New in-line 6-cylinder design guarantees performance and refinement

Dubai, July 8, 2004. Chevrolet's phenomenal sales growth in 2004 received fresh impetus today with the unveiling of plans for a new, more powerful engine in the 2005 Epica.

Featuring an all new 6-cylinder 2.5-litre engine, the 2005 Epica will arrive in retailers' showrooms in July and is destined to raise the standards in the medium-sized car market The new engine features an in-line design that is renowned world-wide for its economical, smooth operation and strong  power delivery.

"The 2005 Epica is set to take refinement to an unprecedented level for the medium car segment," said Bruno Amer, Marketing Manager for Chevrolet Epica.  "The in-line 6-cylinder engine has exceptional torque characteristics, making overtaking safe with minimum fuss.  Linked to the 4-speed automatic gearshift, acceleration from zero up to cruising speed is quick and smooth - an effortless 10 seconds."

Introduced to the Middle East less than a year ago, the Epica is a key player in Chevrolet's regional strategy. Boasting great performance, contemporary styling and excellent value for money, the spacious Chevrolet Epica has already made a strong impression on the market, surpassing many of its competitors in less than 12 months.

"Since its launch, the Epica has already been extremely well received across the region," said Amer.  "With its unbeatable combination of distinctive styling, high level of features, powerful engine and spacious interior, the Epica is simply the best-looking value story there is in the market today. Now with a more powerful engine we have a medium size car, with capabilities and features normally seen only in larger, more expensive luxury cars!"

The entry level 2.5-litre 6-cylinder 2005 Epica LS model will feature RDS radio/cassette player, front and rear power windows, a car alarm and remote keyless access, high output air conditioning, tilt steering wheel and airbag as standard. 

The top-of-the-line Epica LT model is set to raise the bar for the family sedan market even further, offering a sophisticated array of features normally associated with large and luxury cars such as electronic climate control, 8-way power seats, speed sensitive steering, dual airbags, ABS and TCS (traction control system), 16-inch alloy wheels, in-dash 5 CD player with premium speaker system and audio remote control in the steering wheel.

Amer concluded: "Essentially, purchasing an Epica is the easiest and best decision to make when shopping for a family sedan.  In addition to the diverse array of standard and optional features we've packed into the 2005 model, the new in-line 2.5-litre 6-cylinder engine will provide an exciting alternative for those customers who want the added refinement, sophistication and performance this wonderful engine provides."

The Chevrolet Epica is supported by General Motors' three-year/60,000 km total warranty, GM Roadside Assistance and one of the strongest dealer networks in the region.

-Ends-

About GM
General Motors, the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, was founded in 1908 and has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. GM today employs 342,000 people and has manufacturing operations in 32 countries.  Its vehicles are sold in more than 192 countries. In 2003, GM sold more than 8.6 million cars and trucks, nearly 15 percent of the global vehicle market. GM's global headquarters is in Detroit.

GM has been operating in the Middle East since the early 1940's. GM's vehicle brands sold in the region are Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, HUMMER, Opel and Saab supported by a unique set of customer focused services. GM parts and accessories are sold under the GM Parts and ACDelco brands.  The regional office in Dubai covers the company's operations in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iraq.

In 2003, GM sold around 60,000 vehicles in the Middle East and the company continues to introduce pioneering programs in the region.

More information on GM and its products can be found on the company's consumer websites www.gm.com and www.gmarabia.com

For more information:
Saada Hammad                                                          Talal Eid                  
Communications and Public Relations Manager                  Account Director
General Motors Middle East                                           Hill & Knowlton
Tel Dubai (009714) 3143350                                         Tel (009714) 3344930
e-mail saada.hammad@gm.com                                      talal.eid@hillandknowlton.com 

© Press Release 2004