VE Commodore caught on camera
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04 May 2006
Paul Gover
The countdown to the VE Commodore has just shifted into top gear. The upcoming Holden hero car has broken free from the company's Lang Lang proving ground for real-world tests.
The cars involved in the trials are genuine production models built on the line at GM Holden's factory outside Adelaide. This car was caught last week on Melbourne's Westgate Freeway, running with a light disguise.
They provide the best look yet at the shape and style of the VE Commodore, and some tantalising details - including 17-inch alloy wheels, bigger brakes, twin-lens headlamps and some sort of scoop on the front mudguards. The most intriguing feature is the huge twin-pipe exhaust system, which points to something special in the engine room, particularly as Holden insiders tell us not to assume the scoop car is the next SS with a V8.
"When I first saw the car I thought it was something special. Then I realised it was the new Commodore. As soon as the driver saw me taking pictures he got off the road," photographer David Caird says.
The VE has hit the road as the GM Holden development team ramps up its testing program. It has moved on from basic engineering trials to the real-world certification, endurance and proof-of-program work needed to ensure the VE is right for showrooms. Cars are likely to be spotted more frequently in and around Melbourne in coming weeks and months, with one report of a disguised test car in Carlton in the past week.
"Yes, we are testing cars. We have been for some time," spokesman for GM Holden, Jason Laird, says. "They are advanced prototypes. They have come down the production line in Adelaide. They are non-saleable cars."
Laird says he can't comment on the details of the on-road development program for the VE and admits the on-sale date for the VE has been set, but will not discuss it or rumours it might be earlier than the September forecast.
"We'll tell you the launch dates when we are ready. They are obviously extremely commercially sensitive," he says. The pictures confirm the car is much more angular than the current Commodore, which has roots in the VT.
But the rear-on view shows a surprisingly rounded roofline and guards that are significantly flared out over the wheels.
The rear spoiler is also a significant change from the current car and sits on a taller boot which is cut right down to the bumper.
Finally, the car picks up a fixed roof-mounted aerial - set well back for smooth airflow and low-wind noise - in place of the electric wind-up aerial in the front-left mudguard.
The side-on shot shows the new-style painted doorhandles, curved rear edge of the back door and taping to create a fake extra window in the C-pillar. It's easy to speculate on details of the the engine. Holden is committed to the global V6 built at Fishermans Bend and turbocharged versions for Saab and Alfa Romeo could point to a new-age performance six in the VE.
