New Camaro ?

[sYc]

Ever since GM stopped producing the Camaro/Firebird in 2002, there have been rumors floating around, in magazines, on the internet, etc, about a “new” Camaro being built. Well, I have been asked by a high ranking GM executive to post that GM has NO plans to re-release the Camaro/Firebird. To quote him ”it would be both morally and legally wrong to do so”. This is do in part to agreements GM made with the Canadian Auto Workers Union and numerous Canadian governmental agencies, basically stating that GM would not use the Camaro/Firebird name, nor build the cars elsewhere.

[jg95z28]

That's for that High Ranking GM Official, not you Tom. GM is working on a Zeta based Chevy RWD coupe for 2007-8 that fits the "Camaro-style". They haven't named it yet because of the issues with the CAW, however there is a strong sentiment that has been lobbying GM to call it "CAMARO" and not something else. (Chevelle has also been rumored.) It sounds like this GM official is scrambling in light of the story in the September 2004 issue of Popular Hot Rodding.

The future Chevy RWD coupe is REAL. Only the name has yet to be decided. However, it was once rumoured to be scheduled for the 2008 MY cycle, but now suppliers are saying they've been asked to deliver for the 2007 MY. If its not going to be called "CAMARO" then why rush it to production for the 40th anniversary of the Camaro?

There's been much discussion on this car for over a year now at http://www.camaroz28.com on their "5th gen" forum. If anyone is interested in more information on the next Camaro, that is the place to look.

[77Z28]

Well that really blows!!! Just when I was getting excited about saving my money for the release of the 2007 Camaro due to all the hype (like you said magazine articles [latest Popular Hot Rodding] internet chat, etc.) you tell me this. All kinds of articles regarding this "new Camaro" would say that GM/Chevrolet stated the Camaro/Firebird were on "hiatis" therefore the idea has always been that they havn't killed it forever. I have read that the Camaro name is the third most recognized car name in all of GM's line-up. I cannot imagine they would allow themselves to never use this name again. Stupid

Oh well, I guess I will have to wait for the re-vamped GTO or new Chevelle (probably just a rumor too)

Todd

[sYc]

Jeff, I would say you are right, that the PHR article is what caused the stirr.

As per what is really going on at GM, I have no idea. But, I can say that this comes from way up the food chain at GM, thus I feel it deserves consideration.

And kind of interesting you mentioned the Chevelle name as being a possiblity, as I know GM still retains the rights to that name and has reframed from allowing other entities to use the name.

Will be interesting to see how this all plays out.

[jg95z28]

I knew it was a little premature for that article to come out. GM only recently demolished the St. Therese plant where the 4th gen F-bodies were built. They need to renegotiate the next CAW contract, however there has been rumors that a new Canadian plant will be the future home for Zeta based cars for Pontiac (GTO), Chevy and Buick. The only problem is that plant isn't expected to go online until 2008-9 MY production.

However, several people with GM contacts close to the project have said that a new car is coming. It's my belief that GM will need to weigh in the cost to use the "Camaro" name again. (It won't be cheap.) However, it may be worth it.

Scott Settlemire has asked for folks who wish for the name to be revived to write him in care of GM. If anyone here is interested in a new "Camaro", then I suggest you consider writing him. See this link for Scott's request and contact info at GM. > http://web.camaross.com/forums/showthread.php?t=251052