Historically, the Heavy Duty General Motors pickup truck’s exterior has always been pretty much the same as the brand’s light duty version of the same truck. However, according to Chevy, the redesigned 2020 HD Chevy Silverado will only share the same roof as its light duty counterpart.
Stepping away from the Camaro inspired front end, the changes to the all new ultimate work horse will include a redesigned grille to accommodate the larger headlights, as well as two additional steps at the front corners of the bed, for easier access. But that’s not the most interesting part of the truck’s overhaul…
While the exterior changes of the new Silverado are bold (love it, or hate it), the mechanical upgrades are revolutionary. The new HD Chevy Silverado base model will be optioned with a 6.6-liter V8 L8T gasoline engine. Inspired by GM’s fifth generation Small-Block architecture introduced by the 6.2L V-8 LT1, that was initially made available in the 2014 C7 Corvette Stingray, the new L8T delivers an SAE-certified 401 horsepower and 464 Lb-Ft of torque.
With exceptional performance on the low end, the new over-head-valve engine, along with other upgrades to the truck’s drivetrain, allows for an average 18-percent increase in towing ability over the current year model for a hefty 17,400-pound capacity.
While the L8T will supply enough power to handle most everything thrown at it, the new Heavy Duty Silverados will also be offered with a 6.6L V-8 Duromax turbo-diesel. Although it only adds 44 more horses, the diesel delivers 910 Lb-Ft of torque, and increases towing capacity to more than 30,000 pounds on the dually platform.
Competing trucks on the market do offer higher numbers, according to lead engineer Jaclyn McQuaid, Chevrolet has strengthened the axles, locking rear differential, prop shaft, and u-joints to allow use of all the torque the new heavy duty truck has to offer in first gear.
Elizabeth is hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
