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General Motors is planing a range of updates for their full-size trucks starting in the 2021 model year, beginning with updated interiors. Also coming is a Silverado ZRX aimed to take on the likes of the Ford F-150 Raptor and the Ram 1500 Rebel. The ZRX would come with an improved off-road suspension, special DSSV Dampers like on the Colorado ZR2, rear and front locking differentials, and improved approach and departure angles. If Chevy uses the same recipe they did on the ZR2, the ZRX will likely also get unique front and rear fascias. One thing that isn't changing though is the powertrain. It's rumored that the ZRX will continue to use the same 6.2 liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft of torque. This is disappointing as the Raptor and Rebel TRX both get more powerful engines than their on-road counterparts. If these plans come to fruition, expect the Silverado ZRX to come out in 2021 as a 2022 model. View full article

General Motors announced a recall Wednesday of 3.46 million GM trucks and SUVs for a braking issue that has been linked to 113 accidents and 13 injuries. The problem arises from a vacuum pump issue where the pump make less vacuum over time, thereby increasing the braking effort. The pump is lubricated by engine oil and can accumulate debris and oil sludge lessening the pump's effectiveness. The recall covered model years 2014 - 2018 of Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra and Yukon. GM told the NHTSA that the pump design was only used during those years of manufacture. In a smaller recall, GM is recalling 177,000 2018 Chevrolet Malibus with the 1.5-liter Turbo engine where an error in the engine control computer could disable the fuel injectors. View full article

Once the diesel rolls out for the 2020 Silverado, it will take the title of most fuel efficient full-size truck on the market with an EPA rating of 23 City / 33 Highway / 27 Combined. The 3.0 liter inline six-cylinder diesel generates 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and also features a start stop system. In the Silverado, the price of the diesel engine is the same as upgrading to the 6.2 liter gasoline V8. It adds, $2,495 to the price of an LTZ or High Country model, or $3,890 to the cost of an LT or RST. Naturally, the engine will be available in the GMC Sierra as well. For those counting, this means the Sierra diesel is more efficient than the 4-cylinder diesel in the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon. It is also a less costly upgrade than on the two smaller trucks, there costing $5,745 on an LT GM is likely to hold the MPG title for a while as Ford's F-150 diesel was just released for 2019 and is rated for 22 City / 30 Highway / 25 Combined. Ram hasn't sold their 3.0 V6 Ecodiesel since 2017, but it was rated at 20 City / 27 highway / 23 combined. Honda does not field a full size truck. Nissan does, but does not offer a diesel in their standard duty models. Toyota does not offer a diesel at all, though it is rumored that the next Tundra will be coming with a twin-turbo V6 hybrid. The Silverado Diesel arrives in dealerships this fall. View full article

GM is delaying the launch of the new inline-6 diesel engine bound for the GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500. No longer available for ordering on the 2019s, GM has pushed the availability into the 2020 model year. According the GM, the emissions certification process on the engine is taking longer than normal. Customers who ordered a 2019 Silverado or Sierra with the diesel engine will have their orders canceled and will need to resubmit the order for a 2020 model year vehicle once they become available for order. GM has yet to open orders for 2020 truck models with the diesel engine, but a GM spokesperson said that it will be "soon". Assuming the current pricing holds, the 3.0 liter Duramax diesel will be priced $2,495 over a 5.3 liter V8 and $2,890 over the 4-cylinder 2.7-liter turbo. Meanwhile for 2020, GM is expanding the availability of adaptive cruise control and the 10-speed automatic across the lineup. At Chevy, the Silverado will now have the optional 6.2 liter V8 on five out of the eight trim levels. The 6.2 V8 will be paired with the 10-speed automatic and available on the Custom Trail Boss, RST, LT Trail Box, LTZ, and High Country. At GMC, the CarbonPro box will be available at no additional cost when paired with certain other packages on the Sierra AT4 and Sierra Denali, while the double cab Sierra Elevation Trim will now also be available in a crew cab. View full article

The GMC Build and Price tool has let the details slip on the power ratings of the upcoming inline-6 diesel due to be released in the Sierra and Silverado in a few weeks. The 3.0 liter turbo diesel will produce 277 hp at 3,750 rpm and 460 lb-ft at a mere 1,500 rpm. The only transmission choice will be the 10-speed automatic. These numbers are SAE certified and verified by GM. The diesel motor will be available on LT and above trims on the Chevy and on all GMC trims except the base. These numbers make the GM six more powerful than Ford's V6 Powerstroke diesel which runs at 250 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. The New Ram 1500 still hasn't gotten a diesel unit, but it will probably be the same rating as the 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque in the Jeep Gladiator. One area still unknown on the GM unit is fuel economy. The Ford F-150 Powerstroke is EPA estimated for 30 mpg highway/25 combined/22 city. The GM diesels 1500 trucks will be at dealerships this summer. Related: View full article

"I love it when a plan comes together." Hannibal from the A-Team. I wasn't expecting to get back into a review vehicle for some time as the Detroit Auto Show tends to reduce the number of vehicles available - they're reserved for those coming out-of-state and OEM representatives. I thought next month is when I would begin my rotation once again. But a surprise email this morning from General Motors asking if I was able to take a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado today. Of course! This particular Silverado is an LT Trail Boss Crew Cab with the 5.3L V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission. Base is $48,300 and my as-tested price comes to $55,965 with a few option packages like the Convenience package (front bucket seats, dual-zone climate control, and heated steering wheel). First Impressions? Even though it may appear the truck is black, it is actually painted a dark blue (blame my iPhone). Even though I'm not sold on the design on the Silverado as a whole, the Trail Boss make it look aggressive. Interior looks a rehash of the one seen in the previous Silverado. Material quality is better, but I was kind of hoping more in terms of design. 5.3L V8 doesn't feel muzzled when leaving a stop or needing to accelerate quickly - THANK YOU GM! Haven't quite figured out how to open the power tailgate. Spent a few moments just pressing the button and not having the tailgate come down. Need to some reading in the owners manual. I'll be trying my best to update this piece with other observations and impressions throughout the week. You can also drop some questions below if you want to something about the truck. Gallery: 2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss Crew Cab View full article

General Motors made a big deal about a new 2.7L turbo-four that would be available on the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500. This engine promises more power, better towing, and improved fuel economy when compared to the 4.3L V6 engine. But when the official fuel economy figures came out, the engine became somewhat less impressive. The EPA rates the 2.7L turbo-four at 20 City/23 Highway/21 Combined for the 2WD variant and 19/22/20 for the 4WD variant. That isn't a huge improvement on the V6s found in the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. F-150 with 3.3L V6: 19/25/22 (2WD), 18/23/20 (4WD) F-150 with 2.7L EcoBoost V6: 20/26/22 (2WD), 19/24/21 (4WD) Ram 1500 with 3.6L V6: 20/25/22 (2WD), 19/24/21 (4WD) "If you're delivering on everything, and you're getting the same fuel economy, the question is, 'Why?' " explained Stephanie Brinley, principal automotive analyst at IHS Markit. Officials at GM say the EPA ratings don't tell the whole story on the new engine. Like a diesel engine, " fuel economy will be better in the real world than its predecessor and will at least match comparable V-6 models from competitors," they said. "I don't think we're done with the fuel economy piece yet," said Tim Herrick, executive chief engineer of GM's full-size trucks to Automotive News. "Don't look at the label. We're as good or better than them in every step." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

Chevrolet has spilled a bit more information on the upcoming 2019 Silverado's powertrain lineup. The big story is a new turbocharged 2.7L four-cylinder becoming the base engine for the volume LT and new RST trims. We'll give you a moment to work through the shock that you're most likely experiencing. The 2.7 is rated at 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. The torque figure is impressive when you consider that the 4.3L V6 (now relegated to the W/T, Custom, and Custom Trail Boss trims) produces 22 percent less torque. 0-60 mph is said to take under seven seconds. This engine can also run on just two cylinders. No word on fuel economy, but we wouldn't be surprised if this engine is close to the top in terms of the Silverado's powertrain lineup. The complete list of powertrain options available on the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 4.3L V6, 6-Speed Automatic: 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque Turbocharged 2.7L 4-Cylinder, 8-Speed Automatic: 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque 5.3L V8, 6- or 8-Speed Automatic: 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque 3.0L Turbodiesel I-6, 10-Speed Automatic: TBD 6.2L V8, 10-Speed Automatic: 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque “A major focus of the next-generation Silverado is expanding the range of choices. With all-new engines and a broader model range, there’s a Silverado for everyone, whether you’re buying your first pickup or your tenth,” said Tim Asoklis, chief engineer for the Silverado 1500. Source: Chevrolet A SILVERADO — AND AN ENGINE — FOR EVERY NEED The all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 offers six engine and transmission combinations, including an all-new 2.7L Turbo, and V-8 engines with industry-first Dynamic Fuel Management offering 17 different modes of cylinder deactivation DETROIT — With eight trims paired with six engine/transmission combinations, even more customers will find a 2019 Silverado 1500 perfectly tailored to their needs for performance, efficiency, technology and value. “A major focus of the next-generation Silverado is expanding the range of choices,” said Tim Asoklis, chief engineer for the Silverado 1500. “With all-new engines and a broader model range, there’s a Silverado for everyone, whether you’re buying your first pickup or your tenth.” The all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 propulsion lineup includes: Over half of the models will be equipped with the most advanced V-8s in the brand’s history: updated versions of Chevrolet’s proven 5.3L and 6.2L engines equipped with industry-first Dynamic Fuel Management featuring 17 different modes of cylinder deactivation. An all-new, advanced 2.7L Turbo engine that replaces the 4.3L V-6 as the standard engine on the high-volume Silverado LT and new Silverado RST, expected to offer 22 percent more torque, greater fuel efficiency and a stronger power-to-weight ratio than the current model. Proven 4.3L V-6 and 5.3L V-8 engines deliver full-size truck capability and performance for the most affordable trucks in the Silverado lineup. An all-new, Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo diesel will be available in early 2019. A Silverado — and an engine — for every need Each engine/transmission combination is matched with exterior design and interior features to create distinct personalities for each Silverado trim, based on three broad customer profiles: High Value, High Volume and High Feature. High Value — For customers seeking full-size truck capability and the highest level of affordability, the Work Truck (WT), Custom and Custom Trail Boss trims offer two proven engine and transmission combinations: Standard: 4.3L V-6 with Active Fuel Management and a six-speed automatic transmission (SAE-certified at 285 hp/305 lb-ft). Available: 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management and a six-speed automatic transmission (SAE-certified at 355 hp/383 lb-ft). High Volume — For customers shopping in the heart of the truck market, the LT, RST and LT Trail Boss trims balance technology, efficiency and performance: Standard for LT and RST: All-new 2.7L Turbo with Active Fuel Management and stop/start technology paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (SAE-certified at 310 hp/348 lb-ft). Standard on LT Trail Boss and available on LT and RST: An updated 5.3L V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management and stop/start technology with an eight-speed automatic transmission (SAE certified at 355 hp/383 lb-ft). Available on LT and RST: The all-new Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel with stop/start technology paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission will be available in early 2019. High Feature — For customers shopping for a premium truck, the LTZ and High Country trims offer the highest levels of performance and technology, including: Standard: Updated 5.3L V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management and stop/start technology paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (SAE certified at 355 hp/383 lb-ft). Available: Updated 6.2L V-8 with Dynamic Fuel Management and stop/start technology paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission (SAE certified at 420 hp/460 lb-ft). Available: The all-new Duramax 3.0L inline-six Turbo-Diesel with stop/start technology paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission will be available in early 2019. Improved Driving Experience The performance of each engine/transmission combination benefits from a truck that is lighter and more aerodynamic than the previous model. “With less weight and less wind resistance, we improved the driving dynamics without sacrificing fuel efficiency,” said Asoklis. “The next-gen Silverado is a bigger truck, but the chassis feels more responsive and acceleration is more pronounced. I would argue it’s the best-driving truck we have ever built.” The 2019 Silverado is larger than before, including a wheelbase that is up to 3.9 inches (100mm) longer, yet overall length is only 1.6 inches (41mm) longer, enabling both more cargo volume and more interior room for all cab lengths. Remarkably, it’s also lighter, weighing up to 450 pounds (204 kg) less than the current Silverado when comparing crew cab V-8 models, due to extensive use of mixed materials and advanced manufacturing. To improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the next-gen Silverado, the front grille features functional air curtains, similar to those introduced on the sixth-generation Camaro, that reduce wind drag by routing air around the front wheel wells. The powerful side profile also enhances aerodynamics, with an integrated spoiler at the rear edge of the cab that directs air onto the contoured tailgate, reducing wind drag from the bed. Most models also feature active aero shutters integrated in the front grille that close to reduce wind drag and open to provide improved engine cooling when needed. Changes like these result in a 7 percent increase in total aerodynamic efficiency. From the family of the Most Dependable, Longest Lasting full-size pickups on the road* For the new Silverado, Chevy set the lofty goal of improving on the legacy of the Most Dependable, Longest Lasting full-size pickups on the road. To do so, the next-gen truck will be subjected to more than 475,000 validation tests and accumulate a staggering seven million miles of real-world testing before the first 2019 Silverado 1500 is delivered to customers. That includes a battery of tests for the Silverado engines and transmissions that will simulate a range of customer needs: Each type of engine was first subjected to a “torture test” in a dynamometer test cell, running for months nonstop to simulate a lifetime of maximum hot and cold cycles. Each Silverado variant is certified to the SAE J2807 standard for towing and payload capacity. Certification requires a full battery of grueling tests such as the Davis Dam test, in which the truck must carry its maximum gross combined vehicle weight up a 7 percent grade in 110-degrees F (43 degrees C) heat, with no reduction in performance, including air-conditioning. Chevrolet engineers prove every Silverado engine and transmission design for lubrication capability on tilt stands, originally developed for Corvette, that tilt at an angle of up to 53 degrees and can simulate angles at a rate of up to 40 degrees a second — the equivalent of up to 1.4g. Production plans Silverado production commences with crew-cab V-8 models starting in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, production will expand to include regular- and double-cab models, as well as V-6 and 2.7L Turbo engines. The new Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo diesel will be available in early 2019. EPA fuel economy estimates and towing/payload capacities are not yet available, and will be announced closer to launch. 2019 CHEVROLET SILVERADO PROPULSION LINEUP 4.3L V-6 w/AFM (6-spd.) 2.7L I-4 Turbo w/AFM (8-spd.) 5.3L V-8 w/AFM (6-spd.) 5.3L V-8 w/DFM (8-spd.) 3.0L I-6 Turbo-Diesel (10-spd.) 6.2L V-8 w/DFM (10-spd.) Work Truck (WT) Std. -- Avail. -- -- -- Custom Std. -- Avail. -- -- -- Custom Trail Boss Std. -- Avail. -- -- -- LT -- Std. -- Avail. Avail. -- RST -- Std. -- Avail. Avail. -- LT Trail Boss -- -- -- Std. -- -- LTZ -- -- -- Std. Avail. Avail. High Country -- -- -- Std. Avail. Avail. * Dependability based on longevity: 1987-July 2017 full-size pickup registrations. ALL-NEW 2.7L TURBO ENHANCES VERSATILITY OF THE 2019 SILVERADO Technological powerhouse delivers performance and efficiency DETROIT — The all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 will be offered with an all-new, technologically advanced 2.7L Turbo that expands the range of available engines and builds upon additional choices to help customers find the Silverado that perfectly suits their needs. Standard on LT and RST trims, the new engine delivers an SAE-certified 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque, for 22 percent more torque than the 4.3L V-6 it replaces. Developed specifically for truck applications, the new 2.7L Turbo inline four-cylinder engine delivers peak torque from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. The next-gen Silverado with the 2.7L Turbo delivers 0-60 mph performance in less than seven seconds and weighs 380 pounds less than the current Silverado with the 4.3L V-6. Compared with competitive full-size trucks, the Silverado 2.7L Turbo is expected to deliver comparable payload capability with greater torque than the 3.3L V-6 in the Ford F-150 XLT and the 3.6L V-6 in the Ram 1500 Big Horn. “The new 2.7L Turbo is a technological marvel, with our most advanced valvetrain,” said Tom Sutter, chief engineer for the 2.7L Turbo. “With a broad, flat torque curve and quick throttle response, it punches above its weight, delivering surprising performance and efficiency.” The cornerstone of the 2.7L Turbo is an innovative double overhead cam valvetrain that enables: Chevrolet’s first use of Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) on a four-cylinder engine. High- and low-lift valve profiles. Continuously variable valve timing. Additional engine technologies supporting the engine’s performance and efficiency include: Dual-volute turbocharger housing for improved throttle response and low-speed torque. Chevrolet’s first application of Active Thermal Management, which uses targeted engine heating and cooling to improve engine performance in hot and cold ambient temperatures. An integrated exhaust manifold that is part of the cylinder head assembly and recovers exhaust heat for faster engine and transmission warmup, with quicker turbo response. Stop/start technology that automatically stops the engine in stop-and-go traffic for fuel efficiency. An electric water pump that eliminates the drag of a conventional, engine-driven pump to enhance efficiency. It also enables continual cabin heating even when the engine is disabled by the stop/start feature. Designed as a truck engine The new 2.7L Turbo engine represents a clean-sheet design for Chevrolet and was developed from the outset as a truck engine. To help generate the strong low-end torque customers expect in a truck, it was designed with a long piston stroke of 4.01 inches (102mm), which is the distance the piston travels up and down within the cylinder. The long stroke enables improved combustion and thus a higher compression ratio. Typically, a long stroke can increase the load of the pistons against the cylinder walls, generating more friction. That’s alleviated in the 2.7L Turbo with an offset crankshaft. It is slightly off-center of the cylinders, allowing a more upright position for the connecting rods during their movement. To support the high cylinder pressures that come with turbocharging, the crankshaft and connecting rods are made of forged steel and the pistons are made of a tough aluminum alloy with a cast iron ring groove insert. All elements of the 2.7L Turbo were designed for the demands of turbocharged performance in a truck environment, and the engine was subjected to the same rigorous durability standards as the Silverado’s proven V-8 engines. The 2.7L Turbo features an aluminum block and cylinder head for reduced mass. Unique valvetrain offers more precise control The 2.7L Turbo’s valvetrain is GM’s first to incorporate variable lift, duration and Active Fuel Management to optimize performance and efficiency across the rpm band. It is a key reason the engine’s peak torque is available at only 1,500 rpm. The system’s electro-mechanical variable camshaft effectively allows the engine to operate with three different camshaft profiles, complementing the variable valve timing system to deliver optimized operating modes for different engine speeds and loads: High valve lift for full power. Low valve lift for balance of power and efficiency. Active Fuel Management shuts down two of the cylinders in light load conditions to further conserve fuel. “It’s like having different engines for low- and high-rpm performance,” said Sutter. “The camshaft profile and valve timing is completely different at low and high speeds, for excellent performance across the board.” The camshaft design alters the lift of the intake and exhaust valves. As the engine load changes, electromagnetic actuators allow a movable shaft containing different cam lobes to shift imperceptibly between high-lift and low-lift profiles. Lift is the distance the valve travels from its seat when opened, and duration is the amount of time the valve remains open. Higher lift and longer duration allow more air to flow into the combustion chamber, so the system’s high-lift lobe profile enhances performance at higher rpm, while the low-lift profile optimizes efficiency at low- and mid-range speeds. Dual-volute turbocharger builds torque The 2.7L Turbo engine employs an advanced dual-volute turbocharger that elevates the performance and efficiency advantages of a conventional turbo, with quicker response and enhanced low-rpm torque production. Rather than a single spiral chamber (volute) feeding exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold to drive the turbine on the turbocharger, the dual volute design has a pair of separate chambers with two exhaust gas inlets and two nozzles to drive the turbine. The design allows the exhaust pulses of the engine to be leveraged for faster spool-up and subsequent boost production, particularly at low rpm, where the effect significantly enhances torque output and drivability. It works in unison with the engine’s integrated exhaust manifold/turbocharger housing, which splits the exhaust channels from the cylinder head so the exhaust flows through two separate channels in the turbo housing, based on the engine’s exhaust pulses. When complemented by the precision of the engine’s valvetrain, that separation leverages exhaust scavenging techniques to optimize gas flow, which decreases exhaust gas temperatures, improves turbine efficiency and reduces turbo lag. An electronically controlled wastegate and charge-air cooling system support the turbocharger and enhance its effectiveness. Compared to a conventional wastegate, the electronically controlled version offers more precise management of the engine’s boost pressure for smoother, more consistent performance. With the charge-air cooler, the pressurized, heated air generated by the turbocharger is pumped through a heat exchanger before it enters the engine. That lowers the air charge temperature by about 130 degrees F (74 C), packing the combustion chambers with cooler, denser air that enhances power production. The system achieves more than 80 percent cooling efficiency with less than 2 psi (12 kPa) flow restriction at peak power, contributing to the engine’s available torque production at low rpm. Additional features A variable-pressure oiling system with a continuously variable-displacement vane oil pump enhances efficiency by optimizing oil pressure as a function of engine speed and load. With it, the oil supply is matched to the engine requirements rather than the excessive supply of a conventional, fixed-displacement oil pump. Active Thermal Management helps the engine warm up faster and achieve its optimal engine temperature for performance and efficiency. The system uses a rotary valve system to distribute coolant through the engine in a targeted manner. It sends heat where it’s needed to warm up the engine to reduce friction and heat the cab, or cools when needed for high power operation. An electric water pump — a first for Chevy trucks — supports the Active Thermal Management system and further enhances the engine’s performance and efficiency by eliminating the parasitic drag that comes with a conventional engine-driven water pump. Direct fuel injection is used to optimize efficiency and performance. With direct injection, a higher compression ratio (10.0:1) is possible because of a cooling effect as the injected fuel vaporizes in the combustion chamber, reducing the charge temperature and improving resistance to spark knock. Direct injection also enables gas scavenging from the combustion chamber to the turbo for fast response. Dual overhead camshafts contribute to the 2.7L Turbo’s smoothness and high output, with dual independent continuously variable valve timing working with the valvetrain to deliver optimal performance and efficiency. The dual independent system, which allows the intake and exhaust valves to be phased at different rates, promotes linear delivery of torque with near-peak levels over a broad rpm range, and high specific output (horsepower per liter of displacement) without sacrificing overall engine response or driveability. An integrated exhaust manifold on the cylinder head assembly promotes faster engine warmup and quicker turbo response. Oil jets located in the block are employed for performance and temperature control. They target the underside of the pistons and the surrounding cylinder walls with an extra layer of cooling, friction-reducing oil. The jets reduce piston temperature, allowing the engine to produce more power and enhance long-term durability. Stop/start enhances fuel economy in city driving. The driver-selectable system shuts off the engine at stoplights and certain other stop-and-go situations, saving fuel. The engine automatically restarts when the driver takes their foot off the brake. The all-new 2.7L Turbo is matched with a Hydra-Matic eight-speed automatic transmission featuring enhancements designed to improve shift quality, as well as a new centrifugal pendulum absorber torque converter that reduces vibrations to improve smoothness. The all-new 2.7L Turbo will be built at the General Motors Spring Hill facility in Tennessee. The 2019 Silverado goes on sale this fall. EPA fuel economy estimates and towing/payload capacities are not yet available and will be announced closer to launch. View full article

Chevrolet had a range of medium-duty trucks (class 4, 5, and 6) known as TopKick up until a decade ago. But today at NTEA The Work Truck Show, Chevrolet is coming back to the segment with a familiar name - Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD. The overall shape is similar to the Silverado HD, but the medium-duty trucks get a large grille and broad fenders. The models will only be built as chassis cabs with the choice of a regular or crew cab. Under the hood is a 6.6L Duramax turbodiesel V8 paired with an Allison transmission. Power figures stand at 350 horsepower and 700 pound-feet of torque. Before anyone asks, this is slightly different than the Duramax found in the Silverado 2500 and 3500HDs. This is due to the engine being tuned more for heavy grunt work such as delivering lumber or steel. Medium-duty trucks also have more stringent emission regulations. Chevrolet will be offering two and four-wheel drive. Chevrolet highlighted a few items that are said to make the Silverado medium duty a bit easier to live with. The front wheels can be turned to an angle of 50 degrees to not only allow for better maneuverability, but allows for easier access to the engine when servicing. The doors are inset and come tripled seal to cut down on noise and vibration. An optional rear air suspension to help smooth out the ride. Various tech features such as Bluetooth, 4G LTE with wi-fi, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatability; and wireless phone charging will be available. Order guides for the new Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD will come out this spring, with pricing to follow in the summer. As for production, that will kick off sometime late this year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 CHEVROLET UNVEILS THE 2019 SILVERADO 4500HD, 5500HD AND 6500HD AT NTEA THE WORK TRUCK SHOW All-New Silverado conventional cabs will be the most customer-focused medium-duty trucks of any major competitor Easy to upfit: Clean, one-piece straight frame rails, seven Cab-to-Axle options Easy to drive: Excellent maneuverability, factory air suspension Easy to service: Lightweight clamshell hood allows "walk up" access to engine INDIANAPOLIS —Chevrolet revealed its first-ever Silverado Class 4, 5 and 6 chassis cab trucks today at NTEA The Work Truck Show – three supremely capable conventional cab models will be the most customer-focused trucks of any major competitor. “Chevy’s designers and engineers were obsessed with making this Silverado the most customer-focused medium duty truck of any major competitor,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet. “By customer-focused, I mean work-ready trucks that are easy to upfit, easy to drive, easy to service and easy to own.” The Trucks Dealers, Customers and Upfitters Asked For The input of fleet managers, truck drivers, upfitters, technicians and Chevrolet dealers drove the development of the new Silverados. “It’s not just numbers on a spec sheet that make us different and better,” said John Schwegman, director of Commercial Product and Medium Duty at GM Fleet. “These new Silverados are designed to solve the most common upfit and ownership challenges fleets have with many of today’s medium duty trucks.” Challenge The Silverado Solution Cost and complexity of upfits: Frames that rust; rivets, brackets and fluid lines that interfere with body mounting. A factory-painted frame with one-piece frame rails, smooth, unobstructed top sections, and through-the-frame fuel fill lines. Frame compromises: Frame rails that are too short behind the rear axle to accommodate longer cargo boxes without extensions and reinforcements. Seven Cab-to-Axle (CA) options ranging from 60 to 162-inches, along with five unique axle-to-back-of-frame (AF) lengths sized in 8-inch increments. Service obstacles: Hood designs that force technicians to use ladders or remove vehicle components to access under-hood components for maintenance and repair. A lightweight, front-hinged “clamshell” hood that, combined with a 50-degree wheel cut, allows easy “walk up” access to under-hood components. Difficult to drive: Poor downward perspective for the driver, along with poor low-speed maneuverability due to narrow wheel cuts, and wide turning radiuses. A precisely crafted and contoured hood optimizes the driver’s perspective of the road. Maneuverability is excellent thanks to up to 50-degree wheel cuts. Noise, Vibration and Harshness: The need to retrofit aftermarket air suspensions to improve ride; loud, uncomfortable cabins. An available, factory-installed rear air suspension, not on Ford and Ram; triple-sealed, inset doors to help reduce wind and road noise; huck bolts used throughout the frame for superior clamping force. DEF tank placement: Poorly-placed and marked diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tanks that can lead to refueling errors. The DEF tank is conveniently located on the passenger side of the truck – the opposite side of the fuel fill. Proven Power The Silverado will be available in 2WD and 4WD and will be powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine with 350 horsepower and 700 lb.-ft. of torque and Allison transmissions with a Power Take Off (PTO) option. “When you consider all of the flexibility, capability and durability we have engineered into the Silverado, along with the proven power of Allison transmissions and the Duramax diesel engine, we have a medium duty truck line that will appeal to both Chevrolet loyalists and competitive owners alike,” said Schwegman. The Most Connected Medium Duty Truck The Silverado will also be the most connected commercial truck available, thanks to options that include OnStar and Commercial Link, a built-in 4GLTE Wi-Fi hotspot (paid data plan required), wireless cellphone charging, Bluetooth and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Production and Ordering Production of the new Silverado begins in late 2018. Order guides will be available this spring and pricing will be announced this summer. More than 400 commercially-focused Chevrolet dealers are expected to carry the new Silverado line. View full article