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Before men grow up and get their first "big boy toy" (hopefully a souped-up Chevy), they're exposed to the unique bond of superheroes and cars via the most popular genre of reading for youngsters, the comic book. Some never outgrow comic books, and children of ALL ages love flocking to the theater for the latest Marvel blockbuster.
Recently, at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, Chevy displayed the "Black Widow" Corvette Stingray to be featured in the next installment of Marvel's cinematic "Avengers" saga, "Captain America: The Winter Soldier", which is to be released April 4, 2014. We decided to do our research and unearth what other superhero cameos Chevrolet has made on the big and small screens.
Transformers - Bumblebee
Who DOESN'T love Bumblebee, the witty transformer that you just want to hug? And who doesn't love the sleek and powerful Camaro he transforms into? The answer to these questions is: no one! That's why Chevrolet made available to the public the Special Edition Transformers 2012 Camaro, in conjunction with the second installment of the Transformers movie saga, "Transformers: Dark of the Moon". Bumblebee debuted in the first film (2007) as a beat-up 1977 Camaro, and then upfitted himself in the same film as the 2006 Concept Camaro.
The Camaro made such an impression among movie-goers and car-lovers alike that for the 2012 model year, Chevrolet released the Transformers Special Edition Option Package for the 2LT and 2SS Coupe model Camaros. Different features of the 2014 Camaro concept that was used to film the lastest sequel, "Transformers 4: Age of Extinction" (coming to theaters June 27, 2014) are rumored to be possibly included in the 2015 or 2016 models. Director Michael Bay called the Camaro concept "the final jewel in the Transformers 4 crown."
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - Lola
Marvel's ABC series, "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.", first aired September 24, 2013. The pilot episode showcased a shiny classic 1962 Corvette. One of the main characters, Agent Coulson, makes a point of letting everyone know that there's more to this Vette than just being a collectible. In a matter of seconds the stylish Vette transforms into a jet and whisks Agent Coulson and his associate away to the action.
For those that don't know, "S.H.I.E.L.D." (Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division) was Marvel's answer to the popularity of James Bond and the spy craze of the 1960s. Every good secret organization needs a super-charged vehicle to get the mission complete. Originally known as the "S.H.I.E.L.D. Flying Car" in the comic book series, the high-tech automobile was in use throughout the intelligence group with a fleet of around 2,000 models at the ready for all of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s agents. It was developed by Stark Industries (associated with the "Iron Man" series), and had many different styles (trim levels?) and was usually yellow or red. In the television series, only Agent Coulson operates a single model of the flying car. Perhaps Marvel doesn't want to get a scratch on the very sleek, red vintage 1962 Corvette. Agent Coulson even gives the car it's own moniker, naming her "Lola". The vintage Chevy received so much acclaim, she even has her own Facebook fan page, where lovers of the eye-catching flying Vette can showcase their own vintage models or miniatures of the classic and beautiful Lola. The television series, on hiatus in it's first season, will return to broadcast with a new episode March 4, 2014.
Rick Hendrick, himself, has a classic 1967 Corvette Covertible that, while it may not have included the "jet-morphing" option, came with a history of ownership that included the likes of Roy Orbison! We wonder what amazing purchase he might be inspired to make next! 
With the unveiling of the stylish triple-black "Black Widow" Corvette Stingray at the Chicago Auto Show, we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for any new models that may have ties to the upcoming Marvel movies, like the new Captain America: Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy coming to theaters August 1, 2014, the sequel to the Avengers coming out in Spring of 2015 and Ant-Man coming out in Summer of 2015. Stop by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407, and test drive your own superheroic ride that you just very well might save the world in!
Purple is the new Pink! We at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet are joining in with Chevy to help end the fight against cancer. We are turning our profiles purple and encourage you to do the same. You HAVE to go to the official Purple Roads page to turn your profile purple. Chevy will donate $1 per individual that changes their profile through their link, up to ONE MILLION dollars, to the American Cancer Society.
This latest movement, Purple Roads, takes place tomorrow, Feb. 4th for one day only, and is the latest drive from Chevy's long 11 year relationship with the American Cancer Society. Chevy most recent donation, with the help of partnering dealerships, was $1.1 million.
We hope all our friends from Charleston, Goose Creek, and the surrounding Coastal Carolina areas will join in to help finish the fight against cancer and put the survival rate at 3 out of 3 compared to the rate sixty years ago, which was 1 out of 3. Show your friends and family on Facebook and Twitter the true power of PURPLE! Go to http://www.chevrolet.com/purple-roads-world-cancer-day.html and Purple Your Profile today!
The Stingray has forever been an icon in the history of super-charged Corvettes with its race-capable, stream-lined, praise-worthy exterior. Chevy made a bold comeback for the model with the release of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. A huge fan of the Corvette model, old and new alike, Rick Hendrick himself, bought the very first one off the line. Now, Chevy makes an even bolder statement, letting the automotive world know that the iconic Corvette isn't backing out of the spotlight any time soon.
This month at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, Chevy unveiled the 2015 Corvette Z06, and all the automotive media world is abuzz with the promises of this head-turning anticipated model, and all the different ways it delivers. Chevy has taken the model that shook the auto show stage last year and made it even better, with what CNET.com calls "one of the fastest cars GM has ever produced.".
Upgrades include every possible functional styling you could imagine, like wider flared fenders that make room for wider tires, and for the first time ever, a removeable carbon-fiber roof panel. Corvette fans will no doubt be highly anticipating the convertible feature, coming to an Auto Bahn near you!
The 2015 Corvette also promises to come to a race track near you, fully equipped with a predicted 625 horsepower behind its 6.2L V8. Inside the 2015 model Vette, choose "Track" from the five available "driver modes" and find the Z06 ready to rumble and calibrated for your racing style. The other driver modes "weather", "Eco", "Tour" and, "Sport", are all pre-configured to ensure the driver is prepared for any possible driving scenario. You can even capture audio and video clips of scenic drives with its Performance Data Recorder, to file away memories along with many facets of perfomance data to fine tune your future driving experiences.
Folks from Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant and the surrounding Coastal Carolina areas should stop by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407, to test drive the latest Corvette models we have in stock, and see the Big Store Advantage in action for yourself!
No matter where you end up celebrating tonight, we at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet want you to be safe and plan ahead. If you don't already have a designated driver in your traveling party, or if you're traveling alone, check out these sites to see what programs are available in your area that will get you and your car safely home.
On AAA's website you can read about their Holiday Safe Ride Home program. The program is limited to certain states as only some AAA clubs offer this service. If the state where you're celebrating isn't listed, check out their DUI Justice Link. In affiliation with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration they have created a list of programs available in each state that are prepared to help folks get safely home for the new year. 
We will be closing at 6 pm this evening so our associates can get home to celebrate the coming of the new year with their families. Before your New Year's celebration, stop by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407, For the last day to get a $25 Gift Card when you take a test drive! From all of us at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet to all our friends in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Goose Creek, and the surrounding coastal Carolina areas, Happy New Year!
The highly anticipated 2014 Chevrolet SS has arrived at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet!
This athletic-inspired sedan has had Chevy enthusiasts all over on the edge of their seats for its release. It is the first Chevrolet to take SS as a model name rather than a trim designation, and the first rear-drive Chevy sedan since the 1996 Impala SS. It has been elegantly crafted with a bold and sharp athletic design. With features that come standard for this model, like the head-up display that projects the SS's vital statistics onto the windshield, the Chevrolet MyLink feature, and automatic parking assist, it's no wonder Chevy-lovers are eager to see the 2014 SS hit the showroom floor.
Style and technology aren't the only sights folks are waiting to see, either.
Safety features like Stabilitrak, the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert radar sensors lend the sporty sedan a protective and intuitive feel, making this model a good choice for parents who still want to feel young and sporty behind the wheel. The 2014 SS also boasts 415-horsepower that will get this model from 0 to 60 MPH in 5 seconds! It's racetrack proven with "the same rear-wheel-drive small block V8 configuration as its NASCAR® sibling.", according to Chevrolet's website. These features combined bring the safety, security and elegance of a sedan together with the power and control of a sports car.
Folks from all over Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant, and the surrounding areas should stop by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407 to test drive the 2014 Chevy SS and see for themselves why this model has been so eagerly awaited, and feel for themselves what it is to have style, luxury, speed, safety, and technology at their fingertips!
Only a Corvette with the perfect balance of technology, design and performance can wear the iconic Stingray designation. The new 2014 Corvette Stingray meets all those requirements and more. According to the National Corvette Museum's website, "The 2014 Corvette Stingray is the most powerful standard model ever, with an estimated 450 horsepower (335 kW) and 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm). It is also the most capable standard model ever, able to accelerate from 0-60 in less than four seconds and achieve more than 1g in cornering grip. It is expected to be the most fuel-efficient Corvette, exceeding the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model. The all-new Corvette Stingray shares only two parts with the previous generation Corvette. It incorporates an all-new frame structure and chassis, a new powertrain and supporting technologies, as well as completely new exterior and interior designs.".
The new Stingray has turned heads at Motor Trend with its sleek new interior featuring heated seats, touch screen integrated with a Corvette-specific version of Chevy's MyLink technology, and a buffet of other posh trim level features and options. A highly detailed and sporty dashboard brings complete mastery of the new Stingray's engine re-designs to the driver's fingertips, wrapped up in refinery and control. Motor Trend says, "Read any review of the Corvette and you'll see the same list of compliments and complaints: great performance, terrible interior, or some variation thereof. The Corvette team has an answer to that, and it's called the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray...". And it's a pretty bold answer at that!
Outside the updates continue. The radical new bodywork is jet-inspired and race-tested. Every scoop and vent you see is functional, much of it borrowed from Corvette Racing. The hood vent, for example, ducts roughly a third of flow from the now forward-slanted radiator over the top of the car.
If you want to get the ultimate feeling of piloting a speed legend, climb into the seat of a new 2014 Corvette Stingray and you will be satisfied. It offers a minimum of 455 horsepower (460 horses if you opt for the performance exhaust) and 460 (or 465) pound-feet of torque from the new 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 engine. Those are hefty figures in a vehicle that weights just 3,300 pounds. The result is 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.8 seconds when equipped with the Z51 package. A seven-speed manual transmission is standard, with a six-speed automatic available.
We have a fine selection of these redesigned, reinvented 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingrays here at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet. Stop by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407 today for a test drive, and see for yourself why you should get your hands on the wheel of your very own modern-day legend, the 2014 Corvette Stingray!
Winter Weather And Your MPGS
So, why exactly does colder weather throw a wrench at most vehicles’ regular fuel economy? Well, there are lots of reasons actually, but friction is a big one. While it's always an issue, cold weather increases friction on almost every front. Most vehicle fluids, from motor oil and transmission fluid to power steering fluid and differential gear oil, are thicker and more resistant to flowing when cold. Translation: Harder to pump, more work for the engine. Another less obvious source of friction is rolling resistance.
First of all, cold temperatures lower the pressure in your vehicle’s tires by 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degrees that the temperature plummets. Secondly, when the weather turns foul, vehicles must work harder to push through snow and slush. Both of these conditions equal greater rolling resistance and more fuel used to cover the same distance. Add to that the fact that gasoline doesn’t atomize and burn as well in cold temperatures; trace amounts of unburned fuel are left in the cylinder and evacuated with the exhaust. Yes, it’s a double-whammy. Not only does that unburned fuel equal lost power, it also substantially increases your vehicle’s emissions. But that’s not all—throw in heavy use of the heater, winter gas formulations and short trips to and fro, and it’s a recipe for pain at the pump.
What’s Happening under that Hood
All vehicles have an optimum operating temperature, and the colder it is, the longer it takes to get there. While modern engines make very efficient use of the fuel mixture entering the engine, they rely upon the oxygen sensor to monitor the O2 content of the exhaust, as well as sensors for manifold pressure, mass air flow, throttle position, and coolant temperature, among others. All of this information is communicated to the vehicle’s computer that continually adjusts ignition and valve timing as well as fuel injector pulse width, to fine tune the amount of fuel delivered to each cylinder. This is done many times per second. But here’s the caveat—this engine-management system is only at tip-top efficiency when the engine is at full operating temperature. And when the mercury’s showing low, all vehicles require longer periods of time to reach that full operating temperature—and it’s in that warm-up period that efficiency is lost.
Add to that the common practice of making short trips (to minimize running to and fro in sub-zero temps and wind chills), and each time your vehicle cools down it has to come back up to optimal operating temperature. It all takes its toll.
Bottom Line: Here are the Tips
Here are some quick and easy ways to minimize the dip that your vehicle’s fuel mileage takes in the winter months:
- Check your tire air pressure monthly—and keep it in the recommended range. Even if you don’t have an air compressor, you can invest in a tire-checking gauge and then swing in to the gas station. That’s five minutes that can save more than $5/month.
- Plan your trips ahead of time—and do all your errands in one area at one time. By minimizing the stop-and-start, sporadic on-and-off operation of your vehicle in sub-zero temperatures, you’ll not only save time, you’ll minimize the amount of time your vehicle spends in warm-up mode.
- Go easy on the accelerator. We can all take this advice. And it’s easily worth 1-2 mpg. Avoid jack rabbit starts and heavy motor-down mama driving. The guy in front of you will appreciate it—and the results will show up on your next fuel bill; plus, it might help prevent a wipe-out on black ice.
- When possible, park your vehicle in a garage to keep it warmer, thereby shortening the time needed to reach full operating temperature.
- Consider a block heater, an oil pan heating pad or a fuel heater for cars parked outside in frigid parts of the country; the initial expense will be recouped many times in added fuel efficiency.
- And last but certainly not least, bring your car by our service center at 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407, to take advantage of our oil change special, that comes complete with a 27-point inspection, and we'll help you get your vehicle in peak running condition for these coming frigid months.
Fall is in full swing! Time for chilly football evenings, and dark and foggy school mornings. Changes in the your environment mean changes for your car's environment as well. October is also Car Care Awareness Month. Here are some tips to prepare you and your car for the change in weather and help you be Car Care Aware:
- School's in session -- With the fall semester in full swing, children are out on the streets earlier than during the summer. Some almost never look for traffic and have a bad habit of bolting out from between parked cars. Keep your eyes peeled and slow down. School zones have reduced speed limits and most police won't allow any speed leeway in these areas.
- Allow more travel time -- You should always drive slower when it is dark and visibility is reduced. That means your traveling time is increased, especially during inclement weather. Leave a few minutes earlier in the morning and increase your following distance by about a second.
- Inclement weather -- Indian summers, clear skies and cooler weather may lull you into a false sense of security but fall weather conditions can change abruptly. Thunder storms, sleet, hail and even snow are not that unusual. Roads covered with a summer's worth of grease become slick when wet or covered with early morning frost, so anticipate those conditions.
- Check the lights -- In Sweden, Norway and Canada, where fall driving conditions are similar to much of the U.S., there are mandatory-lights laws -- and not coincidentally, a lower accident rate. See and be seen. Drive with your headlamps on, even if it's not dark. Before starting out on any trip, walk around the car and make sure your taillights, parking lights, stop lights, directionals, emergency flashers and headlights are all working properly. Have one of our skilled mechanics aim and adjust your headlights. New cars are equipped with bright-burning halogen headlights that increase visibility. If you own an older vehicle with standard sealed-beam headlamps, consider converting to halogen lamps. The cost is more than offset by improved visibility and safety.
- Change the wiper blades -- Safety experts say wiper blades should be changed every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, or twice a year. Most of us don't change the blades even once a year. Check front and rear wipers. Examine the rubber; it should be flexible, without any missing chunks and should clear the glass without leaving any streaks. If the blades aren't performing perfectly, replace them.
- Check the brakes and tires -- If tires and brakes aren't in good condition, you won't be able to stop on slick roadways. Tires should have plenty of tread on them; if the wear bars are showing, it's time for new rubber.
- Heater and defroster check -- Fogged-up windows limit visibility and are a safety hazard. Make sure both front and rear defrosters are working properly. Front blower hoses sometimes get knocked off the defroster vents and the electric wire in the rear defogger can break. You can schedule a service appointment online to have your heating and defrosting units inspected by clicking here. A cold car is uncomfortable, and a distraction to safe driving.
- Look under the hood -- Don't get stranded in the dark. Have our service department check the condition of the coolant, belts and hoses. Get the chassis lubed, air filter replaced, oil and filter changed and battery inspected. A little work now can save a big towing bill later.
- Wash and wax -- A vehicle's first line of defense against the elements is a good wash and wax job to protect the metal surfaces from pitting and corroding, and keeps your car looking its best. Get rid of that summer grime and apply a thick coat of protective wax.
- Relax -- This may seem like a lot to get done before the Monday morning commute, but it really adds up to just a few minutes for the self-inspection, and to make an appointment with your shop if needed. For safety sake, check lights first, then do the tires, brakes, and wiper blades. And in general, simply begin your day 10 minutes earlier, have that second cup of coffee (decaf, please!) and start your commute in a relaxed a state as possible -- good advice at any time of year.
Be sure to stop by our service department at 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407, with a print-out of one of our online service coupons, and get ready for a ride through golden and rust-colored rides in the chilly evening air!
Nothing is as American as baseball, and today is a proud day for the MLB and Chevy, as Nominees for the Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet were announced on Monday by Major League Baseball, in honor of today's 12th annual Roberto Clemente Day and the start of fan voting to help determine the recipient of this prestigious honor.
Roberto Clemente Day was established by MLB to honor Clemente's legacy and to officially recognize 30 nominees, one for each club. The annual award, won last year by Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, goes to the player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement.
The Roberto Clemente Award, presented during the World Series, pays tribute to the namesake's achievements and character by recognizing current players who truly understand the value of helping others. Clemente, a 15-time All-Star and Hall of Famer, died in a plane crash on New Year's Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.
American League nominees include Adam Jones of the Orioles, Craig Breslow of the Red Sox, Hector Santiago of the White Sox, Justin Masterson of the Indians, Miguel Cabrera of the Tigers, Jose Altuve of the Astros, Billy Butler of the Royals, Jered Weaver of the Angels, Justin Morneau of the Twins, David Robertson of the Yankees, Sean Doolittle of the A's, Raul Ibanez of the Mariners, David Price of the Rays and J.P. Arencibia of the Blue Jays and Ian Kinsler of the Rangers.
National League nominees include Aaron Hill of the D-backs, Tim Hudson of the Braves, Anthony Rizzo of the Cubs, Bronson Arroyo of the Reds, Todd Helton of the Rockies, Adrian Gonzalez of the Dodgers, Logan Morrison of the Marlins, Jonathan Lucroy of the Brewers, David Wright of the Mets, Chase Utley of the Phillies, Andrew McCutchen of the Pirates, Carlos Beltran of the Cardinals, Mark Kotsay of the Padres, Barry Zito of the Giants and Ryan Zimmerman of the Nationals.
"It's an honor to be nominated for the Roberto Clemente Award," said Masterson. "So many people have been nominated in the past have done such great things. To whom much is given, much is required, and I try to live by that."
"Look at Roberto Clemente, at what he did," McCutchen said. "I don't want people to know me because I played baseball. I want people to know me for other things I did outside a baseball field. Yeah, Clemente was a great baseball player, but the things he did off the field said more about him. That's the person that I admire, and that's how I want to be."
The finalist selection process is nothing new for Hudson, who has garnered his seventh nomination in the past eight years, but he has yet to win the overall MLB award. Hudson was also nominated four times (2001-2004) while playing for the A's.
"Giving back and helping children is something that my wife, Kim, and I have enjoyed doing throughout my big league career," Hudson said previously. "We know how fortunate we are, and the importance of giving back."
"Any time you get mentioned for anything about the Roberto Clemente Award is a tremendous honor," said Hall of Famer Al Kaline, who received the honor in 1973. "Certainly after they renamed it and I was the first recipient, I was thrilled and honored."
Willie Mays won the first of these honors in 1971, when it was known as the Commissioner's Award, to recognize community service around the game. He is one of 14 Hall of Famers on the distinguished list of recipients. After 1972, the award was dedicated in Clemente's name.
Helton announced over the weekend that he is retiring at the end of this season, following a 17-year career spent entirely with Colorado. Morneau, meanwhile, is the only nominee not currently with the club he represents, as he earned the Twins honor but now plays for the Pirates.
The winner of the fan vote will receive one vote, with the rest cast by a selection panel that includes Commissioner Bud Selig; MLB Goodwill Ambassador Vera Clemente, Roberto's widow; FOX broadcasters Joe Buck and Tim McCarver; Hall of Fame Broadcaster and the "Spanish Voice of the Dodgers" Jaime Jarrin; Hall of Famer and TBS analyst Dennis Eckersley; TBS analyst Buck Martinez; MLB Network analysts and former Clemente Award winners Al Leiter and Harold Reynolds; Hall of Famer, ESPN analyst and former Roberto Clemente Award winner Barry Larkin; ESPN analyst and former Roberto Clemente Award winner Rick Sutcliffe; MLB.com senior correspondent Hal Bodley; and Chevrolet national promotions manager Mike Weidman.
Clubs playing at home on Tuesday will recognize their local nominees as part of Roberto Clemente Day ceremonies, while visiting clubs will honor their nominees at a home game before the season ends. As part of the league-wide celebration, the Roberto Clemente Day logo will appear on bases and the official dugout lineup cards.
As part of the balloting to help decide the award, participating fans will be automatically registered for a chance to win a trip to this year's World Series. You can do your part to vote and register to win the 2013 Malibu and tickets to this year's World Series here.
View our inventory of the cutting edge 2013 Chevy Malibu online here, or stob by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407 for a test drive today!
Since 1958, the Impala has been an icon of innovation and of what 1950s chief engineer, Ed Cole called a "prestige car within the reach of the average American citizen.". Its sleek design and use of modern technology has kept this model, deriving its name and iconic symbol from the south African antelope, at the head of the class for the large sedan category.
Since its production launch on March 4, 2013, the 2014 Chevy Impala has topped the foreign and domestic competition in Consumer Reports testing of large sedans, setting standards just like its predecessors. This week, the 2014 Impala is being showcased at the TechCrunch Disrupt, a cutting-edge technology conference being held in San Francisco this year.
You can find our selection of Chevy's innovative 2014 Impalas here or come by 1500 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407 to take a test drive and see for yourself what all the hype is about!
