Now this might not be something we need here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area as we don’t get very much snow at all. In fact, being almost summer now, this might seem like an oddly timed post. However, the advancement of modern automotive technology is always inspiring to  all of us at Freeman Grapevine. Besides, who knows, this awesome new invention might become available in the future and you can say you saw it here first.

Introducing the Track N Go by AD Boivin. Source Autoblog.com

This creative solution for foul-weather-mastery comes from AD Boivin, a company better known for marketing products for powersports vehicles like motocross bikes and snowmobiles. The company says that this is the world’s first wheel-driven track system, and judging by the video available after the jump, it appears quite capable when fitted to what looks like stock GMC Sierra 4×4 pickups blasting through the snow.

Now there is no word on when, or even if the Track N Go will be released for the general consumer public to enjoy, but if it does, you know that this type of advancement will be welcomed by those where large amounts of snow can be an issue. For those of use here in Texas, unless we own a place in Colorado, we’ll probably never have a use for the Track N Go. However, knowing that it exists is cool enough. It’s like they looked into my childhood imagination and came up with an extremely useful tool that can virtually eliminate being stranded by snow.

Have you come across any other interesting automotive inventions? I think I saw an article about a new flying car that I have to read. Of course, Freeman Grapevine never knows what we’ll see next on our lot…a boat/car? That would come in really handy on Lake Grapevine.

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

Sierra, Yukon, Acadia top segments in AutoPacific’s 2016 Ideal Vehicle Awards

DETROIT – GMC today was named Most Ideal Popular Brand in AutoPacific’s 2016 Ideal Vehicle Awards for the third consecutive year. Three GMC models led their respective segments, one of only two automakers to do so.

The Acadia topped the Large Crossover SUV segment and the Yukon/Yukon XL ranked highest in the Large SUV segment. The brand’s top-selling vehicle, the GMC Sierra, led the Light Duty Pickup category for the second straight year.

Available now, the all-new 2017 GMC Acadia offers precisely-crafted interior features, next generation infotainment and innovative driver alert technologies for a quality, comfortable and convenient traveling experience.

The 2016 Ideal Vehicle Awards are based on responses from over 65,000 owners of new 2015 and 2016 model year vehicles across all major manufacturers. Surveyed after 90 days of ownership, customers were asked which changes they would make to their car or truck in 15 key categories, including ride and handling, interior storage, safety features, power and acceleration and technology.

“By asking vehicle owners if they would change various aspects of their vehicle if given the opportunity, we not only identify problem areas and opportunities for improvement, but we also find out which manufacturers are truly hitting the mark with owners,” said George Peterson, president of AutoPacific.

“The results demonstrate we are succeeding in our mission to provide our customers with a premium ownership experience,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC. “We are blending precision design, technology and capability throughout our lineup. When you add our luxury-focused Denali portfolio, which makes up nearly 25 percent of GMC sales, we are setting ourselves apart from our competitors.”

For more information about AutoPacific’s 2016 Ideal Vehicle Awards, visit www.autopacific.com.

Read the entire article at GMC.com!

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

All-new 2017 GMC Acadia introduces industry-first feature to help busy drivers

DETROIT — Life moves fast. There are a million things on everyone’s mind, and sometimes even the most organized among us need a little help remembering everything. The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia is helping to address this issue with the Rear Seat Reminder, a new, industry-first feature designed to remind drivers to check the back seat as they exit their vehicle under certain circumstances.

Each year in the U.S., about half of the children under age 14 who die of in-vehicle heatstroke do so as a result of being forgotten. Also, items left in the back seat are a target for theft. Nearly 23 percent of larceny in 2014 was from a motor vehicle, according to the FBI.

“Acadia drivers live busy lives with demanding schedules, and the Rear Seat Reminder helps protect the things we care about most,” said Tricia Morrow, GM global safety strategy engineer. “Whether it’s your lunch, laptop, pet or most importantly, your child, it’s easier than it seems to forget what’s in the back seat when moving between life’s events. With this new feature, we are leading the charge to address this ongoing problem.”

The Rear Seat Reminder works by monitoring the Acadia’s rear doors. The feature is intended to activate when either rear door is opened and closed within 10 minutes before the vehicle is started, or if they are opened and closed while the vehicle is running. Under these circumstances, the next time the vehicle is turned off after a door activation, the Acadia is designed to sound five audible chimes and display a message in the driver information center that reads, “Rear Seat Reminder / Look in Rear Seat.”

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

DETROIT – GMC today released the first photos of the 2017 Sierra Denali 2500HD featuring a functional hood scoop design hinting at what is beneath its bold new appearance.

In May 2016, Sierra Denali HDs accounted for 48 percent of HD retail sales.

Additional details and information on the new model will be released in the coming months.

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

Unique chrome accents, 22-inch wheels offer upscale style

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. – GMC today announced the 2016 Yukon SLT Premium Edition – a chrome-trimmed special model offering a premium, personalized appearance on SLT models.

It goes on sale this summer, offered on Yukon and Yukon XL models. Features include:

• Unique design 22-inch chrome-wheels
• Unique design chrome grille
• Bright chrome body-side moldings
• Polished exhaust tip

“The new Yukon SLT Premium Edition adds distinction and personalized style to the already well-appointed Yukon SLT model,” said Stu Pierce, senior marketing manager, GMC Trucks & Full-size SUVs. “For discerning customers seeking uncompromising capability and unparalleled refinement in a full-size SUV, Yukon SLT Premium Edition delivers with the latest in technologies, amenities and a unique and premium style.”

Yukon and Yukon XL SLT models are powered by an advanced 5.3L V-8 engine that offers the segment’s best V-8 fuel economy: an EPA-estimated 23 highway mpg (2WD models).

Additional standard and available features on SLT models include:

• Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience, including an available power-folding feature
• Power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings and hands-free operation
• Wireless phone charging
• Standard 8-inch-diagonal color touch-screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility
• Keyless Open and Start
• 8,500-lb. max trailering for Yukon and 8,300-lb. max trailering for Yukon XL (2WD models)

The Yukon lineup also incorporates technologies that help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment’s only Front Center Air Bag (models with front bucket seats), which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side impacts.

Phone projection technology

Through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Yukon’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, allowing you to call up music, navigation apps and more.

Read the entire article at GMC.com!

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

Factory- and dealer-installed features add convenience, confidence to towing duties

DETROIT – New available features including a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a trailering camera system complement built-in technologies to help make trailering with the 2016 GMC Sierra easier and more comfortable than ever.

The gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is offered on Sierra HD models and makes them ready to tow larger trailers right from the factory, while the trailering camera system is available for Sierra 1500 and HD models. It was developed with Echomaster to help reduce blind spots on the highway and when reversing with a trailer.

“GMC’s reputation was forged on the ability to perform heavy work with a premium touch, and these new options do more to make that work comfortable and confident,” said Sierra Marketing Manager Stuart Pierce. “With a 112-year legacy of professional-grade trucks behind them, the entire Sierra lineup handles the toughest tasks with the utmost ease.”

Gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package

The new gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is a $350 option featuring a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray that accommodates a gooseneck ball hitch or fifth-wheel hitch mounting brackets.

The platform is concealed beneath the truck’s bed floor and when the hitch isn’t needed, it can be removed for full use of the bed’s cargo capacity. Caps for the openings in the floor are included and a bed-mounted seven-way trailer wiring connection comes with the prep package.

Additionally, a new gooseneck completion kit is available from GMC dealers that features a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs. It carries a retail price of $315. GMC dealers also offer CURT Manufacturing fifth-wheel hitches compatible with the factory-installed hitch platform. They are available in 20,000-lb. and 25,000-lb. versions for $939 and $999, respectively (not including tax, installation and labor charges).

The 2016 Sierra HDs’ fifth-wheel trailering ratings are aligned with SAE J2807 standards, with maximum capacities including:

• 2500HD trailering rating of 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg)
• 3500HD single-rear-wheel trailering rating of 17,500 pounds (7,938 kg)
• 3500HD dual-rear-wheel trailering rating of 23,200 pounds (10,523 kg)

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

To donate visit ourbravest.org/enlistme or call 844-BRAVEST

DETROIT – In honor of Military Appreciation Month, and as part of the ongoing relationship between GMC and veteran support program Building for America’s Bravest, the brand is calling on its staff, fans and fellow Americans to support the foundation’s work to build life-changing smart homes for severely injured service members. GMC has committed to contribute up to $2 million by the end of 2016 and is asking people across the country to “enlist to unlist” the more than 200 severely injured service men and women currently waiting for smart homes.

As part of the campaign, a continuation of the #enlistme activity started in 2015, GMC has enlisted the support of actor Josh Duhamel as campaign ambassador, in an effort to increase awareness and raise funds to make significant differences in the lives of these courageous service members.

Speaking on why he chose to support, Duhamel referenced his strong ties to both the military and the GMC brand. “I grew up near a military base in North Dakota. My aunt was in the military and completed a number of tours overseas and my grandfather was a proud veteran. I feel it’s my duty as an American, and as a supporter of our veterans, to do as much as I can to bring awareness to the work of Building for America’s Bravest. I have owned a GMC truck since 2004, so when GMC asked me to step up and work with them, it was a no-brainer. I hope you will join me in enlisting to support this incredible cause.”

GMC and its parent company have supported the U.S. military for more than 100 years, working with the mantra of “Helping, Hiring & Driving,” through a mixture of employment programs, veteran support programs and offering the best possible automotive military discount during Military Appreciation Month, which is offered to all 21 million veterans and their families through May 31, 2016.

Read the entire article at GMC.com!

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

DETROIT – Today through May 31, 2016, GMC will expand its military discount program for all 21 million U.S. military veterans and their spouses, in honor of National Military Appreciation Month.

“These brave men and women have done so much for our country,” said Steve Hill, GM vice president of U.S. sales and service. “Making sure all veterans can take advantage of our military discount to celebrate Military Appreciation Month is one small way we can express our gratitude.”

GMC offers the industry’s most comprehensive automotive military discount program. The military discount program is typically available to U.S. military veterans within one year of separation, active-duty personnel, reservists, retirees and their spouses. In honor of May’s National Military Appreciation Month, the program expands to include all veterans – regardless of their separation date – and their spouses.

The discount is available for popular models, including the GMC Acadia, Sierra and Yukon. Because the discount can be combined with most current incentives, veterans could save thousands of dollars on some vehicles. For more information, visit gmmilitarydiscount.com.

GMC’s support for the U.S. military began more than 100 years ago when the U.S. Army began to rely on its trucks during WWI. Today, the tradition continues as GMC’s recently launched #enlistme campaign helps the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation and its Building For America’s Bravest program build smart homes for veterans with serious combat injuries.

“Too many severely injured servicemen and women are returning to homes that just don’t meet the needs of their individual conditions,” said Duncan Aldred, U.S. vice president, Buick and GMC Sales, Service and Marketing. “With the #enlistme campaign, GMC invites everyone to honor these brave veterans by showing their support on social media and making a donation.”

Read the entire article on GMC.com!