Chicago 2008: Flex Fuel, Hybrid GMC Denali XT Concept Debuts
Posted Feb 13, 2008 @ 11:37 pm
The El Camino returns! Well, not quite... In Chicago, GM unveiled the GMC Denali XT Concept, a car based pickup featuring a flex fuel, 2-mode hybrid powertrain. This concept is GM's first hybrid vehicle (concept or production) to be flex fuel capable; pretty suprising considering GM's zeal for E85. The combination of a 2-mode hybrid system, a V8 direct injection engine, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), a lightweight car-based platform and a lower, more aerodynamic stance give the Denali XT 50% greater fuel economy than a standard pickup truck.
The GMC Denali XT comes to the US courtesy of the boys down under at Holden. The car-based truck concept sits on the Zeta platform, which also underpins the upcoming Camaro, G8 as well as the Holden Utes in Australia. The Aussies also handled the design work for the Denali XT. The intent was clearly to make a more masculine, truck-looking vehicle than the Holden Utes. The interior makes extensive use of leather and has some very cool retro touches.
Will this concept ever hit dealer lots? As oil prices rise, the chances get better and better. These car-based trucks provide much of the utility of a truck with considerably better fuel economy. While body on frame trucks will surely remain the standard for those who rely on trucks for towing, a unibody ute like the Denali XT is a compelling choice to those who use their trucks more recreationaly.
Category: GMC, Green/Alternative Fuels, Concept Cars
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The El Camino returns! Well, not quite... In Chicago, GM unveiled the GMC Denali XT Concept, a car based pickup featuring a flex fuel, 2-mode hybrid powertrain. This concept is GM's first hybrid vehicle (concept or production) to be flex fuel capable; pretty suprising considering GM's zeal for E85. The combination of a 2-mode hybrid system, a V8 direct injection engine, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), a lightweight car-based platform and a lower, more aerodynamic stance give the Denali XT 50% greater fuel economy than a standard pickup truck.
The GMC Denali XT comes to the US courtesy of the boys down under at Holden. The car-based truck concept sits on the Zeta platform, which also underpins the upcoming Camaro, G8 as well as the Holden Utes in Australia. The Aussies also handled the design work for the Denali XT. The intent was clearly to make a more masculine, truck-looking vehicle than the Holden Utes. The interior makes extensive use of leather and has some very cool retro touches.
Will this concept ever hit dealer lots? As oil prices rise, the chances get better and better. These car-based trucks provide much of the utility of a truck with considerably better fuel economy. While body on frame trucks will surely remain the standard for those who rely on trucks for towing, a unibody ute like the Denali XT is a compelling choice to those who use their trucks more recreationaly.
Category: GMC, Green/Alternative Fuels, Concept Cars
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