Chevrolet HHP Panel SS Concept at the SEMA Show
by EVANDER KLUM
Chevrolet has unveiled the HHR Panel SS equipped with quality Chevrolet oxygen sensor which is a preview of the upcoming production model at the 2007 SEMA Show. The Panel SS takes the HHR SS�� turbocharged powertrain and the race track-bred suspension combining them with the unique HHR Panel body style.
According to Chevrolet General Manager, Ed Peper, "It was natural that our designers and engineers brought up the 'what if' question when it came to the HHR SS and the HHR Panel. They were given the nod to pursue it and we think the result is fun and exciting; it amplifies the very best attributes that have made the HHR so popular with customers."
The HHR Panel SS concept will be joining events around the country while the HHR Panel SS limited-edition production model will be made available at all Chevy dealers as 2009 model year.
The foundation and powertrain of the HHR Panel SS concept incorporates the development of a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L Ecotec engine that revs up 260 horsepower or 194 kW, one-of-a-kind SS interior and exterior styling.
The exterior features of the HHR Panel SS concept include production SS front and rear fascias, a modified SS front grille, rocker panels, and an SS rear spoiler. It is equipped with 20-inch wheels and a polished metal body side trim that are exclusive to the concept vehicle. The suede paint scheme provides that satin soft appearance that reminisces the glorious years of the classic hot rods.
In terms of interior, the SS is equipped with embroidered sport seats with suede-like Ultra Lux inserts, an all-new gauge cluster with 140 mph speedometer, an A-pillar boost gauge and a driver-friendly steering wheel that complements the vehicle��s performance. Its cargo area is customized with billet aluminum tie-downs, floor strips, and load brackets.
Under the SS is a modified suspension derived on the production SS�� FE5 Sport suspension that boosts its riding and handling capabilities. The SS Concept presented at the SEMA was modified slightly to accommodate the larger than production 20 inch wheels and tires.
The FE5 suspension was built and tuned at the renowned Nurburging racing circuit and includes exclusively built bars, spring rates and damper tuning that are designed to match the turbocharged powertrain. Aside from the HHR SS�� high performance attributes, it is also loaded with a number of safety and convenience features such as the StabiliTrak vehicle stability control system and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS.
