Hybrid Trucks Growing In Demand

By: Rob Adams
09/05/2009 12:34 PM ET

Hybrid trucks are in high demand but there are very few options available from the automakers. When it comes to buying a new vehicle everyone has their own ideas of what is most important to them. Is it the safety of your loved ones, the power train, or the fuel economy? Hopefully, this will help you in your decision making process.

Personally, I feel as though either the Sierra or Silverdo pickup would be a great choice. The two trucks received above-average ratings from the IntelliChoice Value Rating. This “good car value” rating mean that the cost to own and operate is less than expected. The lower the cost to own and operate a car in comparison to what is expected, the better the value of that car.

Chevy Silverado Hybrid Crew Cab 2WD LT1 Short Box will run up to 21 MPG City/ 15 MPG Highway. It seats up to 6 adults comfortable. The MSRP is $38,020, and Competitively Equipped it would run up to $39,015. Silverado Hybrid is the world’s first two-mode hybrid pickup.

The Silverado Hybrid Comes standard with automatic crash response, emergency services, Crisis Assist, stolen vehicle assistance, roadside assistance, remote horn and lights, hands-free Calling with telephone, and vehicle diagnostics.
The automatic crash response system by OnStar is the in-vehicle safety and security system created to help protect you and your family on the road. OnStar’s innovative three-button system offers 24-hour access to direct expertly trained caring advisor’s, a connection to emergency assistance, and access hands-free calling.

Next, Crisis Assist is also provided by OnStar. This feature you are provided with evacuation routes to get you out of harm’s way and provide you with fuel location assistance. The system is also able to pinpoint your location by using GPS technology. This technology allows emergency responders to find your location, so they can get to you quickly. In addition, OnStar provides you with centralized assistance if you need food, water, medical help, or a hospital. There are so many features that come with the system, and it does allow you to connect with your family and friends.

The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 2WD SLE1 Short Box runs up to 22 MPG City/ 20 MPG Highway. It seats up to 6 passengers with comfort. The MSRP is $31,315 and competitively equipped it runs at $34,835. The Sierra is more upscale than Chevy Silverado, it has the biggest engine in its class, towing power, and interior quality and comfort.

Both trucks come standard with these safety features, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System, Driver Air Bag, Passenger Air Bag, Tire Inflation/Pressure Monitor, Side Guard Door Beams and Traction Control. However, the Silverado also includes Passenger Air Bag Cutoff Switch, Radio Anti-Theft and Traction Control.

The power train of these vehicles also has a lot of similarities. They are both rear-wheel-drive, with automatic transmissions, 4 cylinder engines and a 26 gallon fuel capacity. The Silverado has a 6.0l v8 engine, it’s fuel type is hybrid. The Sierra has a 4.6L V8 engine and its fuel type is unleaded.

New cars and trucks are becoming more fuel efficient than ever before. Most Hybrid Trucks are using a combined gas engine and electric motor to extend mileage. When the truck needs more power for towing, it can use its gas engine to deliver the power, while turning off the gas engine for lower speeds to save fuel.