2004 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid

Advanced Battery Technology, Aug 2005

The Chevy Silverado (and GMC Sierra) Hybrid, previously offered only for fleet buyers, is now available to the public. The hybrid does not offer significant electric power assist from a stop or at speed. It is a mild hybrid that uses a small amount of electric-motor assist while the vehicle is already moving, deriving most of its 13% fuel savings from engine shutdown while the truck comes to a stop. Because the electric motor is used to bring the engine up to idling speed (triggered when the brake pedal is released), there's a noticeable shudder at startup that can become a disconcerting lurch when starting from a stop.

The electric motor allows the Silverado Hybrid to be used as an independent V-8 gasoline generator, offering four 110V outlets for a multitude of uses.

The 4x4 half-ton model with automatic transmission starts out at $31,045 with only one gasoline V-8 engine available. The electric-hybrid option costs $1500, but forces many other pricey options. The grand total, including a $2000 package discount, comes to $37,743.

For information, visit www.chevrolet.com/silverado.>

Copyright Seven Mountains Scientific, Inc. Aug 2005

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