Chevrolet Sail Launched In India

The Chevrolet Sail hatchback will be a strong addition to GM"s mini-car portfolio in India. Codenamed Sail NB NGS, NB stands for notchback and NGS for New Global Car, it is a cheaper version of the Aveo sedan. It was first unveiled in 2005 at Shanghai Auto Exhibit. The Sail hatchback will go on sale later this year and GM say that they have built this car for the emerging markets. Both petrol and diesel variants and would be competitively priced. The Sail Hatchback is designed and engineered for emerging markets and comes equipped with Smartech petrol and diesel power plants. The Chevrolet Sail (premium hatchback) and Chevrolet MPV Concept are the first two products from GM's joint venture with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC).

Sail is designed and developed completely in China. It was done so to cut costs of the production. Powering this new hatchback will be the 1.2-litre petrol engine. The base model of Chevrolet Sail is expected to be priced around Rs. 5 lakh.

The front view features Chevrolet's signature dual-port grille. The hood has very distinct cut-lines which give it a very masculine look. The vehicle will go on sale in the April-June quarter. The Chevrolet Sail hatchback will replace the out of date Aveo U-VA in the Indian market. GM may also bring the sedan Sail and possibly replace the Aveo in the coming months. The sub 4-metre hatchback will be first launched with a 1.2-litre petrol engine which will deliver a maximum power of 81bhp.The Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre diesel engine may be available later.

The streamlined form of the vehicle adds a dynamic styling aspect although minimizing drag for lower fuel usage. This puts the sail hatch direct competition with the Indica Vista, Maruti Swift and Volkswagen Polo. With its fuel tank placed in the middle of the car the inner part contains a lot of space and adorned with beautiful dimension.

It features regenerative braking and an Intelligent Charging Assisting System that maximizes the energy conversion ratio. The Sail sedan will go head to head with the Fiesta Classic, Maruti Dzire, and Tata Manza. It looks grand with its 3 sidelines and the head and fog lamps adds dazzling look for the car.

Even an electric version is already available in the global markets. The Sail electric car is run by a lithium-ion battery. The maximum output is 65 kW with a maximum torque of 220 Nm. The car hits the top speed of 130 km/h and can travel up to 150 kilometers on a single electric charge. This is attributed to the regenerative braking to produce additional energy. The Intelligent Charging Assisting System maximizes the energy conversion ratio. The car gives you greatest comfort and ease; you won"t feel fatigued even within the long journeys. The Chevrolet's Sail EV concept also picked up the award for "Most Innovative Design Award' in 2011. The Sail EV isn't approved for production but there is a strong possibility of it arriving in India. As a family car, the Sail hatchback can seat up to five people in comfort.