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SETTING UP CAMP IN A CHEVY AVALANCHE
Source: GM Press Release

LAS VEGAS— "Getting away from it all – without leaving it all behind." That’s perhaps the best description of the all-new Chevrolet Avalanche Base Camp, a concept which debuted at this year’s SEMA show. The Avalanche Base Camp takes the spontaneous adaptability of the Avalanche production vehicle and moves it up a couple of notches.

"Thanks to the industry exclusive Midgate, the Chevrolet Avalanche is the only vehicle that can transform from a 6 passenger sport utility vehicle to a pickup truck with an 8 foot box at a moment’s notice," said Carl Hillenbrand, Avalanche assistant brand manager, Product. "With the Base Camp, Avalanche has one more trick up its sleeve. In essence, this vehicle becomes the base camp—the central location for all activities."

With the Avalanche Base Camp, the fun begins long before you reach the great outdoors. Passengers are entertained via a Rosen infotainment system that includes a number of video screens: two mounted to the front-seat headrests for second-row passengers, one mounted to the roof and another in the tailgate. A DVD player and Bose sound system can help keep the dreaded "Are we there, yet" questions away.

Base Camp’s SPO-licensed seat massage units keep front-seat passengers refreshed, and all passengers benefit from the seats with custom leather inserts. Meanwhile, the Magellan GPS system ensures the ultimate destination is reached effortlessly, and OnStar is just a push-button away, providing guidance and assistance. Once at the destination, the uniqueness of Avalanche Base Camp is truly demonstrated.

"Other vehicles – even typical SUVs – get you from point A to point B. Avalanche Base Camp can, in addition, become a home away from home," said Hillenbrand.

The Base Camp includes all of the amenities to make an extended camping trip an enjoyable experience. Perishable items are kept chilled in the 12 volt DC-powered cooler/hot box – which conveniently plugs into a power outlet in the rear quarter or in the trailer harness adapter. Cooking chores are handled on the Coleman propane stove built into the tailgate fold out kitchen.

Providing a worry-free nature-exploring experience are Coleman two-way radios and a hand-held Magellan Navigation System, while The North Face back packs offer comfort and convenience on those treks away from camp. Removable, wireless speakers and a video screen mounted to the tailgate enhance the entertainment experience and also make the Avalanche Base Camp an ideal vehicle for tailgating parties at the big game.

The Cellport 3000-VR will accommodate each camper’s wireless phones, regardless of make or model.. One docking station is in the front of the truck for driver and passenger to use while en route to their destination, while the second one is located at the back of the cargo box for easy access. The compact Cellport 3000-VR features smart charging technology so that either phone can be removed from its docking station and taken along on hikes away from camp. An external antenna connection ensures connections even in remote spaces. This is state-of-the-art, in-vehicle personal communications.

When night falls, Base Camp provides a Coleman air mattress and air pump. The North Face sleeping bags create a personalized, cozy environment. A Coleman heater also helps take the chill out of the nighttime air. Should the weather turn inclement – or for additional privacy and comfort – Base Camp also includes a tent over the truck bed.

"The Avalanche production vehicle is an adaptable, clever Chevrolet truck that can do anything, anytime, anywhere," said Hillenbrand. "The Avalanche Base Camp is a conceptual extension of that premise. It comfortably and conveniently transports its passengers and houses them at the camping site. It provides unrivaled spontaneous adaptability and brings a little bit of the luxury of home to any outdoor experience."