HHR Ready for Work with New Panel Van Version

Customizers and fleet owners rejoice; Chevrolet has just announced the panel van version of its retro-styled HHR. To some, this will be a 40s-themed blank canvas to restyle to their own liking, while for others itll be an efficient and affordable new way of getting the job done. Regardless, the HHR Panel capitalizes on a market that Chrysler ignored with the PT Cruiser.

To convert the HHR from compact family mover to work-friendly cargo hauler, the body has undergone a thorough conversion process. Though the HHR still has four opening doors (and a tailgate), the vehicles structure has been modified. Instead of glass, the side windows have been replaced by steel panels, which have been seamlessly integrated into the doors and rear quarters. Another major change is that the rear doors have been re-worked to become cargo doors. The rear doors also do not have external door handles; they must be opened from inside. The tailgate of the HHR Panel is still a standard liftgate.

With a high roof (thats what the HR in HHR stands for) and upright sides, this little Chevy was a perfect fit for the panel van conversion. Chevrolet replaced the rear bench with a flat, wipe-down plastic floor, giving the HHR Panel an impressive cargo volume of 57.0 cu-ft. The HHR also has two hidden storage bins, which add 6.0 cu-ft of space; longer objects such as a ladder can be carried on board by folding the front passenger seat flat. Other work-friendly adaptations include an extra power outlet, plus available 40-amp service for customers that require an electrical power source.

The HHR Panel will be available with the same powertrains as the standard HHR, which means that the base LS model will get the 2.2-liter Ecotec motor thats rated at 149 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, while the higher-level LT model gets the bigger 2.4-liter Ecotec that has 175 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Both engines can be had with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. Because the HHR is based off a compact car, its one of North Americas most fuel-efficient commercial vehicles, if not the most fuel efficient. Chevrolet rates both the 2.2 and 2.4 L models at 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the manual gearbox, and 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway for the automatic. Either engine can deliver a fuel range of up to 450 miles.

Although its being marketed as a commercial vehicle, the HHR Panel goes against the grain by offering equipment and luxuries not normally found on this type of transporter. The options list is similar to the standard HHR, with power seats, XM radio, glass sunroof and turn-by-turn OnStar Navigation, while the LT model gets leather seats and 17-inch polished wheels as standard equipment. The HHR Panel will go on sale during the first quarter of next year.