Electrical Occupant Information & Controls

Two notable changes in the electrical occupant and information area have been made for increased customer satisfaction and convenience.

First, the steering wheel lock has been deleted on coupes and convertibles with the standard automatic transmission. With the brake-to-shift interlock, the key cannot be removed from the ignition until the transmission has been shifted to Park. Once Park is selected, the key can be removed and the transmission is effectively locked, preventing forward self-mobility.

Second, a new active remote function actuator (RFA) system will utilize an improved slim-design key fob that is less bulky and more manageable in the pocket or purse. (Domestic vehicle only). Battery life has also been extended from roughly 1.5 years to between 2 and 3 years (depending on usage), for increased function and convenience.

Electrical Power & Signal

For the first time ever in a General Motors vehicle, all 2001 Corvettes use an absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery. The benefits of an AGM battery include:

• Higher heat resistance

• Lighter

• Deep cyclability; the integrity of the lead plates is preserved due to AGM construction principles allowing the AGM battery to be run down and re-charged more often.

• No spillage in crash situations

• No leaking terminals means less corrosion

Also known as a "starve battery," the AGM battery uses fiberglass mats that are saturated with electrolytes, rather than free flowing electrolytes found in standard batteries. The mats of the AGM battery are sandwiched together and then compressed under high pressure. The battery case is reinforced on both ends for added strength. Using a nine-inch AGM battery, 2.6 kilograms (5.7 lbs) of mass was saved.