The Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid is a half-ton pickup that achieves better overall fuel economy than a gas-powered Silverado, but it can still pull a 6,100-pound trailer. Available exclusively in the crew-cab body style, the Silverado Hybrid can seat up to six people and is expected to use one-quarter less gas than a regular Silverado.
New for 2012 There are no significant changes for 2012.
Exterior In passing, the Silverado Hybrid doesn’t look much different from its gas-only sibling except for hybrid badges on the front fenders and the tailgate. Exterior features include:
Low-rolling-resistance tires
18-inch wheels
Deeper front air dam than regular Silverado
Standard tonneau cover
Interior Depending on the Silverado Hybrid’s seating configuration, the crew cab can seat five or six people. Interior features include:
Gauge tracks optimal fuel economy
Hybrid badge on tachometer
Optional navigation system
Under the Hood The Silverado Hybrid’s 6.0-liter V-8 teams with GM’s Electrically Variable Transmission, which integrates two electric motors into the transmission housing. Those motors are powered by a 300-volt hybrid battery pack under the backseat. With this system, the truck can accelerate on electric power alone like the Toyota Prius and other hybrids.
The rear-wheel-drive Silverado Hybrid can tow up to 6,100 pounds, while the four-wheel-drive model can pull 5,900 pounds. Both figures trail the maximum ratings of the regular crew cab by significant margins. Additional mechanical features include:
