The GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid offers what is for many the best of both worlds: hybrid fuel efficiency and the Sierra 1500's work truck reputation. The Sierra Hybrid is built around GM's Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS), which are teamed to a regular GMC 6.0-liter V8.
The 6.0 liter is good for 332 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 367 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm. The gasoline engine utilizes GM's Active Fuel Management technology to shut down four cylinders when less power is needed as well. Then there is a 300-volt battery pack that fits in the rear cargo area without intruding on passenger space. That battery pack also runs the air-conditioning and power steering, as the truck is capable of moving without the big V8 being lit thanks to two 60KW (or 80 hp) motors that power the wheels.
The motors are integrated into what looks like a four-speed automatic transmission, but is actually a continuously variable set-up, although it does have four fixed ratios when the gas engine is needed to charge the batteries.
The electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. 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 is used to propel the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.
The hybrid drivetrain offers a 40 percent improvement in city fuel economy and 25 percent improvement in overall fuel efficiency compared to the standard Sierra 1500. That equates to 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for rear- and four-wheel-drive models. With the fuel savings of the hybrid system and the Sierra Hybrid's 26-gallon fuel tank, the truck has a cruising range of more than 500 miles.
Despite its hybrid roots, the new Sierra model manages to retain a 6,100-pound towing capacity.
The Sierra Hybrid is offered in GMC's Crew Cab body style with both 2WD and 4WD models. Each model is equipped with StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, a locking rear axle, and a trailering package. The truck also comes standard with dual-stage frontal air bags and head curtain side air bags for safety.
The only notable options are a driver's side power seat and a power sunroof.
Making sure to remain competitive, the Sierra Hybrid also features minor interior and exterior cosmetic upgrades that have taken place since its first launch.
The Sierra Hybrid includes a few notable features that GMC included to ensure a quiet and comfortable ride. GMC started the sound dampening improvements with a redesign of the exhaust system and resonator and then added low-rolling resistance tires and a low-vibration power steering system.
To round out the noise-dampening upgrades GMC installed a quieter fan for the Energy Storage System. The smooth ride is delivered via its Z85 suspension and a newly designed hydraulic body mount. Located on the passenger side of the chassis, the hydraulic mount provides improved highway driving smoothness, particularly on rough or choppy road surfaces.
Key Competitors
Aside from the mechanically identical Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid, the Sierra Hybrid is currently the only gas-electric pickup on the market. However, the Ford F-150 equipped with Ford's EcoBoost V6 returns similar highway mileage while providing significantly more power and torque.