GM’s Self-Driving, Moon Car

 

According to U.S. News & World Report, “On Wednesday, May 26, 2021, Lockheed and GM announced that they would combine their technological and manufacturing expertise to build the electric vehicles for NASA’s Artemis program, named after the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology (Lockheed Martin, GM via AP).” This is the first step towards revisiting the moon and ultimately returning to Mars. 

This recently-formed relationship between GM and Lockheed has come about in the hopes of providing NASA with vehicles that are able to handle off-roading conditions, but without all the bulky weight that usually comes with that capability. They need to be light and rugged and able to perform better than the standard Lunar Rovers NASA has used in the past, even as far back as the 1970s—which were also designed by the GM Company. 

GM and Lockheed working together are important for NASA because without having better mobility it is going to be difficult to further explore the wonders of the moon, not to mention expanding those explorations towards Mars. Just imagine what could be found if astronauts could venture farther than 4.5 miles from where they landed. With the likes of these two venerated companies, NASA will likely have their new space SUVs very soon. 

The goal of the Artemis program is to have a return mission to the moon in 2024. By then, the plan is to have the first set of rovers that are able to carry two astronauts at once, and another rover type that can drive autonomously. A self-driving rover could explore a broader landscape, particularly those areas too dangerous for astronauts to go. It’s truly an exciting and progressive move that will surely bring about some exciting discoveries.  

The Driverless Car is Nearly Upon Us

What once sounded like complete futuristic fantasy is now upon us: the autonomous car. Though we are not seeing them out and about just yet, the reality of the driverless car is very near. 

It’s so close in fact, car companies such as BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, and Tesla are all working with the likes of Google and Apple to bring to life the car of the future. Sure, we’re not quite there yet, we are in what is considered to be the advanced testing stage and then production. Meaning that these machine-operated vehicles can, and will, be on the road. Countries all over the world are swarming to get in on the action by throwing millions of dollars towards the process of integrating self-drivers into society. 

So what is keeping us from moving beyond the “advanced testing” stage? There seem to be some technical and ethical challenges engineers are struggling to solve. For instance, the driverless car will use cameras, radar, and lasers—yes, lasers—to measure distance and shapes. This is to help the vehicles “see” as a human would. And though efforts are being made to help driverless cars communicate with other cars, buildings, and signs, the problem remains that these vehicles are not able to communicate with other human drivers. What will the relationship of the driverless car be with the human-driven car? What happens if they collide? Who is at fault? These questions only scratch the surface of the depths of thought required to drive in high traffic, highways, and emergency situations, but there is no reason why companies such as GM can't find ways of solving these setbacks. 

While we wait for the driverless era to come upon us, there are plenty of new and used GM vehicles on the Liberty Buick GMC lot and at great prices. 

Let’s be honest, the price of a vehicle can vary among different dealerships, but at the end of the day, most places will price-match, or at least get the numbers close. Though price does matter when it comes to buying a car, it’s not the biggest issue. What’s more important is the experience. At Liberty Buick GMC, it’s our transparency that is the secret of our success. All of our sales representatives, as well as all our technicians, believe you should never leave a dealership with an uneasy feeling in your gut. 

We never want you to feel confused or duped into any purchase. Visit us at Liberty Buick GMC and we will help you find your next vehicle!

What to Expect from the Upcoming GMC Hummer EV SUV (and How to Reserve Yours)

 

In 2020, it’s almost as if automakers banded together to provide some hope to fans of classic off-road vehicles—something positive in a year that would prove difficult for so many people for a variety of reasons. Surely, that’s why we’ve seen the reemergence of several legendary 4x4 nameplates, right?

Or, it could simply be that automakers are not going to let their competitors one-up them (admittedly, this is the most likely reason). Whatever the case, here we are in 2021, and we’ve learned that one of the most anticipated vehicles in recent memory is set to hit dealerships in early 2023: the GMC Hummer EV SUV. If you thought the Humvees of old were tough, well, it’s safe to say that this new era will not disappoint. 

GMC is accepting reservations for its new creation, and there are no strings attached. All you have to do is register for your preferred trim and pay a fully refundable $100 deposit. That’s right—registering puts you under no obligation to actually buy the vehicle, but it will hold your spot in line. Whether you’re dead-set on purchasing the GMC Hummer EV SUV or are just a spectator, there’s really no downside to making a reservation. 

Liberty Buick GMC is here with the skinny on what consumers can look forward to from the 2024 Hummer EV SUV, as well as some details about the registration process:

 

GMC Hummer EV SUV Trims

As with the pickup version, the GMC Hummer EV SUV is set to offer four trims over the first several years of its release, all varying in features and price: the Edition 1, 3X, 2X, and 2. Here’s the gist of what we know about each model:

 

Hummer EV Edition 1

The first trim of Hummer EV SUVs is called the “Edition 1.” It is set to roll into dealerships in early 2023 as a 2024 model, and it will be the fully-loaded version of the SUV. 

While this run of special editions is limited, GMC has not articulated exactly how many will be available. We do know that reservations for the Edition 1 are full, but consumers can still get on the waitlist, which could come in handy if a considerable number of reserved consumers back out or if the automaker decides to raise the ceiling on production. 

For the initial launch, the GMC Hummer EV SUV Edition 1 will come in Moonshot Green Matte exterior paint with black above the beltline. The grille consists of a crystal light that displays “HUMMER,” and there are several “H” graphics sprinkled around the SUV. As far as power goes, you can expect up to 830 horsepower and a 0-60 mph of 3.0 seconds. The first available model will be an on-road edition that includes 22-inch premium wheels, assist steps, special badging, and floor liners. The price is $105,595, which is $7,000 less than the Edition 1 of its pickup truck sibling. 

Buyers who want the off-road package will need to spare $5,000 more, and in return, will get 18-inch wheels with 35-inch tires, underbody armor, heavy-duty half shafts, rock sliders, and a front eLocker and virtual rear lockers. Even bigger tires (37-inch) will be an option from dealers. 

 

Other Trims

The Hummer EV SUV 3X and 2X models are expected to arrive at dealerships in Spring 2023. The former still offers three electric motors and starts at $99,995. The latter is equipped with two motors, is estimated at 625 hp and a 0-60 mph of 4.0 seconds, and comes with a starting price of $89,995. The base two-motor Hummer EV SUV (the EV2) is anticipated for a release in spring 2024 at $79,995. It provides the same power as the 2X, though the range on a single charge falls from 300 to 250 miles. This model uses 400-volt fast charging, but you can opt for 800 volts, which is what all other Hummer EV SUV models come with. 

 

How to Reserve Your Hummer EV SUV

If you’re sold on getting a 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV, or even if you’re still, on the fence, it’s easy to reserve your spot. Simply log on to the GMC Hummer EV microsite and follow these four steps: 

1. Pick a Trim 

2. Select a Dealer 

3. Fill Out Your Information

4. Sign a Registration Agreement

Keep in mind the release dates when choosing a trim, as there will be more models and colors released over time. Any participating GMC dealer is viable for selection, and Liberty Buick GMC is here for you! Once you complete the registration online and receive a confirmation email, we will contact you to complete your purchase order. 

Remember—all reservations are refundable. As long as you reach out to your dealer and request a refund before your purchase order is submitted, you will get your $100 back. 

 

Conclusion

The upcoming Hummer EV SUV is primed to meet—if not exceed—all expectations. If you can budget for the price and wait time, then you can get your hands on the reborn legend in a couple of years. Don’t forget to make your reservation now, and give us a call at Liberty Buick GMC to finish your order!

General Motors Doubles Down on All-Electric Future

 

General Motors has made no secret about its plans for electric vehicles in the future. For several years, the auto manufacturer has released EV concepts and information for its four primary brands: GMC, Buick, Chevrolet, and Cadillac. 

Those plans have only strengthened in recent months. GM seems more convinced than ever that the future of the auto industry lies in all-electric vehicles that not only will benefit the environment but will ultimately cost less to drive. Part of the plan is to release 30 new EVs by the 2025 model year. Below, we’ll look at GM’s strategy.

GMC and Buick’s upcoming EVs.

30 EVs by 2025 

If there were any doubts about GM’s commitment to fighting climate change and raising the bar for the rest of the auto industry, those doubts were laid to rest in recent months. We now know that GM has big plans for electrification and is working hard to execute the plans within a relatively quick timeframe.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, GM announced that it would invest $20 billion in electric and autonomous vehicles through 2025. That number has now changed to $27 billion. Not too long ago, the automaker had also said that it would be launching 20 new EVs by 2023, most of which would only be available for the China market, where there is a higher demand for EVs. However, GM recently announced a change of plans: It will release 30 EVs by 2025, and North Americans will have access to more than two-thirds of them. The GMC, Buick, Chevrolet, and Cadillac brands will all offer EVs. 

For GM, these plans stem from an overarching goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2040. To accomplish this goal, the manufacturer will seek to cease production of all gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035. GM also hopes to power all of its U.S. facilities with 100% renewable energy by 2030, along with its international facilities by 2035. 

 

Upcoming Buick/GMC EVs 

While there are many GM electric vehicles on the horizon, let’s take a quick look at some of the upcoming EVs from the GMC and Buick brands:

GMC

For decades, the Hummer models were known as being mean, gas-guzzling machines. After being discontinued in 2010, GM is resurrecting Hummer as a GMC sub-brand for the 2022 model year. We’ll see two forms of the all-new Hummer: a pickup truck (SUT) in 2022 and an SUV in 2023. Both models will be all-electric. And both models will be meaner than ever. 

Here’s what we know so far about the Hummer EV SUT:

• It will offer up to 1,000 horsepower.
• The powertrain will include up to three electric motors. 
• The truck will go about 350 miles on a charge.
• It will get you to 60 mph in just three seconds. 

It appears that the Hummer EV SUT will be a dream for off-road enthusiasts. It will showcase the “Crab Walk” mode, a four-wheel-drive feature that allows you to drive diagonally. Drivers will also have the option of an adjustable air suspension and removable roof panels. The 2022 GMC Hummer EV SUT is set for release in late 2021. 

Buick 

According to public knowledge, there are at least two Buick electric vehicles in the works (though several other concepts are circulating). The Buick brand is making significant strides in China, where demand for EVs is much higher due to stricter emission standards. As of now, it’s unclear whether Buick will release EVs in North America within the next couple of years or whether the EVs will debut in the China market and make their way to the States shortly after that. 

We do know that GM has unveiled the development of two electric SUVs. According to the automaker, one model will provide “more conventional crossover proportions.” Expect this SUV to be geared toward families with an emphasis on interior space and cargo. The other Buick all-electric SUV is being developed with “a greater emphasis on form and athletic fashion.” Along with more expressive proportions, this SUV is likely to cater more to single people and couples. 

 

Conclusion 

The future is electric. And no auto manufacturer is capitalizing on this prediction more than GM. By confidently setting ambitious goals for an all-electric lineup and carbon-neutral facilities, and by already taking actionable steps toward these goals, GM firmly establishes its place in the industry as a visionary automaker.

Only time will tell how the details of this master plan pan out. But it’s safe to say that the future is bright. 

Buying a Car at the End of the Year: Why the Pros Outweigh the Cons

 

If you’re in the market for a new car, chances are you’ve heard or read about how the end of the year is the optimal time to buy. And it’s true. There are several times throughout the year that you’ll be able to find some legitimate deals, discounts, and incentives at car dealerships across the country. But you probably won’t find any that match the savings opportunities you’ll see in late December. 

However, there are pros and cons to almost every decision in life, and buying a vehicle is no different. With great end-of-year savings often come a few drawbacks. 

Our dealership thrives on helping each of our customers find a vehicle that meets their wants, needs, and budget. That’s why we’ve provided some information and advice about weighing the pros and cons of buying at the end of the year:

 

The Pros

A lot of things happen at car dealerships as the end of each year approaches. Typically, in late summer or fall, the first vehicles from the next model year start to become available to dealerships across the country. To dealers, selling next year’s model is almost always easier than selling last year’s model. This means that they are often more willing to cut deals on a wide range of vehicles from the previous model year. As you can imagine, the closer it gets to the end of the year, the deeper the savings opportunities grow for car buyers. 

October is when the discounts really start to bloom. Then, November comes, along with the Black Friday holiday, which brings significant sales and promotions in its own right. 

December? Well, you get the picture. At this point, dealers are quite eager to make room in their lots for next year’s models, so the discounts can get deep. A lot of the time, even car manufacturers offer incentives (e.g., cashback offers, great lease deals, 0% interest, etc.) to help dealers clear out their lots for new inventory. 

Another factor to consider is that salespeople are required to meet monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales quotas. By the end of December, all of these quotas come together. If a salesperson has yet to satisfy their quota(s), they will be far more likely to offer you impressive discounts and incentives. 

The benefits of buying a 2020 model right now are quite clear. Simply put, you get a brand new vehicle at a significantly lower price. And if you don’t care about certain upgrades that may come with next year’s model, it very well might be the best decision you could make. 

 

The Cons 

There are some disadvantages to buying a vehicle from the previous model year worth considering before you make your decision. First, your vehicle will be a year old when you drive it off the lot. Yes, it will be brand new to you, but this could affect your resale value down the road. For example, if you are trying to choose between a discounted 2020 model and a 2021 model that isn’t discounted, consider this: Even though both vehicles are brand new and sitting on the lot next to each other, years from now, buyers will think of your 2020 vehicle as a year older, which will impact the resale value. This depreciation could consume some of the savings you gained from purchasing the discounted 2020 model. 

Also, buying a vehicle at the end of the model year means that you might miss out on new technology and features that come with the newer model. Moreover, if the vehicle is undergoing a complete redesign for the new model year, the differences between the vehicles will be far more drastic, and you could be leaving the lot with a vehicle that's design is already outdated.

 

The Verdict 

The end of the year is a great time to buy a vehicle. If you choose a 2020 model, you’ll likely get deep discounts and incentives thrown into the mix. As long as you don’t care about missing out on any upgrades and features offered by the 2021 model, going with the 2020 model is your best bet. This is also the case if you plan to own the vehicle for many years to come because the depreciation probably won’t make much of a difference to you. Furthermore, since it’s the end of the year, you might not have quite as many vehicles to choose from, though that will likely only be a problem if you have a specific make and model in mind. 

If you typically buy or lease a new vehicle every two to three years, then you might consider buying the 2021 model to get all of the newest technology and features. And since it’s the end of the year, you may still be able to get a deal, even on a new model.

Are you interested in seeing a wide selection of 2020 and 2021 models? Schedule an appointment or come by Liberty Buick GMC to see what we have and inquire about the top-notch deals going on here!

Buick Encore or Encore GX—Which 2020 Model Should You Choose?

For the model year 2020, Buick has released the all-new Encore GX—a crossover that is set to add even more depth to an already-loaded compact SUV segment. Unlike what the name would suggest, the Buick Encore GX is not a trim level of the Encore. The Encore and Encore GX are two separate models with their own sets of trim levels. 

Sure, there are some similarities between the two, but there are also some significant differences that should be considered if you are trying to determine which SUV is right for you. Below, we’ve provided some information on both the 2020 Buick Encore and 2020 Buick Encore GX and highlighted some of their key distinctions.

Dimensions

To the casual observer, the Encore and Encore GX are quite similar in terms of all-around design and appearance. However, they are built on two different platforms. Naturally, this means that they differ in overall size. Both the Encore and Encore GX are about 64 inches tall. The Encore is roughly 70 inches wide, while the Encore GX is a hair over 71 inches wide. 

The length is where these two SUVs become noticeably different in appearance. Measuring 175.7 inches long, the Encore GX is significantly longer than the Encore (168.5 inches). Furthermore, the Encore GX’s wheelbase comes in at 104 inches while the Encore’s measures about 100 inches. This extra distance between the front and rear wheels makes for a smoother riding experience and better handling, not to mention a more aggressive appearance. 

Exterior Appearance 

Along with the dimensions, the Encore and Encore GX are distinct in their exterior stylings. Similar to recent years, the 2020 Encore sports sedan-like design with its curved front and compact, rounded grille and air intake. The Encore GX looks more like an SUV. It has more of a squared-off shape overall and a front-end that is more horizontal than it is rounded. 

Set between the headlamps—which are further apart than those of the Encore—is a new grille that also plays a big part in distinguishing the Encore GX from the Encore and other vehicles. A newly-designed lower fascia and fog lights also contribute to a more aggressive appearance. Moreover, deeper character lines along the side and rear, as well as a newly-designed rear fascia and taillamps, help distinguish the Encore GX even more. 

Technology 

Both the 2020 Buick Encore and Encore GX provide drivers with plenty of options in regards to technology. Available in the Encore is a four-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-way power-adjustable driver seat, and a six-speaker audio system, though you can opt for a Bose audio system. The Encore GX comes with GM’s most recent infotainment software, which has been recognized for being especially easy to use and responsive. All and all, you can’t go wrong with either of these SUVs if you want a vehicle with great technology, though the Encore GX offers more standard features.  

Safety Features

The Encore and Encore GX also boast plenty of safety features. However, the Encore GX seems to offer more features standard in this category as well. With the Encore, you can opt for front and rear parking assist, forward collision alert, and lane departure warning. The Encore GX comes standard with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. What’s more, you can get an HD 360-degree camera system and head-up display on the Encore GX, which go a long way in increasing visibility. 

Engines

The engines on the Encore and Encore GX are quite different and can play a major role in determining which SUV is right for you. All Encore trims come with a 1.4-liter DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. This engine is matched with a six-speed transmission, and it provides plenty of power for a compact SUV. 

There are two engine options for the Encore GX: an ECOTEC 1.2-liter Turbo and ECOTEC 1.3-liter Turbo. The 1.2-liter engine is good for 137 horses and is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. The 1.3-liter makes 155 ponies and comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The more powerful engine can be had with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. 

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a compact SUV that provides more luxury than the price tag reflects, both the 2020 Buick Encore and 2020 Buick Encore GX fit the bill. The Encore is a solid choice if you like the rounded appearance of recent Encore models and are willing to pass on a few features. However, if you are hoping for a slightly bigger, more aggressive-looking SUV with more standard features, you would do better to go with the Encore GX. Of course, the best way to see for yourself is to schedule a test drive at Liberty Buick GMC!

It’s Finally Here! Introducing the 2020 Buick Encore GX

The all-new, 2020 Buick Encore GX is here! Though Buick’s Encore has already seen success as a crossover vehicle, the 2020 GX comes in a new size and look, which creates a completely different, and new, feel to the vehicle. The Encore GX fits itself perfectly between the subcompact Encore and the compact Envision, in terms of size, and it comes with tons of upgrades. Buick is bringing fresh excitement to the crossover market, and at Liberty Buick GMC, we can’t wait for you to drive the 2020 Encore GX. 

America has experienced—and is still exciting—a surge in crossover vehicle sales. Something about having the control and luxury of a sedan mixed with the power and grit of a sport utility vehicle makes us happy and excited to drive. Vehicles like the Jeep Compass, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the Subaru Crosstreck, and the new Mazda CX-30 are all carving out a section for themselves within the crossover family. The 2020 Buick Encore is a perfect addition to this lineup, and not only because it fits the bill as a crossover. The new Encore GX hopes to take a lead in the crossover market by bringing high style, true luxury, and innovative technology to the Encore GX. 

The Exterior 

The 2020 Buick Encore GX has a great new look. It comes in a total of nine beautiful colors:

• White Frost Tricoat
• Deep Azure Metallic
• Burnished Bronze Metallic
• Black Currant Metallic
• Satin Steel Metallic
• Ebony Twilight Metallic
• Summit White
• Dark Moon Blue Metallic
• Chili Red Metallic

The slight curvature throughout the body provides contours and shadows, showing off the sleek design that could easily, at first glance, be mistaken for a modern Mercedes or Porsche SUV. 

After a second look, though, you’ll realize you are in the presence of something impressively unique: a chrome surround starts at the front and reaches to the back; large taillights emphasize the breadth of the vehicle, while the modern design seems to pull the body in, giving it a fit, sporty aesthetic. The large grille up front is non-intrusive, but it does make a statement that this is something new, and quite possibly Buick’s most modern move in years. 

Exterior Specs:

• Wheelbase: (in)100.6
• Track Width, Rear: (in)60.62
• Height, Overall: (in)65.25
• Length, Overall: (in)168.35
• Min. Ground Clearance: (in)6.22
• Track Width, Front: (in)60.65
• Width, Max w/o mirrors: (in)70.1

The Interior 

Inside the Encore GX, there are soft-touch materials throughout, LED lighting to set the mood, and an Infotainment center with all the bells and whistles. 

Compared to the Encore, the 2020 GX has 5.0 more cubic feet of cargo space, and it comes with all sorts of standard safety features: There’s the automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection—a must-have these days; lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning (great for those long, exhausting drives); there is also a rear-camera mirror and a surround-view monitor to keep you always aware of your surroundings; and these safety features only scrape the surface of what’s available. 

Here is a quick breakdown of the interior specs:

• Front Hip Room: (in)51.65
• Front Leg Room: (in)40.82
• Second Shoulder Room: (in)52.5
• Passenger Volume: (ft³)92.8
• Second Head Room: (in)38.78
• Front Shoulder Room: (in)54.18
• Second Hip Room: (in)50.08
• Front Head Room: (in)39.58
• Second Leg Room: (in)35.75

More Features

The 2020 Buick Encore GX comes with a turbocharged I4, 1.4-liter engine and a 6-speed automatic, electronically-controlled with overdrive transmission—with driver shift control. The vehicle itself is considered an all-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle.

The four-door GX holds five passengers with ease and comfort for all, and it has a fuel economy of 24 mpg in the city, 29 highway, and a combined mpg of 26. Not bad at all, especially for a souped-up, turbocharged engine. 

Here are just a few more features to the 2020 Buick Encore GX:

• Brakes: 4-wheel antilock, 4-wheel disc
• StabiliTrak, stability control system
• Daytime Running Lamps, separate cavity, LED
• Airbags, frontal and knee for driver and front passenger
• Airbag, Passenger Sensing System
• Seat belt, 3-point, driver with load limiter, height adjustable
• Seat belt, 3-point, front passenger with load limiter, height
• Restraint provisions, child Isofix 2 point for outboard seating
• OnStar and Buick connected services capable 
• Buick Connected Access capable 
• Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Rear Vision Camera
• Door locks, child security rear, manual
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System, manual learn

With a zippy engine that does well to conserve fuel, a luxurious interior, and a cool-compact look to the exterior, the 2020 Buick Encore GX is quickly winning our hearts at Liberty Buick-GMC.

Visit our website or call us at 704-708-8000 to find out more about the all-new Encore GX.