Chevrolet released more details today, including performance stats, on its new Duramax 6.6-liter turbo diesel engine, the muscle in the automaker’s most powerful pickup ever, the 2017 Silverado HD.
In a detailed press release Chevy reports that the new Duramax 6.6-liter represents a next-generation redesign, featuring an all-new, stronger cylinder block and rotating assembly, as well as a new, GM-developed control system. The Duramax’s signature low-rpm torque production hasn’t changed, offering 90 percent of peak torque at a low 1,550 rpm and sustaining it through 2,850 rpm.
Along with a new camshaft profile and improved cylinder head design, a new electronically controlled, variable-vane turbocharger allows the engine to produce more power with lower exhaust emissions. Its advanced variable-vane mechanism allows greater exhaust temperature capability, enabling the engine to achieve higher power at lower cylinder pressure.
Additionally, a new, patent-pending vehicle air intake system with functional hood scoop drives cool, dry air into the engine for sustained performance and cooler engine temperatures during difficult conditions, such as trailering on steep grades. Cooler air helps the engine run better under load, especially in conditions where engine and transmission temperatures can rise quickly. That allows the Duramax to maintain more power and vehicle speed when trailering in challenging conditions.
“The results improve the real-world towing experience for the heart of the HD market, with 89 percent of all HD customers purchasing trucks rated less than 25,000 pounds of towing capacity,” a Chevy representative reports.
Performance highlights for the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD equipped with the new Duramax 6.6-liter power plant include:
- Without a load, 0-60 mph acceleration in as quick as 7.1 seconds, seven-tenths of a second quicker than the previous model (2500HD crew cab 4WD models)
- Towing 10,000 pounds, acceleration from 50 to 70 mph in 10.6 seconds, 1.5 seconds quicker than the previous model (2500HD regular cab 4WD models)
- When towing 23,000 pounds, in 110-degree Fahrenheit ambient temperature, the Silverado climbs the Davis Dam grade 40 seconds quicker than the previous model (3500HD crew cab 2WD with DRW).
For customers hauling cargo levels that require a commercial driver’s license, Chevrolet is expanding its line of commercial vehicles with two new offerings: a Low Cab Forward introduced for the 2016 calendar year, and an all-new conventional-cab, medium-duty truck developed with Navistar to be introduced in the future.
The new Duramax 6.6-liter will arrive in the 2017 Silverado HD in early 2017.
