Chevrolet Silverado

For the Chevrolet C/K series Silverado, see Chevrolet C/K.

Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Overview
Manufacturer	General Motors
Also called	GMC Sierra Chevrolet Cheyenne (Mexico) VIA Vtrux Truck
Production	1998–present
Assembly	Flint, Michigan Roanoke, Indiana Silao, Mexico
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size pickup
Body style	2-door regular cab 3-door extended cab 4-door extended cab 4-door crew cab Dually
Layout	Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive / All-wheel drive
Chronology
Predecessor	Chevrolet/GMC C/K

The Chevrolet Silverado (along with its GMC and VIA counterparts, the GMC Sierra and VIA Vtrux Truck), is the latest line of full-size pickup trucks from General Motors.

As of 2013 the Chevrolet Silverado is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Middle East and Venezuela (the Silverado HD isn't sold in Venezuela). The GMC Sierra is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Middle East. The VIA Vtrux Truck is sold in the United States, currently for fleet use only. All three trucks are available in LHD only.

History

Although General Motors introduced its first pickup truck in 1930, the term "Silverado" was a designation used only to detail the trim for the Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks and Suburbans from 1975 through 1999. GMC used a few variations of the "Sierra" name (Sierra, High Sierra, Sierra Grande, Sierra Classic) to distinguish the different trim levels through 1987, though the "C/K" nomenclature was continued through 1999. "C" (or "R" for 1987) trucks were rear-wheel drive and "K" (or "V" in 1987) models were four-wheel drive. The "R/V" nomenclature was continued from 1988-1991 to distinguish the older platform trucks that were still being produced in addition to the T400 platform C/K. Both Chevrolet and GMC dropped the "C" and "K" designations in 1999. However Chevrolet still uses the CK and the CC in their current model codes.

The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks have been essentially the same for their entire history. The Silverado today is generally advertised as the "standard" version and is more aimed for use in agriculture, while the Sierra is aimed for industrial workers but can be ordered as a well equipped luxury truck. There are some trim and option variations as well. Early models included variations in the engine and equipment, but the present differences are slight. The 1999 redesign included different grilles and interior trim, and certain features (e.g. Quadrasteer) were included at different times on the two trucks. Chevrolet did not create a Denali model for the Silverado. However, the GMC Sierra has a Denali model.

First Generation (1999-2007)

1st Generation
Overview
Production	1999–2007
Body and chassis
Platform	GM GMT800 platform
Powertrain
Engine	Vortec 4300 (4.3 L) V6 Vortec 4800 (4.8 L) V8 Vortec 5300 (5.3 L) V8 Vortec 6000 (6.0 L) V8
Transmission	4-speed 4L60-E automatic 4-speed 4L65-E automatic 4-speed 4L80-E automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	119 in (3,023 mm) 133 in (3,378 mm) 143.5 in (3,645 mm)
Length	203 in (5,156 mm) 227 in (5,766 mm) 246 in (6,248 mm) Hybrid: 230.2 in (5,847 mm)
Width	78.5 in (1,994 mm)
Height	74 in (1,880 mm) 77 in (1,956 mm) Hybrid 2WD: 71.2 in (1,808 mm) Hybrid 4WD: 73.9 in (1,877 mm)

The GMT800 Silverado/Sierra 1500 (light pickup trucks) were released in 1998 as 1999 models. The "classic" light-duty GMT400 C/K trucks were continued in production for that first year alongside the new models, and the Heavy-Duty GMT400 pickups (alongside the GMT400 SUVs) were continued through 2000, with the new GMT800 Silverado/Sierra HD (Heavy Duty) introduced in 2001. A small refresh was introduced in 2003, bringing slight design changes and an upgrade to the audio and HVAC controls.

Light duty

There are a number of models of light-duty Silverados and Sierras, including the half-ton, SS, and Hybrid.

The light-duty trucks generally use the 1500 name. They are available in three cab lengths, 2-door standard/regular cab, 4-door extended cab, and front-hinged 4-door crew cab Three cargo beds are available, including a 69.2 in (1,758 mm) short box, 78.7 in (1,999 mm) standard box, and a 97.6 in (2,479 mm) long box. The short box is only available with the extended or crew cab, and is the only option on the latter. The new trucks used a new hydro-formed technology on the frame which GM pioneered from the corvette and was designed to add strength and take away mass and was later used by ford and ram.

For the first year, only the regular cab and 3-door extended cab were available, along with the Vortec 4300 V6, Vortec 4800 V8, and the Vortec 5300 V8. A 4-door extended cab was added for 2000, and output on the 5.3 L engine increased to 285 hp (213 kW) and 325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m).

The 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 was added for the 2001 Heavy Duty models, rated at 300 hp (224 kW), with the GMC Sierra 1500 C3 getting an uprated 25 hp (19 kW) version of this engine. The Silverado Z71 got an optional lighter composite box, with a suspension package for towing, but lacked the high-output engine. The C3 became the Denali for 2002, and Quadrasteer was added.

GM made a reworked version of the Silverado/Sierra in 2003, with a new front end, and a slightly updated rear end. Its SUV counterparts retained the use of the pre-facelift sheetmetal.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Silverado an overall "marginal" score on the frontal offset crash test for poor structural integrity and poor dummy control, although no injuries were recorded on the dummy's body regions.

2001 GMC Sierra C3/Denali

Sierra Denali with Quadrasteer

GMC created an upscale version of its Sierra 1500 in 2001 called the Sierra C3. It used all-wheel drive with a 3.73 final drive gear ratio and included the 6.0 L Vortec 6000 LQ4 V8 rated at 325 hp (242 kW) at 5000 rpm and 370 lb•ft (502 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm coupled to a 4L60E-HD four speed automatic transmission along with other upscale equipment. For 2002, the name was changed to Sierra Denali, but the specifications remained essentially the same except for the addition of Quadrasteer and GM changed from the 4L60E-HD to the 4L65E in conjunction with a 4.10 final drive gear ratio.

The Denali is rated for towing 9,100 pounds (4,100 kg) and hauling 1,595 pounds (723 kg) in the cargo box.

The Sierra Denali was initially equipped with Delphi's Quadrasteer system as standard equipment. It was a 4-wheel steering system that greatly reduced the truck's turning radius and improved lane changing while towing. General Motors dropped Quadrasteer from the Sierra Denali after the 2004 model year and its entire lineup after 2005 due to poor sales of this expensive option.

For the '07 model year, the Sierra Denali shares the same billet grille from the other Denali models, and also has the same dash as the '07 SUV's. The '07 Sierra Denali was initially the only half ton pickup that had a 6.2 liter with 403 hp (301 kW) and 417 lb⋅ft (565 N⋅m) of torque coupled to a six speed transmission. This truck is also an optional all wheel drive vehicle and goes 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds.

Chevrolet Silverado SS

Silverado SS

Launched in 2003, the Silverado SS is a high-performance pickup truck built by Chevrolet. It is based on the 1500 Silverado with upgrades in drive train and both exterior and interior appearance. It was equipped standard with the 6.0 liter Vortec High-Output V8 rated at 345 hp (257 kW) at 5200 rpm and 380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) of torque at 4000 rpm coupled to a 4L65E four speed automatic transmission. This was the same engine used for the second generation Cadillac Escalade. Chevrolet and GMC advertised this engine as the Vortec High Output and later as the "VortecMAX", while Cadillac calls it the "HO 6000". The SS debuted in 2003 with a standard All Wheel Drive setup with a 4.10 final drive gear ratio and 4 wheel disc brakes. In 2005 as an option to reduce the price, you could get a 2 wheel drive version which was equipped with drum rear brakes and a 3.73 final drive gear ratio. 2005 was also the first year the sun roof was available in the SS line up. In 2006 The AWD line up was dropped and rear wheel drive with a 3.73 final drive gear ratio and rear drum brakes was the only option. In a further effort to reduce cost, you could also get cloth interior and a bench seat for the first time. The Silverado SS also comes with the Z60 performance suspension and 20 inch aluminum wheels. All the SS trucks in both 2 wheel drive and AWD used the torsion bar style front suspension for better handling. It should also be noted the SS themed trucks were only available from the factory in Black Onyx, Victory Red, and Arrival Blue Metallic in 2003 and 2004. In 2005 Arrival Blue Metallic was dropped from the color choice and replaced with Silver Birch Metallic.

Intimidator SS

In 2006, Chevrolet released a special edition Silverado SS under the name "Intimidator SS" (licensed by Dale Earnhardt Inc.) to honor the late Dale Earnhardt. The truck came with several minor appearance upgrades (rear spoiler, embroidered headrests, intimidator custom badging ), a lowered ride height, performance suspension, two-stage multi-leaf springs, Tenneco shock absorbers, a stiffer front stabilizer bar and harder front jounce bumpers. This is a Collectors Edition truck. Of the 1,333 scheduled trucks, only 933 were made. These trucks were only available in Black Onyx exterior but could be ordered with cloth or leather interior. Also features-

Vortec High Output/Vortec Max

2004 GMC Sierra with VHO package

The Vortec High Output option (also known as the VHO by some enthusiasts) was first introduced in 2004 to a limited market (mainly consisting of Texas and several surrounding areas). The VHO package (under option code B4V) included several options previously not found on the standard 1500 model, most notably the LQ9 6.0 L V-8 engine (the same used for the Silverado SS, the 2005-2006 GMC Denalis and the Cadillac Escalade). The LQ9 motor was rated at 345 hp (257 kW) at 5200 rpm and 380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) of torque at 4000 rpm, which was the same specifications shared in the SS models. The B4V package could only be ordered as an extended cab in 2004 and 2005. They were all built at the Canada assembly plant as 2 wheel drive Extended Cab 1500 series trucks and were equipped with a torsion bar front suspension frame equipped standard with the LQ9 = 6.0L H.O.engine, M32 = 4L65E transmission, GT4 = 3.73 rear gear, and G80 Gov Lock as standard equipment. The 2004 models were equipped with the standard 10 bolt 8.625 rear end. The 2005 models were upgraded with the larger 14 bolt 9.5 rear end under RPO option AXN. The package also included one style of the newly introduced GM 20 inch wheels installed from the factory. This marked the first time the LQ9 engine was available for a two wheel drive application. Unlike the SS Package you could order the interior combination in anything from basic cloth to fully loaded. There were also more color options available with this package.

For the 2006 model year the Vortec Max package replaced the VHO with an array of similar features and new badges. It was also made available (in addition to the extended cab) in the light duty 4 door crew cab models. For the first time it was also available in 2 wheel drive or 4 wheel drive on both the Silverados and Sierras, with or without Z71 packages. Customers were able to purchase these trucks outside of the original market of the VHO.

The newest Vortec Max Performance package introduced in 2007 on the GMT900 includes a 10,800 pounds towing capacity.

Hybrid

The engine compartment of a 2006 GMC Sierra Hybrid

GM launched a hybrid version of the Silverado/Sierra in 2004, becoming the first ever GM hybrid passenger vehicle. Known within GM as the Parallel Hybrid Truck or PHT it is not actually a parallel hybrid by the current definition, but a type of micro hybrid design. The electric motor housed within the transmission flywheel housing, serves only to provide engine cranking/starting, battery charging, and powering accessories. The engine automatically shuts down as the truck comes to a stop and uses 42 Volt electric power to the starter/generator unit to restart the engine as the brake pedal is released. Besides the typical 12 V automotive battery the PHT uses three additional 12 V valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) batteries mounted under the rear seat to store and provide power. The truck uses a 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 for primary propulsion power. These trucks were also purchased back from customers for more than what they were worth in the late 2000s.

The PHT features four 120 volt 20 amp AC outlets, two in the bed and two inside the cab under the rear seat. These are particularly interesting to the building/construction contractor market, since they often require AC power when on the job. Additionally, the extra reserves of power for the accessories make this truck well-suited to that market, where trucks often sit at idle for hours at a time.

Availability was extremely limited at first, with commercial buyers getting the first allotment. Later in 2005, the truck was offered at retail in Alaska, California, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Canada. For 2006-07 the truck was generally available to retail buyers throughout North America. The Parallel Hybrid Truck was discontinued for the 2008 model year with the release of the GMT900 truck line. Starting in 2009, General Motors offers a second generation Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra equipped with a Two-Mode Hybrid powertrain and 4-speed CVT.

Heavy Duty

GMT800 Heavy Duty
Overview
Production	2001–2007
Body and chassis
Platform	GM GMT880 platform
Powertrain
Engine	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 8.1 L Vortec 8100 V8 6.6 L Duramax V8
Transmission	4-speed 4L80-E automatic 5-speed Allison 1000 automatic (2001–2005) 6-speed Allison 1000 automatic (2006–2007) 5-speed NV4500 manual (2001–2007 6.0) 6-speed ZF S6-650 manual (2001–2006 6.6 and 8.1)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	133 in (3,378 mm) 143.5 in (3,645 mm) 157.5 in (4,000 mm) 167 in (4,242 mm) 153 in (3,886 mm)
Length	222.1 in (5,641 mm) 227.7 in (5,784 mm) 246.6 in (6,264 mm) 237.2 in (6,025 mm) 256.1 in (6,505 mm)
Width	SRW: 79.7 in (2,024 mm) DRW: 96.1 in (2,441 mm)
Height	76.0-77.4 in (1,930-1,966 mm)

The HD variant is a heavy-duty light truck. It is a strengthened version of the Silverado/Sierra light-duty, and is available in the 1500HD, 2500HD, and 3500 models. The 1500HD, introduced in 2001, offers a Vortec 6000 V8 with 300 hp (224 kW) at 5200 rpm and 360 lb⋅ft (488 N⋅m) of torque at 4000 rpm with a Hydra-Matic 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission. The 2500HD also offers an available Duramax V8 with 300 hp (224 kW) at 3100 rpm and 520 lb⋅ft (705 N⋅m) of torque at 1800 rpm. Also available is the Vortec 8100 V8 with 340 hp (254 kW) at 4200 rpm and 455 lb⋅ft (617 N⋅m) of torque at 3200 rpm.

The 2500HD has an available five-speed (six-speed for 2006-2007 models) Allison 1000 transmission. The Silverado 3500 offers the same engine/transmission features that the 2500HD does, however it is usually equipped with "dually" twin wheels at the rear and has a stronger suspension. The HD models are primarily used for towing and high-weight cargo.

Towing capacity for the 1500HD is rated at 10,300 pounds (4,700 kg), and can haul 3,129 pounds (1,419 kg) in the bed. The 2500HD ups these ratings to 16,300 pounds (7,400 kg) with the 8.1 liter engine or 10,600 pounds (4,800 kg) with the 6.0 liter engine, and 4,058 pounds (1,841 kg), while the 3500 can tow 16,700 pounds (7,600 kg) and haul 5,511 pounds (2,500 kg). The addition of 4 wheel drive tends to reduce the towing and carrying capacity by 200 to 400 lb (181 kg), depending upon year and model. Other factors, such as options, can also affect these numbers.

Engines

Model	Year	Engine	Power	Torque
1500	1999–2003	4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6	200 hp (149 kW) @ 4600 RPM	260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) @ 2800 RPM
	2004-2006		195 hp (145 kW) @ 4600 RPM	260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) @ 2800 RPM
	1999-2001	4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8	270 hp (201 kW) @ 5200 RPM	285 lb⋅ft (386 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2002		275 hp (205 kW) @ 5200 RPM	285 lb⋅ft (386 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2003		270 hp (201 kW) @ 5200 RPM	285 lb⋅ft (386 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2004-2006		285 hp (213 kW) @ 5200 RPM	295 lb⋅ft (400 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	1999-2003	5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8	285 hp (213 kW) @ 5200 RPM	325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2004		295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM	330 lb⋅ft (447 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2005-2006		295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM	335 lb⋅ft (454 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
1500HD/2500HD/3500HD	2001-2006	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	300 hp (224 kW) @ 4400 RPM	360 lb⋅ft (488 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
	2001-2004	8.1 L Vortec 8100 V8	340 hp (254 kW) @ 4200 RPM	455 lb⋅ft (617 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM
	2005-2006		330 hp (246 kW) @ 4200 RPM	450 lb⋅ft (610 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM
	2002 w/ LQY		270 hp (201 kW) @ 3600 RPM	400 lb⋅ft (542 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM
	2002 w/ LQQ		210 hp (157 kW) @ 3600 RPM	325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m) @ 1200 RPM
	2003-2005 w/ LRW		325 hp (242 kW) @ 4000 RPM	450 lb⋅ft (610 N⋅m) @ 2800 RPM
	2003-2006 w/ LRZ		295 hp (220 kW) @ 3600 RPM	440 lb⋅ft (597 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM
	2003-2006 w/ LQR		225 hp (168 kW) @ 3600 RPM	350 lb⋅ft (475 N⋅m) @ 1200 RPM
	2001-2004	6.6 L DuraMAX (LB7/LLY) V8	300 hp (224 kW) @ 3100 RPM	520 lb⋅ft (705 N⋅m) @ 1800 RPM
	2005-2006 w/ MTX		300 hp (224 kW) @ 3000 RPM	520 lb⋅ft (705 N⋅m) @ 1800 RPM
	2005-2006 w/ ATX		310 hp (231 kW) @ 3000 RPM	605 lb⋅ft (820 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM
	2006	6.6 L DuraMAX (LBZ) V8	360 hp (268 kW) @ 3200 RPM	650 lb⋅ft (881 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM
GMC Sierra C3	2001	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	325 hp (242 kW) @ 5000 RPM	370 lb⋅ft (502 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
GMC Sierra Denali	2002–2004
	2005–2006	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	345 hp (257 kW) @ 5200 RPM	380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM
Chevrolet Silverado SS	2003–2006
Chevrolet Silverado Vortec High Output	2004–2005
Chevrolet Silverado VortecMAX	2006

• 
  1999–2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 regular cab
• 
  2003–2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 crew cab
• 
  The Allison 1000 attached to the 6.6L Duramax Diesel

Second Generation (2007-2013)

(2nd Generation)
Overview
Also called	Chevrolet Platform/Shakebody GMC Dump Truck
Production	2007–2013
Body and chassis
Platform	GM GMT900 platform: GMT901 (Chevrolet Silverado) GMT902 (GMC Sierra)
Powertrain
Engine	4.3 L V6 195 hp (145 kW) 4.8 L V8 295 hp (220 kW) 5.3 L V8 315 hp (235 kW) 6.0 L V8 360 hp (268 kW) 6.2 L V8 403 hp (301 kW)
Transmission	4-speed 4L60-E automatic 4-speed "2-Mode Hybrid transmission" CVT (Hybrid) 6-speed 6L80 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	Regular: 119 in (3,023 mm) Extended & Crew: 143.5 in (3,645 mm)
Length	Regular: 205.6 in (5,222 mm) Extended & Crew: 230.2 in (5,847 mm) Hybrid: 229.9 in (5,839 mm)
Width	Regular & Extended: 79.9 in (2,029 mm) Crew: 80 in (2,032 mm)
Height	Regular & Extended: 73.9 in (1,877 mm) Crew: 73.8 in (1,875 mm) Hybrid 4WD: 73.7 in (1,872 mm)

The all-new GMT900 generation of the Silverado/Sierra arrived in the last quarter of 2006 as a 2007 model. It features a redesigned exterior, interior, frame, and suspension as well as a power increases on certain engines. It takes styling cues from the 2007 GMT900 SUVs and the Chevrolet Colorado pickups. Like the GMT900 SUVs, these pickups also have greatly improved aerodynamics over their predecessors like steeply raked windshields and tighter panel gaps which improve fuel economy. The GMT800 models were continued in 2007 badged as "Classic", just as the GMT400 models continued for a year after the GMT800's introduction.

2008 GMC Sierra crew cab

The new Silverado earned the North American Truck of the Year award for 2007 and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 2007. Like its predecessors, the new Silverado offers buyers a choice of two door regular cabs, four door extended cabs (with rear doors that now open 170 degrees similar to the Nissan Titan) and four door crew cabs with the rear doors opening in the same direction as the front doors. GM also offers the trucks in the traditional two and four wheel drive configurations.

The Generation III small block V8 engines offered in the GMT 800 trucks will be replaced in the GMT 900 series by the Generation IV small block V8 engine family, featuring upgrades such as increased power and Active Fuel Management on the 5.3 L and 6.0 L V8s. A new high performance 6.2 liter V8 (with 403 hp (301 kW) and 417 lb⋅ft (565 N⋅m) of torque) was introduced with the 2007 Cadillac Escalade and 2007 GMC Denali line, and is now available on the Silverado LTZ trim line. After skipping the 2008 model year, with 2007 being the last for the GMT800 hybrid line, a two-mode hybrid model will be introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model.

There are two dash options offered in the new Silverado and Sierra. A luxury-inspired dash that closely mimics the dash in their GMT900 SUVs, and a "pickup" dash that is more upright to make way for a passenger seat in place of a center console.

As of 2008, General Motors full size trucks are no longer sold in United States and Canada with manual transmissions, they are only offered in Mexico in the Silverado 1500 V6 engine and Silverado 3500.

All Silverado & Sierra 1/2 ton models received a revised bumper and shortened front fascia mid-way through the 2009 model year and a full mid-cycle refresh followed with all 2010 models, including new interior door panels (which moved the handle forward and added an additional cup holder) and a six-speed automatic transmission on regular and extended cab models with 5.3L or larger V8's was also made standard. Two new exterior colors were added: Taupe Gray Metallic and Sheer Silver Metallic.

• 
  2007 GMC Sierra Denali
• 
  Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid
• 
  2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid
• 
  2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ extended cab
• 
  2013 GMC Sierra Denali Crew Cab

GMT900 Heavy Duty
Overview
Production	2007–2014
Body and chassis
Platform	GM GMT910 platform: GMT911 (Chevrolet Silverado) GMT912 (GMC Sierra)
Powertrain
Engine	6.0 L V8 360 hp (268 kW) 6.6 L Duramax diesel V8 397 hp (296 kW)
Transmission	6-speed 6L90 automatic 6-speed Allison 1000 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	Varies greatly
Length	Varies greatly
Width	80 in (2,032 mm) 95.9 in (2,436 mm) (Towing mirrors)
Height	76 in (1,930 mm)

The 8.1 L big-block V8 is no longer offered on the Heavy Duty models, and no replacement has been announced. The 6L90 6-speed automatic transmission is standard in all Heavy Duty models. The Allison 1000 transmission is paired with the optional Duramax V8 diesel.

As of 2011 the GMC and Chevrolet heavy Duty's have being upgraded with a new fully boxed high strength steel frame from front to rear improving stiffness by 92% with bigger rear springs, larger engine and transmission mounts and new hydraulic body mounts to improve the ride.The front suspension incorporates new upper and lower control arms and new torsion bars tailored to one of five different gross axle weight ratings. Upper control arms are constructed from forged steel that is both stronger and lighter than the previous arms, while the new lower arms are cast iron to maximize load capacity. Using a unique torsion bar for each gross weight rating allows for better control over vehicle height, resulting in improved handling and better alignment for reduced tire wear. These improvements allow for up to a 6,000 pound front axle weight rating, allowing all 4wd trucks to accommodate a snow plow. Additional front suspension enhancements come from new urethane bump stops, two per side. The upper shock mount has been changed from a single stem mount to a two-bolt design to eliminate the possibility of squeaks and thumps. The rear suspension design uses asymmetrical leaf springs that are wider and capable of greater load handling. The design features 3- inch wide leafs, with front and rear spring sections of different lengths to reduce the twisting that can result in axle hop and loss of traction. The 2500HD use a two-stage design with a rating of 6,200 lbs, and 3500HD models have a three-stage design with 7,050 lb and 9,375 lb ratings on single and dual-wheel models respectively

• 
  2012 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD crew cab
• 
  2012 GMC Sierra Denali HD
• 
  2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLT crew cab
• 
  2012 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD crew cab

Engines

Model	Year	Engine	Power	Torque
1500	2007-2013	4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6	195 hp (145 kW) @ 4600 RPM	260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) @ 2800 RPM
	2007-2008	4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8	295 hp (220 kW) @ 5600 RPM	305 lb⋅ft (414 N⋅m) @ 4800 RPM
	2009		295 hp (220 kW) @ 5600 RPM	305 lb⋅ft (414 N⋅m) @ 4600 RPM
	2010-2013		302 hp (225 kW) @ 5600 RPM	305 lb⋅ft (414 N⋅m) @ 4600 RPM
	2007-2009	5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8	315 hp (235 kW) @ 5200 RPM	338 lb⋅ft (458 N⋅m) @ 4400 RPM
	2010-2013		315 hp (235 kW) @ 5300 RPM	335 lb⋅ft (454 N⋅m) @ 4400 RPM
	2007-2008	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	367 hp (274 kW) @ 5500 RPM	375 lb⋅ft (508 N⋅m) @ 4300 RPM
	2009		367 hp (274 kW) @ 5600 RPM	375 lb⋅ft (508 N⋅m) @ 4300 RPM
	2009-2013	6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8	403 hp (301 kW) @ 5700 RPM	417 lb⋅ft (565 N⋅m) @ 4300 RPM
2500HD/3500HD	2007-2008	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	353 hp (263 kW) @ 5400 RPM	373 lb⋅ft (506 N⋅m) @ 4400 RPM
	2009-2014		360 hp (268 kW) @ 5400 RPM	380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) @ 4200 RPM
	2007-2010	6.6 L DuraMAX V8	365 hp (272 kW) @ 3200 RPM	660 lb⋅ft (895 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM
	2011-2014		397 hp (296 kW) @ 3000 RPM	765 lb⋅ft (1,037 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM
Silverado XFE	2009	6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8	332 hp (248 kW) @ 5100 RPM	367 lb⋅ft (498 N⋅m) @ 4100 RPM
Silverado Hybrid	2009-2013

Production location switch

For the 2011 model year of the Silverado/Sierra, the production of crew cab models partially will shift from Silao, Mexico to Flint, Michigan.

Safety

The Silverado comes standard with four-wheel ABS. StabiliTrak and side curtain airbags are optional on certain trim levels.

2007 NHTSA crash test:

• Frontal Driver:
• Frontal Passenger:
• Side Driver:
• Side Rear Passenger:
• Rollover:

The IIHS gave the Silverado a "Good" score in their frontal crash test, however 2007-09 models equipped with or without optional side curtain airbags received a "Poor" rating in the side impact test. For 2010 models the side structure was strengthened, side torso air bags were added, and side airbags became standard, with the upgrades the IIHS side impact overall rating improved to "Acceptable", while the overall side structure rating is improved from "Poor" to "Acceptable". The crew cab variant of the 2011-13 Silverado is also rated "Marginal" in the IIHS roof strength test.

Electric version

In 2011 developer of the Chevrolet Volt and former vice chairman Bob Lutz joined VIA Motors. in developing electric versions of the Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra called VIA VTrux.

Third generation (2014-)

3rd generation
Overview
Also called	GMC Sierra VIA Vtrux Truck
Production	2013–present
Powertrain
Engine	LV3 EcoTec3 4.3 L V6 285 hp (213 kW) L83 EcoTec3 5.3 L V8 355 hp (265 kW) L86 EcoTec3 6.2 L V8 420 hp (313 kW) LY6 Vortec 6000 6.0 L V8 360 hp (268 kW) LML Duramax 6.6 L V8 397 hp (296 kW)
Transmission	6-speed 6L80 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	Regular 6'6": 119 in (3,023 mm) Regular 8': 133 in (3,378 mm) Double 6'6" & Crew 5'5": 143.5 in (3,645 mm) Crew 6'6": 153 in (3,886 mm)
Length	Regular 6'6": 205.6 in (5,222 mm) Regular 8': 224.4 in (5,700 mm) Double & Crew 5'5": 230 in (5,842 mm) Crew 6'6": 239.6 in (6,086 mm)
Width	80 in (2,032 mm)
Height	73.5 in (1,867 mm) – 74.2 in (1,885 mm)

On December 13, 2012, the redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, along with the related 2014 GMC Sierra were introduced in Detroit, Michigan at the North American International Auto Show. The new Silverado 1500 has three gas engine options: 4.3 L EcoTec3 V6, 5.3 L EcoTec3 V8, or 6.2 L EcoTec3 V8. Chevrolet's MyLink touch-screen multimedia interface system will be available on most models. It will have A2DP stereo streaming technologies, Bluetooth hands-free telephone, USB hookups, and an input for an Apple iPod or iPhone. When connected via the USB port, an iPhone 4/4S, iPhone 5 will be able to stream music from Pandora Radio. A Bose premium audio system, as well as a Bose surround sound audio system will be available on most models. OnStar will be standard on all models. Underneath the new Silverado will benefit from a new fully boxed high strength steel frame with hydroforming technology, and the truck cab's frame will be built with high strength steel as well. The new Silverado also will benefit from the use of aluminum on the hood, for the engine block and for the control arms in order to save mass. The truck's bed will be made of roll-formed steel instead of stamped steel used by other manufacturers in order to save weight and gain strength. The 2014 Silverado will offer a new luxury model the High Country edition which includes saddle brown leather interior and the edition will be Chevrolet's first entry into the luxury market. A revised front end features styling cues from the 1980s-era Chevrolet C-Series Trucks, and, on Z-71 models, a Z-71 badge was added to the front grille. Production of the Silverado began on April 29, 2013. The Silverado 1500 is expected to be available starting in spring 2013, with the Silverado HD Series being available in early 2014 as the 2015 model year.

Engines

Model	Year	Engine	Power	Torque
1500	2014-	4.3 L LV3 GM EcoTec3 4300 V6	285 hp (213 kW) @ 5300 RPM	305 lb⋅ft (414 N⋅m) @ 3900 RPM
	2014-	5.3 L L83 GM EcoTec3 5300 V8	355 hp (265 kW) @ 5600 RPM	383 lb⋅ft (519 N⋅m) @ 4100 RPM
	2014-	6.2 L L86 GM EcoTec3 6200 V8	420 hp (313 kW) @ 5600 RPM	460 lb⋅ft (624 N⋅m) @ 4100 RPM
2500HD/3500HD	2014-	6.0 L LY6 Vortec 6000 V8	360 hp (268 kW) @ 5400 RPM	380 lb⋅ft (515 N⋅m) @ 4400 RPM
	2014-	6.6 L LML Duramax V8	397 hp (296 kW) @ 3200 RPM	765 lb⋅ft (1,037 N⋅m) @ 1600 RPM

Military applications

COMBATT / MILCOTS (Milverado)
Overview
Production	2001–present
Body and chassis
Platform	GM GMT880 platform
Powertrain
Engine	6.6 L Duramax Turbo diesel V8
Transmission	6-speed 6L80E automatic 6-speed Allison 1000 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	Varies greatly
Length	Varies greatly
Width	80 in (2,032 mm) 95.9 in (2,436 mm) (Towing mirrors)
Height	76 in (1,930 mm)

A military version of the 2003 Silverado is called MILCOTS (Militarized Commercial Off-The-Shelf or colloquially as the "Milverado") and is being purchased by the Canadian Army. Canada has ordered 1,061 units from GM Defense.

A similar but more armored platform is being used by the United States Army under the COMBATT (Commercially Based Tactical Truck) program. The GM bid beat rival bids from Chrysler (Dodge RAM 2500/3500), Ford (F-350 Super Duty) and Hummer (H1097A2 Wagon).

Awards

• 1999 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year
• 2001 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year (Heavy Duty Model)
• 2001 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
• 2002 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
• 2003 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
• 2007 - North American Truck of the Year
• 2007 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year
• 2007 - ICOTY International Truck of the Year
• 2007 - Truckin' magazine's Truck of the Year
• 2011 - Heavy Duty model won Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year

Marketing

Like a Rock campaign

The Like a Rock campaign touted the Silverado as "the most dependable, longest lasting truck on the road". The song "Like a Rock" by Bob Seger was licensed for use in the campaign. The campaign ended after the last commercials in the 2004 model year then the 2005 model year stopped the campaign and used the "An American Revolution" slogan. The song and slogan like a rock were used in Chevrolet truck commercials for more than ten years, one of the longest-running advertising campaigns in history.

Our Country. Our Truck. campaign

On September 26, 2006, Chevrolet announced plans for a multi-media marketing campaign to support the 2007 Silverado full-size pickup as an extension to Chevrolet's An American Revolution campaign. The full campaign began on October 21, 2006 and featured the new tag line Our Country. Our Truck. The advertising videos used John Mellencamp's "Our Country" as their theme song. Two ads premiered during NBC's new Sunday Night Football in America.

The first video, named Anthem, was designed to showcase the good and bad of the past half century and how America has made it through difficult times. The video is filled with images of historic moments in recent American history, such as a nuclear explosion, Rosa Parks on a bus, Martin Luther King giving a speech, the site of the former World Trade Center in the months after 9/11, Hurricane Katrina's devastation, then shows the trucks working to rebuild the devastated places, and ends with the tagline: This is our country. This is our truck. The final broadcast version did not include images of the nuclear explosion nor of the World Trade Center. Anthem has been criticized for using Civil rights activists to sell trucks and implying that there was a parallel between the struggles of the United States and the ongoing struggle General Motors is facing in today's marketplace. However, a representative from GM stated that this was not the intent of the advertisement. Rather, the intent was to show how the trucks are used for work purposes, and the main audience for these trucks is for work. The second video, titled Birthplace, showed average American developing vehicles by unconventional means.

The campaign also included a 28 minute long infomercial, premiered on 2006-12-9. The infomercial starred former NFL football player Howie Long and Gary White, General Motors' North American vehicle line executive for full-sized trucks. The infomercial premiered on channels such as Speed Channel. A 24-page publication was to be included with magazines such as Motor Trend, Field & Stream and Popular Science.

In January 2007, a Canadian version of Silverado ad started to appear, which was based on a variant of Birthplace previously shown on American channels. The ad uses a squared fonts for the texts, with images of forklifting timber, boy scouts, Dale Earnhardt, 'This is Our Chat Room' replaced by a skating hockey player, lighthouse on a rocky shoreline, and hockey player Bobby Orr. At the end of the video, the message was replaced by The Next Generation Chevy Silverado.

After winning the 2007 Motor Trend Truck of the Year award, another version of the ad showed the Silverado itself, with the message 2007 Motor Trend Truck of the Year at the end. Canadian version of the ad only has cosmetic and slogan changes after the Silverado had won its award.

Yearly American sales

Calendar Year	Silverado	GMC Sierra	Total
1998	538,254	160,555	698,809
1999	636,150	208,693	844,843
2000	642,119	188,907	831,026
2001	716,051	210,154	926,205
2002	652,646	202,045	854,691
2003	684,302	196,689	880,991
2004	680,768	213,756	894,524
2005	705,982	229,488	935,468
2006	636,069	210,736	846,805
2007	618,259	208,243	826,500
2008	465,065	168,544	633,609
2009	316,554	111,842	428,396
2010	370,135	129,794	499,929
2011	415,130	149,170	564,300
2012	418,312	157,185	575,497
2013	480,414	184,389	664,803

See also

• Chevrolet pickup truck
• Chevrolet Avalanche
• General Motors C/K Trucks
• Chevrolet S10/Chevrolet Colorado
• List of hybrid vehicles

External links

• Official Chevrolet Silverado Website
• Official GMC Sierra Website