General Motors is now offering eAssist mild hybrid system for some variants of the 2016 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. The supplementary electric power reduces the load on the internal-combustion powertrain for enhanced fuel efficiency and lower costs compared to full hybrid systems.
The eAssist mild hybrid technology is powered by a 0.45 kWh lithium-ion battery and comprises of an electric motor with 13 hp, start/stop capability and regenerative braking (used to charge the onboard batteries). This increases the fuel efficiency of the pickup trucks by 2 mpg for final ratings of 20 mpg (city and highway combined).
The eAssist mild hybrid system will be available for the two-wheel Silverado crew cabs in the 1LT trim and Sierra SLT premium plus at an additional cost of $500.
GM plans to produce a limited number of eAssist models: 500 for the Silverado and 200 for the Sierra. For the moment, sales will be restricted to California only, and based on market feedback GM may expand sales to other areas as well.