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GM Authority

Ten Things GM’s Trucks Could Use Right Now

After some extensive time with both the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, and some towing adventures with the 2015 Silverado and Sierra Heavy Duty trucks, I was able to reflect on what the trucks have that make them great: such as their powertrains, refinement and real-world capabilities. But I was also able to ponder what was missing. But I wasn’t really sure until I helped my brother move from one side of the state to the other with one, and it was at that point where I had an epiphany that snowballed into a list of 10 different features.

No, this list isn’t about aluminum panels, infotainment, a Raptor fighter or a diesel half-ton powertrain. There’s plenty of talk about that stuff as it is. Instead, this list highlights possible cargo and driving solutions that GM’s trucks could use if they want to get a leg up on the competition. I’m sure somebody important will read this. Let’s start with…

1. A tailgate with integrated tie-downs

There are tie-downs located throughout the truck beds of the 2014/2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups, but none on the tailgate. This would add another dimension of securing cargo, rather than just strapping things in from left-to-right.

2. A cargo surveillance system

How many times have we seen an oblivious — or even reckless — pickup truck driver with a mattress waiting for the most inconvenient moment to pounce out of the bed and on to the freeway? This is a no-brainer. Integrate a camera with night vision capability to overlook the cargo bed, allowing the driver to periodically glance at their freight to make  sure everything remains where it should be. Too distracting, you say? It’s no worse than looking at a nav screen or selecting a radio station via a touch-screen, except this is far more useful. Think of it as an extra rear-view mirror.

3. A hands-free opening/closing tailgate

Hands full and the tailgate isn’t open? How about a system similar to Ford’s motion-activated tailgate that debuted on its new Escape which can be activated by the wave of a foot. Being able to close it the same way as you’re done unloading would be equally beneficial.

4. A standard side-step

The corner-step bumper is one thing. But the thought of not having to step on the tire and awkwardly reach into the side of the cargo bed is another. At least GM offers this solution through its available accessories, but something like this should be a marketed feature from the factory.

5. Vertically and horizontally adjustable bed tie-downs

To counter Ford’s BoxLink system, make the tie-downs adjustable in the bed via a small system of rails allowing for vertical and horizontal movement. This would make it both easier to isolate smaller cargo items, and to strap in separate items; such as a set of tires and a crate motor.

6. A deeper bed option

Need to stack something vertically? This would help, as larger items would be less likely to be hanging over the edges of the truck bed, moving their positioning upward.

7. 360-Degree Camera

Back in the day, this wasn’t necessary. Back in the day, trucks were smaller, visibility was better, and parking one was easier. Today, however, as trucks continue to push the limits of just how big they can possibly get, visibility aids have become necessity. Ford was wise to offer a 360-degree camera system in its 2015 F-150. GM would be wise to do the same.

8. Exterior 120V outlets

Because who wants to have to run a power cord through the vehicle’s cabin with either the door or window open just to have access to a mobile power outlet? Placing a few of these babies on the outside seems like a far more sophisticated way to plug in a buzz saw.

9. Integrated ladder racks and roof racks

Ladder racks are currently available through the accessories department, but how about a collapsible set that can be pulled right out of the bed? Adding a set of roof racks to the equation only enhances the cargo management.

10. Power folding tow mirrors

I’m not sure how GM’s gone this far into the truck game without a pair of elephant ear mirrors being able to fold electronically. Opening and closing them by the push of a button would be a delight.

Want to add something to the list? Feel free to carry on the discussion below.

Former staff.

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Comments

  1. Great observations. These conveniences would indeed make these trucks more desirable. One of my biggest gripes about these trucks is the lack of innovative and intuitive features within the cabin and bed.

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  2. Oh, I know there will be some who worry that trucks are getting too much technology in them and that the’ll never measure up to their 1996 CK…

    The ‘problem’ is that more and more truck buyers want all the bells and whistles, even if they seem like needless additions to a few. If GM won’t make a truck with all the extras, Ford will.

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    1. Ford just did most of these innovations… It’s the 2015 F150 with all these features n more… plus the efficient n powerful 2.7 EcoBoost…!

      One reason big SUV sales are downtrend is more highend trucks offer all the features n tech n r more “in”…! Plus when Ford launches all new big SUVs with wt saving aluminum in a few yrs with efficient n powerful EcoBoost n 10-speed drivetrains getting 30+ mpg… Gonna really hurt GM.

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      1. That’s what I’m getting at; Ford will lead on a tech front. If GM doesn’t respond and charges headlong into market with a truck that is as technologically advanced as that old 1996 CK, then the truck segment is theirs to lose.

        Keeping the truck simple and “without all the fancy tech” has limited appeal and it won’t protect GM’s truck share forever. GM can’t use that kind of approach forever while Ford moves on with newer materials and tech.

        Aluminum will be big, and until carbon fibre comes around, GM will unfortunately have to follow Ford on this one.

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    2. Spot on Grawdaddy:

      GM should be pushing the envelope on making Full size trucks as user friendly as possible. Ford takes their #1 position in this segment VERY seriously, and they have show repeatedly that they intend to keep it. If GM wants to knock them off that mountain, they have to come swinging – appearing to play “catch-up” ain’t gonna cut it.

      Reply
  3. Carbon Fiber body parts? Panoramic sunroof would be nice… Night Vision like the ones that were found in the Cadillac Deville. Active parking assist. In fact, why don’t they use the feature where the truck itself would park the truck to the towing trailer like the ones that are found in the atlas concept since Ford hasn’t done it as a production. Laser guided cruise control. That’s as far as i can think of right now

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  4. Did this guy actually do any research or think before he wrote this article?

    Both the Silverado and Sierra have available upper tie-downs that are movable around the bed. There are 3 positions on each side of the box and 3 on the header panel at the front of the box. These are the same spots where the accessory-available cargo rail system mounts, you know, the one that holds ladders, etc.

    As far as side steps, Ford only has them because their body sits higher off their frames which require steps to reach over the side of the box. I am only 5’9″ and I can reach the floor of the Silverado by reaching over the side whereas I come nowhere close to reaching the floor of the Ford. So the GM’s actually designed their trucks not to need them. Plus having a lower body-on-frame design also allows for easier loading since the tailgate height is exactly at waist height for the average man, so you don’t have to lift heavy objects up into higher boxes.

    He asks for additional tie-downs in #1 for securing cargo (which is available with movable upper tie-downs) yet wants a surveillance camera to see when your mattress is going to fly out. THAT’S WHY YOU HAVE THE EXTRA TIE-DOWNS – so things are secured legally/properly and don’t fly out in the first place.

    As for a hand’s-free opening/closing tailgate, I am sure the contractor, farmer, welder (or anyone who uses their truck daily for work) who needs to get into his box in the middle of winter at minus 30 degrees will appreciate a power system that is froze, or really slow due to the cold. Nice idea but a maintenance nightmare. Plus, anything I am loading into the back of a truck must legally be secured/covered (even a kids hockey bag is legally supposed to be secured to a tie-down or covered in case you are in an accident and the bag flies through someone else’s windshield — sounds corny but check with the laws, it’s true). So basically I am already out of the truck securing the load and what exactly is so hard about GM’s easy lower/lift tailgate?

    As far as a ladder system being pulled right out of the bed floor, exactly how deep to you want the bed floor to be? The bed would have to be at least 4 inches higher to accommodate a ladder system between the bed floor and truck frame. Plus this would require changing the bed supports that run between the frame rails on which the bed is welded. Again, cool idea but really?

    As far as vertical and horizontal tie-downs like the ford system, the rail/rack system available from GM has exactly that, so what is his point?

    The 360 degree camera will be coming and is a nice idea. As would be 12 volt outlets in the box (although with this guys wish list, why didn’t he just ask for a build in power inverter for guys to run tools off?)

    Power folding tow mirrors are also a nice idea. But in reality, if a truck had all these features, it would add another $3-4000 to each model, and then this same guy would complain about being overpriced.

    Reply
    1. It seems as though your complaining about nothing. This article is about keeping up with the tech that pick ups are carrying across the board. the 2015 F150 has blind spot alerts- absolutely useless but its what the modern truck driver wants. Customers want their trucks like their cars. In fact, most wont use the truck bed for anything major. But they like the style and so if they get some extra options, then why not. It sound like you like a base model or something close to it. Guess what, they still sell those. As for the high end customers, they’re still looking for heated rear seats, cargo cameras, and extra wall outlets.

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  5. 1. Raptor fighting flagship

    2. Better ground clearance for those who drive rough roads. I’ve driven some that “bottom out” a lot then I drive the same road in a Dodge with no issues.

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    1. I think a Colorado SS-ZR2/Canyon Denali-ZQ8 would be better due to the fact that the new Silverado/Sierra are huge! Maybe others like that, but not me. If it included a 2.8L Twincharged V6 (VVT, SIDI, AFM and iVVL) with 355HP and 380FT-LBS and an 8-Speed Auto, it would be a best seller! The Raptor has terrible fuel economy and that is where I know GM will shine! Besides the fact that the Colorado/Canyon are all new!

      As for the 1500 ground clearance, it’s called buy a 2500…

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  6. This is crazy things here. I suppose it is ok for these to offered as options but the cost many things would add would make it much harder to keep a already too expensive truck viable.

    While neat options are cool this guy like stated above really did not research to what people really want or even need.

    Also it would be key to make these options as this way the buyer could pick and choose what they want. A part store really would not pay extra for a auto tailgate if they really are watching cost etc.

    As for carbon fiber body? Well get real this is a truck not a Z06. Even if it is on a Corvette it is limited due to cost so it is not in the cards for the truck.

    I think a lot of simple convenience things would be the best way to go as. This way you could offer the most bang for the buck. Add better bed storage and lighting, Add wheels that look like the fit the wheel wells on the cheaper trucks. Take much of the wasted space under the bed and hood and look for innovative uses. Things like this will not add much cost and make the trucks more useful.

    I do agree with more outlets.

    All the steps and bed liners are dealer available now and are easy to add to the truck and the payment now so I see no added sales here.

    As for all the crazy additions and expensive ones before you endorse them make sure you know how much it would add to the cost of a truck that is already $45K or more.

    Reply
    1. You say overpriced, but apparently people don’t mind shilling out for the toys, especially those who buy the trucks for personal use. GMC, for instance, enjoys the highest transaction price in the segment, the Denali is a hit, and $50,000 for a pickup is sort of normal these days. These possibilities need to be explored. If anything, for the sake of GM being able to explain why it isn’t offering innovations such as the ones listed while Ford and Ram are trying new things.

      As for “not researching” the adjustable tie-downs, I’m aware you can move them around nine different locations, but I like to think it can be improved.

      Reply
      1. Innovative ideas? Like GM having an autotrac 4×4 system for 20 yrs now and Ford/Ram still don’t have it on all models? Like having VVT, DI, and AFM on an engine all at once and none of the other truck companies having it? Like a manual shift mode on 6-speeds for those who tow and it took Ford 2 yrs to add it to theirs after GM? Like GM offering a true locking rear differential instead of a limited slip (just sends power to one wheel – hopefully the one that won’t slip) and the others only offer it as an option on their off-road models? Like OnStar which doesn’t require you to have your cel phone with you (or have one that wasn’t trashed in the accident) in order for rescue vehicles to reach you? Like MyLink which won the most technologically advanced and easiest to use infotainment system award for 2013-2014? Like a center console that manages a person’s mobile office with hanging file folder area, 5 USB (personal cel, work cel, ipad, laptop, etc) with a cord management system? Like a rear corner step bumper that can actually be used when your tailgate is down and you have a long load of lumber on it to safely tie-down (can’t use the Ford step when its covered with lumber, can you)? Like Lane departure, front and rear park assist and crash detection plus the driver alert seat to keep you and your family safe (which no other truck has)? Like an easy lift and lower tailgate so your wife can easily handle the tailgate when she’s picking up her garden supplies?

        Are these some of the innovative ideas you forgot to mention GM has brought to the table.

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        1. The underlying problem here is that GM simply leapfrogged the competition with the new trucks. And the expectation is that Ford will not just leapfrog GM’s 1500 models with the 2015 F-150, but catapult ahead. It might just be the first 30 mpg full size truck, and that’s a very big deal.

          What you listed are innovations. But evolutionary, conservative innovations. Active safety, MyLink, and USB drives are not game changers. Did GM bother with their pursuit of a half-ton diesel to get the jump on both Ram and Ford when they easily could have? Nope. Did they create enthusiast variants like the Raptor? Nope. Are they offering a 4500 model? Nope. But at least there’s the new Colorado and Canyon, right?

          And if you want to bring up powertrains, with their new DI, AFM, etc, you can’t shun my propositions for fear of them adding cost and complexity. Because guess what, that’s exactly what all of the extra powertrain features do. Below, Scott is addressing the hefty price markups on these new trucks. But it’s only relative, and they’re not going to seem as expensive as they do now with the next-gen Ford and Ram trucks rolling out.

          Some out-of-the box thinking is required here. And after driving every type of GM full size truck under the sun made in the past 10 years, towing with them, hauling with them (most recently a 19,000 lb 5th wheel camper in the mountains of Arizona) and working with them, I proposed 10 ideas. Where’s your list?

          Reply
          1. You presented a list of things GM should have; half of which are either already available on them or are not needed (like a side step). So the list you made didn’t make sense (since 1/2 of them are already available (moveable tie-downs, ladder rack system, etc). I agreed with your power outlets and power mirrors. I just stated I found it odd that you would list things the truck already had available so I questioned the research you had done.

            As far as the F150 being leaps and bounds ahead of the GM, personally I don’t see it. They have a V6 Turbo (which will be their biggest engine in the 2015’s since the Raptor motor is gone) that fits in 1/2 way between our 5.3 and 6.2L . We have 2 motors that span the range of buyers compared to Ford’s one (the 5.0L is more like the 4.3L GM). The only real innovation (and it is not a evolution) is the aluminum body. It is only projected to weigh 200lbs less than the 2014 Silverado. Sure, the Ecoboost will be boosted even more, but still not to the performance levels the 6.2L provides. Plus when you consider the issues Ford had with the turbo’s melting in the first couple years whenever someone pulled a heavy trailer more than 3 hours in the heat, give me a V8 anytime.

            As far as GM’s features not being evolutionary, the AutoTrac system means not having to manually switch from 2WD to 4WD every time you turn a corner and go from dry pavement to icy/snowy surface. It prevents premature wear on systems because not everyone turns off a 4×4 on dry surfaces if they know they will need it again shortly.

            The manual shift mode is what gets me up and down the ice/snow valleys when I trailer my snowmobile trailers and give me complete control. To me, that is much more important than having a 200 lbs lighter aluminum body. And if OnStar wasn’t evolutionary, I don’t know what is because every other manufacturer has tried to copy it with the safety and convenience features it has. Then there’s the automatic headlamps which GM trucks have had for years. Every week I see someone driving home with their daytime running lamps (here in Canada) and they forgot to turn on their night lights, so you can’t see them from behind until you almost run over them (no tail lights on).

            My list, OK:

            1. Power folding trailer mirrors like the Ram which fold down to be your regular mirrors.
            2. Rear headrests that actually rise high enough to support the head of an adult.
            3. Factory optioned suspensions to include a 2″ or 4″ lift or perhaps an air ride suspension like the Ram for when you have the heavy pin-weights on the back.
            4. A little more aggressive off-road package (but doesn’t have to be a Raptor like vehicle since it is a very small percentage of the market).

            It seems like all the authors on here are putting the new F150 on a god-like pedestal before they even have any great details and real world numbers on it.

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            1. I am completely with you dpach!

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            2. I like your add-ons. And I understand that some of my suggestions are offered as accessories. But the problem is that accessories are not marketed, get next to no press attention, and there’s little to no push to give them exposure.
              Compare that to every time a vehicle debuts with some sort of new feature when it debuts, and how much attention it gets. You have to see the appeal in this.

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              1. Completely agree; it would be nice to see some of these accessories offered from factory, or at least have them mounted on the trucks at the auto shows to show people what is available for their trucks. GM leaves too much of the accessory sales to the responsibility of the dealers (who usually end up promoting aftermarket products).

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        2. Holy crap you really have no idea what you’re talking about! “Autotrac” is a trademark, both Ford and Ram have had auto 4wd systems for YEARS. Who cares if GM has VVT, AFM, and DI all at once? You seem to get a hard on for acronyms without actually looking at their effectiveness. Ram has a truck without AFM or DI that weighs more than GM and STILL beats it on mileage. So again – why would you compliment GM for incorporating a swath of technology that Ram does not even need to beat it on fuel economy. Ford has “true” locking rear diffs, they’re even better since they’re push button operated. Ram has helical limited slips. Sends power to one wheel? What? You have no idea how a limited slip differential works so seriously just don’t post anymore – you have no idea what you’re talking about. Onstar is stupid, but every manufacturer has their own version of OnStar now. Hardly a selling point for GM. Both Ford and Ram have USB ports. GM is the only one with a corner step bumper there, WOW you got one right.

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          1. Right, wow, you really have not idea, do you. A limited slip rear axle limits the power going to the rear wheel that is slipping and sends most of the power to the other wheel (hopefully which has full traction to get you going). But the amount of power going to that wheel is also limited (one of the downfalls). The long and short is that if both wheels are on ice, or a wet boat ramp, the power to from the drive shaft is always shifting from one side to the other as the wheels slip, but NEVER do both wheels get 50:50 power to get you going. A locking rear diff locks both axles together so both wheels turn together to get 100% of the power to the ground through both wheels.

            I know Ford has a “true” locking diff (electronic locker) but it has only been the last few years it is optional in almost all their trucks. Before that, the FX4 offroad models got the electronic locker while the rest had limited slip. Electronic has its benefits, such as a driver being able to lock it on. But this is also a downfall because it actually requires the driver to turn it on. Very few people are going to turn it on every time they slip starting at a red light on ice in the winter and turn it off again after they are moving. That is where GM’s G80 comes in. It automatically locks at speeds under 40 kms/hr and disengages when slip is no longer detected all without driver input.

            Auto trac is a trademark for GM. GM has had an auto 4×4 system for 20 yrs now. Ford and Ram have only had an auto system for the last few years and only make it available on certain models (but they have had electronic 4×4 systems for years – but without an auto-mode where no driver input is needed).

            As far as Ram not using any technology and beating GM’s gas mileage, really? Here is the US economy ratings: (and the US does their highway tests at a true highway speed, unlike here in Canada)

            Ram 5.7L : 15 city 17 combined 21 highway

            Silverado 5.3L: 16 18 22
            6.2L: 14 17 20

            Reply
          2. Right,

            So the only mainstream engine Ram has that beats the mainstream GM engines is the diesel which gets 20 city, 23 combined and 28 highway, but also costs a lot of money to buy, plus diesel is 20-30% more than gas. So is it really more efficient on the pocket book.

            Plus the 6.2L matches the Hemi on combined city and highway driving and kicks the crap out of it in hp and torque.

            As for OnStar, other companies do have emergency notification but they use your cell phone. Your phone must be in the vehicle and working after the crash in order for you to get rescue services. OnStar uses a separate cellular package that does not require you to have your phone, has its own connection with the vehicle and the vehicle has its own phone number. You do not have to be conscious to answer the call either.

            Plus no one else has the follow: RemoteLink app which allows you to remote start, lock, unlock your vehicle from anywhere in the world or any distance, check tire pressure, gas levels, oil percentages, etc all from your smartphone. Plus no one else has remote unlock if you lock your keys inside (others make you wait for roadside assistance), stolen vehicle tracking or stolen vehicle shut down (prevents high speed chases), onboard diagnostics if a warning light comes one, and so forth.

            Ontsar has over 3 million subscribers right now, so would not say it is stupid. Ask anyone who has every used it after a near fatal crash, or had their vehicle stolen, or have a daughter or son driving for the first time.

            So once again my friend, someone does not know what they speak of, and that would be you. Your post was a waist of time.

            Reply
  7. I love suggestions based on nothing, but the ramblings of someone who used the truck to move his brother. That vast experience surely gives you the expertise to make these suggestions. I think gmauthority should go back to being a news aggregator for gm info as the opinion pieces are horrible.

    Reply
    1. Well, aren’t you a dynamic GMA user. Why don’t you put up some counter arguments to the post rather than ramble on with self-satisfying opinions about a vehicle you know so much about.

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      1. I am not an expert on the truck, nor will I ever buy a truck. Although I live near people who work at the gm factory and have driven the new trucks. That makes me as qualified as author of article.

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        1. Oh yes. Third-hand anecdotes.

          Feel free to pollute GMA.

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    2. Wow. I didn’t realize I had to present a resume. Especially to a non-truck buyer.

      Reply
  8. 11. More exciting commercials.

    The problem with these pickups is that they are boring. The GMC does look much better than the last-gen, but the Chevy doesn’t look too much different and that means it is already looking stale. Back in the day, when Bob Seger, “Like a Rock” was the theme of the Silverado, the commercials were exciting. The trucks starred with the music and narrator in the background and there was always some awesome stunt going on showcasing the Silverado. Thus, there is a lack of excitement for these trucks.

    Reply
  9. Manoli

    Yes GMC sells the Denali, Chevy the High Country and Ford the King Ranch but they are far from the majority of the trucks sold.

    Today the two key things that buyers are looking at is Economy and price. If you do not believe that then look at the high discounts for the GM trucks last year and high sales they enjoyed. The Ford High incentives this year are giving them the same results and they will see a drop in year over sales next year even with the new truck if they do not extend a discount. I would not count on one as they will have to jack the price around $2,000 alone just for the Aluminum per some market estimates.

    The main feeling of the entire industry is that vehicles are too damn high priced.

    The company that can offer the best truck at a lower price is going to win this. It may not have the gee wiz 360 degree camera or a motion sensor in the bed if a box moves but it can be nicely optioned and offered for a good price even with out incentives then that is a win.

    Right now I priced a bunch of GMC crew short beds and thy all stickered at $45K-50K. Nice truck but I will never pay that price for one gee wiz parts or not.

    The incentives are only really good on the V6 models and if you are smart you have your GM money topped off at $3000 for Feb.

    The real truth is I can get a really nice car for $50K in the past the truck was lot of vehicle for a little money. Today it is a lot of vehicle for a lot of money. Sorry I would just spend a little more buy a Corvette and buy a good used truck for a lot less.

    The older trucks are easy to find and cheap to restore.

    I work in the performance aftermarket and I see the new trucks are getting more and more out of peoples ability to afford them. The average buyer once could buy a top line vehicle but no more. Prices have gone up and wages have been stagnate for many.

    I also agree with Joe as GM needs to do a better job of marketing the trucks. There is nothing cool or imaginative about the latest spots. The new trucks did not move forward in design much but under the skin they moved much. It is time GM spends a little time telling of the major changes as the styling while not bad just does not relate the changes.

    Yes you can do the High Country model or Raptor fighter but they are only wad of spit in a big bucket. GM needs to focus on a well optioned truck with the most options possible and some creative edges then price it so people will buy it. Also they need to do it with no incentives and also not step on the new Colorado.

    As for the Colorado they need to price it right as if it gets to $35K to 40K loaded it will sit on lots too.

    There will always be place for high feature models but most trucks are generally LT models with a choice of options to the point where a guy can afford it. this is where most of your sales are and will be if priced right.

    Reply
    1. I’m not disagreeing with you in saying that trucks are a lot of money, and that new vehicles today in general are a lot of money. But that’s the pattern, everything in the future is going to be more expensive than the old model, whether we like it or not. If that’s the case, we might as well make sure they’re full of content. Trucks are also GM’s golden goose, and Ford’s, and Ram’s. It makes perfect business sense to increase the cost of these already profitable vehicles, so long as people are buying them.

      Remember when I mentioned that GMC has the highest ATP of any truck maker? Well, its truck sales also grew 13% last year, and the ATP grew $5,000. So as much as we want to sit here and say that new trucks are too expensive, and that the working man can’t afford them, people are buying them just the same, even without incentives matching that of Ford’s clearing house specials going on right now.

      People can complain about it and downvote all they want, but facts are facts. The MSRP of trucks are not going down anytime soon, and yet our consumerism as a whole continues to grow.

      But if you want to look at an affordable(ish) concept, Ram has the Tradesman. GM doesn’t even have that.

      Reply
  10. 1. Immediate increase in ride height/suspension travel.
    2. Get rid of the 10 bolt rear axle
    3. Make electronic rear locker a factory option.
    4. Make full sliding rear window an option on any trim level.
    5. Redesign the snow scraper front bumper/air deflector.
    6. That is all. (dont give me a sisssy side step or granny tailgate step.)

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  11. What do they need? Medium duty cab and chassis models.

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  12. There is a ton of profit built into these high end truck I work at Carmax now but I used to work at a Chevrolet dealership. The amount of profit that just the dealership makes on a fully loaded 1500 is around 10,000 and that was in 2010 when a base silverado was about $19,000 msrp. It’s way higher for the Denali or new high country I guarantee you right around 25,000 is a fair guess on a fully loaded Denali with rims and every accessory. The reason for this profit is options. That tells me extras are stupid cheap for GM to put on there cars, so basically what I’m saying is all this stuff is going to happen it’s not until GM can make it cheap enough to put on there vehicle. That said if we are lucky some r&d guy may look at our posts so I want a damn massage seat!

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    1. On a side note use this info next time you guys want yo buy a truck. Get the extras and take off like 80-90% of the options cost and buy with as much cash as you can! Dealers will take it even though they lose money from interest because they get to pay back GM right away. If you must finance reduce your price!

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    2. cassidyt87, you say you worked for a GM dealer; as what, a wash boy? I have worked for a GM dealer in sales for 17 years in almost every position and in 2010, a base model regular cab 2wd had about $2900 top to bottom markup for dealers. A middle of row 1500 LT Crew cab 4×4 had between $4500-4800 and a full load LTZ had between $5200-5500 top to bottom mark up. So if you think just because you say customers getting $10,000 off the price of trucks that the entire amount was dealer profit margins, you are an idiot. Most of that discount was GM rebates to customer. The average truck profit for a dealer in 2013 per truck (Ford, Ram and GM) was just under $2000 by the time customers come in a beat us up (National numbers in Canada). Out of that $2000, they have to pay the sales person, sales manager, clean-up/detail people, accounting people, plus the sales share of a $35,000 per month property tax and utilities bill (power, water, sewer, gas, etc).

      Yes, dealers get some money from GM at years end IF AND ONLY IF they reach the sometimes absurd targets GM sets for them, but it is in the couple hundred dollars per vehicle, not thousands.

      Now in 2014, shrink those margins by $500-800 per vehicle as GM only increase the window price of the new trucks by around $1500 but upped dealer invoice cost by over $2000.

      2014 Silverado LT Crew 4×4: MSRP $47,540. Dealer invoice $43,323 = $4217 total top to bottom mark up for the dealership. If I could copy and paste the actual invoice on here without getting fired, I would.

      It’s people like you who think they know the car business who help consumers think dealerships have tens of thousands of dollars profit in a vehicle.

      By the way, GM dealers DO NOT get a finance reserve when a customer takes advantage of GM’s subvented rates (0%, 1.9%, etc). Dealerships only get a finance reserve (few hundred dollars at most) if a loan is arranged through a traditional bank at traditional rates (6% or higher) as a thank you from the banks for finding them the business.

      Your other posts mentions you believe the extra’s added to a vehicle (options) have an 80-90% markup? Are you stupid? Here’s some examples: 6″ Chrome assist steps: Retail cost $735, cost added to invoice $647. LT convenience package: Retail cost $2110, cost added to invoice $1857. So exactly where is the 80-90% markup?

      I can’t believe you think a dealer makes $10,000 on a base GM truck and $25,000 on a Denali. Stupidity makes me laugh.

      Reply
      1. Do you address your customers in a manner that you do here? Keep you comments constructive, please.

        Reply
        1. Actually, a person doesn’t last 17 years on the auto industry being an a$$. But I also don’t sugar coat things. If you come on here speaking and looking like an idiot, I’m going to call you on it.

          There are so many people on these forums who “think” they know the auto industry because they have a year in it, or know someone in it, or their dad was in it and spew things that are so far from the truth but yet the rest of the public will take it as gospel.

          A dealer has $10,000 profit on a base GM truck? $25,000 on a Denali? Dealers get profits from customer’s loans and interest when using GM subvented rates? This guy says he worked for a dealership and that means people will take him seriously, as if he knows the truth. I called him on it because I see invoices and arrange financing every day on vehicles.

          Plus, I was constructive because I even posted the mark up ranges trucks have/had and even gave an exact example of a 2014 LT Crew 4×4, so hopefully people reading this guys stuff won’t now walk into dealerships thinking dealers make $10,000 + on vehicles.

          I have had a 100% CSI rating for 12 years straight with my customers (always been above 95%), who also know I don’t sugar coat things (and they find that refreshing because of all the crap salespeople spew at them). Of course I’m more respectful of them because they don’t come into our dealership with ignorant expectations because they read something on-line like this poster posted.

          If you want to warn people to be constructive, great; (I usually am on here). Then you better start reprimanding those who spew untruths and lies like this poster did (or ask them for exact examples like I provided to back their claims). My hot button is when guys like him come on here with false info which makes the auto industry look bad and like they are raping customers. I am proud of the auto industry and if they are doing something not right, I will be the first in line to get things changed. But I also will be first in line to defend it when some has false info/accusations.

          Reply
      2. Actually I was a salesperson you disrespectful low form of human.i never said there was 10,000 in a base silverado as I stated the profit is in the options. I’m not sure how big the dealership you work in is but I worked at the number one Tahoe dealership on the west coast and on regular customers would ask for extras such as aftermarket rims sound systems nicer leathers and we would put in tv systems all the time and those Tahoe would see around 10,000 profit on vehicles that whereat even getting all if that done. You selectively picked out two options that have high cost. How much profit is on an extended warranty? How much profit is on a sunroof? How much profit on an Liz plus package?

        Reply
        1. First of all, you said that a dealer has between $10,000 and $25,000 profit range on a truck (from base to Denali) and then proceeded to tell people that it was the options that give dealer’s their profit. Know where did you mention you were talking about DEALER INSTALLED AFTERMARKET OPTIONS like wheels, tires, lift kits, etc. You made it sound like all dealerships have that kind of mark up because of the options added onto a vehicle at the factory. By the away, extended warranty is NOT a factory option. It is a customer’s choice whether they want it or not. And I’m not sure about your dealership, but in Canada the average profit on an extended warranty from GM (GMPP) is around $700.

          You asked, so here you go: (the source is GM AutoBook Program used to Spec vehicles for factory ordering)
          Sunroof: $1325 added to retail, $1166 is added to invoice.
          LTZ Plus pkg: $1550 added to retail, $1364 added to invoice.
          Driver Alert Pkg: $945 added to retail, $832 added to invoice.
          Rear DVD Entertainment package: $1995 added to retail, $1756 added to invoice.
          MyLink with Navigation: $995 added to retail, $876 added to invoice.

          These are the big ticket items that are optional from the factory and have the largest markup. As you can see, there is nowhere near the 80-90% markup as you spewed.

          If your particular dealership is adding aftermarket wheels, lift kits, exhaust systems, etc and making $10,000 profit on that, then that is your particular dealership who was bending customers over.

          I notice you said you “worked” (past tense) at a GM dealership. I guess the “bending the customer over the table” and grossing the crap out of them on AFTERMARKET accessories caught up to you, eh? If you are leaving out details like you did in your first post about the $10-25,000 profit on every truck, actually grossing them on aftermarket options (not the GM factory ones like you made it sound like) I can see why you used to work for a GM dealership.

          Reply
          1. Location, location, location!

            Reply
        2. Your in canada are you serious? prices are completely different in Southern California, for your information. You have enough time to sit at work and type all this geez man you must be hurting on sales.

          Reply
          1. You are right, prices are different in southern California (US). We have higher MSRP’s and higher invoices, but guess what, the margin percentages are within 1% of each other. So dealerships do not have $10,000 to $25,000 profit on a GM truck (as you mentioned, your dealership had to add a bunch of aftermarket accessories and warranties while hosing their customers to make that profit). Yet in your original post, you made it appear like that profit was based on the optional factory equipment from GM.

            The GM Auto book program is a North American Program, so I can see what the US margins are too.

            And by the way, I am on holidays right now (took a week off to do some snowmobiling). And as a GM Product/Process Trainer for one of the largest Western Canadian dealerships, its my job to be on site like this to see what’s new, what people are saying, etc. I just like to call people on their crap.

            Reply
  13. I have a brand new High Country with the L86 6.2L. I love everything about the truck except the seatbelt is almost impossible to connect without leaving the door open so I can lean to the left, and GM went way overboard with the electronic infotainment systems. So many redundant gizzmo’s. What a waste of money. How many sources of music does one need? Two guidance packages. The list is LONG. Lastly, I ordered the truck in mid-November and it arrived at the dealer on January 6. Seven weeks is too long in today’s world,

    Reply
    1. Why would you go for a loaded truck and call it a “waste of money” when you should have known full well what it included. Also, you ordered a truck, not a steak. Seven weeks is actually a pretty decent processing period. And definitely better than the year-long waiting list to get a C7.

      Reply
  14. I drive a chevy 35 ltz .and can’t understand why gm has not installed the elect mirrors I know I could use these every time I drive the truck

    Reply
  15. Manoli

    I understand the Denali and the new High Country but they are just a small percentage of the segment and will not increase sales. GM is already has the most profitable line of trucks since they are not discounting them but they also are the most expensive to buy right now.

    GM could offer incentives like they have year after year after year or they could come up with a good solid package and price it aggressive to try to win the sales on those who are waiting for incentives that GM does not want to offer.

    This way you can still get the big price on the Top line but the average guy who is waiting for the incentive would buy the truck he wants and needs any time he is ready.

    There is enough room based on the incentives they could afford to price a truck well and win much of the profit back on volume.

    As it is now I have several loyal GM buyers wanting to buy but refuse as they will not pay top price and are hoping GM blinks on the incentives on a V8 truck.

    The key to all this is that in this segment there is little movement from brand to brand. Most will try to out wait GM as to get the best deal possible. Most folks bought their last 2-3 trucks with a $7500 savings with different packages offered and they darn well will not pay top dollar for a truck and risk seeing GM flinch in October as they always do with their incentives.

    The whole Idea is lower package price on say a LT package and make it up with volume and leave your high end trucks alone as with those folks money is no object to get the electric butt wiper or Rocket propelled winch.

    As it is now the buyers I see and know will not buy just because it has electric mirrors that will only add to the cost that is the problem in the first place.

    Again you can add all these neat and nice items but what will it do to the price of a truck people already think is too high of prices. They are not buying the Fords now because it is the newest and most advanced truck this year. They are buying it because it is cheap.

    GM needs to be competitive on price without incentives.

    Reply
    1. Therein lays the rub. Truck buyers have been downright SPOILED when it comes to incentives. That said, GM’s got some decent deals this month because of the President’s Day sale: http://gmauthority.com/blog/2014/02/gms-presidents-day-sale-includes-big-incentives-on-2014-pickup-trucks/

      Everyone must also keep in mind that these trucks are new. Naturally, they’re not going to match the incentives of the outgoing F-150, which is probably well beyond paid for. Their pricing also might seem high now, but you can take it to the bank that the 2015 F-150 isn’t going to be as affordable as the outgoing model. Nor the next Ram.

      Part of the reason the cost of trucks continue to climb is because of the sheer amount of engineering and content. Direct injection, improved safety features, stronger frames… all of this unseen stuff adds up, and is found even in the most basic of trucks. It’s not about electric butt wipers and rocket propelled winches.

      And forget about the Denali/High Country for a second. GM’s truck sales as a whole are up 17-18% at the end of 2013, and the ATP grew. The small-volume trophy trucks cannot be responsible for this climb.

      Now, I’m not going to pretend I know GM’s pricing strategy like the guys coming up with it do, but with an annual sales bump, an increase in ATP (therefore profit, usually), without the need for heavy incentives and lower pricing, why would they want to change anything? Though I’m sure that as the years continue, things will change. It’s easy to see GM heavily incentivizing its trucks as the new F-150 rolls out. That’s exactly what Ford is doing to GM right now, anyways.

      Reply
  16. Theres no good to have options out there that no one wants or will use, Its better for GM to concentrate on things that the truck customers want on their trucks to make them better. These is what I think the ten things GM’s trucks could use right now or in the short while not in 10 years time when another brand develops something better or there’s totally something new out.
    1.10 speed transmission
    2.Diesel engine option for the 1500 series
    3.A deeper bed option
    4.A Dual Exahust
    5.360-Degree Camera
    6.Exterior 120V outlets
    7.LED tail lights and headlights
    8.Panoramic sunroof
    9.Higher ride height
    10.A GM FACTORY Ultimate off road package (ie Ford raptor)
    also more developed towing mirrors would be nice

    Reply
  17. Theres no good to have options out there that no one wants or will use,

    Reply
  18. ford has the mirrors that turn in on all of there towing mirrors. why can’t gm do the same ?
    anyone that tows a rv or trailer of any kind would use and pay extra .if that is what you are worried about

    Reply
    1. when i went to a new gmc show at the dealer, there high end gmc had electric folding mirrors which worked with the key fob

      Reply
  19. Better economy, towing and otherwise, for the HD Gas engine as well as more power. Raise compression to 10.5 and add direct injection with the software, as in the 5.3 and 6.2, to manage it all. Provide the 8L90 transmission.

    Reply
  20. These new trucks need more than a few fancy gadgets to sell them. Overall styling is boring inside and out. On top of that, they are waaaaayyyyyy overpriced $$$$$$. You have to be straight up crazy to spend $50k on one of these.

    Reply
  21. A diesel engine. In a hurry.

    Don’t believe me? Ram diesels sold out in three days! See link below.

    This could have been GM a year ago, even the 400 ft lbs four banger would have impressed customers with MPG and power and could have thrown the competition a nice curveball. Now they are just playing catch up. What else is new?

    http://autos.yahoo.com/news/initial-run-ram-1500-ecodiesel-sells-just-3-153014176.html?.tsrc=samsungbm

    Reply
    1. Demand for products like this are always hot out of the gate. We’ll have to see if demand stays hot.

      Reply
      1. @Katakis “we’ll have to see if diesel demand stays hot”

        with all due respect, THAT attitude is exactly what is wrong with head in the sand GM. Not leading and most of the time not following either. Three years ago, they were so sure Ecoboost is just a fad, just like now with Ram diesels selling before ever making it onto dealer lots, GM shows no reaction or battle plan.

        Everyone’s sales are up except GM’s (with the newest desgin), what more proof does one need to see something is very wrong?!

        Reply
        1. Whoa, hey. I want a diesel, too. I’m just saying, I don’t think Ram is going fill 8,000 orders on their EcoDiesel every three days. That’s a pace of nearly one million annual sales. That’s not going to happen.

          EcoBoost has its place, and GM has the hardware to match it, too. But if the V8 engines can keep up with the EcoBoost in fuel economy, why bother? On that note, I would like to see the midsize trucks adapt the LF3 3.6L TT engine. That could be a very entertaining ride.

          Reply
          1. I am with you on this one; a diesel is not a necessity.

            Right now in Canada, the price of diesel is 20% higher than gas which means the 20% better fuel economy is a wash and the oil companies are saying this diesel to gas ratio is not likely to change as the demand for diesel increase. Then you add in the $3-4000 cost to buy the diesel and the demand goes away.

            We had a ton of people a few months back asking when the diesel Colorado was arriving. Now we have very few; more are asking what gas engines will be available. Even the Cruze diesel inquiries have slowed down.

            Just because something is new, doesn’t mean it’s the next best thing. Does a diesel 1/2 ton have a place; sure. But even Dodge announced it doesn’t expect the diesel to exceed 5-8% of their truck sales (especially once the “it’s new” coolness calms down).

            Reply
            1. dpach- the $3-4K for the diesel option is not correct. The $4,000 cost would be if you were upgrading from the base V6. Its a $2850 upgrade from the Hemi 5.7. And btw, the V6 gets the best MPG’s between all the trucks and all the possible powerplant configurations. And if you want to play the HP/FT LB war, the 8 Spd is geared to work very well with the V6 as well as 3.21 gears on the 5.7. Trust me, I own both!

              Reply
  22. Sounds like GM needs lots n lots of upgrading…
    Or just get the new 2015 F150 when it arrives and your wish list is complete!

    Concerning ATP’s – Ford’s is the Highest in the industry:
    – over 30% of F150 sales are high-end models – King Ranch, Limited, Platinum, Raptor that sell over $50K

    Buyers want all the tech toys in their trucks and the 2015 F150 is loaded with them… Plus (11) Exclusives:
    1-360-degree camera view, using exterior cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the truck to help the driver park, maneuver in tight spots and navigate down narrow roads and trails
    2- Integrated loading ramps, which enable easy loading of ATVs, motorcycles and mowers
    3-BoxLinkâ„¢, which is a combination of metal brackets and custom cleats used to secure a variety of accessories in the cargo box, from ramps to storage bins to bed dividers
    4-LED headlamps and taillamps, which provide excellent nighttime visibility
    5-Trailer hitch assist, a new rear view camera feature that adds a dynamic line based on steering wheel angle in the display to help customers line up truck and trailer without requiring a spotter or having to get out of the vehicle
    6-Smart trailer tow module, using an all-new smart trailer tow wiring harness that helps identify and inform the driver of potential trailer connectivity issues, burned or unlit trailer marker lamps, and brake light and battery faults
    7-Remote tailgate, allowing for the tailgate to be locked, unlocked and released with the key fob – eliminating manual locking and increasing convenience and security. The tailgate also is damped, dropping down, hands-free, to a flat position when opened
    8-High-wattage power outlets (400 watts, 110 volts) in the cab, allowing drivers to easily charge corded tools, battery chargers or mobile devices on-site or while driving
    9-LED spotlights on sideview mirrors, which provide powerful, durable and bright lighting around the truck exterior
    10-Latest EcoBoost® technology in an all-new, even more efficient 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine that features extremely high output and lightweight design
    11-Next-generation tailgate step, fully integrated inside the tailgate and virtually invisible when not in use

    Reply
    1. ATP does not equal how many trucks are offered at a high price. It’s how much money people pay for a vehicle on average with all sales included. And highlighting the functionality of the F-150 is my point, but you can do better than cutting/pasting the press release, I hope.

      Reply
  23. After reading all the comment, the person who has made the most sense is Scott and agree with him. make some of the i’tem’s on the list optional , but realize the cost on the already I high prized truck.

    Reply
  24. While the 1/2 ton Diesel is going to be nice to offer it will neither make or break the 1/2 ton truck market. It will bolster some sales but it will remain a small segment in this group.

    As for Ford we have nothing to worry about anymore Mike Rowe quite Ford. Everyone liked him more than even the trucks. He is the best admired spokesman in the country. LOL! Now If we could only get him to GM.

    I was looking at prices today and a good not fully loaded Crew short bed is $48,000 with a 5.3. Move to a better package like the high country and it is pushing $55,000. Last year I drove a new Denali Crew with sunroof and it was near $65,000 if I recall on the sticker.

    The price issue is not only for trucks but cars too. Who ever an under cut the others price will sell more vehicles plain and simple in all models. This is what Hyundai did to Honda and Toyota and sold a lot of cars under their best prices.

    Money is tight and people are cutting back. My so called affordable health care just too the Obama jump to pay for all the people he is giving it away to. The fact is people are cutting back. This is why Buick is going to be important as if they can offer Luxury cars at a very affordable price it will draw many buyers from other brands they can nor longer afford the price or lease on.

    Everyone wants to be a millionaire but they all want to shop at Walmart. The fact is prices are only going to get worse with increase in energy cost and government regulation. Most peoples pay will not keep pace so cars like the Cruze and even the Colorado will be important to hold cost down to where the average person can still own a be it smaller but nice car.

    Ford hit pay dirt on the Fusion as this is just the right combination of lower price but still a good many options and MPG in a nice looking package.

    I would like to see a Avalanche like vehicle on the Colorado platform. This would make a smaller SUV/pickup more versatile in this segment than what has been offered. Also it would keep the cost down as not many can afford a $60K vehicle.

    Reply
  25. with diesel selling for close to a $1 more a gallon unless you need the power i don’t think a diesel in a 1/2 ton is going to be a big seller to people who just haul air in the bed

    Reply
  26. What truck need to most today is no more input by people that would write an artical like this. Buy the damn suv’s and bring trucks back to being simple useful and cost affective to purchase and to own.

    Reply
    1. It sounds like what you’re looking for is in the second-hand market.

      Reply
    2. Blacklisterd, I can see your point as simplicity can be a very good thing; and more economical. But there are too many people today who rely on the technologies in today’s trucks.

      Example: I have a good customer who is a realtor. He not only uses his truck for work with clients, but also pulls a camper in the summer and snowmobile trailer in the winter. He needs technology like Mylink with Bluetooth/phone contact info in his vehicle because that is his mobile office. He needs to be able to carry customer files with him (the new 2014 console with file folder hangers is ideal). He always has a laptop, smartphone and some kind of a tablet with him that he needs to keep charged.

      I do think that automobile companies may be going too far, but it is only because of customer demand; we the people keep wanting more (but don’t want/expect to pay anymore for it).

      Reply
  27. How about less people complaining about them!

    Reply
    1. How about less putting them on a pedestal?

      Reply
  28. How about pointing out the best parts of the truck instead of nit picking things that only bother you!

    Do people think these trucks are made for them personally?

    Reply
    1. If that’s all you got from reading then you missed the point entirely.

      Reply
  29. Well then explain it to me like I’m a 6 grader!

    Reply
    1. I don’t have time to explain to 6th graders.

      Reply
  30. Quick comments: 1. New ideas are great, most people like them, but we now have a nice LT crew cab 1500 at $46,000. 2. We have forgot that people who work with the trucks cannot reach in and grab tools. The higher profiles of the trucks make almost everyone enter from the rear of the truck to get tools. 3. Older customers are now having a tough time getting into the cab and only with the aid of a step. Many are not buying because of this. 4. Are we building trucks or are we developing cars with a pickup bed. Most folks in my area cannot afford a truck, hate the new technology and wish they could find a clean 2006 work truck for its lower profile and price. I find the folks who are buying new are either companies or people who have money. Those folks want everything!
    90% of the folks in my rural county only dream of owing a new truck. The new pricing without alumimum has made it only a dream. What will the price be with aluminium! I would suggest to any manufacture that they better start to think of how they can sell them because most folks cannot afford them.
    I like the new GM trucks. I am sure that Ford will have a great truck when it hits. Only time will tell if they are right.

    Reply
  31. Exterior outlets: so someone can jack your power and drain your battery

    Cargo camera: you have 3 mirrors and can look out the rear window.

    Tailgate tie downs: you’ve now just lost the ability to drop the tailgate

    Reply
  32. I definitely agree that trucks should be having a side-step for the bed. I also think that a tailgate step would be a good idea since it allows you to step up from more than one position. However, it also depends on how you use your truck overall.

    Reply

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