Oshawa, Ontario — Carbon steel is commonly found in most vehicles. However, GM is attempting to revolutionize their new Chevrolet Silverado but using lighter, strong, and more efficient high-strength steel. Those attributes are highlighted in the simulated raw steel appearance of the new Silverado Toughnology concept.
“The technology of advanced high-strength steel makes the Chevrolet Silverado stronger, lighter, more capable and more efficient – and that’s exactly what the Toughnology concept represents,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer. “During the Silverado’s development, we evaluated all materials and chose those that would provide the best strength to support capability while still delivering a strong value to customers.
High-strength steel is pressed while still in the molten form allows for equal strength to that of carbon steel, however, is 30 per cent lighter. There is a significant mass savings at a much lower cost than aluminum, keeping the cost of the vehicle down. Lower weight translates to greater efficiency and capability for truck owners.
“High-strength steel had clear advantages and is a contributor to the overall package that made Silverado the 2014 North American Truck of the Year.”
The 2015 Silverado 1500 with the EcotTec3 5.3L V-8 engine (2WD) has a fuel consumption rating of 10.3 L/100km on the highway and offers a maximum trailering capacity of 5,080km (11,200 pounds), per newly adopted SAE J2807 Recommended Practices. With the available 6.2L V-8 engine and all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, the Silverado’s trailering capacity increases to 5,443 kg (12,000 pounds).
The Silverado Toughnology concept wears most of its high-strength steel under the skin, just like every production model. Approximately 67 per cent of each Silverado cab is constructed of the durable material, including stronger ultra-high-strength steel. It is used in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails, as well strategic sections on the interior structure. Ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody to help improve performance in crashes.
Lightweight strength extends to the Silverado’s pickup box, wher the floor is made of roll-formed steel. It’s more durable than the conventional stamped steel used by other manufacturers and it’s lighter than the material used for stamped parts, further reducing vehicle weight.
The Silverado also strategically uses aluminum, including the hood, which saves 17 pounds over a conventional stamped steel hood.
“We put the best materials to use wher they’ll do the most good,” said Luke. “Every panel, inside and out, is designed to support the Silverado’s capability and carry on its position as North America’s most dependable, longest-lasting truck.”
SOURCE GM Canada
