SILVERADO HD BESTS COMPETITION WITH UPDATED PAYLOAD RATINGS

By General Motors - Through ongoing development and testing, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD capability ratings have been increased to 9,863 kgs (21,700 lbs) of towing, and 3,015 kgs (6,635 lbs) of payload. Based on these ratings, the Silverado HD will offer heavy-duty truck buyers the most power and most capability available in the segment.

According to Rick Spina, GM Full-size Truck global vehicle line executive, the increased ratings are a result of exceeding the original performance targets for the Silverado HD:

"Our focus has consistently been on delivering customers the most capable heavy-duty trucks in the market. The first set of capability tests confirmed that the team had exceeded the payload and towing targets by a significant margin. Ongoing testing demonstrated a clear opportunity to increase the true capabilities of these trucks. Even pulling a combined weight of nearly 13 tonnes seems easy behind the wheel of a 2011 Silverado HD 3500 with the proven Duramax Diesel."

To certify increased payload and towing capacities for the 2011 Silverado HD, engineers conducted a battery of tests.

• Based on extensive testing at maximum gross combined weight rating (GCWR) to validate the durability of the powertrain, drivetrain, and brake components, the GCWR is increased to 13,272 kgs (29,200 lbs.)
• Based on further testing in varied terrain, grades, and climates while pulling the maximum trailer weight to confirm predictable and stable handling, the maximum 5th-wheel towing capacity was increased to 9,863 kgs (21,700 lbs), and conventional towing capacity increased to 7,727 kgs (17,000 lbs).
• After higher-strength steel for cargo box cross sills was specified, the team conducted additional testing hauling maximum payloads to test the stronger cargo box and rear-axle components. As a result, the maximum payload has been increased to 3,015 kgs (6,635 lbs).

Based on these improved capacities, the 2011 Silverado HD possesses segment-leading capability in horsepower, torque, conventional towing, 5th-wheel towing, and payload. Starting production next week, it becomes the most capable heavy duty pickup on the market.

"We encourage consumers to test drive the Silverado HD against competitive models," said Spina. "Based on our test results, we are confident the Silverado HD will prove to be the best choice for real-world towing and hauling needs."