2011 Chevrolet Cruze will change shape on the fly

Let’s not get carried away, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze won’t change from a car into a walking talking robot like in the Transformers movies, but it will make a few changes to its shape based on outside conditions. This belongs in the small-but-noteworthy innovations category -- changes that don’t require huge technology leaps but still lead to improvements in fuel efficiency.

Chevrolet has developed “an automatic air shutter system allows the car to change shape and cut through the air more smoothly” behind the front grille.  Basically those shutters are tightly closed when the vehicle is moving fast to make it more aerodynamic. When speed decreases, the shutters open more widely to cycle out hot engine air more efficiently.

The overall impact on mileage may not seem huge, but it will certainly add up. Chevrolet claims that the shutter system innovation alone will save a half mile per gallon of gas. That’s 500 free miles for every 1,000 driven! Not bad. One question though, is how well the electric motors will hold up if they’re constantly in motion.

The Cruze will start at $16,995 and that includes a manual transmission, 10 air bags, free OnStar for 6 months, air conditioning, aux input for mp3 players to name a few features. The company seems to be targeting a vehicle that appeals to people wanting a lot of fuel efficiency and who aren’t demanding the highest performance vehicle out there.

“The steering is precise, though feel is predictably lacking, and effort is just a tad too light to be truly sporty,” according to AutoBytel. Sounds like a good option for someone who’s mainly looking for transportation with maybe a few road trips here and there. With Chevrolet estimating 40mpg though it will certainly be cost effective transportation!

It will be interesting to compare demand for the Cruze to what’s happening right now with the Volt, which is right now enjoying the limelight.