Graff Mt. Pleasant Blog: December 2016

Friday, December 30, 2016

2017 Chevrolet Lineup

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– As 2016 ends, we can now look forward to what Chevrolet has to offer in 2017 and beyond. Their new lineup is led by the 2017 Bolt EV, which has already collected numerous car of the year awards, and accompanied by brand classics like the Camaro, Cruze, and Silverado. Many of these new 2017 models also come equipped with the Chevrolet Teen Driver Technology, a new software that uses speed warnings, volume limits, and other features to help keep young inexperienced drivers safe out on the road.

2017 Models

BOLT EV

Named the MOTOR TREND 2017 CAR OF THE YEAR®, Chevrolet’s affordable long-range electric vehicle offers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range per full charge with roominess and versatility.

CAMARO

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of its induction in 2017 with a 50th anniversary edition and badges, the new Camaro comes offered with a standard 2.0L Turbo or available 3.6L V-6 engines.

MALIBU

Malibu topped the Midsize Car category in the 2016 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study for the second consecutive year. Nine-speed automatic transmission is standard on Premier with 2.0L Turbo engine.

CRUZE

This stylish vehicle is now offered in not just the standard model but the Cruze hatchback with 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and the Cruze diesel sedan. The standard 1.4L turbo engine with direct injection enables 0-60 mph acceleration in 7.7 seconds.

SPARK ACTIV

A sportier take on the brand’s versatile, connected mini-car offers 27.2 cubic feet of roomy cargo space and comes powered by an Ecotec 1.4L engine offered with a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel economy is GM estimated at 29 city and 37 highway with the manual transmission and 30 city/37 highway with the CVT.

TRAX

The new Trax enters 2017 with a fresh look, turbocharged performance and 10 standard air bags, expected to be the most of any competitor in its segment.

VOLT

Volt owners have driven more than 650 million EV miles, saving 34 million gallons of gas – and they drive all-electric more than 80 percent of the time. The Volt offers 53 miles of EV range and 420 miles total driving range.

SILVERADO

The new Silverado 1500’s 12,500-lb. max trailering rating tops the segment for crew cab models, and is powered can be powered by either a 4.3L V-6, 5.3L V-8, or 6.2L V-8.

SUBURBAN

Introduced in 1935, it is the oldest continuously produced vehicle nameplate in the industry. The 2017 Suburban offers up to 8,300 pounds of trailering capacity when properly equipped, and up to 121.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The standard 5.3L V-8 engine with direct injection and Active Fuel Management provides 355 horsepower and segment-leading fuel economy, 23 mpg highway.

TAHOE

Along with Suburban, Chevrolet’s full-size SUVs represent nearly 50 percent of the segment, and the Tahoe was the highest-ranked large SUV in the J.D. Power 2016 U.S. Initial Quality Survey.

New 2018 models

EQUINOX

All-new for 2018, the Equinox is a fresh and modern SUV designed to help keep passengers safe, comfortable and connected. Three new turbo engine choices will include what is expected to be the segment’s first turbo-diesel.

TRAVERSE

Redesigned for 2018, the next-generation Traverse is expected to offer best-in-class third-row legroom and cargo room. Premium cues, new technologies and all-new trim levels expand customer choices. The 2018 Traverse will debut on January 9th at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The new 2017 Chevrolet lineup looks to be an impressive group that will help propel Chevy into the new year. If you're interested in driving a new 2017 model Chevy vehicle this year, stop by our dealership today! We'd be happy to help you find the SUV, truck, sedan or crossover you're looking for. We also want to help you be safe on the road this winter. Also, your safety is our chief concern at Graff Chevrolet in Mt. Pleasant and we recommend preparing for the cold and icy winter ahead by making sure to complete your Winter Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant Service Center.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Friday, December 23, 2016

Chevrolet Delivers the First Bolt EVs to Customers

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– To kick off the distribution of their new electric automotive marvel to dealerships all across the country, Chevrolet has delivered the first 2017 Bolt EVs to three lucky customers. The new owners were selected for their unique interest and history with eco-friendly vehicles. The all-new Bolt offers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range on a full charge, five times the average daily commute of 40 miles, enabling owners to go beyond their typical daily driving needs.

The first three customers to receive the highly anticipated Bolt EV:

William “Bill” Mattos, a retired law enforcement officer from Fremont, California, whose new Bolt EV becomes his third Chevrolet electric, after previously owning a Spark EV and second-generation Volt
Bobby Edmonds, a software developer with a family of four from Castro Valley, California, who replaces a BMW i3 with the Bolt EV
Steve Henry, a commercial real estate broker with a family of five from Portola Valley, California, whose new Bolt EV replaces a Toyota Prius

“The range and technology attracted me to the Bolt EV,” said Bobby Edmonds. “It’s also a great-looking, roomy vehicle and I love the fact it’s from an American brand. I look forward to the longer drives I can make compared to the i3 that I owned.”

The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is coming off an impressive few months a the end of 2016 after being named the Motor Trend 2017 Car of the Year, the Green Car Journal Green Car of the Year, and to the Car and Driver – 10Best Cars list. The Bolt EV has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price starting at $37,495. Customers may receive an available federal tax credit of up to $7,500, depending on individual tax situations.

Standard features include:

Electronic precision shift
Regen on Demand™ steering wheel paddle
17" painted aluminum wheels
10.2-inch diagonal color touch-screen
Rear vision camera
Michelin self-sealing tires

The first wave of Bolt EVs available to the public will arrive this month and are currently in transit to California and Oregon markets. A national rollout begins in 2017 however, with Northeast and Mid-Atlantic States including seeing the first deliveries this winter. Dealerships in additional major metro markets will get the Bolt EV throughout the first half of 2017 and Bolt EV-certified dealerships across the United States by mid-2017.

So while Chevrolet has delivered the first three Bolt EVs to their owners, expect to see them motoring around your neck of the woods by mid-2017. If you're interested in driving a new vehicle in 2017 we recommend stopping by our dealership. We'd be happy to help you find the SUV, truck, sedan or crossover you're looking for. We also want to help you be safe on the road this winter. Make sure to complete your Winter Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant Service Center.

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

DIY Christmas Ornaments

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– This time of year, we are treated to the beautiful sight of Christmas trees with all of their lights and ornaments. Your own tree is probably filled with charming and sentimental ornaments you've collected over the years. This year, why not add some homemade cheer to your decorations? You can make these DIY Christmas ornaments by yourself or use them as a craft to do with your kids.

Sprinkles Ornament

Cute and colorful, these will be your little one's favorite ornaments to make.

Scrabble Tile Ornament

We love the ingenuity of this ornament. Plus, you can write nearly anything! Let it snow, Merry Christmas, Jingle Bells to name a few.

Popsicle Stick Sled

Another easy, kid-friendly ornament that leaves room for a lot of customization!

Pine Cone Bow Ornament

A simple and elegant ornament that will give your tree a rustic feel.

Mason Jar Ornaments

This beautiful snowglobe-like ornament will impress all of your family on Christmas day.

Need more yuletide inspiration? Check out these DIY Christmas ornaments and other crafts, decorations, and recipes on our Happy Holidays Pinterest Board! Also, why not make things easy on Santa this year and take a look at our online inventory to find the vehicle at the top of your wish list! Happy Holidays from Graff Mt. Pleasant!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Festive Christmas Treat Recipes

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– The holiday season is a time to indulge with as many sweets as you can sample! However, cookies always tend to take the spotlight. Not that that's a bad thing of course, but we thought it might be nice to inspire you to try something different this year. So, we've compiled a list of festive Christmas treat recipes for the holiday season that will delight kids from ages one to 92!

Santa Hat Cheesecake Bites

Your little elves will think these are the cutest treats they've ever had!

Peanut Clusters

There's not much to dislike about these. But be careful, they can be highly addictive!

Grinch Popcorn

The favorite snack of every Who down in Whoville!

Coconut Snowballs

A coconut dream that will warm you up on snowy nights.

Holiday Puppy Chow

Perfect for putting out as a decorative piece for visitors to munch on.

White Chocolate Cover Pretzels

These beautiful creations will look as good in a picture as they will taste in your mouth!

Gingerbread Men Cookies

We know we said there wouldn't be any cookies on this list. But we feel that the classic gingerbread men have been under-represented as of late and need to make a comeback!

Need more holiday inspiration? Check out these festive Christmas treat recipes along with other crafts, decorations, and recipes on our Happy Holidays Pinterest Board! Also, why not make things easy on Santa this year and take a look at our online inventory to find the vehicle at the top of your wish list! Happy Holidays from Graff Mt. Pleasant! Prepare for the inclement weather ahead by visiting our Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant Service Center to get your vehicle in top shape and ready to handle anything winter throws at us.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube

Friday, December 9, 2016

Chevrolet Teen Driver Technology at Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– Your young teen has just gotten their license and now they're off on the open road. Naturally, you're worried about them. Teen drivers are inexperienced, play loud music, are often accompanied by distracting passengers, and speed at a higher rate than other drivers. But what can you really do about it if you're not in the car with them? The Chevrolet Teen Driver Technology, now available at Graff Chevrolet in Mt. Pleasant, is the solution. It's a comprehensive technology system that will monitor the driving habits of your young motorist and help to keep them safe.

Teen Driver Speed Alert

The Teen Driver Speed Alert allows you to set a speed limit for the vehicle. When your teen driver crosses that limit while driving, an audible and visual alert will sound.

Teen Driver Volume Limit & Volume Mute

We all know that teenagers love playing their music loudly, but unfortunately it can be a big distraction on the road. The Teen Driver technology now allows you to put a volume limit on the vehicle's radio, allowing you to keep the noise at an acceptable level. Also, the music will automatically mute until the front safety belts are fastened.

Teen Driver Report Card

The in-vehicle Teen Driver Report Card gives you the ability to review your teen's driving habits. The report card will tally all of the information on their trips in the vehicle, including distance driven, over-speed warnings, and forward collision alerts among many others. Use this information to then continue to teach your child safe driving habits.

Easy Access to Teen Driver Technology Through Chevrolet MyLink Touchscreen Display

The Teen Driver Technology interfaces through the Chevrolet MyLink touchscreen. It's simple and easy to set up! But if you need help. our experienced technicians are always willing to help.

Teen Driver Technology is Currently Available in Select Chevy Models

Teen Driver is now available in the following models:

2016 Malibu

2017 Malibu

2017 Camaro

2017 Cruze

2017 Silverado 1500

2017 Tahoe

Coming soon to:

2017 Volt

2017 Bolt EV

2017 Colorado

2017 Silverado HD

2017 Suburban

Chevrolet Teen Driver Technology, now available at Graff Chevrolet in Mt. Pleasant, will help to improve your teen driver's abilites and give you peace of mind when they're out on the road. To experience the technology for yourself, browse our new Chevrolet inventory and stop by the dealership for a test drive in one of the vehicle models it is available in. If you have questions about how to use or customize your Chevrolet Teen Driver technology contact our expert technology staff at (989)-773-3937 or ask in person at your next oil change or service appointment!

Monday, December 5, 2016

6 Christmas Cookie Recipes

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– You just can't have Christmas without cookies! Walking in to a warm home with the delicious smell of a fresh batch baking in the oven is enough to make even the stingiest Scrooge smile. So, whether it's baking for Santa or for your own enjoyment, try these six Christmas cookie recipes to help make the season bright!

Nutella Stuffed Sugar Cookies

The name says it all! A perfectly gooey and delicious treat to kick off the holiday season.

Red Velvet Snowballs

These decadent treats are tasty as they are pretty to look at. Set them out in a decorative bowl for all your visitors to nibble on.

Caramel-Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gingerbread isn't just for making cute little houses, it's very tasty too!

Triple Chocolate-Hazelnut Cookies

If you like chocolate even a little bit, then these are the cookies for you. Be careful though, if you try one you may not be able to resist eating a second, or third, or fourth!

Shortbread Bites

The red and green sprinkles are a perfect way to put a festive spin on these crowd-pleasers.

Whoville Cookies

Even the Grinch himself would happily munch on these! Plus, they're the perfect cookies to leave out for Santa!

Need more holiday inspiration? Check out these six Christmas cookie recipes and other crafts, decorations, and treats on our Happy Holidays Pinterest Board! Also, why not make things easy on Santa this year and take a look at our online inventory to find the vehicle at the top of your wish list! Happy Holidays from Graff Mt. Pleasant! Prepare for the cold winter ahead by completing your Fall Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant Service Center.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube

Friday, December 2, 2016

Michigan Begins Construction on Self-Driving Vehicle Test Facility

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., –– State of Michigan officials have officially begun construction on a new self-driving vehicle test facility in Willow Run on the old grounds of the famed Arsenal of Democracy factory during World War II. The nonprofit, American Center for Mobility (ACM) will serve as a national proving ground for connected and autonomous vehicles.

Automakers are excited to use the facility now, as John Maddox, ACM’s CEO, claims to have received 45 letters of support from OEMs, major suppliers, and others who are interested in using the facility. General Motors, Ford and Toyota have all expressed enthusiasm for the project, and the engineering group SAE International has already signed a memorandum of understanding to use the facility in hopes of creating and evaluating standards for new transportation technology.

A portion of the facility will be dedicated to highway-style testing of self-driving vehicles, and is expected to open as early as December 2017. While other portions of the proving ground are to become operational in gradual phases. Parts of the highway loop will incorporate the use of public roads, and a 700-foot curved tunnel will be built as part of the test track.

With construction now underway, ACM leadership will turn to determining exactly how future users will want to collect data from the sensors and cameras installed in the infrastructure. They’ll also need to figure out how much they want to share with other manufacturers and how much will remain proprietary. Long-term plans for the facility include building a national cybersecurity research center, where the defenses of connected cars and smart infrastructure such as traffic lights can be tested and fortified. Examining the role of dedicated short-range communications and future 5G networks will be part of those plans.

Michigan's government leaders have begun construction on a self-driving vehicle test facility where a factory once stood that built B-24 bombers at the rate of a plane per hour. Officials hope that the facility will ensure the state stays relevant in the auto industry for decades to come.