New 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid

After last year’s success woith the Tahoe Hybrid, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid bursts onto the fuel-efficient vehicles scene with the automaker’s well-received two-mode hybrid drivetrain for increased ride and drive ease.

The Silverado 1500 Hybrid is only offered in a crew cab body style, with two- or four-wheel drive. Its 6.0-liter 332-horsepower V-8 engine is married to GM's Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT), which integrates two electric motors into the transmission compartment. Those motors generate power from a 300-volt hybrid battery pack located underneath the backseat. With this system, the truck showcases a unique driving characteristic -- the ability to accelerate on electric power alone – something drivers would expect from a smaller vehicle like the Toyota Prius, but not from a from a full-size truck.

Aiming to consume one-quarter less fuel to compete with the likes of non-hybrids like the Dodge Ram, Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra, the Silverado 1500 Hybrid carries the automaker’s exclusive Active Fuel Management system, giving it the ability to run on as low as an economical V-4 power when the full V-8 isn't truly needed. Additional energy-saving measures include cylinder deactivation and regenerative braking. All this allows for superb fuel economy in its class at 20-21 MPG city and 20-22 MPG highway. 

The Silverado 1500 Hybrid sports a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,100 pounds and also exhibits interior features such as electric-assist power steering and exterior ones like low rolling resistance tires to help further gas mileage. Standard safety features on display include four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, front and side curtain airbags, electronic stability control and tire pressure monitoring.

Displaying the excellence that has made its sibling a leading mainstay in the full-size truck class, the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid doesn’t look any different, but drivers will notice a slightly different ride and more money in their wallet at the pump.