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High Flyers: the 'Astrovettes' owned by NASA astronauts

the 'Astrovettes'

July 2019 was one for the history books for a lot of reasons, but two of our favorites reasons are: the debut of the all-new 2020 Corvette on July 18, and the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20.

As plenty of Corvette fans know, there's another interesting connection between Corvette and the U.S. Space program, other than that near-conjunction of recent historical events. At the height of the Apollo program in the 1960s, Chevrolet made sure astronauts got to ride in style on terra firma through an innovative program that let astronauts lease new Corvettes for as little as $1 dollar per year. In addition to letting America's spacefarers blow off some steam while on earth, the program also gave Corvette a huge public relations boost.

The connection between Corvette and NASA astronauts is a natural, with many astronauts being former fighter pilots who wanted to travel as fast on land as they had in the air. Chevy sealed the deal officially in 1962, when GM president Alan Shepard give a specially-prepared 1962 Corvette to astronaut Alan Shepard, the first American in space, as a gift from the company. Up until then, it had been almost unheard of for Chevrolet to give away vehicles, even to heroes like Shepard, but the gift was the beginning of a partnership that would persist through the next decade.

One hurdle to putting astronauts behind the wheel of flashy Corvettes was a U.S. Military policy that forbade astronauts from profiting from their fame by taking gifts or doing endorsements. Chevy cleverly got around this prohibition by instituting their famous "Dollar Car" program, which let astronauts and their families lease up to two new Chevrolet vehicles for $1 per year from a dealership in Melbourne, Florida, near the home of NASA. Most astronauts chose a sensible family car, but also a flashy new Corvette.

As publicity for the Astronaut "Dollar Car" program grew, Chevrolet capitalized on the idea by offering astronauts specially-prepared and painted Corvettes. The three-man crew of Apollo 12, for example, were leased a trio of 1969 Corvette Roadsters with the 390 horsepower 427 big block engine. Originally Riverside Gold, the cars had a winglike black paint detail added to make them truly unique, along with red, white and blue logos as a salute to the crew's service. The Apollo 12 crew was later captured in an iconic photo in Life Magazine, sitting on top of their nearly-identical cars.

Though the $1 lease program ended with the Apollo program in 1971, interest in astronaut-owned Corvettes has remained high. In 2007, a 1967 Corvette roadster originally owned by astronaut Gus Grissom, who died in a launchpad fire at Cape Kennedy in January 1967, sold at auction for $275,000. While today's astronauts have to pay retail for their Corvettes, the connection is still strong. Retired astronauts Scott Kelly and Mae Jemison were on hand in July to help introduce the 2020 Corvette.

Like our high-flying heroes, we're feeling the need for speed around here at McLarty Daniel Chevrolet of Springdale, and we're counting the days until the first 2020 Corvette touches down on the lot. Ready to buy a 2020 Corvette in Northwest Arkansas? Then stop in today at your Northwest Arkansas Corvette superstore: McLarty Daniel Chevrolet! Get pre-approved for financing, then get ready for launch when the 2020 Corvette arrives on our lot this fall. Can't wait? Grab one of the last front-engine 2019 C7 Corvettes right now at our website while you can.

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Use Your Tax Refund to Drive Off in Something New

Use Your Tax Refund to Drive Off in Something New Tax season is in full swing, and if you're one of the many getting a refund this year, you're probably already thinking about the best way to use it. While it's tempting to spend it all on a vacation or a big splurge, what if you could turn that refund into something that makes your daily life better… every single day? Here's a smart idea: put your tax refund toward a new (or new-to-you) Chevy. Whether you've been dreaming about upgrading to a spacious SUV, tackling more with a dependable truck, or just getting behind the wheel of something more modern and efficient, your tax refund can help make it happen. Browse Our New Inventory Why a Chevy is a Great Investment Chevy vehicles are known for their durability, value and style — so it's no surprise that using your refund on one is a move that just makes sense. A Chevy isn't just a purchase; it's an upgrade to your daily routine. From road trip-ready SUVs like the Traverse or Tahoe, to hardworking trucks like the Silverado, to efficient and fun-to-drive cars like the Malibu or Trax, there's a Chevy for every lifestyle and budget. Your Refund = Down Payment Power Even a moderate refund can give you the boost you need for a strong down payment, which may help lower your monthly payments or qualify you for better financing rates. It's like handing your future self a little financial head start. Have a vehicle to trade in? Even better. Combine your trade-in value with your refund, and you've got a powerful one-two punch toward driving off in something new. Tips on Maximizing Your Trade-In Value Shop Smart Spring is one of the best times to buy a vehicle, especially a Chevy. New models are arriving, and dealerships like us are offering incentives and promotions — so your refund can stretch even further. Whether you're eyeing a brand-new Silverado 1500, a tech-packed Equinox, or a value-loaded Trax, this is the season to make your move. Plus, with Chevy's reputation for dependability, you can feel good knowing your money is going toward something that'll last for years to come. Pre-Owned? Still a Win. Not looking to go brand-new? No problem. Chevy offers tons of Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles that come with limited warranties, roadside assistance and a whole lot of confidence. Your refund could cover the entire cost — or at least get you well on your way to owning a quality pre-owned Chevy that fits your needs and your budget. Shop Our Pre-Owned Inventory Drive Now, Thank Yourself Later Using your tax refund on a Chevy is about more than getting a great vehicle — it's about investing in reliability, safety and comfort for the road ahead. Whether you need more space for a growing family, better fuel efficiency for your commute, or a truck that can handle your weekend projects, there's a Chevy waiting for you. Let's Put That Refund to Work We're here to help you make the most of your tax refund with great vehicles, transparent pricing, and a team that's ready to help you find the perfect fit. Let this spring be the season you finally treat yourself to something that makes every drive better. Stop by, browse online, or schedule a test drive — we'll help you put your refund to work in the best way possible.

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Why April Is the Perfect Time for a Tire Check-Up

Why April Is the Perfect Time for a Tire Check-Up As the chill of winter fades away and spring sunshine starts warming the pavement, April brings more than just blooming flowers and longer days — it's also the ideal time to give your vehicle's tires some much-needed attention. After all, your tires are your only point of contact with the road, and after a long winter, they deserve a check-up. So why April? Let's roll into the reasons. 1. Winter Can Be Tough on Tires If you've driven through cold temperatures, snow, ice and salted roads, your tires have been working overtime. Even if you didn't experience harsh conditions, fluctuating temperatures throughout winter can cause tires to expand and contract, potentially leading to pressure loss, small cracks, or uneven tread wear. April is a great time to check in on how your tires survived the season. Visit Our Tire Department Online 2. Tire Pressure Shifts With the Weather Here's a handy rule of thumb: for every 10-degree change in temperature, your tire pressure can fluctuate by about one PSI. So when spring rolls in and temperatures start rising, your tire pressure might need adjusting. Driving on over- or under-inflated tires not only affects fuel efficiency but can also shorten the life of your tires and even create a safety hazard. A quick check and top-off in April can help you ride smoother and safer all season long. 3. Better Road Conditions Mean More Travel Warmer weather often inspires day trips, weekend getaways and scenic drives. But before you hit the road, it's smart to make sure your tires are ready for the miles ahead. A professional tire inspection can alert you to issues like low tread, uneven wear, or small punctures that could become big problems on a road trip. Search for the Latest Service Coupons 4. Spring Showers Require Good Tread April is known for its rain, and wet roads demand reliable traction. Tires with worn-down tread are more likely to hydroplane, which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. The penny test is a quick way to check your tread depth at home — just insert a penny into the tire groove with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see all of his head, it's time for new tires. And don't forget — most modern tires now come with tread wear indicator bars built right in. These small, raised sections at the bottom of the tread grooves become more visible as your tire wears down, giving you an easy visual cue that it's time for a replacement. 5. Seasonal Tire Swaps If you switched to winter tires during the colder months, April is typically the time to switch back to your all-season or summer tires. Driving winter tires in warmer weather can wear them out faster and reduce your fuel economy. Scheduling your seasonal changeover in April will make sure your tires match the season and give you a chance to inspect both sets before storage or road use. Shop for New Tires 6. It's National Car Care Month! April is also National Car Care Month, a great reminder to check in on all the things that keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. A tire check-up fits right in alongside oil changes, brake inspections and battery tests. Think of it as a spring cleaning for your car! Ready for a Tire Check-Up? We've Got You Covered. At McLarty Daniel Chevrolet, we're here to help you take care of the little things before they turn into big problems. Whether it's checking your tread, rotating your tires, or making sure your alignment is on point, our service team is ready to get your ride road-trip ready. Schedule your tire check-up with us today!

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What Your Chevy Tahoe Color Says About You

What Your Chevy Tahoe Color Says About You When choosing a Chevy Tahoe, there's more to consider than just power, space and features — your color choice says a lot about your personality and style! Whether you opt for a bold, eye-catching hue or a sleek, classic shade, your Tahoe's color can reflect your attitude on the road. Here's what your Chevy Tahoe color choice might say about you. Discover the Tahoe Summit White – Timeless & Practical If you drive a Summit White Tahoe, you appreciate clean, classic style. White vehicles are known for their timeless appeal and their ability to stay cooler in the sun. You likely enjoy practicality, organization and reliability in all aspects of life. Plus, a white Tahoe always looks fresh and modern, making it a popular choice for those who like to keep things simple yet stylish. Black – Bold & Sophisticated A black Chevy Tahoe is for those who mean business. Whether it's rolling up to a big event or cruising through town, black vehicles demand attention. If this is your pick, you likely have a confident, strong personality and appreciate luxury, power and sophistication. Black also gives off a mysterious vibe, perfect for those who like to keep people guessing. Sterling Gray Metallic – Sleek & Modern Gray is the go-to color for those who love a blend of style and subtlety. If you picked Sterling Gray Metallic, you probably have a refined taste and appreciate modern aesthetics without being flashy. You're a forward-thinker who values a car that looks great in any setting, from city streets to off-road adventures. Iridescent Pearl Tricoat – Elegant & Unique An Iridescent Pearl Tricoat Tahoe turns heads wherever it goes. This color suggests you have an eye for detail and appreciate sophistication with a touch of flair. You're likely someone who enjoys standing out in a refined way, and you don't mind investing in a little extra style. Dark Ash Metallic – Rugged & Adventurous If you're behind the wheel of a Dark Ash Metallic Tahoe, you're probably an outdoor lover who craves adventure. This color is both sleek and tough, making it the perfect fit for someone who enjoys road trips, camping and off-road fun. You appreciate a vehicle that's as versatile and capable as you are. Radiant Red Tintcoat – Confident & Energetic Driving a Radiant Red Tintcoat Tahoe means you're not afraid to stand out. Red vehicles are often associated with passion, energy and confidence. If this is your color of choice, you likely have a bold personality and enjoy making a statement. You thrive on excitement and love a vehicle that reflects your vibrant lifestyle. Why the Tahoe is Perfect for Busy Families Midnight Blue Metallic – Calm & Collected A Midnight Blue Metallic Tahoe is for those who appreciate depth, sophistication and a little mystery. Blue is often linked to trust, stability and intelligence, so if you picked this shade, you're likely someone who values dependability and calmness on the road. You enjoy the finer things in life but prefer to let your Tahoe's subtle elegance do the talking. Auburn Metallic – Warm & Distinctive If you drive an Auburn Metallic Tahoe, you appreciate a touch of uniqueness and warmth. This earthy, rich color suggests you have a strong connection to nature and love a vehicle that stands out in a tasteful way. You likely have a welcoming personality and enjoy creating memorable experiences on and off the road. Which Tahoe Color Fits You Best? No matter which Chevy Tahoe color you choose, each one tells a story about your style, personality and driving preferences. Whether you lean toward classic, bold, or adventurous, there's a perfect Tahoe color out there for you. If you're ready to find the Chevy Tahoe that matches your personality, visit us at McLarty Daniel Chevrolet or browse our selection online. Your perfect ride is waiting!