Chevrolet Silverado-Based Military Tactical Vehicle: Extended Range EV with 2.8-liter Diesel Turbo Engine

Chevrolet Silverado Transformed into a Tactical Vehicle
GM Defense Unveils Advanced Military Prototype

General Motors Defense, General Motors’ defense arm, has introduced a groundbreaking prototype of a tactical vehicle based on the popular Chevrolet Silverado. This debut took place at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting, sparking considerable interest within the defense community.

Dubbed Next Gen, this tactical vehicle is designed for military operations, combining cutting-edge technology with the rugged performance of the Silverado. It features an EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) powertrain, blending a diesel engine, electric motors, and a battery, allowing it to function effectively in high-risk, demanding environments.

Silent Operations and Extended Range

The Next Gen features one electric motor mounted in the front and two in the rear. This electric configuration enables stealth operations, allowing the vehicle to move with minimal noise when operating in hostile areas. The vehicle’s Silent Drive and Silent Watch modes reduce both noise and heat output, lowering the risk of detection by enemy forces.

At its core, the vehicle is powered by GM’s 2.8L Duramax turbo diesel engine, which charges the specially made 12-module battery pack. This hybrid approach extends the vehicle’s internal range, allowing it to function effectively when charging stations are unavailable. Although detailed range specifications have not been released, the EREV system is expected to outperform standard electric vehicles in the field significantly.

Built for Combat: Safety and Versatility

The Next Gen incorporates several safety features and technological advancements. Borrowing from the Hummer EV, it includes anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, rollover protection, and advanced 360-degree cameras. It also offers four- and five-point harness seat belts for enhanced occupant safety during high-risk missions.

President of General Motors Defense Steve Dumont emphasized that the Next Gen is more than just a transportation solution, calling it an “innovative weapon system” capable of “shaping the battlefield.” Its stealth capabilities allow it to approach without being detected by radar or heat sensors, and it can provide mobile firepower as needed. Moreover, the Next Gen can act as a mobile power station, delivering electricity to advanced military equipment through its battery pack, further enhancing its utility in remote operations.

Autonomous Capabilities and Configurable Seating

In addition to its impressive powertrain and stealth features, the Next Gen also boasts autonomous driving capabilities, enabling it to operate without a driver in certain conditions. For versatility, it will be available in two-seater, four-seater, and six-seater configurations, making it adaptable for a wide range of missions such as command and control, drone response, and casualty evacuation.

The Next Gen can also be outfitted with additional armor to enhance its durability in combat situations. General Motors has invested billions of dollars in developing tactical vehicles, and the Next Gen is the latest in a line of innovations aimed at providing cutting-edge technology to the military.

The Next Gen tactical vehicle will be showcased at the AUSA 2024 Defense Industry Exhibition in Washington, D.C., as General Motors Defense continues to push the boundaries of military vehicle technology.