GM doubles down on diesel pickups as rivals tap hybrids

General Motors has chosen to stick with a diesel engine for its next-generation pickup trucks, despite rivals opting for hybrid engines. The company plans to launch its redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks in the fourth quarter, marking the first major redesign since 2019. These trucks are the automaker's top-sellers globally, accounting for the majority of GM's profits.

To improve fuel efficiency, GM unveiled an improved diesel engine that, paired with an optional larger fuel tank, can deliver a highway driving range of over 900 miles. Ford and Stellantis, GM's main competitors in the light-duty pickup truck market, are utilizing hybrids to achieve optimal fuel efficiency. GM, however, has largely avoided hybrids in the past.

The diesel engine, a 3.0-liter unit, is expected to provide better highway fuel efficiency than gas engines, which is why large cargo trucks typically use diesels. Despite the current high price of diesel fuel, reaching $6 per gallon, GM believes in the long-term superior efficiency of diesels. The redesigned Silverado and Sierra trucks will also feature two new V-8 engines that are larger and more powerful than their predecessors, while boasting lower tailpipe emissions.