GM expands CNG offerings, adds Silverado, Sierra HDs to lineup
by Canadian Manufacturing Daily Staff
Chevrolet Express, GMC Savanna passenger vans also available with dedicated CNG systems
DETROIT—General Motors has announced plans to offer bi-fuel packages for its three-quarter and one-ton pickups and dedicated compressed natural gas versions of its full-size passenger vans next year.
According to the automaker, the 2015 model year Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty models will be available in bi-fuel version that can run on either gasoline or natural gas when they hit dealerships next year.
The bi-fuel package will be available on both models’ 2500HD and 3500HD models in both two- and four-wheel drive, GM said.
GM also said passenger versions of its 2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savanna vans will join their cargo counterparts next year with the option for dedicated CNG.
“With these new vehicles, General Motors offers the most comprehensive lineup of manufacturer-engineered, validated and warranted CNG vehicles, helping fleet managers manage their budget and reduce their carbon footprint,” GM fleet executive Ed Peper said in a statement.
“Natural gas is less costly at the pump and significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions, compared to other liquid fuels.”
The new van and truck models comes equipped with a 6.0-litre V8 engine that features hardened valves and valve seats.
The Silverado and Sierra come with separate fuel tanks that enable the driver to switch between fuels at the push of a button, while the vans come equipped with three CNG tanks.
According to GM, the pickups will have a driving range of approximately 1,000 kilometres when using both fuels, while the Savanna and Express passenger vans will be able drive about 320 kilometres on a single fill-up.
