Ken Fichtner

Hello from the Big Sky Country of Montana!

With the buildout of the 2005 Corvette and the slow startup of the new Z06 and the late introduction of the 2006 Coupe and Convertible, there has been little in the way of “new” news to report!

After taking a couple of weeks off I am finally publishing an updated newsletter!


IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:

Fichtner Chevrolet was founded in 1953 by my grandfather, Theodore Fichtner.

My father, Leonard Fichtner, became the dealer in 1961.

On June 8, 2005, I, Kenneth Fichtner, became the dealer. I am as you can see, the 3rd generation!

Don’t forget to read these WEEKLY newsletters and make sure you watch for the WEEKLY parts specials in our parts department:

GM Protection Plan News and FAQ:
Dennis Fichtner will be publishing a weekly newsletter with details on the GM Protection Plan. He will include a new “frequently asked question” each week. Look for this great addition soon. Finally, please remember that you won’t pay sales tax on a plan purchased from us.

Parts, Accessories and Service News:
Robert Wendorff will be publishing a weekly newsletter with details on all of our parts and accessories offerings. Watch for a weekly special as well as each week he will pick one item to sell at a deep discount. Note that we aren’t selling parts at a loss and then adding an exhorbidant amount for shipping and handling. Further, note that there isn’t any sales tax in Montana thus saving you more!

Fichtner Chevrolet personnel directory:

GM Protection Plans and New Car/Truck Sales:
Dennis Fichtner, Business Manager
gmpp@fichtnerchevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 105

Corvette Sales and Advice
Ken Fichtner, Dealer
kenfichtner@fichtnerchevrolet.com
406-628-4618 Ext 103

Parts:
Robert Wendorff, Parts Manager
Parts@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121

John Thomas Dorsey, Parts Specialist
Parts@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4121

Service:
Maudie Merck, Service Manager
Service@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Office Administration/Accounting:
Kayla Eastlick
KEastlick@FichtnerChevrolet.com
406-628-4618

Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter and thanks for your business!

Index of topics:

Weekly Newsletter – Contents (everything updated!)

1) The latest news from GM – 8/1/05
2) 2005 Corvette Final Buildout Date, 2006 Corvette Colors Offered for 2005, 2006 Startup Information
3) 2006 Corvette Z06 Order Guide
4) 2006 Corvette Coupe/Convertible Order Guide
5) 2006 Corvette Z06 Allocation Information
6) 2006 Corvette Z06 Pricing
7) 2006 Corvette Press Release – NEW !! 8/1/05
8) Corvette Pricing Forumula Revealed
9) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates
10) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2005
11) Weekly Constraint/Production News
12) GM Performance Parts LS7 Crate Engine Distribution Program – NEW!!


1) The latest news from GM and Chevrolet

Dealers denounce employee discount
Survey respondents hate smaller margins
Sales soared, but Big 3 dealers were not impressed: Most will welcome the demise of the automakers' employee discounts for all customers. In an unscientific Automotive News survey last week, 57 percent of Big 3 dealers said automakers should end the discounts.

New Corvette Z06 is fast as lightning, strong as steel
Dana supplies aluminum frame to reduce weight
Sometimes it's what you can't see that makes a car different. Consider the 2006 Corvette Z06. While it may look like a regular C6 Corvette, the Z06 that goes on sale in the fourth quarter will have a new 7-liter V-8 engine capable of producing 505 hp. That is 100 hp more than the previous Z06.

GM cuts 2006 prices on several models
General Motors appears to be serious about so-called value pricing, which is an effort to bring sticker prices closer to transaction prices. On many 2006 Chevrolet cars as well as Buick and Pontiac cars and trucks, the introductory 2006 stickers are substantially lower than the final 2005 stickers.

Date: July 27, 2005
To: All Chevrolet Dealers
Subject: Chevrolet Top Five Countdown

As July comes to an end, this edition of Chevrolet's Top Five Countdown includes a potpourri of topics from the Big Dog Division…

1. Impala meets the press. Ed Peper, Chevrolet General Manager, spent most of this week hosting our Impala Drive Event in Nashville, Tennessee. Writers from enthusiast, business, lifestyle, and diversity publications had an opportunity to experience the refinement and outstanding performance of our all-new Impala. Please look for the articles from this media event in coming weeks.

2. The Ultimate Halo Vehicle. The new 2006 Corvette Z06 has started production! The Corvette Z06 brings racing technology to the street with a 7.0 liter 427 cubic inch 505 hp small block V8, dry sump oil system, carbon fiber fenders and floor, huge cross drilled brakes, and lightweight aluminum frame. It is the closest thing to a street legal LeMans GT1 winning C6.R you can get. Performance numbers are 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, 1/4 mile in 11.7 seconds at 125 mph, 1.04 maximum lateral g's on the skidpad, and a 198 mph top speed. The 2006 Corvette Z06 is simply the highest performance production car ever produced by Chevrolet and General Motors.

3. HHR is Rockin' Motor Trend. Check out the September issue of Motor Trend. The new Chevy HHR is reviewed "head to head" with the PT Cruiser with some great results….First place to HHR! They "love its muscular stance, bulging fenders, and aggressive snout." The "buzz" continues to build on Chevrolet's new small utility entry.

4. Product Trainers go back to school early. Our In-Dealership Product Trainers were in Detroit this week meeting with the Chevrolet Marketing Teams. They received the full '06MY story for all our vehicles. They are now armed with the latest product information and are ready to provide you and your teams the download on all that is new with our exciting 2006 Chevrolet lineup.

5. Colorado and Equinox: Did you know? By now you have likely heard about the record-breaking sales performance of the Silverado last month. However, Silverado is not the only Chevrolet Truck on a roll. Did you know that Colorado and Equinox both had their best total sales month since launch in June 2005? In addition, both the Colorado and Equinox topped their respective segments in sales last month. Look for July sales highlights from these and other Chevrolet vehicles in our next edition of our Top 5.

2) 2005 Corvette Buildout Information & Final Buildout Date

2005 Model Year Corvette Coupe/Convertible Final Production Date

Dealers were able to view their actual allocations on July 27, 2005.

Allocations available during the July consensus will be available for production August 22 thru September 8, 2005.

The final date of 2005 production is September 8, 2005.

2006 Model Year Corvette Coupe/Convertible Startup Production Date –

Dealers will be able to consense (agree to accept allocations) for 2006 Corvette Coupes/Convertibles in July, 2005.

Dealers were able to view their actual allocations on July 27, 2005.

Dealers may begin submitting orders for 2006 Coupes/Convertibles SOON!

We are still waiting for the dealer order guides.

Allocations available during the July consensus will be available for production September 9 thru October 2, 2005.

The first day of 2006 Coupe(non Z06/Convertible production is September 9, 2005.

2006 Model Year Corvette Z06 Startup Production Date

Order guides are now available.

Dealers will be able to consense (agree to accept allocations) for 2006 Corvette Z06s in June, 2005.

Dealers will have a 6 month production outlook available in June.

This model will begin to ship in limited quantities in the third quarter.

Full production will occur in the fourth quarter.

Dealers were able to begin submitting orders for the 2006 Z06 on June 16, 2005.

Allocations available during the June consensus will be available for production July 25, 2005 thru July 31, 2005.

The first day of 2006 Z06 production was July 25, 2005.

3) 2006 Corvette Z06 Order Guide

Click here for the complete guide:
http://temp.corvetteforum.net/c5/ken...rder_guide.pdf

DEALERS WERE ABLE TO BEGIN SUBMITTING ORDER REQUESTS ON 6/16/05

4) 2006 Corvette Coupe/Convertible Order Guide

Click here for the complete guide:

NOT AVAILABLE AS OF 8/1/05

Dealers will be able to begins submitting order requests when the guide is released.


5) 2006 Corvette Z06 Allocation Information

Corvette Z06 Allocation Plan
The 2006 Corvette Z06 allocation plan is a 2 phase process. While the details of each phase are shown below, there are some key points worth noting. First, not every Certified Corvette Dealer will receive a 2006 Corvette Z06 model. The Z06 model will have its own allocation group - Z06. And, Corvette Z06 retail production will be allocated to eligible Corvette Dealers using the most current 52-week total retail Corvette sales.
• Dealers will be able to view current month allocation plus one month outlook
• Each Dealer will be mailed a six month allocation outlook
• In December, a four month outlook will be communicated based on the most current 52-week sales history
• In April 2006, distribution will provide the balance of model year outlook based on the latest 52-week sales history for buildout
• The above steps were established to discourage over commitment/selling
Phase I Details
• Dealers will be placed in Tiers based on their 52 weeks of retail Corvette sale
history (June 2004 - May 2005) for the first 3 consensus cycles.
- Tier 1 will be comprised of the 25 largest volume Corvette Dealers
- Tier 2 will include the largest 125 Corvette Dealers
- Tier 3 will expand to include the largest 300 Corvette Dealers
• Initial consensus:
- June 2005 (for production week 33)
- Exclusively to Tier 1 Dealers using the June 2004 - May 2005 sales history
• Second consensus:
- July 2005 (for production weeks 34 - 36)
- Exclusively to Tier 1 & 2 Dealers based on the launch sales data
• Third and final Phase I consensus:
- August 2005 (for production weeks 37 - 40)
- Distributed to Tier 1, 2 & 3 Dealers
• Consensed allocations will be "protected", so that Dealers cannot accidentally
loose their allocations. Pattern Z06 orders will be created as necessary during
weekly DOSP cycles.
Phase II Details
• Eliminates the assignment of Dealer Tiers. All Certified Corvette
Dealers with a June 2004 - May 2005 sales history will be comprehended
in the balance of allocation calculations.
• The allocation determined by the same formula in phase 1
• Begins with the September 2005 consensus (for production weeks 41 - 45)
• Due to the limited production of the Z06 model there will be no
guarantee that each Certified Corvette Dealer will receive allocation
for a Z06 model
• Consensed allocations will continue to be "protected", from accidental
loss. Pattern Z06 orders will be created as necessary during weekly
DOSP cycles.
• Z06 will not qualify for PEP, but will be eligible for EVP Drive & Buy
and GMS/Supplier when the current incentive program expires
Don’t be misled by your dealer!

Please note that EVERY Chevrolet dealer received a letter from the Corvette Marketing Team dated June 15, 2005.

Before you place an order and give a deposit to your dealer of choice based upon what they tell you, ask to see this letter!!!!

Have a successful day,
Ken Fichtner
Fichtner Chevrolet


Here’s what the letter says:

XXXXXX
XYZ Chevrolet
123 Main Street
Anywhere, MT XXXXX

Attention: Dealer Operator and New Car Sales Manager

Subject: Corvette Z06 Allocation Projection

An integral part of the 2006 Corvette Z06 distribution plan is to provide an extended allocation projection to all eligible Corvette dealers. This is a projection and not a commitment, but is intended to assist dealers in managing customer expectations in line with dealer allocation.

Below is your dealership’s projected allocation of Z06 through December 2005 production. A second extended projection will be provided in December. Please keep in mind that this allocation projection is based on an estimated production schedule and therefore must continue to be considered as a projection and is not to be considered an absolute commitment.

Your Z06 Estimated Allocations:
July August September October November December
# # # # # #

If a dealer chooses not to consent to their Z06 allocation that allocation will be redistributed to another eligible dealer during the variance resolution and will not be rolled forward nor will it be converted to regular Corvette allocation.

Note: Complete details of the Z06 Distribution Plan are available in Chevylaunch.com

CORVETTE MARKETING TEAM

6) 2006 Corvette Z06 Pricing

2006 CHEVROLET INTRODUCTION PRICES!

CHEVROLET IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE INTRODUCTORY PRICES FOR THE 2006 MODEL YEAR HHR, IMPALA, COLORADO CREW CAB, COLORADO EXT CAB, COBALT, UPLANDER, EQUINOX, EXPRESS, TAHOE, SUBURBAN,SILVERADO, TRAILBLAZER, TRAILBLAZER EXT, AVALANCHE, Z06 CORVETTE, SSR, MALIBU AND AVEO. PRICING INFORMATION FOR OTHER CHEVROLET MODELS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT A LATER DATE.

SPECIFIC PRICING INFORMATION INCLUDING DEALER INVOICE, DEALER PRICE AND DESTINATION CHARGES ARE AVAILABLE IN GM DEALERWORLD UNDER SALES &/OR F&I TABS EFFECTIVE JUNE 13, 2005. REFERENCE ADMINISTRATIVE MESSAGE #VSF20040006 (DATED FEBRUARY 26, 2004) FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING THIS WEB SITE. DETAIL OF THE WHOLESALE FLOOR PLAN RELATIVE TO 2006 MODELS WILL FOLLOW UNDER SEPARATE COVER.

ON APPLICABLE MODELS, RECENTLY ANNOUNCED INCENTIVES ARE INTENDED TO STIMULATE SALES OF 2005 MY VEHICLES REMAINING IN DEALER INVENTORY AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO A PRICE REDUCTION ALLOWANCE.

GENERAL MOTORS BAILMENT PROCEDURES FOR THE SHIPMENT OF EARLY NEW MODEL VEHICLES REMAINS UNCHANGED FROM 2005 MODEL YEAR. PLEASE REFER TO GM DEALER BULLETIN 03-15DATED JULY 18, 2003 FOR DETAILS. PRICES, DESTINATION CHARGES AND OTHER TERMS OF SALE APPLICABLE TO ANY MOTOR VEHICLE MAY BE CHANGED AT ANY TIME.

THIS PRICING INFORMATION WILL BE REFLECTED IN GM AUTOBOOK ON GM ACCESS AT A LATER DATE.

2006 MODEL YEAR VEHICLE PRICE SCHEDULE
EFFECTIVE WITH START OF 2006 MODEL YEAR PRODUCTION

Description MSRP
1YY87 Corvette Z06 2 Door $65000.00
Destination $800.00
Preferred Equipmt Pkg 1LZ $0.00
Preferred Equipmt Pkg 2LZ $2900.00
Museum Delivery $490.00
LeMans Blue Metallic $300.00
Velocity Yellow $750.00
AM/FM with Navigation $1600.00
AM/FM 6 Disc CD, XM Satellite $1740.00
Polished Aluminum Wheels $1295.00

7) 2006 Corvette Press Release – NEW !! 8/1/05

For Release: Aug. 1, 2005

CHEVROLET CORVETTE
New for 2006 (September 2005 start of production)
• 6-speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission available on Coupe and Convertible
• Three-spoke, 370 mm (9.4 in) diameter steering wheel
• Advanced dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System
• XM Satellite Radio included with Bose stereo (48 states)
• Two exterior colors: Velocity Yellow Tintcoat and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat
• Titanium gray interior color
• Storm Gray convertible top color
Performance enhancements also are found on ’06 Coupe and Convertible models, with the availability of a new electronically controlled 6-Speed Paddle Shift transmission with automatic modes. The transmission has three driving modes – Drive, Sport and Paddle Shift – and a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a balance of stirring acceleration and excellent fuel economy.
Other changes for 2006 Corvettes include a new three-spoke, 370-mm-diameter (9.4 inches) steering wheel. The wheel is smaller in diameter than the previous steering wheel, allowing the driver to maintain a “tighter” feel on the wheel and help improve turn-in response. The three-spoke design is characteristic of a sporty design that is being implemented in other performance-oriented Chevrolet vehicles.
Here’s a look at the rest of Corvette’s changes for ’06:
GM Passenger Sensing System – Replacing the previous manually controlled air bag switch, all ’06 Corvettes come with advanced dual-stage frontal air bags with GM’s Passenger Sensing System (PSS). PSS uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. A status indicator on the inside rearview mirror alerts occupants that the passenger air bag is on or off.
XM Satellite Radio combined with Bose audio – For vehicles sold in the 48 contiguous states, XM Satellite Radio is included with the uplevel Bose audio system. The XM radio antenna is “hidden,” allowing for a smoother exterior appearance.
New exterior colors – Velocity Yellow Tintcoat and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat join the Corvette’s color palette, replacing Millennium Yellow and Magnetic Red Metallic. (Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat is not available on Z06.) The color changes were implemented on late-2005 models.
New interior color – Titanium Grey replaces Steel Grey as one of Corvette’s interior color choices.
New convertible top color – Storm Grey replaces Grey as a color choice for convertible tops.
6-Speed Paddle Shift automatic details
The new electronically controlled 6-Speed Paddle Shift automatic transmission is one of the most technologically advanced transmissions in the industry, featuring clutch to clutch operation, manual control shift operation and an integrated 32-bit electronic controller. A wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio helps deliver exciting acceleration performance along with excellent fuel economy.
The six forward gears have smaller “steps” between them, which enhances the feeling of performance and smoothness. The smaller steps also enable a steep, 4.02:1 first gear, which provides an improved-performance launch feel when compared with the previous four-speed automatic’s 3.06:1 first gear. There are two overdrive gears: a 0.85:1 ratio in fifth gear and a 0.67:1 ratio in sixth. The final drive ratio of Corvette models equipped with the new transmission is 2.56:1.
Technological sophistication is exemplified by two electronically controlled automatic modes, Drive and Sport; plus manual Paddle Shift. The Drive mode follows a specific shift schedule of predetermined shift points, while the Sport mode enables Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS). PAS modifies shift patterns when performance driving is recognized by the controller. The Drive mode optimizes shifts for smoothness, while the Sport mode enables firmer shifts for better performance. With the Paddle Shift mode, gear changes are made with manual control paddles located on the steering wheel.
The performance and functions of the six-speed paddle shift transmission with automatic modes are guided by an integrated controller. The controller is located inside the transmission, reducing complexity. A new 300-mm torque converter, new rear bell housing, new driveline support and revised-length driveshaft also support the transmission’s integration into the Corvette.
Coupe and convertible details
The 2006 Corvette’s new features and refinements enhance a groundbreaking sports car that was all-new in 2005. It is a performance car that is home in virtually any environment, whether daily commuting or weekend racing. Coupe and Convertible models come with the LS2 6.0L V-8 engine that produces 400 horsepower (298 kw) and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 Nm). It is matched to a rear transaxle that helps improve vehicle weight balance – a six-speed manual is standard and the new six-speed paddle shift transmission with automatic modes is available. The front and rear short/long arm suspensions reflect the most competition-influenced suspension tuning in the Corvette’s history.
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round taillamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the Coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.
The 2006 Corvette Convertible features an optional power-operated soft top; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.
Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim that looks like a leather-wrapped, padded panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.
An AM/FM radio with CD player and MP3 capability is standard. New technology enhances conventional radio reception. An improved optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer and XM Satellite Radio (continental U.S. only) add to the choices available to the audiophile owner.
A full-function OnStar system is available and an onboard navigation system is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on one disc.
OnStar-equipped Corvette models feature OnStar dual-mode (analog-digital) equipment. OnStar’s digital equipment also includes enhanced hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada . Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Hands-Free Calling that allows drivers to make and receive voice-activated phone calls using an externally mounted antenna for greater reception.
Corvette Coupe and Convertible have a hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. New Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.
Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.
The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. The system has been improved to deliver more differentiation between the system’s “Tour” and “Sport” settings.
The Z51 Performance Package brings Coupe and Covertible performance very close to the widely admired C5 Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches/340 mm in front and 13 inches/330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.
With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control systems – anti-lock braking, traction control, and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the new dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.


8) Corvette Pricing Revealed

I have read a number of posts with questions relative to the pricing of a new Corvette. Often times there have been answers posted and for the most part the answers have been incorrect.

In an attempt to clear up a few misunderstandings I have prepared an analysis for your information. I am in no way saying that a dealer should sell you a car at any specific price nor am I saying that a dealer is required to offer GM Supplier or GM Employee pricing. This post is for information only.

Example:
2004 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe
Preferred Equipment Package 1SB
6 Speed Transmission
Sound System with Navigation
Polished Aluminum Wheels
Z51 Performance Handling Package
Destination Charge

MSRP = $53,060.00

Dealer Invoice = $46,921.85
(assuming dealer participates in the GM advertising program at 1%)

Net Dealer Cost = $45,354.05

The difference between retail and dealer invoice is $6138.15.

The difference between invoice and net cost is $1567.80, the 3% holdback paid the dealership.

Dealerships typically won’t sell a car below the dealer invoice as the holdback is an amount used by the dealership for overhead expenses including but not limited to floor plan interest, insurance, etc.

DEALERS ARE NOT PAID A VOLUME BONUS BASED UPON WHAT THEY SELL AS SOME FOLKS HAVE POSTED!!!

Dealerships are businesses, owned by folks who need to make a profit to stay in business. There are many other expenses to pay. If you are employed personally or if you own a business I doubt that you will work without receiving a paycheck.

Finally, if a dealer is willing to sell a new Corvette equipped per the example to a GM Supplier or GM Employee, here are those prices:

GM Supplier = $46,927.24
(GM rebates the dealer $891. So with a invoice of $46,921.85, the dealer makes $896.39 plus the holdback)

GM Employee = $44,906.45
(GM rebates the dealer $2613. So with a invoice of $46,921.85, the dealer makes $597.60 plus the holdback)


9) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates - Updated 8/2/05

Click here for all of the details!

http://temp.corvetteforum.net/c5/ken...centives.shtml


10) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2005 – UPDATED 7/6/05

Corvettes are NOT eligible for purchase under the GM Employee and Supplier plans.

The offering of such is based on the retail demand for the car and GM’s ability to meet said demand. GM also closely monitors the days supply of each product as they consider offering specific models under these plans.

11) Weekly Constraint/Production News – UPDATED 6/9/05

Corvette Production Weekly Constraints – 7/28/05

Weekly Constraint/Production News - UPDATED

Constraints are distributed based on Available Days’ Supply (ADS), Controlled Method or Percent of Allocation (POA). Dealers can use the weekly constraint wire to see the basic availability of an option. The percentages on the weekly constraint wire are estimated based on the national retail number of the constrained option divided by the amount of retail orders being allocated for the week.

Chevrolet Constraint Wire for 07/28/05

2005 CORVETTE

Constraint/Model/Option/Quantity Available to be Produced
00487 Corvette Cpe/Conv QG7 Polished Wheels 855
00649 Corvette Cpe/Conv Z51 Perf Handling Package 404
01473 Corvette Cpe/Conv 10U Artic White 0

2006 CORVETTE

00602 Corvette Z06 QL9 Polished Wheels 35

Orders selected this week for dealers with allocation within constraints will be produced the week of 8/22/05 thru 9/8/05.

12) GM Performance Parts LS7 Crate Engine Distribution Program

DESCRIPTION:
GM Performance Parts is excited to announce initial availability of the all new LS7 crate engine assembly. GM Performance Parts has developed a distribution plan that will ensure product availability to its top performing Authorized Centers and select Chevrolet Corvette dealers.
LS7 crate engines will be available for purchase by GM Performance Parts Authorized Centers and select Chevrolet Corvette dealers.
The top ten 2004 revenue producing GM Performance Parts Authorized Centers will be authorized to order up to four LS7 crate engines.
The top 25 Chevrolet Corvette dealers of 2004 will be authorized to order one LS7 crate engine each.
Additional LS7 crate engines will be distributed to the remaining GM Performance Parts Authorized Centers with a minimum of $100,000 performance parts revenue based on 2004 performance. Each of these centers will be authorized to order one LS7 crate engine.
If the allotment of available LS7 crate engines is not consumed, a second chance offering will be made to GM Performance Parts Centers with a minimum of $100,000 revenue based on 2004 performance. Each authorized center will be eligible to order one additional LS7 crate engine.
Once the LS7 inventory has been consumed, outstanding orders will be held and filled at a later date.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Initial Order Period: August 1, 2005 - August 31, 2005 All orders received prior to August 1, 2005 will be cancelled.
Ship Dates: 4th Quarter 2005
QUALIFICATIONS:
Must be a GM Performance Parts Authorized Center with a minimum of $100,000 annual revenue or a Top 25 Chevrolet Corvette dealer, both based on 2004 revenue.

ORDER INPUT:
Orders should be placed through your parts department via RAPID as a QPO to be charged against the open parts account.

GENERAL INFORMATION:
Dealer Price: $11,895.00 MSRP: $16,995.00
LS7 crate engine (P/N 17802397) includes:
intake manifold with injectors
injector wiring harness
fuel rails
throttle body
dry sump oil pan
exhaust manifolds
flywheel & clutch
harmonic dampener
water pump and pulley
coil packs, spark plugs and wires
engine sensors
LS7 crate engine does not include:
dry sump oil lines
dry sump tank
engine beauty cover
engine processor
air filter/air box
accessories or accessory drive

Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter and thanks for your business!

87Heaven

Thanks Ken.

By the way, #8 in your newsletter says it was updated on 8/2/2005 but I don't see any information there that is new. Is the link correct?

Thanks again!

Ken Fichtner

I just added another section so your question on section 8 is actually now a question for section 9.

The link provides information on incentives thru today, 8/1/05. I will update the link tomorrow, 8/2/05 with the new incentives.

Have a great day,
Ken Fichtner

justbruce

Hi Ken

Your newsletter describes that Corvette is eligible under plan 5-06, but not plan 5-10. Do you have any information on plan 5-13, GMID (GID). I cannot find anything concrete on this anywhere. Thanks!

bub

Good stuff Ken!

BTW; looks like a typo in the heading of the new press release, item 7)

Says "7) 2006 Corvette Z06 Pricing" (same as 6)? - looks like a cut and paste copy?), should read "7) 2006 Corvette Press Release – NEW !! 8/1/05"
(as in your index above).

Thanks again for the great timely info.

Any idea what the "improved exterior OnStar antenna" is all about? Are we trading an external XM for an external OnStar antenna???

Where's it located?

-CKB

Boozman

Thanks for the update