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| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 15 October 1987 |
| Founder | Tom Walkinshaw |
| Defunct | 18 August 2020 |
| Successor | General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) |
| Headquarters | Clayton, Victoria |
| Products | Automobiles |
| Owners | |
| Website | www.hsv.com.au |
Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) was the officially designatedperformance vehicle division forHolden. Established in 1987 and based inClayton, Victoria, the privately owned company modified Holden models such as the standard wheelbaseCommodore, long wheelbaseCaprice and Statesman, and commercialUte for domestic and export sale, all of which were imported from the mainHolden Elizabeth Plant. HSV had also modified other non-Holden cars within theGeneral Motors lineup in low volumes.
Vehicles produced by Holden Special Vehicles have generally been marketed under theHSV brand name. However, in the early years, some retailed under the Holden brand in Australia whereas most cars for export (other than in New Zealand and Singapore) retailed under different names (namely, Vauxhall and Chevrolet Special Vehicles).
In 1987Holden andTom Walkinshaw Racing established the joint venture Holden Special Vehicles (HSV). It replacedHolden Dealer Team (HDT), after Holden severed ties with it andPeter Brock due to the controversy surrounding theEnergy Polarizer.[1][2]
The first car developed by HSV was theHolden VL Commodore SS Group A SV of 1988, which was badged and sold by Holden forGroup Atouring car racinghomologation purposes. It went on to win the 1990Bathurst 1000 race.[3] The first car badged as a HSV was the SV88.[4]
HSV initially used a facility in 1987 inNotting Hill, Victoria, later moving to one inClayton previously owned byNissan in 1994. In 2018Walkinshaw Automotive Group, including HSV moved to another facility– also in Clayton.[5][6]
HSV ceased production of theHolden Caprice-basedGrange in 2016.[7]Holden Commodore-based models ceased production in 2017.[6]
In mid-2018 HSV began converting (re-manufacturing) theChevrolet Camaro 2SS coupe andChevrolet Silverado 2500HD pickup truck from left-hand-drive to right-hand-drive to GM's factory standards. The vehicles were sold with a factory warranty via the existing HSV-Holden dealership network. It boosted job numbers from 130 to 150 staff in order to cope with production ramping up.[6]
On 18 August 2020General Motors announced the closure of Holden Special Vehicles and its replacement byGeneral Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV).[8] GMSV imports and distributes the Silverado in theAustralasia region beginning in November 2020.[9][10]
The following is an alphabetical listing of the most notable and popular nameplates used by Holden Special Vehicles.
The HSV Avalanche is anall-wheel drivecrossover SUV that was produced from 2003 to 2005. Based on theHolden Adventra LX8 crossover wagon, the Avalanche range also incorporated a dual-cabutility model known as the Avalanche XUV, derived from theHolden Crewman Cross8. The Avalanche has been built over the following series:
TheHSV ClubSport or Clubsport is afull sizesports sedan that has represented the brand's highest volume seller since its introduction in 1990. It was based on the mainstream Commodore range and has been the entry-level HSV model except between 1995 and 1998, when that role was filled by theManta range. In 1999, HSV introduced a higher specification known as the "R8". The Clubsport has been built over the following series:
The HSV Coupé is a high performancegrand tourer that was produced from 2001 to 2006. It was based on theHolden Monaro, the Coupé adaptation of thethird generation Holden Commodore. Its standard model range included the GTO and GTS. In 2004, the GTS was discontinued and the all-wheel drive Coupé4 introduced. Limited edition models included the GTO LE (2003 and 2006) and GTO Signature (2006). The Coupé has been built over the following series:
TheHSV Grange is afull size sedan and it was based on the luxury Holden Statesman and Caprice twins. The Grange has represented the HSV brand's most top-of-the-line, luxury offering to date. Since 1997, this nameplate has replaced both the HSV Statesman and Caprice models. The Grange has been built over the following series:
TheHSV GTS is afull size high performance sedan that was based on the mainstream Commodore range. Excluding the special V6-engined editions sold in New Zealand in the VN and VP series, the proper and original V8-engined GTS was introduced in Australia in 1992 with the VP series. The GTS has represented the HSV brand's most powerful offering to date. With the exception of the Z Series, when it was not part of the range, the GTS has been built over the following series:
TheHSV Maloo is a performance utility that has been produced since 1990 and was based on the Holden Ute. Its distinguishing features have been high-performanceV8 engines and fullbody kits.[11] The name "Maloo" means "thunder" in anAboriginal language. It is said that former HSV managing director, John Crennan, coined the name for the vehicle after reading a book onAboriginal Australians.
In 2001, HSV introduced a higher "R8" specification. In June 2006, a regular production Z Series Maloo R8 broke the record for the world's fastest production performance pickup, at 271 km/h, (168 mph) beating the previous record holder, aDodge Ram SRT-10 by 22 km/h.[12]
The Maloo has been built over the following series:
The most powerful and developed version was the Gen-F 430 kW GTS Maloo, which was launched in November 2014. It featured GTS sedan mechanicals except for theMagnetic Ride Control suspension setup that, due to limited development opportunities, HSV left exclusively for the GTS sedan, Senator Signature and Grange. This Maloo was originally limited to 165 units, later increased to 250 plus 10 for export to New Zealand.[13]
The HSV Manta is a full-size sports sedan, and wagon (VS series) that was first introduced in April 1995, Discontinued November 1998. It was established as the entry-level HSV model below theClubSport, it was eventually dropped due to poor sales sale performance. The Manta was built over the following series:
TheHSV Senator is a full size luxury sports sedan that was first introduced in 1992. It was based on the Holden Berlina and Calais twins. From 1997, HSV offered a wagon variant (based solely on the Berlina, since the Calais was never built in that body shape) and a higher specification model known as the "Senator Signature". The Senator has been built over the following series:
The HSV SV88 was the first car to bear the HSV badge and was designed to compete againstHDT's luxury performance Director model car. The SV88 was launched in 1988 and based on the VL Series luxury Calais.
The HSV W427 was a limited edition flagship based on the E Series, which was released to celebrate the company's 20th anniversary in 2008. It was also a car produced to address the public disappointment caused by HSV canning its ambitious HRT 427 project previewed in 2002. It was powered by a 7,011 cc (7.0 L; 427.8 cu in)LS7V8 engine rated at 375 kW (510 PS; 503 bhp) at 6500 rpm and 640 N⋅m (472 lb⋅ft) at 5000 rpm oftorque.[14]
The XU6 was asuperchargedV6 model, it was an entry-level model in the HSV range, produced from 1998 to 2002.
The Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV was the first car produced by HSV, It released in 1988. It produced 180 kW (241 hp) and 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft). All produced in 'Panorama Silver'. The VL Group A SS was also the first model to feature afuel-injected version of theHolden V8. It was built as ahomologation, and sold as a Holden.[3]
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The SV88 was based on theHolden Calais (VL). It used acarburetored Holden V8 producing 136 kW (182 hp) and 355 N⋅m (262 lb⋅ft). It was the first car under the HSV marque.[4] The SV F20 was powered by theturbocharged 3.0-litreNissan RB30 producing 150 kW (201 hp) and 296 kW (397 hp) of torque. Only 2 units were produced, instead of the 20 planned.[15]
The range of vehicles for this series included (in chronological order):
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A number of models based on the VN Holden Commodore were developed by HSV, the most potent of which was the Commodore SS Group A SV built for Holden's touring car homologation requirements. It featured an extensively modified version of Holden's 5.0 litre V8 to produce 215 kW (292 PS; 288 hp) at 5200 rpm and 411 N⋅m (303 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm coupled to a six-speedZF S6-40manual transmission as used in theChevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Upgrades were also made to the suspension, tyres and brakes. Although a total production of 500 cars was original planned for racing homologation reasons, only 302 were ultimately produced in non-sequential order meaning that build number 450 may exist while build number 100 may not.[16] The VN Group A SS was the last Holden built as a homologation racing special.
Other models used either 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) or 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) versions of the same V8 except the SV3800, which had a 179 kW (243 PS; 240 hp)3.8-litreV6. In 1990, the first HSV Maloo was released, based on the VG seriesHolden Ute of the time. The lighter Ute body provided a performance edge over the other HSV sedan counterparts. Models based on the long-wheelbaseHolden VQ Caprice were released soon after. The SV90 and SV93 were treated with reworked suspension, wider front track and the 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) V8. The Statesman 5000i (in both series I and II form) featured 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp).
The VN series also spawned HSV V6-engined regional models, which are less known and widely based on Holden Commodore models with HSV add-ons.
The range of vehicles for this series included (in alphabetical order):
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| Model | Image | Engine | Power | Torque | Tyres | 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) | Standing 400 m (1/4-mile) | Top speed | RRP (A$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holden Commodore SS Group A SV[17] |  .jpg) | 4987 cc V8 | 215 kW (292 PS; 288 hp) @ 5200 rpm | 411 N⋅m (303 lb⋅ft) @ 4000 rpm | 235/45 ZR 17 - Goodyear Eagle | 6.5 s | 14.5 s | 253[18][clarification needed] | >$68,000 (from intended $50,000)[18] |
With the release of the VP series, HSV began introducingindependent rear suspension (IRS) to its models as well as introducing new model names, Senator and GTS. While the entry-level Clubsport and luxury Senator were equipped with the 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) V8, the high-performance GTS came standard with the 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) version and HSV's premium brake package. Alimited-slip differential was standard across the range.
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Following the appointment of award-winning designerIan Callum as design chief for TWR, VR series HSV models benefited from a more cohesive and stylish body design. Upgrades were made to the 5.0 litre V8 to yield 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp), while the GTS included a 5.7-litre stroked version producing 292 PS (215 kW) (also available as an option on the Senator) from May 1994 onwards. The VS series of 1995 introduced mild styling tweaks and a new three-spoke alloy wheel design. A value-oriented Manta was established as the base HSV model to broaden appeal. In 1996, a limited edition flagship GTS-R was created which came standard with the 5.7-litre V8,Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and "Hydratrak"limited slip differential (LSD) package. Available only in a polarising bright yellow colour (known as "XU-3 Yellah") with carbon fibre inserts and large rear wing, the GTS-R engine could beblueprinted for more power. In total, 85 GTS-Rs were produced (10 exported to New Zealand). The VS series II of 1996 introduced HSV's "Integrated Security System" (ISS) as standard, which featured animmobiliser and different electronics configuration for each car produced in an effort to deter theft.[19] In 1996, a new Statesman-based model known as the Grange replaced previous HSV Statesman models.
| Model | Image | Engine | Power | Torque | Tyres | 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) | Standing 400 m (1/4 mile) | Top speed | RRP (A$) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clubsport | _sedan_01.jpg) _sedan_02.jpg) | 4987 cc V8 | 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | $49,790 (manual), $51,150 (automatic) | |||
| GTS | _(cropped).jpg) | 5737 cc V8 | 215 kW (292 PS; 288 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 475 N⋅m (350 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | 6.20 s[20] | 14.60 s | 246 km/h (153 mph) | $65,975 (manual& automatic) |
| Maloo | .jpg) | 4987 cc V8 | 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 205/55 ZR16 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | ||||
| Senator 185i | _sedan_(17175944421)_(cropped).jpg) | 4987 cc V8 | 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | $59,785 (manual & automatic) | |||
| Senator 215i | 5737 cc V8 | 215 kW (292 PS; 288 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 475 N⋅m (350 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | $72,740 (manual & automatic) | ||||
| Manta | _185i_sedan_(22813822354)_(cropped).jpg) | 4987 cc V8 | 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp) @ 4800 rpm | 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) @ 3600 rpm | 225/50 ZR16 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01 | Sedan: $45,360 (manual), $46,675 (automatic) Wagon: $48,640 (manual), $49,990 (automatic) |
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This series was based on the all-new Holden VT Commodore range released in August 1997. It was the last series to be powered by Australian-made 265 PS (195 kW; 261 hp) 5.0 litre V8 (cast iron block) and the 300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp) 5.7-litre stroker in the GTS. A Senator Signature wagon was introduced and was mechanically identical to the sedan counterpart. The VS ute bodyshell was retained for the Maloo. There were only 180 Manta units produced, after which this model was dropped from production due to its close competition with the donor Commodore SS model.
HSV's VT range included:
The range also comprised the XU8, which was built in limited numbers to carry last-ever Australian-made V8 engine.
The VT Series II represented a major update for HSV through the introduction of the new 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp) 5.7 litre GENIIILS1 V8, which sawWheels magazine name the GTS as the fastest Holden ever at the time.[21] The Manta and Senator Signature wagon were both dropped from the line-up due to poor sale performance. The flagship GTS presented many unique features such as aCallaway tuned 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) version of the LS1, a 3.91 final drive ratio and the addition of toe-control links to its IRS design. The recent release of the new WH seriesCaprice in 2001 allowed the Grange to gain its new look. This series also saw the introduction of asupercharged V6 model named the XU6, which ultimately did not prove successful and was described as being agricultural against new competitors such as theMagna VR-X, which was rated a superior product in a direct comparison.[22] For the first time, a more performance-oriented Clubsport was launched, known as the Clubsport R8. It came standard with HSV's "Performance" suspension and braking package, which were offered as optional extras on the Clubsport. Again, the Maloo remained available using the VS ute body shell.
HSV's VT Series II range included:
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Acting on feedback from owners, HSV strove to differentiate its range of vehicles from the standard Holden offerings. To achieve this, HSV introduced more distinguishing bodykit and interior designs. This series also saw the LS1 engine output increase by 5 kW (7 PS; 7 hp). The introduction of the new VU Holden Ute allowed HSV to produce an all-new Maloo variant. A limited edition Senator 300 model also became available, equipped with the 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) V8 and suspension modifications from the GTS.
The range included:
The VX range saw HSV offer its first Coupé models based on the newV2 series, in GTO and GTS spec. The latter replaced the GTS sedan but was powered by a less powerful 255 kW (347 PS; 342 hp) engine. A Maloo R8 model was added with similar upgraded specification to the Clubsport R8. This series saw the addition of the XU6-Maloo, which was essentially a utility version of the XU6 sedan. This model was shortly discontinued due to a lack of demand. The special edition SV300 was introduced to replace the Senator 300. Toe-control links for the rear suspension was now fitted across the range in line with the HoldenVX series update, for improved handling. The VXII update also brought with it the addition ofMicrodots across the range in order to reduce theft, a feature HSV refers to asHSV DNA.
The range now included:
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Coinciding with the release of theVY Commodore, HSV produced the Y Series models adopting an even more distinguishing design and an alphabetical designation to further distance itself from donor Holden. While the GTS sedan returned (with a recalibratedECU increasing power to 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp)), the XU6 was discontinued due to a lack of demand attributed to a perceived lack of extra power relative to Holden's supercharged V6 sedans. The twin kidney grille design first introduced on the VR series Commodore became HSV's new signature grille. Finally, the Senator range was split into entry-level Senator and high-end luxury Senator Signature models.
The range included:
This upgraded range is characterised by a significant power increase to 285 kW (387 PS; 382 hp). Rumors followed that a new engine was due for release, with the development of GM's newLS2 nearly complete. This power upgrade closed the performance gap between HSV's mainstream models and the 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) flagship GTS, which prompted speculation that the GTS was set for a power increase as well. An updated WK Statesman/Caprice from Holden also formed the basis for the new Grange. The GTO Coupé returned, and the forays of parent companyHolden intoAWD saw the introduction of the Avalanche (based on theHolden Adventra), the XUV (based on theHolden Crewman), and the Coupé4 (based on theHolden Monaro). The latter was particularly significant, as it was the first time thatHolden's AWD system had been used in such a low-riding application. These new additions to the range made the Y Series II the biggest HSV range in history, with 16 variants.
The range included:
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This series of HSVs (released in October 2004) were known as the "Z" Series, reflecting the fact they were based on the VZ-series of the donorHolden Commodore. This saw the introduction, across the range, of the new GM LS2 V8, which generated 297 kW (400 hp). The AWD models retained the less powerful LS1. The lack of a GTS model in this series was attributable to the negligible power difference between the new LS2 models and a potential 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) GTS, sparking rumors that the newLS7 V8 was going to be used in the next series. In lieu of the GTS, HSV released the SV6000, which was based on the Clubsport and limited to 50 units. A new WL Statesman/Caprice model also resulted in an upgraded Grange.
The Z-series was the first range with which HSV reached the Middle East with the one-make racing ClubSport R sedans,[23][24] and it was the last series to be based on the 1997–2006 VT Commodore, which adopted theV-body.
On 25 May 2006, a standard 2006 HSV Maloo R8 driven byMark Skaife was clocked at an averaged speed of 271.44 km/h (168.66 mph) in theWoomera, South Australia.[25] The speed was recognised by theGuinness World Records representative, Chris Sheedy, as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck recorded. The speed improved over the previous record held by aDodge Ram SRT-10 at 248.784 km/h (154.587 mph).[12]
A revised range was launched in January 2006, and is designated as the Z Series MY06 (in lieu of the more traditional "Series II" moniker).
The limited edition Signature Coupe was HSV's farewell to the Monaro/GTO as the last two door coupe manufactured in Australia.
The range included:
In addition, in July 2005, HSV released upgraded manual-only Clubsport, Clubsport R8[26] and Coupé GTO[27] fitted with optional 2-Stage "Dealer Team Spec" performance packages.
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An all-new Holden Commodore chassis, known as the VE was unveiled in July 2006. Following this, a new range of "E" Series HSV models were released in August 2006.
Changes to the exhaust system yielded a 10 kW (14 PS; 13 hp) increase in power (see below) for theLS2 to 307 kW (417 PS; 412 hp). Extensive modifications to the base VE Commodore sheetmetal and interior were introduced, most notably the uniqueLED taillights and distinctive side vents. The newGM 6L80-E 6 speedautomatic transmission from the VE Commodore is offered, andElectronic Stability Control is standard on all models.
The GTS, Senator Signature and Grange additionally feature switchableMagnetic Ride Control to improve ride and handling. As such, the E Series represents HSV's most expensive model developments in its history,[28] with the MRC suspension system alone costingA$4.5 million.[29] In October, a new Grange model based on theHolden WM Caprice was released featuring the same V8 and MRC suspension as the Senator Signature and GTS, albeit with its own unique settings.
HSV also released a HSV Senator Signature SV08 which is released in a limited run of 20 manual and 30 automatic units. This model featured lower paint-outs, sill plates and extra chrome accents on the side mirrors and door handles. It was powered by a V8 engine developing 317 kW mated to a newTremec TR-6060 gearbox and had 20-inch "Pentagon" wheels,Magnetic Ride Control suspension system with Sport mode and Park Assist system.
In August 2008, HSV launched its new flagship model, theW427. This car is based on the GTS, but carries a 7.0 LLS7 V8 engine along with larger brakes, strengthened gearbox, revised suspension and uniqueMRC settings. The W427 was the most powerful car ever made in Australia until the release of the Gen-F GTS, with power outputs of 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp) at 7000 rpm and 640 N⋅m (472 lb⋅ft) at 5000 rpm. It is still the most expensive, at $155 500.
On 28 March 2008, HSV announced that theLS3 6.2-litre engine would be fitted to all E-Series models (with the exception of the LS7 W427) from April 2008. TheLS3 power output is 317 kW (431 PS; 425 hp), whilst peak torque has not increased over the LS2. 12 May 2008 saw the announcement of a new HSV E Series model; the HSV "Tourer". This new model, based on the VE Holden Sportwagon was later officially released in September 2008.
The range included:
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The HSV E Series 2 range was released late 2009 and was the most major update since the release of E Series HSV's. Prices started at $65,990 for the Clubsport R8.The range received many cosmetic changes with new front and rear bumpers, twin-nostriled bonnet (from thePontiac G8) and a new range of wheel designs. The Series 2 has a very distinctive look set of daytime running lights standard across the E2 range.[30] On 9 September 2010, HSV released the E Series 3.
The new engines in the range are the 325 kW (442 PS; 436 hp) 6.2-litre LS3 V8 used exclusively by the HSV GTS, with the rest of the E2 range being powered by an LS3 in 317 kW (431 PS; 425 hp) trim. The new engines have also improved fuel economy by 4.2 per cent on the LS3 V8.New is the intelligent launch controls, Competition mode ESC and Extended cruise control systems which are all standard for E2 models excluding intelligent launch control which is only available with a manual transmission.
This last version of the E Series was released on 21 September 2010.The noticeable changes between E Series 2 and 3 included an increase in power in the GTS range to 325 kW (436 hp; 442 PS), making it once again the top of the HSV list; the GTS E Series II was also increased to a price of $80,990; the HSV Enhanced Driver Interface (racing version of Holden IQ), the new LPI system, LPG and unleaded fuel are $5,990 options on all models except the R8 Tourer; and the updatedHolden VE II Commodore interior and new rear exhaust and rear spoilers.
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TheGen-F series, which is based on theVF Commodore series went on sale in August 2013. The HSV GTS became the most powerful production car ever produced in Australia,[31] with 430 kW (585 PS; 577 hp) and 740 N⋅m (546 lb⋅ft) of torque. Its retail price was considerably higher than the equivalent E Series 3 models, costing over $90,000.[32]
The range included:
HSV made non-Commodore based models since 1988.[33]
The HSV Astra SV1800 was released in 1988, and was based on theLD-series Holden Astra. It shared the same 1.8-litreGM Family II engine as the standard Astra, producing 79 kW (106 hp) and 151 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft). It added extractors, sports exhaust, and a body kit. 65 units were produced, both in sedan and hatchback form.[33][34]
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The HSV VXR Turbo is a rebadgedVauxhall Astra, produced from 2006 to 2009.It has a 2.0-litreturbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 176 kW (236 hp) and 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft), coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission.[35]
The HSV Jackaroo was introduced in 1993. It was based on theHolden Jackaroo, itself derived from the second-generationIsuzu Trooper. It was powered by the same 3.2-litre V6 coupled with a four-speed automatic as the Holden Jackaroo, producing 130 kW (174 hp) and 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft). It added air conditioning, new alloy wheels and alimited-slip differential. 79 units were produced.[33][34]
The Holden Jackaroo SE was a HSV-modified Jackaroo sold as a Holden.[36]
The HSV SportsCat was produced from 2018 to 2020, based on theHolden Colorado.[37][38] It was available in V and SV trims.[39]
Plans for a high power version of the Holden Colorado using theLT1 engine and a10-speed transmission was cancelled in 2020 with the closure of HSV and Holden. Two prototypes were built with powertrains taken from crash-testedChevrolet Camaros, one based on a HSV SportsCat, and the other based on a North American Chevrolet Colorado to be aimed at that market. It was the final project worked on by HSV, and would have received a new name, ThunderCat being one of the considered options.[40]
In 2014, HSV reported the following production milestones:[41][6]
HSV exported its range to New Zealand without any rebranding, as in the case of Singapore, where exports resumed in 2010 after a two-decade absence.[42] HSV was rebadged elsewhere, starting in 2006 in the United Kingdom (with theVauxhall Monaro VXR),[43] and 2008 in the Middle East with theCSV CR8.[44]
HSV first reached into the Middle Eastern market with a one-race series featuring stripped down ClubSport R (Z Series) sedans in Dubai and Bahrain, theChevrolet Supercars Middle East Championship.[45]
The VN Convertible was based on theVN Berlina, built in 1989. It was converted from a sedan to convertible by Maverick Motors. The wheelbase was shortened, the front doors were lengthened, addedindependent rear suspension and aGM TH400 automatic gearbox and 5.0-litre V8.[46][47][33]
The HRT Maloo concept had a 6.2-litreLS6 engine producing 350 kW (469 hp) tuned byCallaway Cars, adding a wider bodykit and 20-inch wheels.[48]
The Maloo Cab Chassis concept was powered by a LS1 producing 260 kW (349 hp), it was acab chassis model based on theHolden One Tonner. It was shown at the 2003Melbourne Motor Show.[49]
The HRT 427 concept was based on a modifiedHolden Monaro bodyshell and, among other things, it featured a 427 cubic inches (7,000 cm3) V8 engine based on theLS6 V8, but with capacity taken from 5.7 L (5,665 cc) to 7.0 L (7,000 cc) – hence the name. Due to the high cost specifications, the business case for full production failed since Holden could not build the 427 in such limited quantities for the original asking price of A$215,000. Only two road and three racing versions were ever built.[50]
The project was done at the same time that theHolden Monaro 427C GT racing car that raced in (and won) the2002 Bathurst 24 Hour (repeating victory in2003) and then raced in theAustralian Nations Cup Championship. Effectively, the HRT 427 was supposed to be the road car variant to the racing 427C Monaro's.[50]
This concept was unveiled at the 2004 Sydney Motor Show also based on the Monaro bodyshell. Similarities could be drawn with the HRT 427, however, this model was only intended for a one-make racing series and was powered by a modified 6.0-litre version of Chevrolet's LS2 V8 engine producing 335 kW (455 PS; 449 hp). This concept, too, never reached production.[51]
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In 2005, HSV provided sponsorship for theV8 Supercar team then-called the Kmart Dealer Team. The team adoptedHSV Dealer Team as their new name.[4] Holden opposed the idea, fearing that it would undermineHolden Racing Team's link with HSV.[52]
HSV's direct rival wasFord Australia through its various performance arms, namelyFord Tickford Experience (FTE) from 1999, andFord Performance Vehicles (FPV) from 2002 to 2014, with their production of modifiedFord Falcon-based cars. Another rival, albeit on a smaller scale,[53] has beenCorsa Specialised Vehicles (CSV) with itsCommodore-based high performance cars that included the CSV GTS of 2007. CSV beat the HSV W427 to the market by being the first Holden vehicle powered by a 7.0LLS7 V8 engine.[54]
Holden concept cars | |
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| Concept models | |
| HSV (performance) | |
| Australian vehicle manufacturers |
|
|---|---|
| Defunct vehicle manufacturers |
|
| Components | |
| Distributors | |
| Subsidiaries of foreign companies | |
| Related topics | |
