Chevrolet Europe's environmental strategy is based on versatility. Customers already have a choice of vehicles that can run on various alternative fuels, and depending on the local infrastructure, can opt for the most favourable solution for the region in which they live – from both a financial and a convenience point of view. At the same time, they help to reduce CO₂ emissions immediately. For instance, the LPG-powered Chevrolet Matiz S 0.8, which is now available in several European countries, has a CO₂ output of only 111 g/km and is among the most environmentally compatible cars on the market.

The gasoline-powered Matiz 0.8 with a declared CO2 output of 119g/km is especially popular in countries where CO2 threshold taxation is at 120g/km. Of all manufacturers in Europe, Chevrolet ranks number six in terms of low CO₂ emissions, with a fleet average of 150g/km.

At the Geneva Motor Show, visitors can learn more about the production models already available like the Lacetti/Nubira CNG. A Captiva CNG prototype is on display in Hall 2 on the gasmobil ag stand – the center of competence operated by Swiss natural gas providers to research mobility with natural gas and biogas.

The increasing popularity of models with alternative propulsion technology is illustrated by the recent sales figures. In Germany, for example, one in every ten Chevrolets now runs on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In Italy, Chevrolet sold over 20,000 LPG-powered vehicles in 2007, which represents half of its 2007 sales. The HHR LPG study, displayed in Geneva, shows the possibility to extent the wide range of LPG models already available.

The conventional gasoline engines are compatible with biogenic fuels, and can run on the new E10 fuels without problem. E10, sometimes called gasohol, is a mixture of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline. Its classification as both standard and premium grade is expected to be standardised before the end of 2008.

Liquefied gas propulsion: the Chevrolet HHR LPG study

The Chevrolet HHR LPG could potentially hit the German market in early summer and would extend the wide range of LPG models already available there. Depending on the response of the general public, it could well be launched on other European markets soon. In addition to its gasoline tank, this model has a 66-litre LPG tank accommodated in the spare-wheel recess so as not to reduce the trunk volume of the retro-van. At the push of a button, the HHR can be switched from gasoline to LPG or vice versa (bivalent propulsion), increasing the range to 1,100 km. The performance data of the 170 hp front-wheel drive vehicle remain unchanged.

Apart from the additional tank, the conversion also includes a separate gas-regulating device, a special evaporator pressure regulator for converting the liquid gas into its gaseous aggregate state, plus the necessary fuel lines.

LPG, also known as Autogas, is widely available: In Europe, more than 10 million LPG-powered vehicles are on the road, including 2.6 million in Poland alone. There are over 20,000 LPG fuel stations throughout Europe. Apart from reducing emissions, LPG also offers financial benefits through the tax advantages it enjoys in many countries. In Germany, for example, the tax privileges will remain in force at least until December 31, 2018.

Natural gas propulsion: the Chevrolet Captiva CNG study

The Captiva CNG prototype is also bivalent – it can run alternately on compressed natural gas and gasoline. This model is based on the Captiva 3.2 V6 and can be launched initially in Switzerland as of March. Instead of the third row of seats, the Captiva CNG has three gas tanks in the trunk with a total capacity of 22 kg. The engine management and injection system has been modified for gas operation. In straight gas mode, it has a range of about 300 kilometres.

The environmental impact of this method of propulsion again is lower than that of a diesel or gasoline unit. In addition, the road tax for gas-powered engines is relatively low – and it is guaranteed to remain in place until 2018. Moreover, many local energy suppliers are sponsoring the purchase of gas-propelled vehicles with coupons or bonuses. Worldwide, more than five million cars now run on compressed natural gas.

“Drive the Chevrolet Way” DVD: driving tips for Chevrolet buyers

Because the greatest potential for fuel economy is in the driving behaviour, Chevrolet will launch a campaign for economic driving in the spring. From March, every buyer of a new Chevrolet car will receive a Chevrolet DVD called “Drive the Chevrolet Way” with practical tips on how to drive economically and minimize the impact on the environment. Alain Menu, successful racing driver in WTCC competition, accepted the challenge to compete against an every-day driver, to see who would be able to drive more economically. By following the learnings from this DVD, Chevrolet drivers will be able to reduce fuel consumption up to 30%, which is good news for the environment and saves money at the same time.