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GM disbands High Performance Vehicle Operations

 
7 3,116 views Feb 18, 2009
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The High Performance Vehicle Operations was responsible for Cadillac’s ‘V-Series’ of cars and Chevrolet ‘SS’ models

The High Performance Vehicle Operations was responsible for Cadillac’s ‘V-Series’ of cars and Chevrolet ‘SS’ models

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In what may come as a surprise to many, General Motors has decided to disband its High Performance Vehicle Operations (HPVO) as it seeks to reduce costs and focus on mainstream products. The go-fast center consisted of a small skunk works of GM engineers who worked in the company’s suburban Detroit technical center and were responsible for exciting vehicles like the Cadillac ‘V-Series’ of cars and Chevrolet ‘SS’ models.

The latest information was confirmed by GM spokesman Vince Muniga during an interview with Automotive News. Muniga stated that all “high-performance projects are on indefinite hold.” He also revealed that the former HPVO engineers would be moved into working on mainstream products for the Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet and Pontiac lines.

Some of the HPVO’s most memorable models included the Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet HHR SS and the Cobalt SS.


Sadly, Muniga said there are no plans for similar high-performance versions of future models. One of the cars we were all hoping for was a V-Series version of the upcoming CTS Coupe, complete with a 556hp (414kW) supercharged V8. Considering GM has already developed the powertrain for the CTS-V Sedan there remains a slim chance that the super-coupe could be produced but don’t hold your breath.

As some solace, Muniga said the HPVO could be reinstated once GM regains its financial health but with the way things are looking that could certainly take some time. The Camaro SS, Corvette and its ZR1 and Z06 trims are unaffected by the change, however, since they are developed outside of the HPVO system.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V

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Comments (7)

  1. ma_NoNameDenton avatar NoNameDenton Posted: 2/18/2009 4:01pm PST

    I knew this was coming, but still lame
     
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  2. ma_Michael D avatar Michael D Posted: 2/18/2009 5:17pm PST

    This is disheartening and downright stinks, while Ford and Chrysler seem to continue their performance virtues. It seems to be a victim of desperate, challenging times for GM rather than MPG averages, for the performance is low volume. At least it's indicated that it could return if ir when situations improve.

    I'm also wondering how this affects the current performance engines, will they still exist and be offered?
     
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  3. ma_NoNameDenton avatar NoNameDenton Posted: 2/18/2009 5:24pm PST

    Can not really say that about Chrysler since they are selling the Viper
     
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  4. ma_Michael D avatar Michael D Posted: 2/18/2009 6:11pm PST

    True, Chrysler is selling the Viper, but the Hemi is still available in the truck line and the LX/LY line, and www.allpar.com indicates that the SRT higher-output Hemi is still in the cards.

    Ford has the EcoBoost V6s for the large sedans and Crossovers and the upcoming Coyote V8 for Mustangs and trucks/BOF SUVs and a higher-end Boss V8 for some Super-Duty and speciality truck lines.

    I suppose GM will still maintain it's LS V8 line, and just use the HPVO mills as carryovers.
     
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  5. ma_Chris avatar Chris Posted: 2/18/2009 6:35pm PST

    michael.. the hemis arent exactly high performance vehicles, sure they are fast but they arent retuned racers.. just normal cars with big engines. i dont think chrysler will be doing any new SRT models for a while,....
     
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  6. ma_wirehap avatar wirehap Posted: 2/19/2009 5:29am PST

    Face the facts boys and girls, none of the big three have come up with anything outstanding lately. you have a bunch of old guys designing cars for little old blue haired ladies who drive to the store and to church. The last somewhat inspired design was the Chrysler 300 and it needs an up date soon. The norm seems to be lets build all of our cars to look the same. Detroit, it is time to put down that toilet paper tube you have been looking through for years, and design something that will attract younger buyers. When all the old people that are loyal buyers die off, the young people will be buying imports that look stylish and are dependable.
     
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  7. ma_GianniG avatar GianniG Posted: 2/19/2009 10:40am PST

    wirehap- What are you talking about that GM or Ford hasn't come up with anything outstanding lately? Have you seen the newer CTS? Have you seen the latest CTS-V? I am 25 years old, when it comes to mainstream vehicles I have been a BMW, MB, and Audi fan for most of my life. I love the CTS, it will most likely be my next car. I would buy it over the MB C-class any day.

    Oh and what do the Asian imports have to offer? Style? They are as bland as bland can get. Honda's and Acura's look just about the same. Hyundai's are starting to look like Lexus, etc.

    I just hope they continue building the CTS-V and the ZR-1 for the current product cycle. Hopefully when a new cycle begins, this freeze will be over.
     
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