Around the Industry 176 – Part 2

Around the Industry 176 – Part 2

GMC SIERRA GETS 2016 REFRESH

Well if the Chevrolet Silverado is getting a refresh, this is usually a sign that the GMC Sierra isn’t far behind. And what do you know, here we have it. We’re particularly fond of the GMC’s design, and GM confirms this is the top selling point of the truck. The 2016 Sierra will receive redesigned LED “C-shaped” signature daytime running lights and LED headlights; new front fascia and grilles for each trim level; new LED fog lamps; new bumpers; and new “C-shaped” LED taillights.

The new Sierra will be available in the fall of this year, with additional details and information on the new model released in the coming months.

FCA RELEASE SOFTWARE UPDATE TO PROTECT VEHICLE SECURITY

It was only a couple issues ago that we reported that there is a clear and present danger of vehicle software coming under threat of hackers. It seems as though Fiat Chrysler Auto is jumping on the issue as it has an Embedded System Quality Engineering team dedicated to identifying and implementing software best practices across FCA globally. The team’s responsibilities include development and implementation of cybersecurity standards for all vehicle content, including on-board and remote services. A number of best practices, procedures, standards, and policies govern FCA’s cybersecurity program.

As a result, this group at FCA released a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for a software update that offers customers improved vehicle electronic security and communications system enhancements. The software security update, provided at no cost to customers, also includes Uconnect improvements introduced in the 2015 model year. Customers can either download and install this particular update themselves or, if preferred, their dealer can complete this one-time update at no cost to customers.

WILDCAT CROWD FUNDING TO BUILD NEW OFF-ROADER

Wildcat, a U.K. based company famous for building rally raid vehicles for competitions such as the Dakar Rally, wants you to invest. They are looking to build a couple interesting new 4WD’s and are turning to crowd funding to raise the capital required to make these vehicles a reality.

The vehicles in question are the Wildcat W22 and MV-LSV. The W22 is based around a lightweight highly rigid composite platform and designed to provide 4WD 'track day' performance with the off-road capabilities of Wildcat, whilst retaining the comfort of a luxury SUV. The W22 has a top speed (governed) of 250 kmh (155 mph) and a world beating 0–100 kmh of under 4-seconds with torque ratings of up to 590 lb-ft. We also can’t help but notice a distinct resemblance to the Local Motors Rally Fighter.

The second car in development is the MV-LSV (Light Strike Vehicle). This military based vehicle is designed for high speed through harsh environments. The LSV's primary role is to provide the user with an ideal lightweight rapid intervention vehicle for Special Forces, border patrol, reconnaissance or strike forces.