Next Threat; Data Manipulation

[xoxoxoBruce]

Originally Posted by tw

GM did things similar to cover up their bad gas mileage numbers. For example, a Corvette would detect less acceleration, then assume this was an EPA mileage test. Computer would change engine parameters and bypass second gear to make their mileage appear higher.

No, no, no, you and your sinister plots.
There was no deception involved. Detect an EPA test? Even you aren't that dumb. Yes, it was to improve the gas mileage on the high performance models, and it worked, because it kept city drivers from running higher revs in a lower gear when they didn't need it. But if they seriously made an effort to do so, they could. There's also a bunch of aftermarket companies who sell a disabling tool for a few bucks. You see there's a lot of childish, unpatriotic, Americans who don't want to drive the crap you do.

From the Corvette manual, hardly a secret...

One-to-Four Shift Light (Manual Transmission)
When this light comes on, you can only shift from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4)instead of FIRST (1) to SECOND (2).
You must complete the shift into FOURTH (4) to turn off this feature. This helps you get the best possible fuel economy.
After shifting to FOURTH (4), you may downshift to a lower gear if you prefer.

Notice: Forcing the shift lever into any gear except FOURTH (4) when the 1 TO 4 SHIFT light comes on may damage the transmission.
Shift only from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) when the light comes on.
This light will come on when:
• The engine coolant temperature is higher than
169°F (76°C),
• you are going 15 to 19 mph (24 to 31 km/h) and
• you are 21 percent throttle or less.

15 to 19 mph and less than 21% throttle, is noodling along in city traffic.