GM unveiled its new “Next Gen” model at the AUSA conference this week packing front and rear electric drive motors that enable Silent Drive and Silent Watch technologies to make the trucks look tough on the battlefield.
Based on the pickup frame of the off-road oriented Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2, the GM Defense version pairs GM's 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine to a 12-module battery pack that sends electrons to “Silent Drive” electric motors. each axle. GM says the silent combo can help the big truck get through more dangerous terrain without calling itself out, and it also enables the truck to power a host of battlefield utilities.
“Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing solution that delivers critical capabilities by integrating GM's commercial technology,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “Our military deserves the latest technology that industry can provide so that we can gain and maintain a competitive advantage over our adversaries. Our Next Gen mobility solution can be customized and installed now. “
The GM Defense Next Gen truck is currently offered at AUSA in two, four, and six seat configurations. The truck is designed to support multi-mission capabilities, including command and control, launched effects, network extension, unmanned air defense systems, casualty evacuation, and other critical services.
The official press release is otherwise light on specs like kWh, battery levels, cabin filter details, and more – but that's probably smart. Here are some of the features GM shares:
- Silent Drive and Silent Watch, which allows for low acoustic and thermal signatures;
- Power exports can charge mechanical systems;
- Strategically important range with extended mission range;
- Designed to be self-contained with manned and unmanned options; again
- Additional weapons are available.
GM also introduced the following “support” features:
- Reduction of fuel demand;
- Ability to use JP8 fuel infrastructure;
- Low maintenance requirements from reduced components and subsystems in the overall transmission system; again
- Tail of reduced fuel, batteries, and car parts.
“The Next 'wow' factor is behind the wheel,” said John (JD) Johnson, vice president of GM Defense's Government Solutions and Strategy Division. “Next Gen is fundamentally changing the conversation around modern mobility with the strategic benefits that its incentive system brings, including its ability to address the power gap in formation … we encourage customers to test it so we can access these capabilities quickly.”
GM Defense is also exhibiting its new Stable Tactical Expeditionary Electric Power solution, which brings smart microgrid capabilities, and the Infantry Utility Vehicle, integrated with Silent Tactical Energy Enhanced Dismount and Squad Maneuver Equipment Transport to represent the segment of the Army's Human-Machine Integration. – Construction step.
Electrek's Take
The GM Defense Next Gen intelligence vehicle is not built on an all-electric chassis like the GMC Hummer EV-based eMCV shown last year. That car has a power of 200 kWh and a range of 300 km without an ICE generator.
That vehicle is still undergoing official testing with the US Army. The Next Gen diesel EREV however, appears to be ready for sale now.
SOURCE | PHOTOS: GM Defense.
FTC: We use auto affiliate links to earn income. More.
