10-20-2004: SHHHH! Quiet, Please. Cobalt Engineered For Quiet Performance
DETROIT - If silence is golden, the engineers working on the new 2005
Chevrolet Cobalt produced a car that would pass the test of even the strictest
librarian. Hood-to-trunk, Cobalt engineers focused on minimizing road noise.
"We were fanatical about every noise and vibration," said Cobalt Chief
Engineer Doug Parks. "That meant looking at innovative solutions not
typically found on vehicles in Cobalt's segment."
The core of the Cobalt's quiet ride is its strong lower dominant vehicle
structure that is engineered to avoid squeaks and rattles. The underbody uses
high-strength steel in strategic locations for maximum strength and structural
integrity. Also, the use of sound-deadening Quiet Steel® between the dashboard
and the engine compartment dramatically reduces noise and vibration.
The proven 2.2 -liter Ecotec engine has also been made quieter, with coated
pistons and vibration-reducing fuel line clips. An acoustically designed engine
cover and high-density acoustic hood pad help absorb engine noise, while the
connection between the engine and transmission has been stiffened to reduce
vibrations.
In addition, the entire interior front of dash and floor is lined with cast
to form foam-padded carpeting specifically designed to absorb noise. The trunk
includes foam padding and the doors and windshield feature upgraded seals.
"Through innovative engineering and high quality materials, the Cobalt
offers a ride that some might expect only from an import," said Parks.
Production for the Cobalt begins this fall in Lordstown, Ohio.
General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest vehicle manufacturer,
employs about 325,000 people globally. Founded in 1908, GM has been the global
automotive sales leader since 1931. GM today has manufacturing operations in 32
countries and its vehicles are sold in 192 countries. In 2003, GM sold nearly
8.6 million cars and trucks, about 15 percent of the global vehicle market. GM's
global headquarters are at the GM Renaissance Center in Detroit. More
information on GM and its products can be found on the company's corporate
website at www.gm.com.