The General Motors is yet again making a swift-but-cautious move back into hybrid pickups with the introduction of 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks.
The Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 e-Assist hybrid cars are under production, albeit on a smaller scale. For those who’ve got sharp memories, you will remember that in 2009 GM unleashed a two-mode hybrid setup for its pickup twins namely Silverado and Sierra full-size trucks.
Although it received substantial hype, car buyers were reluctant to give it attention and the powertrain had to be dropped with the shift to the revamped 2014 models. The 4.3-liter V6 engine was thought to have the requisite efficiency for the new trucks.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks – Exterior and Interior Design
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks ride on a whole new frame, although the basic setup will not change. Nearly all the prototypes wear very clever and elaborate camouflage, making them slightly mirror the way of Ford F-150. But, this is not the case. These half-tons have shapes and design queues that reflect the classical approach of General Motors. Numerous possibilities have been tossed around for these pickup trucks.
However, one thing that is certain is that GM brings something fresh to the table this time around. For instance, the automaker proudly shows off the polished tips of a revamped dual exhaust system. New spy images indicate that these pickups will feature steel beds. It is alleged that General Motors would also follow the likes of Ford with an aluminum-bed construction.
There will be a combination of materials, including ultra-high strength steel, composites, aluminum and more to accomplish weight savings. When it comes to the interior, the GM supposedly enhances the ergonomics of the cabin. Hence, the cabin not only becomes larger but also adds a host of tech features available on most competitor trucks.
Besides, the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks include 360-degree camera view, keyless start, massaging seats and 400W inverter outlets. Active aerodynamics like a retractable front air deflector will be available.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks – Engine and Transmission
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks start as two-wheel-drive 1500 models that get the mid-range 5.3-liter gasoline V8 unit. The engine gets hooked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Their e-assist motors also receive the accessory drive belt, which either recuperates energy when decelerating or contributes up to 13hp and 44 pound-feet of torque to the V8’s crankshaft when accelerating. These pickups highlight a 0.45kWh lithium-ion battery pack that powers the motor. It is located under the center console just beneath the front seat.
The supposed battery comprises 24 individual lithium-ion cells provided by the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid. It delivers around 15 kW of power to the electric engine. The whole system, in addition to a liquid-cooled power inverter with the motor-control software borrowed from Chevy Volt, adds only 100 pounds to the curb weights. Apart from adding drive torque when accelerating, the electric motor gives V8’s cylinder deactivation function the necessary space to zoom.
The electric boost enables the engine to run in four-cylinder mode regularly. Worth noting, the battery, and electric motor offer engine start/stop functionality. It seems as if towing capacity stays unaltered. GMC quotes a tow rating of 9400 pounds for the Sierra 1500 e-Assist. This tow rating mirrors that of a typical truck featuring the 5.3-liter V8 engine, two-wheel-drive option and the 3:42:1 rear axle ratio.
2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks – Release Date and Cost
We expect the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks sometime in early 2018. Once they make debut at the Detroit Auto Show, these twins go on sale later in summer. Prices may change drastically from today, with reports claiming these twins have their stickers start at $39,500.
The top-of-the-line High Country package of the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Trucks may have its price skyrocket to about $50,000.
