Chevrolet Sets 2009 Silverado Hybrid Price at $38,995 in US
Chevrolet has confirmed the 2009 Silverado Hybrid will start at $38,995 for 2WD models, with production beginning December 2008 and deliveries expected in early 2009.
Chevrolet has confirmed the starting price of the 2009 Silverado Hybrid at $38,995 for US buyers, including a $975 destination charge. This price applies to the 2WD model equipped with the 1HY package. The announcement comes ahead of production, which is scheduled to begin in December 2008, with initial deliveries to dealers expected in early 2009. For many customers, the Silverado Hybrid is eligible for a $2,200 federal tax credit, which can help reduce the effective purchase price.
2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid Price and Launch Details
Hybrid Powertrain and Fuel Economy
The 2009 Silverado Hybrid uses General Motors’ two-mode hybrid system paired with a 6.0-litre V8 petrol engine. This advanced hybrid setup allows for all-electric operation at speeds up to 30 mph, enabling the truck to run on battery power alone in low-speed or stop-start conditions. The system is designed to provide real-world fuel savings even when the vehicle is fully loaded or towing a trailer. Chevrolet targets customers who require a full-size pickup but are looking to reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. According to the company, the Silverado Hybrid achieves a 40 percent improvement in city fuel economy and a 25 percent overall gain compared to the standard Silverado, all without sacrificing towing or payload capability.
| Engine | 6.0-litre V8 petrol with two-mode hybrid system |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Hybrid automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel economy (EPA) | 21 mpg city / 22 mpg highway |
| Towing capacity | 6,100 lb (2,767 kg) |
| Hybrid warranty | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Fuel tank | 26 gallons (98 litres) |
EPA estimates for the 2WD Silverado Hybrid are 21 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The 4WD version is rated at 20 mpg for both city and highway. With a 26-gallon fuel tank, Chevrolet states that the 2WD model can travel more than 500 miles between fill-ups, while the 4WD version offers a range of over 470 miles. This extended cruising range is significant for drivers who cover long distances or use their truck for work and towing.
Context in the Hybrid Pickup Market
The Silverado Hybrid shares its two-mode hybrid system and much of its engineering with the GMC Sierra Hybrid, which was also announced for the 2009 model year. Both trucks represent General Motors’ effort to bring more fuel-efficient options to the full-size pickup segment, a part of the market where hybrid technology was still uncommon in 2008. The introduction of these models marked one of the earliest attempts by a major manufacturer to combine the utility of a full-size pickup with significant improvements in fuel economy.
Buyers interested in alternatives can compare the Silverado Hybrid with the Sierra Hybrid and other hybrid pickups as these vehicles become available. The Sierra Hybrid, for example, offers similar hybrid technology and performance figures, appealing to those who prefer GMC styling or features. The market for hybrid pickups was just emerging at the time, so choices were limited, but the Silverado Hybrid and its sibling provided a starting point for customers seeking both capability and efficiency.
Federal Tax Credit and Ownership Benefits
The availability of a $2,200 federal tax credit for many buyers of the Silverado Hybrid adds to the appeal by lowering the effective cost. This incentive was designed to encourage adoption of fuel-saving technologies and can make a notable difference for those considering a hybrid pickup. In addition to the tax credit, the hybrid system’s ability to operate in electric-only mode at low speeds can lead to further savings for drivers who spend a lot of time in urban environments or in stop-and-go traffic.
The Silverado Hybrid’s warranty for hybrid components, covering eight years or 100,000 miles, provides additional peace of mind for buyers who may have concerns about the longevity and durability of hybrid technology in a work truck. This coverage is particularly relevant for fleet operators or those planning to keep their vehicle for many years.
Comparison With Standard Silverado and Other Options
When compared to the standard Silverado, the hybrid model offers a substantial improvement in city fuel economy while maintaining the core capabilities expected of a full-size pickup. The hybrid system does not compromise towing or payload, with a towing capacity of 6,100 pounds for the 2WD model. For buyers needing four-wheel drive, the 4WD version provides slightly lower fuel economy but retains the hybrid’s efficiency advantages over conventional trucks.
Those considering the Silverado Hybrid may also want to look at the GMC Sierra Hybrid, which shares the same hybrid technology, or monitor upcoming hybrid pickup entries from other manufacturers as the segment develops. For more information on related models and engine updates, refer to resources on GMC Sierra Hybrid and Silverado engine developments.
For GMC Sierra Hybrid and Pontiac G3 pricing, see: /2009-gmc-sierra-hybrid-and-pontiac-g3-prices-revealed. For details on Silverado engine developments: /chevrolet-silverado-gains-new-engine.
