For 2010 GM will be adding variable valve timing (VVT) to all of its V8 powered trucks. VVT is not a new technology for GM, but it is new for truck applications and GM hopes to help its fuel economy numbers with the latest addition to its V8 engine technology.
The addition of VVT to the 4.8-liter and 5.3-liter truck V8s will complete the rollout in the truck small block V8 lineup – which includes the 6.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8s.
VVT is possible with the addition of a cam phaser, which attaches to the end of the camshaft. The dual equal cam phaser electro-hydraulically controls cam position with the help of a sensor and the engine control module.
When working with Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) on the 5.3-liter V8, variable valve timing helps deliver segment-leading fuel economy in the 2010 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
The Silverado is EPA estimated to achieve 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, which is better fuel economy than the less powerful 2010 trucks from Ford and Toyota . ( Toyota Tundra 4.6-liter V8 EPA estimates 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. Ford F-150 292 hp 4.6-liter V8 EPA estimates are 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.)
The majority of Chevy and GMC full-size trucks have engines available with variable valve timing.
