Chevrolet Silverado Going Green in ‘09

While some in the hybrid movement believe the development of larger hybrids such as SUVs, pick-ups and utility trucks is a baby step toward independence from oil and environmental harm when what is really needed are giant leaps, others argue that hybrid pick-ups and utility vehicles are exceptions to that belief. When run on standard fuel systems, these vehicles are a huge drain on gasoline and the environment. By converting them to hybrid systems and lessening the environmental impact of such vehicles, the activities that necessitate such vehicles, like farming and construction, can continue as normal but with less impact.

One of the newest trucks to be converted into a hybrid system is the 2009 Chevy Silverado. This truck will be similar to the 2008 Tahoe/Yukon hybrid in that it will have a two-mode hybrid transmission, 300 volt nickel-metal hydride battery, an aluminum block 6.0 liter engine, and push-rod V8. At speeds of about 30 miles per hour or less, the Silverado hybrid will get up to 30 miles per gallon because it can run in full electric mode at those speeds. Once the regular hybrid system kicks in, this truck gets 21 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway.

Pick-up loyalists may fear that hybrid power means less hauling power, but that is not the case with the 2009 Silverado. It can still tow up to 6,100 pounds. However, there are a few departures from the standard-fuel Silverado.  First off, the hybrid version will weigh about 300 pounds more because of the added weight of the battery and hybrid system. Cosmetically, the truck will have a less extreme air dam to reduce drag. Interior comfort will be increased because liquid mounted cab mounts have been added to reduce vibration for the passengers in the crew cab.  Low rolling resistance Bridgestone tires will give the truck even better mileage and a cover on the bed will produce les drag.

When driving the hybrid Silverado, which will be available in mid-2009, the additional 300 pounds from the system is quite noticeable, especially going up hills. However, the truck does speed up quick once you hit the highway. As part of a fuel conservation strategy, the Silverado gets in and stays in v4 mode as long as possible, this doesn’t necessarily affect the way it drives, just the way it uses fuel.

Once this hits the market in 2009, I hope a lot of pick-up users will see the benefits and make the swap. Any increase in fuel economy is a good thing, both for the planet and for your wallet!