2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to pack 580 hp
09-09-11, 11:46 AM
#1
2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to pack 580 hp
2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to pack 580 hp
General Motors has finally let one of its biggest cats out of its bag: The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 will be officially rated at 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque.
Al Oppenheiser, chief engineer of the Camaro, is justifiably proud of his creation, saying, "The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment. For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS."
The supercharged engine is the most powerful mill ever put in the engine bay of a Camaro – besting the rated output of the 1969 Camaro ZL1's 427-cubic-inch V8 by 150 horses – and it can be mated up with either a six-speed manual gearbox or, importantly for mass appeal, a six-speed automatic fitted with Drive, Sport and Manual modes for increased driver involvement.
You may be wondering how Chevrolet expects all that power to reach the ground in any meaningful fashion that doesn't involve incinerating a fresh pair of tires. And the answer would be with Performance Traction Management and third-generation Magnetic Ride Control. Magnetic Ride control uses Magneto-Rheological fluid in the shocks and is computer controlled with readings that adjust damping a staggering 1,000 times per second, and has Tour, Sport and Track settings.
Performance Traction Management, not surprisingly, is a traction control system with five distinct modes appropriate for everything from rain to race, which is calibrated for use at drag strips conditioned with VHT (a traction compound sprayed on asphalt).
Inquiring minds want to know: How will Ford and Dodge respond to the 2012 ZL1? We'll just have to wait and see.
Gallery:
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2012-...photo-3861941/
Camaro ZL1 Delivers 580 Horsepower and Exclusive Technologies
Supercharged, 6.2L LSA V-8 delivers 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm)
ZL1 power complemented by exclusive Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management
Track-capable standard equipment includes high-performance fuel system, as well as engine, transmission and differential coolers
DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever.
The ZL1's outstanding power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, including exclusive Performance Traction Management and third-generation Magnetic Ride Control.
"The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. "For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.
"The Camaro ZL1 also features exclusive chassis and traction technologies," Oppenheiser said, "to offer the best of all worlds – including balanced handling for the track, acceleration for a drag strip, and the comfort of a daily driver."
The most-powerful production Camaro ever
The 2012 Camaro ZL1's surpasses the advertised power of the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1's 427 cubic-inch big block by more than 150 horsepower (112 kW) – while meeting modern emissions requirements. And, the new ZL1 is backed by General Motors' five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
"The torque is going to make the ZL1 a car you won't want to get out of," said John Rydzewski, assistant chief engineer for small block engines. "Not only will the ZL1 have more power and torque than the competition, we're making it available with an optional automatic transmission, to appeal to a wider group of sports car enthusiasts."
The all-aluminum LSA supercharged V-8 is part of GM's legendary small-block engine family. For a solid foundation, the engine's lower end uses six-bolt main bearing caps that clamp and lock in the forged steel crankshaft to the deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lob rotor set and compact intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads.
For the Camaro ZL1, the LSA features a unique induction system, with a lower-restriction air filter, dual inlet paths, and improved airflow through the supercharger housing. Other changes include a higher-efficiency supercharger intercooler and electric power steering system, which consumes less engine power than hydraulic-steering systems.
The ZL1 will be offered with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tremec TR-6060 "MG9" manual features 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS. The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing. The MG9 has also been tuned for improved shift feel, with a dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch, and triple synchros for smooth, precise shifts.
Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small block. The 6L90 features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset. To make the ZL1 perform equally well on street and track, the 6L90 features three distinct drive modes:
Drive: The shift pattern is calibrated for optimal fuel economy, including second-gear starts, while the shift feel is tuned for a smooth driving experience. Engaging the tap-shift feature on the steering wheel or shift lever engages temporary manual mode.
Sport: The shift pattern is calibrated for more aggressing driving, including first-gear starts for maximum performance. The shift feel is also more aggressive, with a performance algorithm that holds the transmission in lower gears during aggressive driving.
Manual: Here, the 6L90 offers the driver true manual control, with no automatic up shifts, and staged upshifts for incredibly fast shifts and maximum performance.
Other track-ready features of the ZL1 include:
An engine-oil cooler, identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1. The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that both the manual and automatic transmissions are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package.
A rear-differential cooler, which pumps transmission fluid to a heat exchanger, reduces temperatures in the differential by more than 100 F.
A high-performance fuel system delivers fuel to the LSA engine under any performance driving condition. For example, the system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-g cornering under low fuel conditions.
Magnetic Ride Control 3.0 adjusts damping 1,000 times per second
The Camaro ZL1 will feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC).
MRC employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology. MR fluid is a suspension of iron particles in a synthetic fluid. When the system is activated, the particles are magnetized and aligned into fibrous structures, changing flow resistance. By controlling the current to an electromagnetic coil inside the piston of the damper, the system varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions.
"Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and body control," said Oppenheiser. "With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that makes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track."
For the third-generation, MRC uses new twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners. The smaller dual-coil system – with one coil at either end of the damper – replaces the larger single-core design of the previous generation.
The new design allows even more precise control of the electrical current (and magnetic flux), allowing greater range between the softest setting for ride comfort and the firmest setting for track driving. The new dual-coil design also enables faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.
There are three settings for MRC in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track.
Exclusive Performance Traction Management for the race course, and the drag strip
The Camaro ZL1 will also offer Performance Traction Management (PTM) as standard equipment, which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance performance on the racetrack and drag strip.
For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver's best effort and repeats it consistently.
Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.
Five PTM performance levels or modes are available to accommodate the given ambient and track conditions, driver experience/vehicle familiarity and driver comfort levels. They include:
Mode 1 – Traction control set for wet conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 2 – Traction control set for dry conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 3 – Traction control set on Sport 1, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 4 – Traction control set on Sport 2, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 5 – Traction control set on Race, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Track. Launch control tuned for VHT-prepped drag strips.
"Like the Magnetic Ride Control, the Performance Traction Management system improves the ZL1 experience as a daily driver and on the track," said Oppenheiser. "By offering five distinct modes of traction management, the driver can select what's best for them based on their experience and the driving conditions. As a result, novice drivers will find the ZL1 is very enjoyable to drive, while expert drivers will find PTM supplements their driving skill without interfering with their intentions."
Supercharged, 6.2L LSA V-8 delivers 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm)
ZL1 power complemented by exclusive Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management
Track-capable standard equipment includes high-performance fuel system, as well as engine, transmission and differential coolers
DETROIT – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever.
The ZL1's outstanding power is complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technologies, including exclusive Performance Traction Management and third-generation Magnetic Ride Control.
"The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. "For sheer power, the ZL1 delivers more horsepower than a Ferrari 458, more torque than an Aston Martin DB9 V12, and a better power-to-weight ratio than a Porsche 911 Carrera GTS.
"The Camaro ZL1 also features exclusive chassis and traction technologies," Oppenheiser said, "to offer the best of all worlds – including balanced handling for the track, acceleration for a drag strip, and the comfort of a daily driver."
The most-powerful production Camaro ever
The 2012 Camaro ZL1's surpasses the advertised power of the legendary 1969 Camaro ZL1's 427 cubic-inch big block by more than 150 horsepower (112 kW) – while meeting modern emissions requirements. And, the new ZL1 is backed by General Motors' five-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
"The torque is going to make the ZL1 a car you won't want to get out of," said John Rydzewski, assistant chief engineer for small block engines. "Not only will the ZL1 have more power and torque than the competition, we're making it available with an optional automatic transmission, to appeal to a wider group of sports car enthusiasts."
The all-aluminum LSA supercharged V-8 is part of GM's legendary small-block engine family. For a solid foundation, the engine's lower end uses six-bolt main bearing caps that clamp and lock in the forged steel crankshaft to the deep-skirt block. Its 1.9L Roots-style blower uses an efficient four-lob rotor set and compact intercooler to deliver boosted air into the high-flow cylinder heads.
For the Camaro ZL1, the LSA features a unique induction system, with a lower-restriction air filter, dual inlet paths, and improved airflow through the supercharger housing. Other changes include a higher-efficiency supercharger intercooler and electric power steering system, which consumes less engine power than hydraulic-steering systems.
The ZL1 will be offered with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Tremec TR-6060 "MG9" manual features 30 percent more torque capacity than in the Camaro SS. The higher torque capacity results from a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing, and additional roller bearing. The MG9 has also been tuned for improved shift feel, with a dual-mass flywheel, twin-disc clutch, and triple synchros for smooth, precise shifts.
Similarly, the Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic has been strengthened to handle the torque and horsepower produced by the 6.2L supercharged small block. The 6L90 features a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, additional clutch plate, and a strengthened output shaft and gearset. To make the ZL1 perform equally well on street and track, the 6L90 features three distinct drive modes:
Drive: The shift pattern is calibrated for optimal fuel economy, including second-gear starts, while the shift feel is tuned for a smooth driving experience. Engaging the tap-shift feature on the steering wheel or shift lever engages temporary manual mode.
Sport: The shift pattern is calibrated for more aggressing driving, including first-gear starts for maximum performance. The shift feel is also more aggressive, with a performance algorithm that holds the transmission in lower gears during aggressive driving.
Manual: Here, the 6L90 offers the driver true manual control, with no automatic up shifts, and staged upshifts for incredibly fast shifts and maximum performance.
Other track-ready features of the ZL1 include:
An engine-oil cooler, identical to the system on the Corvette ZR1. The integral liquid-to-liquid system is so effective that both the manual and automatic transmissions are deemed to be fully track-capable with the standard factory-installed cooling package.
A rear-differential cooler, which pumps transmission fluid to a heat exchanger, reduces temperatures in the differential by more than 100 F.
A high-performance fuel system delivers fuel to the LSA engine under any performance driving condition. For example, the system features additional fuel pickups on the primary side, and the secondary fuel pickup is moved outboard for continuous fuel access during high-g cornering under low fuel conditions.
Magnetic Ride Control 3.0 adjusts damping 1,000 times per second
The Camaro ZL1 will feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MRC).
MRC employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology. MR fluid is a suspension of iron particles in a synthetic fluid. When the system is activated, the particles are magnetized and aligned into fibrous structures, changing flow resistance. By controlling the current to an electromagnetic coil inside the piston of the damper, the system varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions.
"Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and body control," said Oppenheiser. "With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that makes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track."
For the third-generation, MRC uses new twin-wire/dual-coil dampers at all four corners. The smaller dual-coil system – with one coil at either end of the damper – replaces the larger single-core design of the previous generation.
The new design allows even more precise control of the electrical current (and magnetic flux), allowing greater range between the softest setting for ride comfort and the firmest setting for track driving. The new dual-coil design also enables faster response, with damping levels now adjusted up to 1,000 times per second – about one adjustment per inch of vehicle travel at 60 mph – making the system exceptionally responsive to changing driving and road conditions.
There are three settings for MRC in the ZL1: Tour, Sport, and Track.
Exclusive Performance Traction Management for the race course, and the drag strip
The Camaro ZL1 will also offer Performance Traction Management (PTM) as standard equipment, which is exclusive to General Motors. First introduced on the Corvette ZR1, PTM is an advanced system that integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control and electronic stability control, to enhance performance on the racetrack and drag strip.
For example, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 100 times per second to maximize the available traction. The system is capable of approaching a skilled driver's best effort and repeats it consistently.
Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and PTM will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.
Five PTM performance levels or modes are available to accommodate the given ambient and track conditions, driver experience/vehicle familiarity and driver comfort levels. They include:
Mode 1 – Traction control set for wet conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 2 – Traction control set for dry conditions, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Tour.
Mode 3 – Traction control set on Sport 1, with stability control on and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 4 – Traction control set on Sport 2, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Sport.
Mode 5 – Traction control set on Race, with stability control off and Magnetic Ride Control set on Track. Launch control tuned for VHT-prepped drag strips.
"Like the Magnetic Ride Control, the Performance Traction Management system improves the ZL1 experience as a daily driver and on the track," said Oppenheiser. "By offering five distinct modes of traction management, the driver can select what's best for them based on their experience and the driving conditions. As a result, novice drivers will find the ZL1 is very enjoyable to drive, while expert drivers will find PTM supplements their driving skill without interfering with their intentions."
09-09-11, 12:08 PM
#2
Lexus Champion
Fantastic stuff indeed for what is the fastest Chevrolet Camaro version to-date 
However:
What got me most excited is:
This is the best piece of news I've heard. In the past, most American sport and performance cars were only confined with a stick shift as the sole transmission/gearbox available (i.e. the Viper and the top-end Shelby Mustangs included).
With the announcement of a six-speed automatic for the Camaro ZL1, this makes things even better.
With that, I do hope Chevy will do the same for the next-gen Corvette ZR1.
However:
What got me most excited is:
Hydra-Matic 6L90 automatic
With the announcement of a six-speed automatic for the Camaro ZL1, this makes things even better.
With that, I do hope Chevy will do the same for the next-gen Corvette ZR1.
09-09-11, 12:48 PM
#3
I have a feeling i'm gonna see a lot of these around, especially if its coming with an automatic transmission option too. Nice to see all this stuff they have incorporated into the car itself though. Just wish i had the money to buy one as a weekend car 
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09-10-11, 06:52 AM
#8
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (20)
hmm... no limited slip diff? holy one black line on the road, batman.
09-12-11, 09:45 AM
#12
Lexus Champion
4200 lbs 
I would guess that the price will fall somewhere between the Corvette Grand Sport and the Cadillac CTS-V Coupe; which would put the Camaro ZL1 in the range of $55,000-$65,000…thus locating itself between the least expensive Corvette to use some of this technology and the 2-door Caddy that is powered by the same supercharged LSA V8. from here.. http://www.torquenews.com/106/2012-c...cago-auto-show
I would guess that the price will fall somewhere between the Corvette Grand Sport and the Cadillac CTS-V Coupe; which would put the Camaro ZL1 in the range of $55,000-$65,000…thus locating itself between the least expensive Corvette to use some of this technology and the 2-door Caddy that is powered by the same supercharged LSA V8. from here.. http://www.torquenews.com/106/2012-c...cago-auto-show
09-15-11, 05:16 AM
#13
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