General Motors is working hard to introduce 20 new EV models by 2023. However, the automaker’s upcoming EV onslaught will rely on battery power alone, which means no new hybrid models to speak of. That said, for those customers looking to combine gas and electric power with GM’s full-size van lineup, including the Chevy Express and GMC Savana, there’s a solution.
Offered by upfitter XL Fleet, customers can achieve significant boosts to fuel economy when opting into these new hybrid powertrains. According to the upfitter, customers can expect upwards of 25 percent more miles per gallon with the new hybrid systems installed, as well as a 20-percent decrease in CO2 emissions. The end result is more time on the road and less time at the pump, plus more money saved on fuel and less CO2 in the atmosphere.
“XL hybrid systems install quickly and easily onto factory vehicles, so they’re ready to work within your existing fleet – with no driver training, special fueling infrastructure or range concerns,” XL Hybrid explains. “The GM powertrain and warranty remain completely intact, and our hybrid component warranty is 3 years / 75,000 miles.”
The hybrid systems are offered on Chevy Express and GMC Savana 2500/3500 models, and can be paired with the 4.3L V6 LV1 engine and the 6.0L V8 L96. XL Fleet also says the system can be paired with the 4.8L engine option, however, it’s unclear exactly which 4.8L engine the system is compatible with. All wheelbase configurations are supported.
The system includes a lithium-ion battery, and adds 220 pound-feet of peak torque to the driveline. The system also adds an extra 350 pounds of weight.
As GM Authority covered previously, XL Fleet also offers hybrid upfits for the Chevrolet Silverado HD, adding in a 1.8-kWh lithium-ion battery and small electric motor that is connected to the transmission. Like the system for the Chevy Express and GMC Savana, the Silverado HD hybrid upfit was designed to increase fuel economy without voiding the warranty.
Does this hybrid upfit look like a smart bit of kit for Chevy Express and GMC Savana fleet vehicles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and make sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Chevrolet Express news, GMC Savana news, Chevrolet news, GMC news, and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Source: XL Fleet
Comments
My biggest concern as a fleet manager would be having to do maintenance and repairs to two different drive systems on one of these units.
Maintenance will go down, not up. Brakes for example.
Does anyone know how much it cost’s?
If it will save money overall then I could see buying the modification but if it doesn’t I don’t see being able to afford it.
Garlic make my feet stank.
How much will these cost, and when will they be available?