GM Defense built a tactical vehicle based on the Chevrolet Silverado, America's second-best-selling pickup truck, but there is a twist. The model is an EV, but not Chevrolet's zero-tailpipe-emission Silverado EV. The prototype is equipped with a Duramax diesel range extender.
The US Army has left the Humvees behind, progressively replacing them with newer Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. It is a new era, and GM Defense has read between the lines. The General Motors subsidiary rolls out the Next Gen tactical vehicle.
It can drive silently in high-risk areas and, even though it is set in motion by electric motors, it can go further than the Chevy Silverado EV usually can. Based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2, it is powered by a dual-motor powertrain, one at the front and another driving the rear axle.
The powertrain allows the driver to enable the Silent Drive and Silent Watch modes, which makes it harder to detect in high-threat zones. It also sports a 12-module battery pack. There is no information on the range, though.
The model comes with a 2.8-lier Duramax turbo-diesel, which supports the batteries and makes the tactical vehicle more reliable where there are no charging stations.
The vehicle is equipped with brakes from a Hummer EV and features anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, roll-over protection, four- and five-point seat belt harnesses, and a 360-degree camera.
Photo: GM Defense
GM Defense labels the Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) as a game-changing mobility solution and claims it uses less fuel than a conventional ICE-powered pickup truck.
The ability to use the existing JP8 fuel infrastructure, lower maintenance requirements, and reduced logistics for fuel, batteries, and parts are some of the advantages of the Tactical Vehicle.
The military Silverado can also become bulletproof, but the extra weight would cause a shift in performance and range. It features autonomy-ready tech and is built to operate both manned and unmanned.
The Tactical Vehicle weighs 10,000 pounds. Its curb weight "won't prevent it from being sling loadable by a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, but its size will prevent it from fitting inside one," says Pete Johnson, vice president of business development.
Photo: Military Times | YouTube
The Next Gen truck will be available in two-, four, and six-seat configurations. The model will be used to support multi-mission capabilities, such as command and control, launched effects, network extension, counter unmanned aerial systems anti-armor, casualty evacuation, and other critical missions.
General Motors has made investments of billions of dollars in Research and Development, as well as innovation to enhance warfighter capability and is now reaping the rewards of its efforts.
The truck will be on display at the AUSA 2024, the annual meeting and exposition of the Association of the US Army, which opened its gates to visitors today, October 14. The event takes place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington, DC. That is where GM Defense also brought the US Army's Infantry Squad Vehicle and several tactical utility vehicles.
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