General Motors is reportedly aiming to introduce plug-in hybrid variants for both the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra as quickly as possible. This move is seen as an attempt to capitalize on what many anticipate will be a prosperous year for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), especially following the recent slowdown in the pure electric vehicle (EV) market.
A recent report suggests that the company has launched a “crash program” aimed at rapidly developing two plug-in hybrid pickup trucks, potentially providing GM with a response to the Ford F-150 and Maverick hybrids. Autoweek received this information about GM’s plug-in hybrid truck plans from undisclosed “sources,” although additional details were not provided. CarScoops has contacted GM to inquire about the potential launch timing for plug-in versions of the two trucks.
Read: After Going All In On EVs, GM Is Bringing Back Hybrids To North America
Autoweek argues that the challenges battery-electric pickups face in towing and hauling heavy loads have hindered their acceptance among more traditional truck buyers.
While speaking on the brand’s Q4 earnings call with investors last month, GM chief executive Mary Barra confirmed the brand is “bringing our plug-in hybrid technology to select vehicles in North America.” She believes these PHEVs will serve an important purpose and provide some environmental benefits before GM sells nothing but battery-electric light-duty vehicles by 2035. It is understood that GM has been pushed by many of its dealers to start selling hybrid models in North America.
It’s difficult to say which of the available engines in the Silverado and Sierra morph into a PHEV or if GM could fit them with a new powertrain entirely. One possible candidate would be the existing 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TurboMax currently offered in both trucks. With 310 hp and 430 lb-ft (583 Nm), it already boasts plenty of grunt but those figures could be boosted significantly with the addition of an electric motor and a battery pack.
