The vehicle combines the benefits of a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system and plug-in hybrid technology and is geared to help agriculture fleets switch from petroleum-based fuels to domestically available, cleaner burning natural gas and electricity.
The zero-emissions vehicle features a unique technology collaboration between Efficient Drivetrains and A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems, integrating the EDI PowerDrive plug-in hybrid powertrain, and the A-1 CNG Frame-Mount (FM) natural gas system into a GM Class 4 work truck commonly utilized by the agriculture industry.
The truck will be operated in San Joaquin Valley, a 250-mile-long region prone to air pollution due to its bordering mountain ranges. The technology collaboration between EDI and A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems plays a critical role in helping California meet its long-term carbon reduction goals.
While in operation in San Joaquin Valley, the new vehicle provides 40+ miles of all electric, zero-emissions driving, and range extension utilizing cleaner-burning CNG.
“Vehicle operators will experience the expected full power OEM truck performance without change to driver behavior, with the added benefit of zero-emissions driving, cleaner air for their workforce and the surrounding community, and significantly reduced fuel costs,” EDI states in its press release.
For vehicle manufacturers looking to quickly offer electrified solution offerings, the company offers its EDI PowerDrive technology in both PHEV and EV platforms as an electrification kit for OEMs, including control software and optional telematics for vehicle analytics and real-time fleet monitoring.
Chevy teases Silverado HD
Chevrolet also announced this week that the next-generation Silverado HD will debut next year, as a 2020 model. It will be the third all-new truck in the Silverado lineup revealed in just 18 months, joining the 2019 Silverado 1500 and the 2019 Silverado 4500/5500/6500HD.
“Chevrolet already fuels the most successful truck manufacturer in the industry,” says Alan Batey, global head of Chevrolet. “With a completely new, expanded range of Silverado models on the horizon, we expect to see even more truck buyers in Chevrolet showrooms.”
The 2019 Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD chassis-cab models were introduced in March and are scheduled to go on sale in late 2018. The first-ever Silverado medium-duty trucks are designed specifically for commercial customers, with an emphasis on being easy to drive, easy to upfit and easy to service, Chevrolet says.
