Camaro Celebrates 50th Anniversary Next Year

This press conference focused on business strategy, and details about the vehicles were not discussed. However, the introduction timing and target price were mentioned during the presentation by Mr. Itaru Wakamatsu, who assumed the position of President and Representative Director in August 2016, so we will report on them.

In 2017, the biggest highlight for new car introductions is the "Camaro" unveiled this time. The first-generation Camaro, also exhibited at the venue, debuted in 1967. It will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year. Deliveries of the sixth-generation new Camaro are scheduled for the latter half of next year. However, a special sales campaign will be announced in January, and the price will also be released at the same time. "We want to compete with a price tag under 5 million yen," commented Mr. Wakamatsu.

Since both a coupe model and a convertible were exhibited at the venue, it is likely that both body types will be introduced. Furthermore, according to sources, the new sixth-generation Camaro features nearly 70 percent of its structural parts developed exclusively for the Camaro. Including its slightly smaller size compared to the fifth generation, it has achieved a weight reduction of about 90 kg.

President Wakamatsu stated, "It is built on an entirely new platform, achieving an unprecedented low center of gravity. Furthermore, by lowering the hip point, we have achieved beautiful proportions. This is a proportion that could only be realized with modern engineering and design technology. It is a very lean car with no excess, yet it is glamorous and athletic."

XT5 Also Scheduled for Sale

Another vehicle slated for introduction next year is the Cadillac "XT5." Along with the full-size sedan "CT6" which was introduced earlier, this vehicle plays a part in the brand transformation of the new Cadillac and is also scheduled for introduction in the latter half of next year. This vehicle is positioned as the successor to the "SRX."

For the Cadillac brand, deliveries of the CT6, announced in April of this year, began in October. "Users who have long driven Cadillacs are saying that a full-size sedan has finally arrived. And users who hadn't previously considered Cadillac are expressing great satisfaction, saying 'This is what Cadillac is like now.'" With the introduction of the CT6, Cadillac's sedan lineup is now complete, ranging from compact cars to full-size models.

Cadillac XT5

Cadillac CT6

In addition, the Cadillac brand currently offers sports sedans directly from Cadillac Racing, such as the "CTS-V" and "ATS-V," as well as the large SUV "Escalade." The Chevrolet brand also offers the "Corvette" series, including the Grand Sport, Z51, and Z06.

GM Japan stated, "First, we will concentrate resources on the two new models to achieve growth." They also shared their outlook for 2017: "We will enhance the recognition of Cadillac as an American luxury brand, and Chevrolet as an American premium sports car brand, which may now be unique."