HEAVY-DUTY FUEL SOLUTIONS
Today, what was once viewed as the "tyranny of OR" has given way to the "genius of AND," which means Silverado HD owners get performance AND efficiency.
"We've engineered technologies that optimize the HD truck's efficiency without compromising its power, payload and pulling," says Brian Maki, Silverado Marketing Manager for Chevrolet. "HD owners want power AND efficiency. And that was our engineers' approach from the beginning."
"HD fuel solutions are broad in scope and include features such as streamlined aerodynamics, flat windshield wiper blades, engine and transmission enhancements, plus additional mass savings," Maki explains.
"HD owners want power AND efficiency. And that was our engineers' approach from the beginning,"-Brian Maki, Silverado Marketing Manager for Chevrolet.
Sweating the details
It all begins with HD's aerodynamics, the result of an exhaustive design process and extensive wind tunnel testing. Engineers sweated even the slightest details, like optimizing exterior mirror placement.
"Having a streamlined exterior with things as seemingly insignificant as tightened up body panel gaps, flat wipers or even hydroformed Dooley fenders make a difference," he says. "They also improve quality of ride and lower noise inside the cabin."
Vortec power
Across the lineup, Silverado Vortec engines feature the right combination of power, torque and efficiency improvements over the previous generation. It's the highest-powered V8 gas engine3 of any standard HD.
Plus, Variable Valve Timing optimizes combustion, enhances low-end torque and high-end power, promotes efficiency and helps lower emissions. On top of that, both HD transmissions boost power and efficiency too.
Working smarter, not harder
"Both of the six-speeds have two overdrive gears," Maki says. "The more you stay in overdrive, like when you're cruising along a flat stretch, the more efficiently your engine operates. In theory, if you're pulling a fifth wheeler and you're on a flat grade, you can stay in overdrive longer. And that's true even if you're not pulling anything."
Adding a second overdrive gear translates to shift points that are managed more smoothly and efficiently. When the truck is doing the same work at a lower rpm, it's working smarter, not harder.
Unrivaled strength
HD drivers can use Silverado's extra torque for towing and hauling and will appreciate the efficient Duramax® Diesel 6.6L V8 Turbo engine, now stronger, quieter and cleaner than the previous generation Duramax Diesel.
The diesel provides unrivaled heavy-duty strength with 365 hp and 660 lb.-ft. of torque. Its cast-aluminum cylinder heads feature sintered-steel valve-seat inserts and a four-valve design to help reduce emissions and maximize power. Duramax drivers can use 5 percent biodiesel blends in their HDs, too.
It's nice to know that when it comes to power and efficiency, it's no longer feast or famine.
