With an aggressive look and exclusive dynamic set-up, the unique model marks the end of Chevrolet's 100th anniversary celebrations
General Motors closes its centennial celebrations in Brazil with a demonstration of its local engineering. The automaker presented the new Onix Track Day, a “show car” developed exclusively for use on tracks that gives sportiness to the best-selling passenger car in the 100 years of GM in Brazil.
The centerpiece of the concept is the mechanics: the vehicle adopts the 1.2 turbo engine, which received specific calibration for racetracks, associated with a six-speed manual transmission — a set used in the Chevrolet Montana. To ensure the “ground”, the suspension was lowered by 100 millimeters compared to the street version, while the wheels gained new dimensions to expand the gauges, increasing tangential stability and precision in high-speed corners.
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Inside, the New Onix Track Day dispenses with comforts in the name of performance. There was a strict “diet” with the removal of finishing and soundproofing items, as well as the installation of bucket seats and five-point belts. The result is a weight reduction of approximately 150 kg.
According to data from the manufacturer, the set allows acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h under eight seconds. More satisfactory is the performance projection at the Interlagos racetrack, where the model is capable of turning times in the two-minute range, depending on weather conditions.
“The project exploits the excellent dynamics of the Onix production and adds a level of preparation that makes it agile, precise and pleasant to drive”, evaluates Ricardo Fanucchi, Director of Engineering at GM South America.
Aesthetically, the car sports yellow stripes, a functional spoiler and the number 100 on the doors. The concept also serves as an evolutionary comparison: it technically surpasses a similar prototype presented in 2015, proving the superiority of the current 1.2 turbo three-cylinder engine over the old aspirated 1.8, delivering more torque at low revs and greater thermal efficiency.
