By Automotive News - Ford's choice of direct-inject turbocharging for its EcoBoost V-6 is one strategy. General Motors has chosen other technologies to improve fuel economy and performance.
GM spokesman Tom Wilkinson says GM is focused on "continuous improvement" of the mainstream 5.3L V8 in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-sized pickups. The Silverado's 5.3-liter V8 makes 315 hp and 335 pounds-feet of torque.
That engine competes most directly with Ford's EcoBoost in price and performance, he says.
GM's four-wheel-drive trucks match the combined EPA fuel economy rating of the EcoBoost 4wd F-160s. Rear drive models are 1 mpg lower.
GM's recent changes to the engine include variable valve timing and displacement on demand. GM is expected to introduce a turbocharged V-6 on its next generation of full-size pickups, expected in 2013. It is considering other fuel-saving techniques for the redesigned trucks, too, such as eight-speed transmissions and significant weight reduction.
Chrysler Group sells mostly V-8s in its Ram 1500 half-ton pickup. But the Ram 1500 eventually will get Chrysler's new Pentastar V-6 engine, which likely will be teamed with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, probably in 2013.
Ford knows the competition will react. It has the advantage of being first to put direct-injection turbocharged V-6 technology in a pickup. But Mike Omotoso, senior manager of global power train at J.D. Power and Associates in suburban Detroit, notes that, because of rising federal fuel-economy requirements, "The heat is on Ford, and the heat is on for everyone.
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