2017 GMC Sierra Denali 2500HD: Bold Hood Design Hints at What Lies Beneath

DETROIT – GMC today released the first photos of the 2017 Sierra Denali 2500HD featuring a functional hood scoop design hinting at what is beneath its bold new appearance.
In May 2016, Sierra Denali HDs accounted for 48 percent of HD retail sales.

Additional details and information on the new model will be released in the coming months.
GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

GMC Offers Trailering Enhancements for 2016 Sierra

Factory- and dealer-installed features 

add convenience, confidence to towing duties

DETROIT – New available features including a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a trailering camera system complement built-in technologies to help make trailering with the 2016 GMC Sierra easier and more comfortable than ever. 

The gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is offered on Sierra HD models and makes them ready to tow larger trailers right from the factory, while the trailering camera system is available for Sierra 1500 and HD models. It was developed with Echomaster to help reduce blind spots on the highway and when reversing with a trailer.

“GMC’s reputation was forged on the ability to perform heavy work with a premium touch, and these new options do more to make that work comfortable and confident,” said Sierra Marketing Manager Stuart Pierce. “With a 112-year legacy of professional-grade trucks behind them, the entire Sierra lineup handles the toughest tasks with the utmost ease.”

Gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package
The new gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is a $350 option featuring a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray that accommodates a gooseneck ball hitch or fifth-wheel hitch mounting brackets.

The platform is concealed beneath the truck’s bed floor and when the hitch isn’t needed, it can be removed for full use of the bed’s cargo capacity. Caps for the openings in the floor are included and a bed-mounted seven-way trailer wiring connection comes with the prep package.

Additionally, a new gooseneck completion kit is available from GMC dealers that features a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs. It carries a retail price of $315. GMC dealers also offer CURT Manufacturing fifth-wheel hitches compatible with the factory-installed hitch platform. They are available in 20,000-lb. and 25,000-lb. versions for $939 and $999, respectively (not including tax, installation and labor charges). 

The 2016 Sierra HDs’ fifth-wheel trailering ratings are aligned with SAE J2807 standards, with maximum capacities including:
•    2500HD trailering rating of 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg)
•    3500HD single-rear-wheel trailering rating of 17,500 pounds (7,938 kg)
•    3500HD dual-rear-wheel trailering rating of 23,200 pounds (10,523 kg)




Trailering camera system
Developed with safety feature manufacturer Echomaster, GMC’s new dealer-available blind-spot-assist towing package system is compatible with 2014-16 Sierra 1500 and HD truck equipped with the DPN- or DQS-code trailer mirrors.

It features three cameras: two side-view cameras and one for the rear of the trailer. The side cameras are integrated with the trailer mirror housings, offering improved vision on the sides of the truck and trailer, displayed on the IntelliLink screen in the cab.

The rear camera is designed to be mounted to the top, rearmost edge of the trailer, providing a view of what’s behind the trailer when reversing. It is hardwired to the trailer lights for electrical power and wirelessly transmits images to the interior display. It also features infrared lighting for enhanced images in low-light settings. 

The Sierra’s rear backup camera is activated when reverse is selected. Pressing and holding the radio Home button for five seconds brings up the camera menu screen to select the trailer camera image. The system also supports the use of an optional fourth camera, such as one inside the trailer, transmitting video to monitor horses, other livestock or additional content during transport.

Any of the camera views can be activated at any time on the IntelliLink display. Later this summer GMC will also offer a camera integrated in the center brake lamp housing that provides a view of the cargo bed contents or additional assistance when connecting a fifth-wheel/gooseneck trailer.

The trailering camera system is available from dealers and starts at $999 (not including tax, installation and labor charges). It is warranted by Echomaster, a division of AAMP Global.

Built-in trailering technologies
Sierra 1500 and HD models are engineered to deliver great trailering capability with refinement and control – attributes that provide driving confidence when using that capability to the fullest.

All models feature standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control with trailer sway control and hill start assist, as well as four-wheel disc brakes. An automatic locking rear axle is standard on HD models and included with the available NHT Max Trailering package on Sierra 1500.

Additional features include:
•    Integrated trailer brake controller is available on Sierra 1500 and 2500HD and standard on 3500HD
•    Available rear-vision camera system
•    Available integrated cruise control, auto grade braking and diesel exhaust braking offer greater driving control and reduced brake wear on grades

New Digital Steering Assist is offered on crew cab SLE, SLT, Denali and double cab diesel SLE and SLT Sierra HD models. It enhances driver control with a trailer by using technology similar to active rack-and-pinion systems to provide corrections that enhance stability on the highway.

FAST FACT: The GMC Sierra 1500 was named the 2016 Texas Truck Showdown Towing Champion in a head-to-head capability test conducted by editors from Cars.com, PickupTrucks.com and MrTruck.com.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

Harbor Workmaster Body 1 - Harbor Truck Bodies

Warren gives us a great presentation of the features of the Harbor Workmaster enclosed service utility body. Also know as a Plumber Body. See more at http://www.htbi.net

GMC Introduces Yukon SLT Premium Edition

Unique chrome accents, 22-inch wheels offer upscale style

  

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. – GMC today announced the 2016 Yukon SLT Premium Edition – a chrome-trimmed special model offering a premium, personalized appearance on SLT models.

It goes on sale this summer, offered on Yukon and Yukon XL models. Features include:
•    Unique design 22-inch chrome-wheels
•    Unique design chrome grille
•    Bright chrome body-side moldings
•    Polished exhaust tip

“The new Yukon SLT Premium Edition adds distinction and personalized style to the already well-appointed Yukon SLT model,” said Stu Pierce, senior marketing manager, GMC Trucks & Full-size SUVs. “For discerning customers seeking uncompromising capability and unparalleled refinement in a full-size SUV, Yukon SLT Premium Edition delivers with the latest in technologies, amenities and a unique and premium style.”

Yukon and Yukon XL SLT models are powered by an advanced 5.3L V-8 engine that offers the segment’s best V-8 fuel economy: an EPA-estimated 23 highway mpg (2WD models).

Additional standard and available features on SLT models include:
•    Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience, including an available power-folding feature
•    Power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings and hands-free operation
•    Wireless phone charging
•    Standard 8-inch-diagonal color touch-screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
•    Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility
•    Keyless Open and Start
•    8,500-lb. max trailering for Yukon and 8,300-lb. max trailering for Yukon XL (2WD models)

The Yukon lineup also incorporates technologies that help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment’s only Front Center Air Bag (models with front bucket seats), which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side impacts.

Phone projection technology
Through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Yukon’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, allowing you to call up music, navigation apps and more.

Using either application is simple. A “Projection” icon on the IntelliLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected and changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected through a USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later models.

OnStar 4G LTE and available Wi-Fi hotspot complement IntelliLink to enhance Yukon’s connectivity.

Fast Fact: Yukon and Yukon XL sales were up more than 11 percent for the first four months of 2016.

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light-duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest-possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

The Work Truck Show: Networking, learning opportunities for all industry professionals

Hear what industry professionals say about attending The Work Truck Show. http://www.worktruckshow.com

Are you willing to pay more for connected vehicle technologies?

We all know all sorts of technologies, everything from autopilot systems and remote diagnostics to stolen vehicle tracking, offer some potentially big benefits to the trucking industry.

But are truckers willing to pay extra for them? And if so, how much extra?

Global consulting firm Accenture recently conducted a survey posing those very questions to consumers in China, Germany and the U.S. regarding a range of automobile technologies and found – on average – drivers would opt to pay up to an additional 10% of a new car’s sticker price to obtain various in-car systems offering a variety of entertainment, information, remote and driver support services.

In the U.S., where average sticker prices for new light vehicles hit $34,428 in December last year, according to Kelly Blue Book, that “up to 10%” figure translates into some $3,400 or so for technology.

As a point of reference, Axel Schmidt, managing director in Accenture’s automotive practice, noted that the firm polled 5,111 drivers over the age of 18 who operate a vehicle on a regular basis in China, Germany and the U.S. and who also own a smartphone or plan to buy one in the next 6-12 months.

“Consumers are becoming more inclined to make separate purchases of the in-car functions they want most,” he added. “We believe that the demand for a range of features, from safety systems and remote services to parking assist technology, will increase in the coming years.”

Indeed, Accenture believes that by 2025, all new cars sold will be connectivity-enabled. But the question remains exactly what kinds of “connectivity” will appeal most to drivers. Some indications from the firm’s survey include:

•     The functionalities consumers would be most willing to spend more on include remote services such as when a vehicle automatically sends a distress message (63%) to the nearest emergency center when a life-threatening situation occurs or alerts when vehicle breaks down (41%).
•     There is also high interest in remote diagnostics (75%) and vehicle lifecycle management reports (71%), with nearly half of the respondents (43%) willing to spend extra on these features.
•     Over half (55%) want location functionalities like stolen vehicle tracking and recovery, navigation, and remote parked car locator systems, with a third (29%) willing pay more for those in-car services.
•     All told, seven in ten of all respondents (71%) would pay up to 10% of a car’s price to add such functionality to their light vehicles.

Accenture also emphasized that consumer interest in key in-car technologies is likely to grow, with 75% and 71% respectively expecting to use vehicle health and vehicle lifecycle management services in the future.

Appeal for location-based services is also anticipated to gain popularity, with 78% of respondents to Accenture’s poll saying they are interested in having a stolen vehicle recovery and tracking system in the future, with 71% desiring features like the remote parked car locator and just under two-thirds, or 59%, welcoming the use of in-car navigation systems down the road.

In addition, 35% of drivers surveyed by the firm desiring “concierge services” such as voice-activated responses to location-based questions, with 19% willing to pay an additional fee to get it.

A further 32% want “smart home” integration for their vehicles, which provides the ability to control automated devices within the home from a connected vehicle, and 20% would pay more for it.

Yet how much are folks willing to spend for such offerings? Here’s what Accenture’s poll found:

•     Drivers surveyed in China would be willing to spend an average of 16% of the new car’s price on “infotainment” features, while U.S. drivers stop at 15% and Germans at 11% of a new car’s sticker price.
•     For “convenience” services, drivers in the U.S. are willing to spend on average up to 16% of a car’s price, followed by China at 15% and Germany at 11%.
•     With regard to payments for in-car services, nearly half of respondents (47%) are willing to make an upfront payment when buying a new car, or pay for connected services over the lifetime of the services.
•     More than one-third of those polled (34%) want free basic services subject to in-car advertising with the option to upgrade to premium versions of services.
•     And 32% would consider paying a monthly fee for connected vehicle services using a credit card or PayPal.

Some things to think about as we continue diving deeper into the connected vehicle future, in both the car market and commercial trucking space.

Source: http://fleetowner.com/blog/are-you-willing-pay-more-connected-vehicle-technologies

GMC Enlists Josh Duhamel to Support Building for America’s Bravest During Military Appreciation Month

To donate visit ourbravest.org/enlistme 

or call 844-BRAVEST

DETROIT - In honor of Military Appreciation Month, and as part of the ongoing relationship between GMC and veteran support program Building for America’s Bravest, the brand is calling on its staff, fans and fellow Americans to support the foundation’s work to build life-changing smart homes for severely injured service members. GMC has committed to contribute up to $2 million by the end of 2016 and is asking people across the country to “enlist to unlist” the more than 200 severely injured service men and women currently waiting for smart homes.

As part of the campaign, a continuation of the #enlistme activity started in 2015, GMC has enlisted the support of actor Josh Duhamel as campaign ambassador, in an effort to increase awareness and raise funds to make significant differences in the lives of these courageous service members.

Speaking on why he chose to support, Duhamel referenced his strong ties to both the military and the GMC brand. “I grew up near a military base in North Dakota. My aunt was in the military and completed a number of tours overseas and my grandfather was a proud veteran. I feel it’s my duty as an American, and as a supporter of our veterans, to do as much as I can to bring awareness to the work of Building for America’s Bravest. I have owned a GMC truck since 2004, so when GMC asked me to step up and work with them, it was a no-brainer. I hope you will join me in enlisting to support this incredible cause.”

GMC and its parent company have supported the U.S. military for more than 100 years, working with the mantra of “Helping, Hiring & Driving,” through a mixture of employment programs, veteran support programs and offering the best possible automotive military discount during Military Appreciation Month, which is offered to all 21 million veterans and their families through May 31, 2016.

Speaking on the importance of the #enlistme campaign, U.S. Vice President GMC, Duncan Aldred added, “GMC supports the military all year round, but we are especially excited to work with Josh Duhamel during Military Appreciation Month to raise awareness for Building for America’s Bravest. The GMC brand is about precision and attention to detail across our vehicles, and as such, it makes sense for us to support the building of precise smart homes to give these heroes a sense of independence and comfort.”

The #enlistme campaign features two pieces of unique content, hosted by Duhamel, that introduce viewers to some of the veterans who have benefitted from the work of the program:

GMC #enlistme 360 Skydive - The first film sees two severely injured veterans, Marine Cpl. Todd Love and Army Staff Sgt. Stephen Valyou, complete a skydive to celebrate the feeling of independence that smart homes give to veterans. The unique 360-degree video will be available to view and post beginning May 21.

Discussing his passion for skydiving, Love, a triple amputee, said, “When I’m in the sky flying with my friends we’re all equals. Gravity treats us all the same.”

GMC Presents #enlistme with Josh Duhamel - In a documentary-style film, Duhamel meets Marine Sgt. Ben Tomlinson at his smart home in Jacksonville, Alabama to speak with Tomlinson and his family about their journey and the positive impact this home has had on his life. The mini documentary will be available to view and post beginning May 26.

Describing his experience with Building for America’s Bravest, which is a program of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Tomlinson said, “Living in this house has made my outlook on life more positive, and I know the impact on my family has been as big, if not bigger, than it has been for me. I am told all the time that I’m a hero, but to me, the people from Building for America’s Bravest are the real heroes because they’re helping to improve people’s lives. I’m grateful to GMC for supporting their work.”

Speaking on the longstanding relationship with GMC, Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation CEO Frank Siller stated, “GMC’s support of the military is second to none. We’re incredibly thankful for our partnership with them.” Siller continued, “The respect and appreciation that Josh Duhamel has for our veterans truly serves as an example for us all. We’re grateful for his selfless effort to help raise funds and awareness for our Foundation. With the help of Josh and GMC, we’ll be able to build more smart homes for catastrophically injured service members through our Building for America’s Bravest program.”