GM Hybrid Trucks and SUVs Future Uncertain
Gene ral Motors began packing hybrid engines into pickups back in 2007, but a new report revealed today suggest that the next generation of pickups will lose the partial electric setup.
GM Inside News is reporting that inside sources at GM have confirmed that the next generation of SUVs and trucks from GM will be ditching hybrids, all except the Cadillac Escalade. The vehicles said to be losing the hybrid powertrain are the Chevrolet Silverado and Tahoe, as well as the GMC Sierra and Yukon. Generally, these vehicles all get around 20 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Contrary to these reports however, GM North American President Mark Ruess took to twitter to put the rumors to rest. Commenting on the story, Reuss tweets, “new lows in headlines from some rumor stated as fact. Unbelievable. Lazy, silly, and sad. Bottom barrel.” We reached out to General Motors electrification division for comment, but were told that future product information cannot be shared.
The future of these hybrid trucks is still unclear. If the systems are pulled, it would seem like safe speculation to say that GM has some new tech that they think can compete with Ford’s EcoBoost, or the Ram’s eight-speed transmission when it comes to fuel economy.
After yesterday’s release of the 54.5 mpg average fuel economy mark however, it doesn’t make much sense for GM to pull systems that would help them achieve that standard.
[Source: GMI]
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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Can't they just stick eAssist in these things?