HSV’s business model
going forward will include
its traditional role as a
performance enhancer,
but add OEM-level RHD
conversions as another
string to its bowHSV’s new offerings are
intended to grow sales and
its employee count
MOTORreaders will be the Chevrolet Camaro. As first
reported byMOTORin our October 2017 issue, HSV will
complete the right-hand drive conversion of the iconic
muscle car in its new Clayton headquarters having
received the crucial green light from General Motors
that made the project financially viable.
While an obvious rival for the Ford Mustang, HSV’s
business case is believed to be built on around 1000
units per year, well short of the 9000-or-so Mustangs
that will find homes in Australia in 2017 (8714 to the end
of November). Pricing won’t be confirmed until closer
to the Camaro’s July 2018 release date, butMOTOR
understands it’s aiming for the $80,000-$85,000 mark.
This is a substantially more than the Mustang, however,
HSV will only be importing the high-spec 2SS model,
which is more powerful and better-equipped than its
Blue Oval rival.
Powering the Camaro is GM’s latest 6.2-litre LT1 V8
producing 340kW/615Nm through either a six-speed
manual or eight-speed automatic. Performance figures
are yet to be released, but based on US testing we’d
expect 0-100km/h in around 4.8sec for the manual and
4.5sec for the auto.
Also standard on the 2SS are Brembo brakes and
Chevrolet’s sports-tuned suspension, though there’s
currently no word on if the optional MagneRide
dampers, such as those fitted to the HSV GTS, will
be available to Australian customers. Inside, there’s
electrically adjustable heated and ventilated seats, a
nine-speaker Bose audio system and head-up display.
HSV’s existing dealers – 58 in Australia and six in
New Zealand – will be rebranded Chevrolet, though
an HSV presence will still be required as the brand
expects to offer as many as five models in years to
come. As part of its new long-term agreement with
Holden, HSV effectively now has access to the entire
GM catalogue, whether that be hotting up Holden’s
offerings or converting the more niche products.
Over the next 25 pages, we’ll celebrate what’s been,
while investigating what’s to come.
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