Telecom giant Verizon has announced that it has ordered 576 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Dual-Mode Hybrid pickups as part of  its effort to add 1,600 alternative energy vehicles to its fleet.

The Silverado hybrid uses a two-mode transmission using two 60Kw electric motors that allows the vehicle to drive up to 30 mph on electric power alone. The powertrain also allows GM’s legendary Vortec 6.0 liter V8 (equipped with cylinder deactivation) to run in four-cylinder mode for extended periods of time. The trucks will come equipped with a special lightweight fiberglass cap to protect equipment in the bed and will be delivered to Verizon in July.

Check out the full Silverado Hybrid gallery after the break!

[Source: Pickup Trucks]

2010 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid