Chevrolet/General Motors’ new Class 4-8 trucks – code-named GMT560 – will be launched during the first half of 2002 as 2003 models.
The Class 4-5 C4500/C5500 Series includes regular, crew and chassis cabs. They also offer six niche-vocation packages for ambulance, fire and rescue, school and shuttle bus, snowplow and wrecker applications. GVWRs range from 16,000-19,500 pounds, and horsepower ranges from 210-300 (Duramax 6600 diesel) and 225-325 (Vortec 8100 gas). Transmission choices are a Synchronized ZF 6-speed manual and an electronically controlled Allison 1000 5-speed automatic.
The Class 6-8 C6500, C7500 and C8500 series trucks will be initially available in two-wheel-drive regular cab, crew and chassis cab configurations. GVWRs range from 19,501 to 61,000 pounds, with horsepower ratings from 200-275 (Duramax 7800 diesel), 190-300 (Caterpillar 3126E diesel) and 225-295 (Vortec 8100 gas). Allison 2000 automatic transmissions are standard in the C6500 and 7500 series, while an Allison MD 3000 automatic is standard in the C8500. Optional, manual transmissions include a range of Eaton 5-, 6-, 9- and 10-speed models, and two TTC, 7-speed models.
Enhancements to the new truck lines, according to GM, include easier serviceability, more comfortable cabs, improved ride, superior visibility, reduced noise, faster, straighter stops and a tighter turning circle.
Chevrolet Division (www.chevrolet.com)
General Motors Corp. (www.gm.com)
