debut at the Sydney 2000 International Motor Show. The range, including the four-door Astra City sedan and five-door Astra CD hatch on display, is powered by a new generation 1.8 litre DOHC ECOTEC 4 cylinder engine, designed and developed in Australia by Holden powertrain engineering for global markets. The high-tech engine delivers 5kW more power (90kW @5600rpm) than the previous 1.8 litre engine and produces fewer emissions.
Further improvements include 'drive by wire' electronic throttle control for enhanced driveability and a close-coupled catalytic converter. Three new colours have been introduced into the range of seven exterior finishes: Canopy Green, Jade Green and Barolo Red. Holden Astra pricing is unchanged.
Showgoers will also have the opportunity to closely inspect Holden's refined VX Commodore and Calais range which went on sale just six weeks ago. Another attraction is the sports-flavoured, special edition VX Commodore Lumina, which is due for release in early December. The Lumina sedans and wagons offer $3,500 worth of added-value 'extras' such as rear spoiler, wagon roof rack, special alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and unique interior finishes.
The perennially popular Holden Special Vehicles display will include the 30,000th HSV production model, a VX ClubSport R8, now featuring climate control and 10-stack CD; the distinctive 300kW VX GTS performance model; the newly styled VX Senator Signature and the luxurious Grange. For sports ute enthusiasts, there's the stand-out styling and exciting engineering of the VU Maloo Prototype.
The upgraded Holden Vectra JS Series II hatch and sedan, expected in Holden showrooms later this month, now offer the choice of a new, low-emission 2.6 litre ECOTEC V6 engine (CD models) or the proven and remarkably fuel efficient 2.2 litre ECOTEC 4. Both can be teamed with 5-speed Getrag manual transmission or 4-speed electronic control automatic. New safety system features include across-the-range anti-lock brake (ABS) fitment, traction control and active head restraints. 2001 edition V6 Vectra CD models are distinguished by an exclusive front bumper fascia with integrated fog lamps.
Light Commercial Previews
Stylish flared wheel arches to accommodate a wider track distinguish the 4WD Holden Jackaroo on display — a promise of updates to come in 2001. Also predicting future directions is the Rodeo Space Cab 4x4 LT Sport. This activity-accented styling concept provides a preview of the new model, scheduled for release in the first quarter of next year. An LX Holden Rodeo Single Cab 4x2 demonstrates its versatility with tipper body and LPG fitment.
Special Displays of European Sporting Style
Displayed in Australia for the first time, the Opel Astra OPC 3-door is a limited edition, high performance machine, designed to serve as a homologation basis for European motorsport.
Its tuned, high-revving 2.0 litre 16-valve engine, co-developed by Opel Performance Centre motorsport specialists, produces 118kW of peak power and maximum torque of 188Nm. The Astra OPC accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds and top speed is 220km/h; downforce assisted by an understated but highly efficient aerodynamics package; ride and handling enhanced by a lowered chassis, re-rated suspension and 17-inch wheels. Interior treatment, featuring Recaro sports seats, continues the motorsport theme.
Another European with sports character, the Opel Snowtrekker design concept is based on the stylishly practical Zafira compact wagon. This winter sports special, with permanent four- wheel drive, 2.2 litre 16-valve aluminium engine and direct petrol injection, reflects future design strategies at Holden's German GM affiliate, Adam Opel AG. The Snowtrekker's panorama roof is made of heat-insulating safety glass and an integrated luggage box, developed in conjunction with French ski manufacturer Rossignol, and caters for a range of leisure activities.
The super slick, two-seater Opel Speedster also began life as a design concept. A style sensation, with taut surfaces, muscular wheel arches and sheer flanks, it made the transition to production reality with a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in February. The limited edition, mid-engined sports car is very quick off the mark, powered by a new aluminium 2.2 litre ECOTEC engine and weighing in at just 850kg, thanks to an aluminium chassis and composite body. Steering is fast and responsive, while its mid-engined design, sports chassis and independent, double wishbone suspension on all four wheels deliver exceptional cornering and handling abilities.
Holden Technology on Show
Fresh from its role in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Torch Relay, Holden's leading edge ECOmmodore concept vehicle, developed in conjunction with CSIRO, is a rolling showcase of all-Australian ingenuity. The ECOmmodore has a unique hybrid-electric powertrain, uses up to 50 per cent less fuel than a conventional family car and delivers the same level of performance as a standard 3.8 litre V6. The first hybrid-electric vehicle to be produced by an Australian manufacturer and designed with the emphasis on practicality and achievable technology, it is the only one of its type in the world.
The Holden stand has more on view for anyone with a keen interest in automotive engineering and design: Computer Aided Design (CAD) clay modelling, structural safety displays, electronic control module displays, an ECOmmodore electric motor, a Supercharged V6 engine cutaway exhibit, an 'exploded' GEN Ill V8 engine and an HSV premium braking system.
As in previous years, Holden personnel, over 200 in total, will be rostered throughout the Motor Show to answer questions and share their product knowledge.
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