Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevrolet Silverado, and its mechanically identical cousin, the GMC Sierra, are a series of full-size and heavy-duty pickup trucks manufactured by General Motors and introduced in 1999 as the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K line. The Silverado name was taken from a trim level previously used on its predecessor, the Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks and Suburbans from 1975 through 1998. General Motors continues to offer a GMC-badged variant of the Chevrolet full-size pickup under the GMC Sierra name, first used in 1988 for its variant of the GMT400 platform trucks.History[edit]
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, Suburbans, and Tahoes from 1975 through 1999.[2] GMC used a few variations of the "Sierra" name (Sierra, High Sierra). However Chevrolet still uses the CK and the CC in their current model codes.


1997 C/K with Silverado Trim Package, displaying CHEVROLET on the tailgate.
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 equivalent for the Silverado. However, the GMC Sierra has a Denali model.

First generation (1999–2006)[edit]
First generation
2003-2005 Chevrolet Silverado -- 09-03-2010.jpg
Overview
Also called Chevrolet C/K (South Korea)
Production 1998–2006
Designer Ken Sohocki (1994)[3]
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
Vortec 8100 (8.1 L) V8
Transmission 4-speed 4L60-E automatic
4-speed 4L65-E automatic
4-speed 4L80-E automatic
5-speed NV3500 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) being introduced. A small refresh was introduced in 2002, bringing slight design changes and an upgrade to the audio and HVAC controls.

Body style changes

There was a midyear body style change in 2007; during this change, the first generation ends and the second generation begins. This body style is referred to as "Classic"; the second generation is referred to as the "New body style"

Light duty[edit]
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 Dodge Ram.[citation needed]

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 introducing a reworked version of the Silverado/Sierra in 2003, with a new front end, and a slightly updated rear end. In 2006 the Silverado received another facelift, similar to the HD version introduced in 2005 HD models. In addition to that, Chevrolet has deleted the "Chevrolet" badge off the tailgate that was used from 1999-2005. 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.[4]

2001 GMC Sierra C3/Denali[edit]

Sierra Denali with Quadrasteer
GMC created an upscale version of its Sierra 1500 in 2000 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.[5]

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[edit]

Silverado SS
Launched in early 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, in an attempt to increase sales, a 2-wheel drive version became available (the 2WD SS also lost its rear disc brakes in favor of drums, as did the rest of the 1/2-ton GMT800s). 2005 was also the first year the sun roof was available in the SS line up. In 2006, the AWD variant was dropped and the rear wheel drive was the only driveline layout available. In a further effort to reduce cost, you could also get cloth interior and/ or bench seat. 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 from 2003 to 2004. In 2005 Arrival Blue Metallic was dropped from the color choice and replaced with Silver Birch Metallic.

Intimidator SS[edit]
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), but was essentially just a regular Silverado SS. Of the 1,033 scheduled trucks, only 933 were made (the remaining 100 were sold as 2007 Silverado SS "classic" bodystyle trucks before the 2007.5 MY changeover. These trucks were only available in Black Onyx exterior but could be ordered with cloth or leather interior. Also features[6]-

Silverado Performance Edition/Vortec Max[edit]

2004 GMC Sierra with VHO package
The Silverado Performance Edition 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); it was available nationwide for MY 2005-07. The SPE 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 on extended cab standard box 2WD trucks. They were all built at the Canadian assembly plant and were equipped with the Z60 High Performance suspension package, in addition to the 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 (option code NHT) was added to the options list with an array of similar features and new badges. However, the Vortec Max package differed in that it came with a variant of the Z85 Handling/Trailering suspension, as well as 17-inch wheels and tires versus the Z60 High Performance Suspension and 20-inch wheel and tire package of the Performance Edition. This was because the Vortec Max package was intended for max trailer towing, while the Performance Edition was intended more for customers who wanted the Silverado SS mechanicals without the visuals of the SS. 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.

The newest Vortec Max Performance package introduced in 2007 on the GMT900 includes a 10,800 pounds towing capacity.[7]

Hybrid[edit]

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.[8]

Heavy duty[edit]
GMT800 Heavy Duty
2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD.jpg
Overview
Production 2000–2007
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 (2000–2005)
6-speed Allison 1000 automatic (2005–2007)
5-speed NV4500 manual (2000–2007 6.0)
6-speed ZF S6-650 manual (2000–2006 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)

2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
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 2000, 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 either the LB7 Duramax V8 with 300 hp (224 kW) at 3100 rpm and 520 lb·ft (705 N·m) of torque at 1800 rpm, the LLY Duramax V8 with 310 hp (231 kW) @ 3000RPM and 605 lb·ft (820 N·m) @ 1600RPM, and the LBZ Duramax V8 with 360 hp (268 kW) @ 3200RPM and 650 lb·ft (881 N·m) @ 1600RPM. 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 with the Vortec 8100 and Duramax 6.6. 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[edit]
Model Year Engine Power Torque
1500 1998–2003 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
1998–2001 4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8 270 hp (201 kW) @ 5200 RPM 285 lb·ft (386 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
2001–2002 275 hp (205 kW) @ 5200 RPM 285 lb·ft (386 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
2002–2003 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
1998–2003 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 285 hp (213 kW) @ 5200 RPM 325 lb·ft (441 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
2003–2004 295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM 330 lb·ft (447 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
2004–2006 295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM 335 lb·ft (454 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
1500HD/2500HD/3500HD 2000-2006 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 300 hp (224 kW) @ 4400 RPM 360 lb·ft (488 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
2000–2004 8.1 L Vortec 8100 V8 340 hp (254 kW) @ 4200 RPM 455 lb·ft (617 N·m) @ 3200 RPM
2004–2006 330 hp (246 kW) @ 4200 RPM 450 lb·ft (610 N·m) @ 3200 RPM
2001–2002 w/ LQY 270 hp (201 kW) @ 3600 RPM 400 lb·ft (542 N·m) @ 1600 RPM
2001–2002 w/ LQQ 210 hp (157 kW) @ 3600 RPM 325 lb·ft (441 N·m) @ 1200 RPM
2002–2005 w/ LRW 325 hp (242 kW) @ 4000 RPM 450 lb·ft (610 N·m) @ 2800 RPM
2002–2006 w/ LRZ 295 hp (220 kW) @ 3600 RPM 440 lb·ft (597 N·m) @ 3200 RPM
2002–2006 w/ LQR 225 hp (168 kW) @ 3600 RPM 350 lb·ft (475 N·m) @ 1200 RPM
2000–2004 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
2005-2006 6.6 L DuraMAX (LBZ) V8 360 hp (268 kW) @ 3200 RPM 650 lb·ft (881 N·m) @ 1600 RPM
GMC Sierra C3 2000-2001 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
2004–2006 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 345 hp (257 kW) @ 5200 RPM 380 lb·ft (515 N·m) @ 4000 RPM
Chevrolet Silverado SS 2002–2006
Chevrolet Silverado Vortec High Output 2003–2005
Chevrolet Silverado VortecMAX 2005-2006

1998–2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 regular cab


2002–2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 crew cab


The Allison 1000 attached to the 6.6L Duramax Diesel
Second generation (2007–2013)[edit]
Second generation
Silverado z71 regcab.jpg
Overview
Also called Chevrolet Platform/Shakebody
GMC Dump Truck
Production 2006–2013
Body and chassis
Platform GM GMT900 platform:
GMT901 (Chevrolet Silverado)
GMT902 (GMC Sierra)
Powertrain
Engine 4.3 L V6 195 hp (145 kW)[9][10]
4.8 L V8 295 hp (220 kW)[9]
5.3 L V8 315 hp (235 kW)[9]
6.0 L V8 360 hp (268 kW)[9]
6.2 L V8 403 hp (301 kW)[9]
Transmission 4-speed 4L60-E automatic[9][10]
4-speed "2-Mode Hybrid transmission" CVT (Hybrid)[10]
6-speed 6L80 automatic[9][10][11]
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 through 2007 badged as "Classic", just as the GMT400 models continued for two years 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 were 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 was introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model.[12] Available in either two- or four-wheel-drive, the Sierra 1500 Hybrid is powered by a 6.0-liter V8. It's joined by two 60-kilowatt electric motors supplied by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack under the rear seat. On its own, the V8 is rated at 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. GM engineers say that combined output with the electric motors is 379 hp. The unique transmission houses the electric motors along with three different planetary gear sets and four traditional clutches.[13]

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.[14]

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
Chevrolet Silverado 2500.jpg
Overview
Production 2006–2014
Body and chassis
Platform GM GMT910 platform:
GMT911 (Chevrolet Silverado)
GMT912 (GMC Sierra)
Powertrain
Engine
6.0 L V8 360 hp (268 kW)[9]

6.6 L Duramax diesel V8 397 hp (296 kW)[9]
Transmission 6-speed 6L90 automatic[9][10]
6-speed Allison 1000 automatic[9]
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 leaves, 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[edit]
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
2009-2013 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
2011-2013 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[edit]
For the 2011 model year of the Silverado/Sierra, the production of crew cab models partially will shift from Silao, Mexico to Flint, Michigan.[15]

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

2007 NHTSA crash test:[16]

Frontal Driver: 5/5 stars
Frontal Passenger: 5/5 stars
Side Driver: 5/5 stars
Side Rear Passenger: 5/5 stars
Rollover: 4/5 stars
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.[4] 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".[17] The crew cab variant of the 2011-13 Silverado is also rated "Marginal" in the IIHS roof strength test.[18]

Electric version[edit]
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.


2013 VIA VTRUX
Third generation (2014–present)[edit]
Third generation
Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Crew Cab 4x4 2014 (12725670333).jpg
Overview
Also called GMC Sierra
VIA Vtrux Truck
Production 2013–present
Body and chassis
Platform GMT K2XX
Powertrain
Engine
LV3 EcoTec3 4.3 L V6 285 hp (213 kW)[19]
L83 EcoTec3 5.3 L V8 355 hp (265 kW)[19]
L86 EcoTec3 6.2 L V8 420 hp (313 kW)[19]

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[19]
8-speed 8L90 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)

2014 Silverado LTZ Crew Cab 4x4
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. GM dropped the GMT and changed to K2XX. 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/iPhone 5S, iPhone 6, or iPhone 6 Plus 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 went on sale in May 2013 as a 2014 model, with the Silverado HD Series being available in early 2014 for the 2015 model year. On January 10, 2014 a recall was issued for 370,000 Silverado and Sierra pickups due to a fire risk.[20]

A rebadged version of the Silverado called the Chevrolet Cheyenne is sold in Mexico.

The new American model version of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500HD and the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado High Country will be introduced to the Philippines market by Chevrolet Motorama Show late November 2014 as a MY2015, along with the MY2015 Chevrolet Suburban, 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2015 Chevrolet Impala, 2015 Chevrolet Express Van and the new American model version are 2015 Chevrolet Trax and 2015 Chevrolet Colorado.

On January 14, 2014, The Silverado, along with the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, received the 2014 North American International Auto Show's Car and Truck of the Year awards.[21]

2015[edit]
For the 2015 model year, the 6.2L Ecotec3 was paired with the new 8-speed 8L90 transmission, offering a wider ratio spread with more closely spaced gears, quicker shifts, and improved acceleration and fuel economy.[22]

2016[edit]
For 2016, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra received its first mid-cycle refresh. The refreshed Silverado and Sierra received a new grille, headlights and front fascia as well as reworked tail lights.

Engines[edit]
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[edit]
LSSV
MP MilCOTS.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer General Motors, AM General
Model years 2001–
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door SUV
4-door SUV
2-door pickup
4-door pickup
Platform GM GMT880 platform
Powertrain
Engine 6.6 L Duramax V8
Transmission 4-speed 4L80-E automatic
5-speed Allison 1000 automatic
Dimensions
Width 79.9 in (2.03 m)
Height 74.5 in (1.89 m)
When production of the CUCV II ended in 2000, GM redesigned it to coincide with civilian truck offerings. The CUCV nomeclature was changed to Light Service Support Vehicle in 2001. In 2005, LSSV production switched to AM General, a unit of MacAndrews and Forbes Holdings. The LSSV is a GM-built Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, Chevrolet Tahoe, or Chevrolet Suburban that is powered by a Duramax 6.6 liter turbo diesel engine. The various Silverados, Tahoes, and Suburbans that are used provide numerous platforms for different kinds of vehicles. As GM has redesigned its civilian trucks and SUVs from 2001–present, LSSVs have also been updated cosmetically.[23]

The Militarization of standard GM trucks/SUVs to become LSSVs includes exterior changes such as CARC paint (Forest Green, Desert Sand, or 3-color Camouflage), blackout lights, military bumpers, a brush guard, a NATO slave receptacle/NATO trailer receptacle, a pintle hook and tow shackles. The electrical system is changed to the 24/12 volt military standard. The dashboard has additional controls and dataplates. The truck also can be equipped with weapon supports in the cab, cargo tie down hooks, folding troop seats, pioneer tools, winches, and other military accessories.[23]

The Enhanced Mobility Package (EMP) option adds enhanced suspension, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, a locking differential, on/off road beadlock tires, a tire pressure monitoring system and other upgrades.About 2,000 LSSV units were sold to U.S. and international military and law enforcement organizations.[23]

Variants[edit]
Cargo/Troop Carrier Pickup (2-door, Extended Cab, or 4-door Silverado)
Cargo/Troop Carrier/Command Vehicle (4-door Tahoe)
Cargo/Troop Carrier/Command Vehicle/Ambulance (4-door Suburban)
Awards[edit]
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[24]
2007 - Truckin' magazine's Truck of the Year
2011 - Heavy Duty model won Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year[25]
Marketing[edit]
Like a Rock campaign[edit]
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[edit]
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.[26] The full campaign began on October 21, 2006[27] 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.[28] The final broadcast version did not include images of the nuclear explosion nor of the World Trade Center.[29] 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.[30] 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.[citation needed]

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.[31] 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.[32]

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.[33] 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. The Canadian version of the ad only has cosmetic and slogan changes after the Silverado had won its award.

Motorsport[edit]
Xpress Motorsports won the 2002 and 2003 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The truck also won the Primm 300 in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

Yearly American sales[edit]
Calendar Year Silverado GMC Sierra Total
1998[34] 538,254 160,555 698,809
1999 636,150 208,693 844,843
2000[35] 642,119 188,907 831,026
2001[36] 716,051 210,154 926,205
2002 652,646 202,045 854,691
2003[37] 684,302 196,689 880,991
2004[38] 680,768 213,756 894,524
2005 705,982 229,488 935,468
2006[39] 636,069 210,736 846,805
2007 618,259 208,243 826,500
2008[40] 465,065 168,544 633,609
2009[41] 316,554 111,842 428,396
2010[41] 370,135 129,794 499,929
2011[42] 415,130 149,170 564,300
2012[43] 418,312 157,185 575,497
2013[44] 480,414 184,389 664,803
2014[45] 529,755 211,833 741,588
Special use Silverados and Sierras[edit]

Tow truck in Honolulu, Hawaii.


Spill response vehicle used after Hurricane Sandy, Staten Island, New York


Firetruck in Nebraska


Police in Ramadi, Iraq


Monster truck at Half Moon Bay, California


Humpty Dumpty delivery van in Montreal


Camper in Core Banks, North Carolina

Dump truck in Milwaukee, Wisconsin


Ambulance in Uppsala, Sweden


Landing an airplane in Airdrie, Alberta


Race car


Pulling clowns in Valdosta, Georgia


On the red carpet in New York City


Drying a race track

Backdrop for amateur model in Mapleton, Illinois


Railway vehicle


Taxi in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands


U.S. Border Patrol, San Diego, California


Carrying heavy stuff, Guantánamo Bay, Cuba


Burning rubber


Snow plow in Montreal, Quebec

Beach patrol in Santa Monica, California


Hearse in Indianola, Mississippi