Designers of the sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro were challenged to update the handling, fuel economy and acceleration of the popular current model, which proved to be no easy task.

In order to achieve all three goals, the team decided to focus on one major mission: reduce mass somehow.

By researching how to cut weight they were able to drop more than 200 pounds off the current model, mainly from its Alpha rear-drive architecture. In the end, they were able to make the 2016 Camaro do more with less, according to Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer.

"We kept the cornering confidence and control that make the Gen 5 Camaro 1LE so fun to drive, and added a greater sense of agility," he said, according to a GM press statement. "The new Camaro brakes harder, flicks into corners more quickly, and drives out of the corner faster. We expect it will set the benchmark in the segment and give many sports cars a challenge."

The team made "dozens" of small changes which helped the Camaro cut some dead weight. The beam that supports the instrument panel used to be made of steel, but by switching to aluminum the team was able to cut 9.7 pounds, according to GM.

Chevy also switched to a fully aluminum suspension that is 21 percent lighter than the previous suspension.

Chevy's new Camaro will be officially unveiled during a special premiere event on May 16.

A day-long celebration will be held on the 982-acre island park that is home to the Chevrolet Detroit Bell Isle Grand Prix.

Visit the Camaro Six website to register for the free event and receive more information and to download the "sound" of Camaro Six to your Apple, Android or Windows phone.

Make sure to check back with AutoWorldNews for the latest Camaro updates and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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