Chevy small block to hit 100 million-engine milestone

GM is heading toward building its 100 millionth Chevrolet Small Block eight-cylinder engine, which is expected to be produced sometime this year. The modern Small Block powers the Chevrolet Silverado (and GMC Sierra), Chevrolet Colorado (and GMC Canyon), along with the Suburban, Camaro and Corvette.

The Small Block V-8 was introduced in 1955, delivering 195 horsepower with an optional four-barrel carburetor. The 2011 Silverado HD's standard small-block 6.0-liter V-8 makes 360 hp and 380 pounds-feet of torque.

"The introduction of the Small Block changed everything," said Jim Campbell, vice president of GM Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. "The Small Block was an instant success because it offered customers high performance and an affordable price, in a compact design that was very easy to modify. The Small Block also started a wave of innovation -- and escalating performance -- that transformed the cars Americans drove on the street and the track."

Last year, GM announced that it's investing more than $890 million to build its next-generation small-block truck and car engines that are expected to appear in the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups when they debut around 2013.

"Constant innovation and evolution have made the Small Block relevant for more than 50 years," said Sam Winegarden, GM executive director for Global Engine Engineering. "We are actively working on the fifth generation of the Small Block, which we believe will be the best V-8 engines ever made. By adding new technologies, such as direct injection, we will continue to improve the performance, durability, and efficiency of the iconic Chevy V-8."

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