Maritime Chevrolet

Breast Cancer Awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – in support, Chevrolet has teamed up with the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program for the thirteenth year in a row. Together with Chevrolet dealerships, employees and customers, we contributed $1.9 million in 2022 alone and over $18.7 million to the cause so far. Plus – for every in-feed post or retweet using #WeDriveFor on X, Facebook, Tiktok or Instagram in the month of October, Chevrolet will contribute $5 to the American Cancer Society® until we reach our $170,000 goal.

While primarily diagnosed in women, breast cancer can affect anyone, at any age. At the end 2020 alone, there were 7.8 million people diagnosed with breast cancer in the previous 5 years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer. Certain factors increase the risk of breast cancer including increasing age, obesity, harmful use of alcohol, family history of breast cancer, history of radiation exposure, reproductive history (such as age that menstrual periods began and age at first pregnancy), tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy. Approximately half of breast cancers develop in women who have no identifiable breast cancer risk factor other than gender (female) and age (over 40 years). 

The most important thing to remember are the early warning signs – while many will not experience any symptoms when the cancer is still new, it helps to be prepared and on the lookout. Symptoms of breast cancer can include:

  • a breast lump or thickening, often without pain
  • change in size, shape or appearance of the breast
  • dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin
  • change in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple (areola)
  • abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple.

We’re dedicated to helping make it so that no one — from survivors, to those currently undergoing treatment, including the estimated 290,560 people who will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year — has to face breast cancer alone. 

Chevy Vehicles

GM has been putting in the work to build a more sustainable future – and it shows. This month, GM was named to the Fortune “Change the World” list that consists of major profitable companies with a focus on greenhouse gas reduction. “The American Electrifiers”, a group Fortune coined thanks to their efforts toward converting the U.S. extensive passenger and commercial vehicle fleet to EVs, includes GM, charging network company ChargePoint, EV battery supplier SK On Co., and Tesla.

“The American Electrifiers” placed first in the “Change the World” list above second-place MercadoLibre and third-place Walmart. While Tesla is credited with the breakthrough company that allowed other EVs to grow in the market, the torch may be passed to GM with their EV lineup offering twice the number of Tesla models. GM EVs include pickup trucks, SUVs, as well as crossover sedans that produce relatively affordable all-electric nameplates, such as the all-new Blazer EV. 

Thanks to future EV plans, GM also won a place at the head of the “Change the World” list by fully developing its Ultium battery platform and highly scalable BEV3 platform. With plans to launch nearly 30 EV vehicles worldwide by 2025, GM’s mission is to slowly transition into an all-electric lineup by 2035. They’ve also made an agreement with Tesla to allow GM drivers access to the Tesla Supercharger network starting in 2024 – giving more access to EV owners around the country. 

Tires and Fall Foliage

Summer temperatures are especially rough on tires. As the pavement heats up, it can wear down your tires even faster than usual. Tires with little or no tread can be slippery and dangerous even when road conditions are at their best. In rain, snow, or mud, they could become even more unsafe. Luckily, Maritime Chevy knows how to keep your tires spinning the right way.

Tires are the only part of our car that connects us to the road, making it extremely important to keep them in top shape. When tires aren’t maintained properly, they lose the properties that help them retain traction, so it’s not surprising that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 11,000 tire-related crashes each year, with hundreds of those ending in tragic fatalities. The most tragic part is that many of those accidents could have been avoided with proper tire maintenance.

Not sure if your tires are unsafe? The minimum amount of tire tread you need to safely operate your car is 2/32 of an inch. To check, insert a penny into the grooves of your tire, with Lincoln’s head pointing down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to have your tires replaced. If you notice any uneven wear, you may also need an alignment. 

Don’t wait to discover these problems while you’re out on the road. Schedule a quick and easy tire service at Maritime Chevy before you get out there this fall!

Mike Perna

Join us in wishing our very own Mike Perna a well-deserved farewell into retirement! Mike has been an integral part of our business here at Maritime Chevrolet for the past seven years, having also managed our sister store, Cadillac of Greenwich. Having gotten his start in automotive back in 1976 with Pontiac, Mike grew up in Yonkers, graduated from ​​Pace College, and spent his career in Rye Brook building a loyal clientele base by ensuring the best deals for customers and their families. 

When he first got started with GM, Mike was able to attend various Corvette driving schools, such as Bob Bonaround, in order to receive his certification to sell Corvette models. While in school he was able to drive a Corvette over 100 mph, and experience the difference between the Corvette and other high performance vehicles. Of course, the Corvette ended up being one of his favorite vehicles, along with the Pontiac Firebird, Fiero, Chevy Camaro, and Bonneville Coupe. 

Mike’s favorite story to look back on happened in the early 90’s – he received a phone call from the secret service. Naturally, he assumed it was a prank call, and had Chase look up the number. Sure enough it had come from Pennsylvania Ave. After checking the phone book and coming across Mike, they informed him they just needed to borrow a Blazer after theirs had broken down. Of course, this Blazer had to fit specific qualifications: a liftgate, black interior/exterior, and the rear window needed to be removed since this was the photography car. Mike went down to LAG to meet them, passed a background check, and had the vehicle searched with canine units and mirrors. Mike was then allowed to drive in the caravan, the third car back from the president’s limo. The rest of the day felt like a blur – driving through Manhattan at 40-50 mph, meeting and shaking Bill Clinton’s hand, spent the evening at the Hilton on 57th, and meeting Wolf Blitzer and other members of the media. 

After spending the last few years as our beloved Sales Manager, Mike is ready to spend his retirement with friends and family. Along with the usual day-to-day manager activities, Mike’s time with us has been spent helping new and previous clients order new vehicles, keep up with inventory (especially during the vehicle shortage from the pandemic), and ensuring everyone leaves the dealership with the perfect vehicle at the perfect price. While he may be transitioning out of our team, Mike will still be working behind the scenes and tending to his clients in a part time capacity.

Chevy Traverse

Since its inception, the Chevy Traverse has been a well loved addition to the midsize SUV segment. For 2024, the Traverse is getting a full makeover – redesigned for the ground up, the new Traverse will include a bolder design, key safety features, and greater horsepower in an all-new engine. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy off-road capability in a Traverse for the first time. 

All-new Z71
You and the family will be able to take on any adventure with the all-new Traverse Z71 with off-road capability. 

  • More than 1-inch increased ground clearance coupled with increased track width for added stability, handling and capability
  • All-terrain tires bring increased capability coupled with 18-inch wheels designed exclusively for Z71
  • Unique front fascia purposely designed for improved approach angle, with an aluminum skid plate and signature Z71 red tow hooks
  • Twin-clutch AWD system designed to optimize traction and handling in off-road driving conditions
  • Unique dampers with hydraulic rebound control to improve off-road-capability
  • Specific Terrain Mode within the driver-selectable drive modes
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Standard trailering package

A New Rugged Design
The body of the new 2024 Traverse is styled to resemble a crossover/truck combination for a more rugged appearance. A planted stance with wheels pushed to the corners add a commanding presence. Each of the four distinct trims — LS, LT, Z71 and RS — offer unique design and greater content choices, with all-new and enhanced safety features and technologies across the lineup. 

  • Midnight/Sport Edition available on LS and LT
  • All-new front and rear lighting, including standard LEDs
  • Walk-up lighting animation that greets owners as they approach their vehicle (with an enabled key) on RS
  • Standard true dual-exhaust system with bright chrome quad tips
  • Available AutoSense Liftgate, a first for Traverse
  • New panoramic dual-glass sunroof with power sunshade is available on LT, Z71 and standard on RS
  • Three all-new exterior colors: Lakeshore Blue, Stardust and Harvest Bronze

For a more sporty demeanor, the RS trim is elevated with even more premium features, such as exclusive exterior and interior badging, 22-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels, unique suspension for a sportier ride, blackout accents throughout, and more. 

A Tech-Forward Interior
Inside the new Traverse is a technology-forward space geared toward the diver experience. Clean, sweeping lines and a lower beltline convey a more spacious feel, vehicle the instrument panel is placed lower than is predecessor to create a more open feel. 

A standard 17.7-inch-diagonal color touchscreen, more than two times larger than the previous model, is the gateway to the Traverse’s connectivity. Wireless phone charging and Wi-Fi Hotspot are also available, and six USB ports are standard. The Traverse is connected by OnStar® to provide customers with a variety of available safety, entertainment, convenience and driver experience features, including 24/7 access to live OnStar advisors, on-demand vehicle diagnostics, HD streaming, in-vehicle apps, and more.

More interior features: 

  • Best-in-class max cargo capacity of 98 cubic-feet (2,763 liters)
  • Larger, 11-inch-diagonal configurable driver information center
  • A column-mounted electronic transmission shifter that opens up more storage and useable space between the driver and front passenger
  • A pass-through console design that enables even more storage capability. It is easily accessible, while also tucked away, for a clean, organized appearance
  • Convenient side-by-side cup holders for the driver and front passenger
  • Available heated front and second-row outboard seats
  • Available heated steering wheel and outside mirrors
  • Premium Evotex seating surfaces available on LT and Z71
  • Leather-appointed first- and second-row seating surfaces standard on RS

Set to be released in early 2024, the all-new Traverse is sure to fit every family and lifestyle. Follow our Facebook page for updates.

Close-up view of the Chevrolet Bolt nameplate.

America’s most affordable EV is set to make a bold return to the growing Chevrolet all-electric lineup. From inception in 2017, the Bolt has continued to change the game as the first long-range, mass-produced EV available at a truly affordable price. For 2023, the Bolt and Bolt EUV have been enjoying their strongest sales year to date. Eighty percent of Bolt owners continue to stay loyal to Chevy, and nearly seventy percent are trading a non-GM vehicle. 

Drawing on the various Ultium and Ultifi technological advancements, the new Bolt will be able to hit the market on an accelerated timeline. Specifics are set to be announced at a later date, but will continue to deliver what customers have come to expect: great affordability, range and technology. The new Bolt will join the growing EV lineup, along with the soon-to-be-launched Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV. 

“Our customers love today’s Bolt. It has been delivering record sales and some of the highest customer satisfaction and loyalty scores in the industry,” said GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra. “It’s also an important source of conquest sales for the company and for Chevrolet.”
Follow us on Facebook to keep updated on all things EV. 

Chevy Youth Sports

Youth sports aren’t just about having fun and staying active – they raise self-esteem, teach teamwork and provide important life lessons. That’s why Chevy, as well as all of us here at Maritime, are dedicated to youth sports. From donating equipment and providing uniforms to sponsoring clinics and youth scholarships, we’re here to help empower the next generation of Major League hopefuls — both on, and off, the field.

This year, Maritime is proud to sponsor the Fairfield United Soccer Association (FUSA), a non-profit organization run by parent volunteers. FUSA provides opportunities for youth soccer players in our community to improve their skills, play competitive travel soccer and enjoy the game. They aim to facilitate player development and promote the values associated with youth sports including teamwork, sportsmanship, and local spirit. FUSA is also currently sponsoring both boys and girls travel soccer teams for Fairfield residents. 

Our sponsorship of FUSA through Chevy Youth Sports will provide them with a $1,000 check to use toward their equipment, uniforms, travel expenses and more! Click here to learn more about the Fairfield United Soccer Association.

Back to School

The first day of school is just around the corner – which means new school supplies for both students and their teachers. This year, Chevy Back to School is providing our dealership with the ability to sponsor a local school to help provide support for new supplies. Maritime is proud to sponsor Roger Sherman Elementary School, and will be providing a $1,000 check to their PTA for teachers and young learners!

At Roger Sherman, faculty and staff create a positive and challenging learning environment where students feel inspired, supported, and understood. This is done by facilitating a safe and mutually respectful school community that values risk taking, high expectations, and involvement of all stakeholders. Roger Sherman strives to optimize opportunities for students to grow emotionally, socially, and academically, and develop confidence to reach their full potential, now and in the future.

Stand Up Comedy Show

This September, join us sponsoring a Stand Up Comedy show to benefit MADD Connecticut – featuring comedians Tony Liverati, Sean Morton, and Howie Mason. As long-time supporters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Maritime Chevy is excited to help promote and sponsor this local event! 

Taking place Friday, September 22nd at Fairfield Ludlowe High, this comedy show is going to be a night of fun, prizes, raffles, vendors, food and more. Suitable for audiences 13 and up, you’ll be able to enjoy the evening with older children and families. Ticket sales are open now! Click here to purchase yours for only $25 per adult and $10 per student. The show starts at 7pm – we hope to see you there! 

Mothers Against Drunk Driving is focused on one important goal: ending impaired driving for good. Since founding, MADD has served as a lifeline for thousands of victims and survivors, and drunk driving fatalities have been cut in half. MADD provides guidance and information about the criminal and civil justice process, financial resources, emotional support options, 24-hour phone support, and more. Click here to learn more. 

ZL1 Garage 56 Edition

Introducing the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 Edition – a celebration of the legendary effort to run a NASCAR Cup Camaro ZL1 at Le Mans. Earlier this month, three of the world’s most accomplished race drivers were able to pilot the Garage 56 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Now, 56 enthusiast will get to own a car inspired by this incredible special race car, a collaboration between NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet, Goodyear and IMSA. 

“Even though Chevrolet has been racing since its inception in 1911, we’ve never done anything quite like Garage 56,” said General Motors President Mark Reuss.

The vision began back in 2012, when the Garage 56 was introduced at Le Mans as a single-entry class reserved for innovative vehicles built to withstand 24 hours of maximum-effort driving. Longtime Chevrolet partner Hendrick Motorsports, all-time leader in NASCAR Cup Series championships and race wins, was selected to field the team and construct the Garage 56 Camaro ZL1 race car. Converting the Cup Camaro ZL1 to the Garage 56 required specific functional lighting, new aero treatments, and a standout livery. 

Renowned drivers Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion; Jenson Button, 2009 Formula One World Champion; and multi-time Le Mans winner Mike Rockenfeller drove the Garage 56 Camaro ZL1 at Le Mans this month. 

The 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 Edition renderings were finally showcased this month during a “Meet the Team” event at Le Mans highlighting the race program and the race car. After the success of the Garage 56, it became clear to leaderships of Chevrolet, NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports, Goodyear and IMSA, that this car needed to be accompanied by a production vehicle – creating another significant accomplishment in Camaro’s heritage. 

The design starts with a new Riptide Blue exterior color with graphics that pull in colors and themes from the race car, including thin gold stripes to accent a white trim that runs from the hood to the rear decklid. On the hood, you’ll find the NASCAR 75th Anniversary logo to match the prominent placement of the race car. A Garage 56 badge can be found on the front fenders, and a Hendrick Motorsports logo is placed on the sail panels to mimic the race car logos. Sat mirrors, a black fuel door with carbon fiber inserts, and Garage 56 emblems on the floor mats and steering wheel also adorn the production Garage. 

Like the race car, the production Garage is given its power from the Small Block engine family – the Camaro ZL1’s 650hp LT4 V-8 is under the hood, and the Camaro rides on Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar rubber.

The Camaro ZL1 Garage 56 Edition will enter production later this year at GM’s Lansing Grand River Assembly facility in Michigan.