When Chevrolet to the time to introduce the all-new Silverado 4500HD and 5500 HD trucks, business owners are sure to be happy with the changes. Chevrolet has made significant changes to aid with performance and drivability. Upfitting and repairs have been made more accessible and, hopefully, less costly.
Since power is the primary basis for performance, we'll address that first. Chevy's 6.6-liter Duramax diesel engine can do more thanks to the truck's new architecture. Whether it is a mate to four-wheel or two-wheel drive, this engine generates 350 horsepower and a hefty 700 lb.-ft. Of torque. Mated to robust Allison transmissions, it has a natural heavy-duty capacity and tackles big jobs day after day.
Engineers have moved the diesel exhaust fluid tank from the driver's side to the passenger side of the vehicle. The diesel exhaust fluid tank should make it less likely that a driver will mistake the regular fuel intake for the DEF tank. The DEF tank is just one of many ways that new trucks seek to help businesses and drivers with everyday problems.
For a better ride quality and enhanced handling, a rear air suspension is now a factory-installed option that you can only get from the Chevy Silverado lineup. Drivers will appreciate how it reduces bounce and improves responsiveness.
The truckmaker has made other improvements to ride quality as it seeks to reduce noise and harshness in the cabin. To accomplish the best clamping force, it uses huck bolts throughout the frame which decreases rattle and vibration. The new design uses inset doors that have been triple-sealed with sound insulation.
A new hood design will help owners reduce repair and maintenance costs. A big truck's hood is a substantial obstacle to getting to engine components which slows down the technicians who are trying to gain access to vital parts. Chevy addresses this with a front-hinged clamshell hood made of more lightweight materials. The new wheels can achieve a 50-degree cut, making it easier for technicians to get to hard-to-reach components.
That 50-degree wheel cut helps with maneuverability, improving the truck's turning arc. With more accuracy for the driver's steering commands, the truck's operation is more manageable. Drivers can also see better thanks to the clamshell hood design. This visibility contributes to the driver's confidence and effectiveness.
Owners sometimes are forced to utilize extensions or reinforcements to get the length they need for larger cargo boxes. With the all-new Silverado, there will be seven cab-to-axle options plus five axle-to-back-of-frame lengths in eight-inch intervals. Businesses are sure to get the exact size they need for their upfitting needs.
Recognizing the importance of upfitting to Chevy customers, engineers studied the obstacles that this process poses at installation and over time. The new frame with one-piece frame rails has been painted in the factory, protecting against common rust problems. To eliminate obstacles to a flush upfit, the engineers managed to smooth the top sections. They moved or removed any brackets or rivets that previously got in the way.
Businesses can achieve goals faster if drivers stay connected. For navigation, drivers can utilize Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to stream maps to the screen which is less expensive than a GPS system, and more businesses can take advantage of it. The OnStar Wi-Fi hotspot provides connectivity for the driver's laptop or tablet, making it easy for them to access forms or orders when they make a stop.
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