General Motors unveils new fuel-efficient Camaro

General Motors (GM) has unveiled a new version of the Camaro, the sports car it axed in 2002. The new car, billed as a fuel-efficient vehicle, will go into production imminently.

The Camaro was scrapped in 2002 after poor sales but was an American cultural icon during the Seventies and Eighties. GM hopes that, having developed a more fuel-efficient engine for the car it will broaden its potential consumer base.

GM says it will launch more affordable models into the range in an effort to avoid the Camaro becoming a speciality vehicle with narrow appeal. The car is positioned to compete with the Ford Mustang in the US.

GM North America president Troy Clarke says the car will evolve into a fun to drive, stylish vehicle, as opposed to one that just “breathes fire”.

The first Camaro coupe will go on sale in February 2009, with a convertible model scheduled for launch 9 months later.