How popular are the completely redesigned 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty pickups? General Motors recently announced it would add a third shift at its Flint (Mich.) Assembly plant just to keep up with demand. And not only will this boost availability for two of the toughest trucks on the market, but it also means an additional 750 jobs for the state of Michigan.
“Adding a third shift is a response to customer demand for heavy-duty pickups, which most people use to tow, haul and plow,” said Mark Reuss, president of GM North America, and customers can do plenty of each with GM’s HD trucks. The heavy-duty Silverado (Motor Trend’s 2011 Truck of the Year) and Sierra offer:
*A new 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel, delivering a robust 397 hp and 765 lb.-ft. of torque
*Towing capability of 21,700 lbs.
*Payload capability of 6,635 lbs.
*The segment’s best conventional trailer tow rating—17,000 lbs.
*Fifth-wheel trailer rating of 21,700 lbs.
*Confidence/control features like trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake control, hill start assist, automatic grade braking and intelligent brake assist
*A new exhaust brake system that reduces brake-pad wear
*Bold, aggressive exterior designs
*Available GM technologies like WiFi, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, XM Satellite Radio, OnStar and navigation
It’s further good news for Flint Assembly and follows a GM decision late last year to turn to the facility for added production of the light-duty Silverado. All told, the plant produced 115,000 trucks for GM in 2010.
“I’m very proud of the Flint Assembly team and what we have accomplished in the past year to launch the light- and heavy-duty pickups,” added Flint Assembly Plant Manager Amy Farmer. “The support of the UAW, its members and leaders was instrumental in making the heavy-duty truck the critical favorite when compared to trucks offered by our competitors.”
