2011 GMC Sierra Hybrid

 Compromise is a part of life, but not in the 2011 GMC Sierra Hybrid. This powerful, full-size pickup achieves 33-percent greater city fuel economy and a 23.5-percent improvement in overall fuel economy over non-hybrid models, while delivering GMC’s legendary capability – including a 6,100-pound (2,767 kg) towing capacity.

Estimated fuel economy for both 2WD and 4WD models is 20 mpg in the city and 23 on the highway. With the 26-gallon (98 L) fuel tank, Sierra Hybrid delivers a cruising range of more than 500 miles. The truck’s impressive efficiency is due to General Motors’ patented two-mode hybrid system and a powerful 6.0L gas V-8. It offers all-electric driving up to 30 mph (48 km/h), a design that saves fuel even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.

 The Sierra Hybrid is offered in the Crew Cab body style on both 2WD and 4WD models. Each model is equipped with several standard, popular features, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, a locking rear axle and a trailering package. Sierra Hybrid also offers dual-stage frontal air bags and head curtain side air bags.

For 2011, the Sierra Hybrid includes a new Gray Green Metallic exterior color, OnStar 9.0 and enhancements that reduce wind noise.

 Hybrid details

 The Sierra Hybrid’s fuel-saving performance is derived from GM’s advanced Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which work with the standard 6.0L V-8 gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late intake valve closing (LIVC) technology. GM’s hybrid system not only enables the Sierra to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone, it allows the Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods.

 As part of the vehicle’s emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

 In the Sierra Hybrid, the hybrid system itself generates the electricity used to propel the vehicle. When the brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors within the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy moves the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

First introduced on the 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid, the two-mode hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is about half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed for and is still used in hybrid transit buses in more than 70 North American and European cities. Scaled down for use in passenger vehicles, the two-mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most – in large vehicles with high levels of capability. The two-mode hybrid system is a core part of GM’s energy diversity efforts, centered on reducing dependence on petroleum, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions and minimizing the automobile’s impact on the environment.

 Quiet and smooth

 Integration of the hybrid system on the Sierra is seamless – the battery pack is beneath the rear seat – and delivers a quiet driving experience. Contributors to this include:

• New exhaust system and resonator tuned for the 6.0L engine’s Active Fuel Management operation
• Additional engine intake induction tuning for reduced interior noise and pleasing sound quality
• Low-rolling resistance, “quiet-tuned” P265/65R18 tires for reduced road noise
• Electrically driven, 300-volt air conditioning compressor reduces vibration and allows the standard, tri-zone HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off
• Electrically driven, 42-volt variable-assist power steering reduces vibration and provides up to a 0.5-mpg fuel economy improvement by reducing parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems
• Energy Storage System (ESS) cooling system internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds.

 Along with quietness, the Sierra Hybrid also delivers exceptional driving smoothness, thanks to specifically tuned shocks for its Z85 suspension and a hydraulic body mount. Located on the passenger side of the chassis, the hydraulic mount provides a dramatic improvement in highway driving smoothness, particularly on rough or choppy road surfaces.

Trailering performance

In addition to increased fuel economy, the Sierra Hybrid’s electrically variable transmission also provides tremendous trailering capability, enhancing driving smoothness and quality when towing. Towing capacity is 6,100 pounds (2,767 kg) with 2WD models and 5,900 pounds (2,676 kg) with 4WD models.

Electric drive is enabled up to approximately 30 mph (48 km/h), saving fuel even when the truck is towing a trailer.

The EVT incorporates tap up/tap down shift control. It benefits towing on curves or lower-speed back roads, as exceptionally smooth gear transitions eliminate the “shift shock” torque disruption that can occur during abrupt shifts, such as when slowing or braking.

 In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Sierra Hybrid’s Energy Storage System, GM's five-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty continues to make GMC a better choice for customers. Coverage focuses on the complete ownership experience and includes other provisions that competitors do not offer, including transferability to the next owner, more complete coverage of parts, and coverage for new and certified used vehicles. In addition, GMC offers free courtesy transportation and roadside assistance.

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