Did anyone post this Mr. Tom Peters Interview @ VIR?...

[radz28]

Featured on Camaro5 HOMEPAGE

Mr. Peters goes into some more detail that I haven't seen yet, but have read, here-and-there. There was newer information in the latest GMHTP that I haven't seen before, and this interview confirms any questions that article left me with.

Just a few:
*Front upper and lower grilles are aero' optimized - even slat spacing, angles, and shapes contribute to downforce and cooling
*ZL1's hood IS a little larger than SS and V6 - only millimeters different, in height, near the center and in width; the bulk is above and in front of the SC
*Rocker molds are functional and part of the aero' package



If this was a repost, please let me know. I can't find it, but will merge if I missed it

Summary:

Tom Peters who is the Director for Performance Vehicles at GM was gracious enough to give Autobytel a thorough performance walk around describing the design and performance details on the new 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 coupe.

First of all you will note the larger opening in the bumper for increased cooling capacity. The front splitter is the same height as the one found on the Corvette ZR-1. All the details on the front of the Camaro ZL1 were developed and tested in the wind tunnel. The air in the front is not only diverted to cool the radiator but also the front brakes. The hood vent is functional and directs air out the top which aids in preventing lift and creating down force which is important for high speed stability. The hood vents adds a unique character to the front of the car. It also communicates a very serious performance oriented message in a beautifully integrated way.

Along the side of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 you will notice the rocker panels which are called rocker splitters. These side panels help contribute by adding down force and reducing lift. On thing you should notice is that the fenders bulge in order to fit larger width tires. The front tires measure 285 in width with the rear tires measuring 305 in the rear. This provides a huge contact patch for the 580 horsepower the engine creates. Behind the light weight rims are huge Brembo brakes.

At the rear of the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 you will notice the rear spoiler. This wing has been modified and optimized to even out the amount of rear down force on the front of the vehicle. The rear diffuser also adds a bit of down force and helps move any trapped air out from under the ZL1. Another neat detail on the Camaro ZL1 are the twin dual exhaust pipes. Learned through the development of the Corvette ZR-1; the exhaust has a value to optimize backpressure during normal operation. But during wide-open throttle they open up to increase performance and give the car a menacing growl which adds to the overall character of the vehicle.

On the inside of the car there are many performance details too! The steering wheel is based on a racing configuration and features a flat bottom. The wheel is wrapped in ultra-luxurious Alcantara Leather. The seats also feature Alcantara inserts as well as the shift knob. There was an incredible amount of attention and time paid to the ergonomics of the shift knob and steering wheel. The heads-up display and G-Force meter give the driver the performance information he needs. The 200 MPH speedometer reminds the driver that the 2012 Chevy Camaro ZL1 is one very serious performance sports car.

The ZL1 is an outstanding car that exudes confidence both on and off the track. The performance capabilities of this car have been well integrated and the Camaro's beauty really shines through. All these performance upgrades all to the overall character of the Camaro ZL1. This vehicle is a great car to drive and experience.

[IOMZL1]

Very cool video! Lots of great information.

[LAWMAN]

Awesome!!

[350 HRSS]

Awesome vid! Thanks for posting

[Janet]

Thanks, had not seen that. Great info.
Janet

[AlexM]

Haven't seen this one, yet. Thanks for posting. Makes me proud to be a Camaro lover!!!

[OldJedi]

Thanks Radz, I had not seen this before. He is right, the car is a lot of fun to drive.

[htron50]

UNGOWA.... That's Tarzan talk for HE ROCKS! Thanks!

[Dznts]

great video!

[SlingShot]

Very cool !!!

I want mine, I want it NOW !!!!

[Uneducated Guess]

Originally Posted by SlingShot

Very cool !!!

I want mine, I want it NOW !!!!

this

[toddsZL1]

I Want my allocation to come through. Great video!!!!!!!!!

[f ê r]

Nice vid! Its such a good moment to be a motor-head. What a beast, and then they dare to say that the ZL1 is not Track-Ready and tested on a Wind Tunnel! Just remember to follow the break-in period instruction (both to the motor and the brakes) and also to drain the stock brake fluid as its no suitable for racing or competitive driving guys. After that we are good to go to the road course!

[Uneducated Guess]

Originally Posted by f ê r

Nice vid! Its such a good moment to be a motor-head. What a beast, and then they dare to say that the ZL1 is not Track-Ready and tested on a Wind Tunnel! Just remember to follow the break-in period instruction (both to the motor and the brakes) and also to drain the stock brake fluid as its no suitable for racing or competitive driving guys. After that we are good to go to the road course!