General Motors exited the medium duty low cab forward truck space years ago, but has returned to the segment with the 2017 Chevrolet Low Cab Forward. Like before, the automaker partnered with old pal Isuzu, which has developed and builds the truck, while GM supplies the 6.0-liter Vortec L96 V8 gasoline engine as one of the three engine options.
Auburn, Indiana-based Harmony Outdoor Power Equipment is the first small business to take delivery of the new Chevy LCF, and the owner absolutely enthused Chevrolet has returned to the segment.
“Now that Chevrolet is in the Low Cab Forward business, I can consolidate my business with one company for sales and service,” said owner Don Harter. “It makes our entire organization more efficient.”
Harter decided to equip his Chevy Low Cab Forward truck with a turbo-diesel engine (developed and supplied by Isuzu), meaning that fuel economy is much appreciated.
“My drivers love how this truck maneuvers like a car and they also appreciate the quiet ride in the cab,” said Harter. “We are already seeing significantly improved fuel economy with the new Chevrolet Low Cab Forward, which makes it a great choice from a financial perspective.”
The Chevrolet low cab forward trucks are on sale now with a starting MSRP of $40,900 for the base gasoline variant.
Comments
In West Michigan more GMC’s were sold than chebys.
After building medium duty trucks for over 100 years. why does GM need the help of a Japanese company to continue to do business? I would not purchase these Japanese hybrids if I can get a similar product from International or Ford or possibly Freightliner.
GM owns 49% of Isuzu, and they’ve also produced engines for Ford
Do you have any documentation for this claim of a 49% ownership of GM in Isuzu?
The en.Wikipedia article on Isuzu tells a different story:
• 1972 GM took a 34% share in Isuzu capital
Ç1999 – GM raises its stake in Isuzu to 49%, effectively gaining control of the company.
• Late 2002 – Isuzu begins the re-purchase of its stock from shareholders, primarily General Motors. Isuzu reduces GM’s 49% share to 12% as part of this comprehensive recapitalization plan.
The latter move gives GM full control of DMAX and Isuzu Motors Polska (Tychy).
So, in 2002 GM held 60% of Isuzu Motors Polska, purchasing the remaining 40% in 2013.
This engine part is one of the five component plants changing hands in the GM-PSA deal over Opel.
Now, how much of todays Isuzu capital is owned today by GM? I would guess that latest with the bankruptcy in 2009, GM gave this up completely.