Felix Chevrolet

In honor of the historic launch of the all-new Chevy Volt, Felix Chevrolet in downtown Los Angeles has embarked on an amazing journey to transform our dealership into the greenest car dealership in the country. Our goal is to become the first "Net-Zero-Energy" car dealer in the state of California.  In order to reach this ambitious target, Felix Chevrolet has teamed-up with the leaders in environmental stewardship and corporate sustainability, Alpine Green Solutions, LLC.

Felix Chevrolet, an iconic dealership in Southern California, has been bringing the future to the West Coast for over 90 years and will become the cornerstone of the revitalization efforts in the downtown Los Angeles area. 
 
To learn more about going green, visit these Green initiative resource websites:
 
U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL

GREEN CALIFORNIA

ENERGY STAR

ALPINE GREEN SOLUTIONS

The first Chevrolet Volts left the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant on Monday destined for initial retail launch markets.  Customers in California, Texas, Washington D.C. and New York could receive the world's first-and-only electric vehicle with extended-range capability in the next few days.

These are the first of 350 vehicles to be shipped this week.

"Today is a historic milestone for Chevrolet," said Tony DiSalle, Volt marketing director. "We have redefined automotive transportation with the Volt, and soon the first customers will be able to experience gas-free commuting with the freedom to take an extended trip whenever or wherever they want."

The heart of the Volt is its Voltec electric propulsion system, which combines battery-only electric driving with an efficient, gas-powered engine giving the Volt up to 379 total miles of driving before having to recharge the battery or fill up the small gas tank.  The Volt is the only mass produced U.S.-built electric vehicle.

Earlier this year, Chevrolet shipped 15 pre-production Volts to technology enthusiasts and electric vehicle advocates whom were the first consumers to experience the Volt every day under real-world conditions during a 90-day vehicle and charging evaluation program.

MotorTrend, Automobile and Green Car Journal each recently selected the Volt as their Car of the Year.

The Chevrolet Silverado HD is the 2011 Motor Trend Truck of the Year, completing a rare same-year sweep of the prestigious car and truck awards. Chevrolet also earned the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year award.

The truck award was presented to GM CEO Dan Akerson before the 111th Army-Navy Game at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field. Chevrolet is the Official Vehicle of the Army-Navy Game.

"On the outside the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD appears to have been given a subtle makeover, but it's what's under the skin that makes this truck a winner," said Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Angus MacKenzie. "Chevy engineers focused on three key areas - powertrain, frame, and suspension - to deliver a truck with significantly improved capability and more refinement."

The new 2011 Silverado HD built in Flint, Mich., and Fort Wayne, Ind., was introduced this summer, featuring new frame and suspension designs, and a more powerful Duramax diesel engine with 397 horsepower, 765 lb.-ft. of torque, and 11 percent better fuel-economy.  As a result, the 2011 Silverado HD is capable of towing up to 21,700 pounds, or carrying 6,635 pounds of payload. The new Silverado HD also offers available confidence- and control-related features specifically for towing including electronic trailer sway control, hill start assist and smart exhaust brake system.

"With more capability and technology than ever before, we believe the Chevrolet Silverado HD sets the bar for heavy-duty trucks," said Akerson. "It's a great honor to have such a respected authority as Motor Trend agree."

The full report from Motor Trend appears in the February issue of the magazine (on newsstands in early January) and online at www.motortrend.com. Chevrolet also earned the 2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year award for the Volt, the industry's first electric car with extended-range capability.

It is the first time since 2006 that one brand has won both Motor Trend Car and Truck of the Year awards in the same year. Chevrolet and Buick won both awards in 1979.

Chevrolet announced today that its all-new, U.S. built small car will be called the Chevrolet Sonic in North America.

"The Sonic represents a new beginning for Chevrolet in the small car segment and so we felt it was time to give it a new name," said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet U.S. Marketing. "The new car is roomy, stylish and fun to drive, and Sonic is a youthful, energetic name that helps convey what this vehicle is about."

The small car will carry the Sonic name in Canada, Mexico and the United States. Production of the Sonic begins in 2011 at GM's Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which received a $545-million investment in upgrades and retooling, and will help restore approximately 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area.

The vehicle will continue to be called Aveo in other parts of the world, where it will be sold in more than 50 countries.

The Chevrolet Camaro has been named the "hottest car" at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The inaugural SEMA Award recognizes the most accessory-friendly new models, based on the number of vehicles exhibited at the show.


"A booth space is a ballot, and the models these exhibitors have selected represent their vote," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO.

According to SEMA, exhibitors manufacture thousands of products that improve performance, convenience, appearance and comfort. While products are available for every make and model vehicle, exhibitors are investing more into the Chevrolet Camaro than any other car. Consumers, therefore, can expect to find more options for personalizing their Camaro.

"More than any other venue, the cars exhibitors and attendees bring to SEMA embody the passion and excitement of car enthusiasts everywhere," said John Fitzpatrick, Chevrolet Performance Cars marketing manager. "Based on the sheer number of Camaros displayed on the floor, and parked in the adjacent lots, the Camaro is clearly the hottest car of the show."

The Chevrolet Volt took some students to school for a lesson in electricity at its home at the Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant on Tuesday.

Students from Detroit International Academy for Young Women and the Douglass Academy for Young Men in Detroit, along with Kosciuszko Middle School in Hamtramck, visited the plant, checked out the Volt and participated in an interactive presentation titled "The Power of the Plug: How Electricity Will Change Our World Again." More than 100 classrooms joined on line through a webcast hosted on ChevroletVoltAge.com.

Plant Manager Teri Quigley and Frank Moultrie, chairman of United Auto Workers Local 22, welcomed the students and introduced Todd Dickinson, a teacher at Walnut Creek Middle School in Walled Lake, Michigan. "Mr. D" - as he is affectionately called at his school - went through a lesson plan that covered the properties of electricity, how it is generated and how it can change personal transportation.

After the presentation, Chevrolet Volt Vehicle Line Director Tony Posawatz joined Dickinson on stage for a live question-and-answer session involving the students present and some from those watching on line.   Students asked about a variety of topics, including the range of the Volt, the vehicle's safety features and the challenges in building an electric vehicle with extended range.

The lesson plan and other educational materials for different grade levels can be found on the GM education site at http://www.gm.com/education.

Beginning today, fans of HGTV's "House Hunters" can watch as car shoppers compare the Chevrolet Cruze, Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla. The "Car Hunters" videos featured on HGTV.com and in television advertising follow participants during an independent test as they choose the car that best fits their needs.

After the in-depth evaluation, more people said they were likely to buy a Cruze than Civic and Corolla, combined.

The Car Hunters challenge is an example of how Chevrolet plans to introduce the all-new Cruze to consumers who may not think of Chevrolet when shopping for a small car.

For the U.S. market, the Cruze is built in Lordstown, Ohio. Starting at $16,995, including destination, Cruze offers compact-car buyers class-leading standard safety features, class-leading 42 mpg highway fuel-economy with the Cruze Eco model, and more refinement than more-established competitors. In fact, the biggest challenge Cruze faces is its name.

"Cruze is an all-new model, and an all-new name, entering an incredibly competitive segment," said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. "To help make the Cruze a success, we are aggressively pursuing opportunities like 'Car Hunters,' where compact-car shoppers can compare the Cruze directly to the competition. When they do, we believe most customers will decide that Cruze is the best car for their money."

To ensure unbiased test results, GfK conducted the test with no involvement from Chevrolet. GfK purchased comparably equipped test vehicles from local dealers, with each car falling into a price range of $22,000 - $24,700. GfK also selected the participants, each of whom was in-market for a compact sedan.

The car shoppers were presented similar information for each vehicle, and took all three cars on identical test drives. After the in-depth comparison test, each participant was asked to pick the vehicle they were most likely to purchase.                   

"Each vehicle was represented equitably," said Alan Czarnomski, GfK executive vice president, "enabling participants to make unbiased decisions about which vehicle best fit their needs."

Of the 26 participants, 16 picked the Cruze as their favorite vehicle. Eight selected the Honda Civic, and one selected the Toyota Corolla. Participants were informed of Chevrolet's involvement only after they had made their vehicle selection.

Videos of the participants will be featured at www.carhunterschallenge.com, as well as in television advertising. The Car Hunters spots allow viewers to follow people through the car-buying process, just as HGTV's hit show "House Hunters" follows people through the house-buying process.

Such efforts will play a key part in Chevrolet's effort to raise customers' awareness and consideration for Cruze.

Other examples include test drives at NASCAR races and Chevrolet events. In Texas alone, Chevrolet conducted more than 16,000 Cruze test drives during the State Fair of Texas, and another 750 Cruze drives during the NASCAR AAA Texas 500 race at Texas Motor Speedway.

Beginning in January, select dealers will offer customers the convenience of test driving the Cruze, Corolla and Civic at Chevrolet showrooms.

"We expect the results of our dealer test drives to be very similar to the results of the Car Hunters challenge," said Perry. "When comparing compact cars back to back, most people are impressed with the refinement, features, and overall value of Cruze."

On a recent validation drive of the new, 2011 Chevrolet Silverado heavy-duty trucks, engineer Brent Deep towed a 20,000-pound (9,072 kg) trailer for 245 miles (400 km) along I-70 between Denver and Grand Junction, Colo. - and he barely touched the brakes the entire way.

Deep relied on the Silverado's new, smart exhaust brake system to slow the truck/trailer combination on descents, helping prove the new system is suitable for the most demanding conditions. It was a drive across the heart of the Rocky Mountains and some of the interstate system's steepest grades, with altitudes ranging from Denver's approximately 5,000 feet (1,525 m) to more than 11,100 feet (3,400 m) at the Eisenhower Tunnel.

"It takes some courage to leave your foot off the brake, but the Silverado's Duramax engine and Allison transmission perform the task with smoothness and confidence that really impresses," said Deep. "Better still, the exhaust brake system can help extend brake pad life and help avoid overheating the brakes on long descents."

The exhaust brake system feature is just one of the elements that makes the new 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models the most capable in the industry. They go on sale this summer.

"We sought the input of our customers during the development of the 2011 Silverado HD to deliver a truck that meets or exceeds their every need," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet general manager. "It offers greater strength and capability - including class-leading fuel economy, trailering and payload ratings - and has more power, accelerates quicker and has lower emissions. That sounds like the very definition of no compromises."

The Silverado heavy-duty lineup is broader than ever, with 11 2500HD models and eight single- and dual-rear-wheel 3500HD models - including a new 3500HD Crew Cab with a 6.5-foot cargo box. WT, LT and LTZ trim levels are offered, and popular features such as the EZ Lift tailgate and rearview camera system return. All models bring greater capability, improved ride and handling and a greater feeling of driver control. Depending on the model:

    * Segment-best fifth-wheel towing capacity of 20,000 pounds (9,072 kg)
    * Segment-best conventional towing capacity increases up to 23 percent, with a  maximum of 16,000 pounds (7,272 kg)
    * Segment-best payload capability of 6,335 pounds (2,873 kg) on a complete vehicle
    * Segment-best Gross Combined Weight Rating increases to 27,500 pounds (12,500 kg)
    * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings increases up to 17 percent to 13,000 pounds (5,909 kg)
    * Front Axle Weight Rating increases by up to 25 percent to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg)
    * Snow plow capability is now enabled for all 4WD cab configurations

There are also enhanced powertrains, including a new Duramax 6.6L diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed transmission that offers the exhaust brake system, new front and rear suspensions, an improved brake system, hill start assist, trailer sway control system and more.

"Along with all their heavy-duty equipment, these trucks are designed to be stylish and refined, inside and out," said Campbell. "We paid close attention to all the details, giving them a distinctive, muscular appearance on the exterior and a well-appointed interior with the comfort, convenience and safety features customers appreciate." 

Outside, the 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models are distinguished by a power dome-style hood with a new, louvered design, as well as a new grille and full-width chrome steel front bumper. A new lineup of 17-, 18- and 20-inch wheel/tire combinations is featured, too (20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels are available on 2500HD).

Designers and engineers left almost no bolt unturned during the comprehensive redesign of the trucks. Here are 11 key elements that demonstrate the 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD are ready for any job and any competitor:

1. New frames

In the quest to comprehensively redesign the Silverado HD chassis to improve durability and ride, while also supporting increased capability, engineers developed 11 all-new, fully boxed frame assemblies. The frames have increased cross sections and use more high-strength steel for greater durability, higher towing capacity and improved ride and handling; the front sections are hydroformed.

The bending and beaming stiffness of the frames is increased 92 percent and 20 percent, respectively, with the fully boxed sections enhancing torsional stiffness by a factor of five. Also, larger engine and transmission mounts, coupled with a 125-percent-stiffer front frame structure, provide greater vibration control, while hydraulic body mounts are incorporated under the cab section on extended and crew cab models for a more isolated feel inside.

Engineers addressed common customer and aftermarket uses when designing the new frames, including adding access holes to the rear frame section to enable easier installation of fifth-wheel/gooseneck-style hitches. Also, the frame-mounted hitch for conventional trailering is stronger, with a box-tube design. It supports up to 16,000 pounds (7,257 kg).

2. New and strong independent front suspension

A completely redesigned independent front suspension system offers up to a 25-percent greater front axle weight rating - up to 6,000 pounds (2,721 kg) front gross axle weight rating (FGAWR) - enabling a snow plow to be used on all 4WD cab configurations with the available snow plow prep package, while also supporting improved ride and handling characteristics.

Silverado's signature short-long arm/torsion bar front suspension design is retained, but now features new, forged steel upper control arms that are stronger and lighter than their predecessors. The new lower control arms are made of precision-machined cast iron to handle the greater loads. Five different torsion bar rates support five different front gross axle weight ratings (a single torsion bar was previously used for all models). This helps stabilize the range of trim heights of various models under load, while enhancing appearance, handling, durability, tire wear and alignment. The trim height is adjusted on each bar via a single bolt, easily allowing the height to be changed to account for the weight of a snow plow or other accessories.

The Silverado HD front suspension now uses a pair of urethane jounce bumpers on each side, instead of one, for improved load management; and there's a new upper shock mount attachment design that's positively connected to the frame with two fasteners. This design eliminates squeaks and clunks, while supporting higher load capability and increased durability.

Compared to competitors' beam-axle front suspension, the Silverado's independent front suspension provides a better ride, more accurate trim height control (with fewer parts) and greater flexibility to adjust the alignment for weight and tire sensitivity.

3. New asymmetrical leaf-spring rear suspension

Commensurate with the Silverado HD's greater strength and capability is a rear suspension designed to support greater loads. It features a new, larger asymmetrical leaf-spring design that also contributes to improved ride and handling characteristics.

The asymmetrical design is derived from unequal front and rear spring half lengths, which minimize axle hop and enhance traction control efficiency. 2500HD models feature a two-stage leaf-spring design, while 3500HD models have a three-stage design. All models feature 3-inch-wide (76 mm) leaf springs that are 20-percent wider than previous models.

The larger leaf-spring design supports increased rear gross axle weight ratings across the board. On the 2500HD models, the rating is 6,200 pounds (2,818 kg) - up from 6,084 (2,765). On 3500HD models, the rating increases to 7,050 pounds (3,204 kg) on single-rear-wheel models and 9,375 pounds (4,261 kg) on dual-rear-wheel models - the latter representing a nearly 14-percent increase over the previous 8,200-pound (3,727 kg) rating.

4. Segment-leading towing and payload capability 

Stronger frames, suspension systems with greater weight ratings and enhanced powertrain systems contribute to the Silverado HD's class-leading towing and payload capability. The specifications charts included below outline capacities for each model and/or configuration, but here are the key facts:

    * The maximum conventional (ball hitch) towing rating increases to 16,000 pounds (7,257 kg)
    * A Silverado 3500HD crew cab/long box can tow up to 20,000 pounds (9,091 kg) with a fifth-wheel hitch. The 2010 Ram 3500 has a maximum rating of 17,600 pounds (8,000 kg) and the 2010 Ford F-350 is rated at a maximum of 18,800 pounds (8,545 kg). It should be noted that while Ford claimed segment-leading trailering and payload during its recent announcement of the 2011 Super Duty models, no towing ratings were issued
    * The maximum payload (3500HD) is 6,335 pounds (2,873 kg) - that's nearly 11 percent greater than the 2010 Ford F-350's 5,730-pound (2,604 kg) rating and about 24 percent more than the 2010 Ram 3500's 5,130-pound (2,331 kg) ratings. Again, while claiming segment-leading payload for the 2011 Super Duty models, Ford did not announce the ratings

5. New 6.6L Duramax diesel and Allison 1000 six-speed combination

Helping the new 2011 Silverado HD trucks deliver their best-in-class capabilities is a new version of the workhorse Duramax 6.6L diesel and Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission powertrain combination. The Duramax 6.6L is more powerful and durable and the Allison 1000 is stronger and helps enable new features, including the exhaust brake system. Together, this improved version of a proven combination is also expected to deliver segment-best fuel economy.

The Duramax 6.6L's new and improved features include:

    * Horsepower and torque expected to top previous model (testing is ongoing - check media.gm.com for updates)
    * NOx emissions reduced at least 63 percent over 2010 models
    * Quieter operation
    * High-pressure (30,000 psi/2,000 bar) Piezo-actuated fuel system for greater fuel efficiency, improved performance and reduced emissions
    * Exhaust brake system that enables controlled vehicle slowdown on downhill grades without actuating the brakes
    * Selective catalytic reduction after-treatment system using diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) injection to provide the best overall diesel characteristics and performance - with a range of about 5,000 miles (8,000 km) between DEF refills
    * Combustion and after-treatment have been optimized to provide about 700 miles (1,125 km) between diesel particulate filter regenerations - a 75-percent improvement over the previous system and significant contributor to improved fuel efficiency, as the regeneration process requires additional fuel
    * B20 biodiesel capability for an alternative fueling option
    * Internal revisions that improve durability

With nearly 1.3 million Duramax 6.6L engines produced since 2000, they have proven exceptionally durable and dependable. The internal elements that helped build its reputation are enhanced for 2011, including:

    * Main bearings' profiles changed to enhance oil film thickness
    * Oil pump flow increased for increased pressure at low speeds
    * The turbocharger's oil circuit is changed to provide increased pressure at the turbo and faster oil delivery
    * The connecting rods' pin ends are modified to provide increased piston support
    * New, higher-strength piston design that eliminates bushings to provide lower reciprocating weight
    * An EGR cooler bypass reduces high-mileage soot deposits in the cooler and EGR circuit

The enhanced Allison 1000 for 2011 is strengthened to handle the higher torque capability of the new 6.6L Duramax engine, while also helping improve fuel economy and provide seamless assistance with a new exhaust brake system. Greater efficiency is delivered through reduced "spin loss" - meaning, the transmission channels more of the engine's power to the axles, allowing it to do more with less fuel.

The Allison 1000 also features driver shift control with tap up/tap down shifting and a patented elevated idle mode cab warm-up feature. Also, the tow/haul mode reduces shift cycling for better control and improved cooling when towing or hauling heavy loads. The six-speed configuration retains its two overdrive gears for optimal efficiency.

Performance with the Duramax/Allison combination is also improved over previous models, with preliminary testing showing 0-60 mph times of less than 9 seconds and quarter-mile times of less than 16 seconds in 2500HD models. That's about 0.3-second and 0.5-second quicker, respectively, than previous models.

6. Strengthened Vortec 6.0L/Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed powertrain

The venerable Vortec 6.0L gas V-8 with variable valve timing returns to the new heavy-duty trucks, along with a strengthened version of the Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers excellent performance and efficiency, with a greater emphasis on low-rpm power.

A new camshaft profile in the Vortec 6.0L helps the engine produce more torque lower in the rpm band, for improved launch feel and a greater feeling of overall performance at higher altitudes and when towing a trailer.

The 6L90 is enhanced for greater strength, smoothness and quietness via:

    * Adding four attachment bosses to the transfer case adapter (4WD models) for increased strength and smoother, quieter performance
    * Increasing the cross section size of the transfer case adapter for greater strength
    * Adding a new, stronger output shaft
    * Adding a new heat shield and vent hose

7. Exhaust brake system

A new feature on Duramax-equipped models is an exhaust brake system. This driver-selectable feature uses the turbine control of the variable geometry turbocharger and the compression of the engine to generate backpressure, slowing the vehicle without applying the brakes. It is a smart system integrated with the cruise control feature and varies the braking to account for the grade and vehicle load.

The exhaust brake system allows for virtually effortless driving and towing, with seamless and quiet operation. It also helps prolong brake life and prevents overheating the brakes on long, downhill grades.

8. Large brakes

Brake feel and performance is greatly improved with the 2011 Silverado HD trucks. The standard four-wheel disc system is completely revamped to deliver smoother, more immediate and confident-feeling performance. Four-wheel, four-channel ABS is standard on all single-rear-wheel models and a three-channel system is standard on dual-rear-wheel models.

The front and rear rotors are larger in diameter - 14 inches (355 mm) - and width on all models to support their increased capacity, weight ratings and trailering ratings, while the calipers are stiffer and stronger. The hydroboost brake booster calibration is revised for reduced pedal effort and the travel of the pedal is also revised for a more comfortable, confident feel.

Larger wheel hub and bearing assemblies complement the new brake system and the rear rotors attach to the wheel hubs for easier servicing.

9. Refined and capable ride, handling and steering

Longer wheelbases - ranging from 133.6 inches (3,395 mm) to 167.7 inches (4,259 mm) - and wider front/rear tracks enhance the ride and handling characteristics of the Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD, giving them a greater feeling of smoothness and control.

The longer wheelbases and wider tracks are complemented by the new, stiffer frames, new jounce bumpers, shock mounts and hydraulic body mounts to provide a solid, smooth and isolated driving experience. New shocks were specially valved to support the new trucks' weight ratings, while balancing excellent ride characteristics.

Also enhancing the driving experience is a revised steering system designed to support the trucks' greater front gross axle weight rating. It includes a new, larger steering gear, power steering pumps and linkages. The pumps (different parts for gas and diesel models) deliver greater pressure for reduced steering effort in low-speed and parking maneuvers; they are also quieter. On some models, the new linkages feature a compliant joint added at the pitman attachment to enhance handling.

10. Comprehensive safety and functional technology

The 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD models have a comprehensive roster of safety features and functional technologies that include:

    * StabiliTrak electronic stability control system on all single-rear-wheel models
    * Larger, four-wheel disc brakes with standard four-wheel ABS
    * A new high-strength steel tubular frame cross member that enhances safety and improves crashworthiness
    * Seat pelvic/thorax and head curtain side air bags available on 2500HD
    * Available rear backup camera
    * Segment-exclusive OnStar 9.0
    * Trailer sway control system on all single-rear-wheel models
    * Hill start assist (standard on single-rear-wheel models)

Trailer sway control system provides an added measure of confidence when towing a trailer. The system senses conditions of trailer sway and intervenes with braking and/or reduced engine power to bring the trailer under control and keep it on its intended path. The system will use electric trailer brakes when a trailer is plugged into the standard wiring harness of the truck and its performance requires no input from the driver.

The hill start assist system is automatically engaged when sensors detect the vehicle is on grade of about 5 percent or greater. It holds the brakes for about 1.5 seconds or until the gas pedal is pressed, preventing rollback - it is particularly effective when towing, giving the driver time to switch from the brake pedal to the gas pedal without rolling.

11. Lives bigger, drives better, works harder

From the available remote starting feature to the unimpeded access offered by the 170-degree-opening rear access doors on extended cab models, the 2011 Silverado HD models live bigger, drive better and work harder. The interiors are refined, with improved quietness and attention to detail, but designed for working. Numerous storage compartments provide covered access for everything from work gloves to laptops.

Indeed, for many owners the Silverado HDs are mobile workspaces, offering mobile WiFi, USB connectivity, Bluetooth connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and a navigation system. Multiple charge points enable multiple electronic devices to operate simultaneously; and when equipped with the available navigation system, XM NavTraffic offers real-time updates of traffic conditions (in selected areas) that can help plan the most effective route to the job site.

Cold-weather customers will appreciate the Duramax 6.6L's quick, reliable start-up, with a starting time on par with gas engines. Its glow plug cycle time is the segment's best in all temperatures, taking no more than 3 seconds in temperatures as low as -20 F (-29 C). There's also a cab heat-up feature that allows the engine to idle faster in low temperatures to warm up the interior faster.

And when you're on the road, the Silverado HDs take you farther without stopping. A new, 36-gallon (136 L) fuel tank is standard on all models and, with the improved fuel efficiency of the powertrains, enables a cruising range of up about 680 miles (1,090 km) with the Duramax 6.6L. That's the equivalent of a trip from Houston to Oklahoma City and back to Dallas on a single tank.

Finally, all 2011 Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD trucks work under the best warranty coverage in America - five-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, plus roadside assistance, courtesy transportation and other features that provide assurance that Chevrolet backs its trucks confidently.