CITYSunTimes Web Exclusives February 2010
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2009 Chevy Silverado Hybrid 4WD Crew Cab

A workhorse and 20mpg

By Bill Zervakos and Cathy Droz, tworfortheroadusa.com

The Silverado Hybrid is Chevrolet’s gasoline-electric hybrid half-ton pickup that returns to the lineup for 2010. It features General Motors’ two-mode hybrid system combining a 6.0-liter V8 gas engine with Active Fuel Management and GM’s Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System. This system is said to achieve 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy. The new hybrid system allows the Silverado Hybrid to drive at up to 30 mph on electricity alone and also allows the engine to operate in its more economical V4 mode for longer periods.
But this is a truck and with 367 lb-ft of torque, this combination allows for a towing capacity of 6,100lbs which is just a bit less than its gas-only twin so the good news is, you can actually use it as a truck.
Inside the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, you’ll find a special tach with an “economy gauge” that has a green bar which represents a zone drivers can aim for to maximize fuel economy. The tachometer houses an auto stop reading to indicate when the gasoline engine is shut off. Although, believe me, you’ll know when it does.
Under very light throttle, the electric motors can move the Silverado up to 30 miles an hour and moderate acceleration will start the gasoline engine. Like other systems, the gasoline engine turns off at stoplights and restarts when you tickle the throttle. Fuel economy estimates for the Silverado Hybrid are estimated at 20 mpg city/20 mpg highway, and while I didn’t spend much highway time in my tester, I got just under 19mpg, which isn’t bad.
As far as driving goes, I’m always amazed at how nice pickups are theses days and the Silverado was no exception. This is a very nice truck, comfortable and spacious inside with plenty of rear seat room for passengers. There is a large console with plenty of storage space and it comes with three cup holders for extra thirsty driver and passengers. The ride is smooth and the big truck handles bumps well, so whether you’re on the highway or off road, the Silverado makes the ride easy and comfortable. As far as performance goes, the 1500 hybrid has plenty of punch, so no worries there for sure.
With the price of pickups starting in the low $20,000 range, this hybrid isn’t inexpensive. The tester based at $41,176 and with a few goodies and destination charges, the total came to $42,040. Basic warranty is 36 months and 36,000 miles with a 100,000 mile powertrain which is good news.
Bottom line, the Chevy Silverado Hybrid is a very nice truck. So if you’re in the market for a full-size crew cab pick up, I’d suggest checking it out. I’m not saying that hybrids aren’t the be-all and end-all but they’re a good intermediate step, so if you haven’t tried one lately, check Chevy’s Silverado Hybrid out, I think you’ll be pleased. For more on the Silverado Hybrid, click here.

Photo courtesy of chevrolet.com.

CITYLife Web Exclusive | CITYSunTimes February 2010