Chevrolet Kicks Off Production of Bi-Fuel Silverado Truck

OXFORD, Maine, Nov. 21, 2012 — Natural gas is a clean-burning fuel that brings lower vehicle running costs to fleet owners, but converting trucks to run on the alternative-energy source typically requires an aftermarket kit that compromises range and capability. Chevy has worked to solve that market problem with bi-fuel models of its Silverado HD, which recently went into production and are now available for order through Chevy dealers. The models offer a turnkey solution for business owners and retail customers looking to take advantage of falling compressed natural gas (CNG) prices.

Currently, the national average price of a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.42, and a gallon of diesel is more expensive still at $3.99. In contrast, the equivalent amount of CNG is just $2.09. With its 650-mile total range and ability to seamlessly switch from gasoline to CNG, the bi-fuel Chevy Silverado HD should prove to be an attractive package for fleet operators.

"Unlike trucks with conversion kits, the bi-fuel Silverado HD will come with a full Chevy warranty, so you know the drivetrain has been engineered to stand up to the rigors of the work week," said Rick Smith, general manager of Oxford, Maine Chevy dealership Goodwin Chevrolet Oxford. "And, unlike other OEM options, the CNG-ready Silverado doesn't sacrifice driving range or a bunch of space in the bed."

Chevy's warranty runs for three years or 36,000 miles on general parts and five years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain and emissions system, a benefit that should provide peace of mind to those fueling up with CNG for the first time. The bi-fuel Silverado HD features a Vortec 6.0-liter V8 engine under the hood and a Type-3 single-tank CNG system that optimizes space in the truck's bed.

Like in other heavy-duty Chevy trucks, the bi-fuel Silverado HD will have a range of options when it comes to bed lengths, body styles and drive options. Buyers of the special Chevy Silverado HD can choose between a standard or long cargo bed, as well as between two- or four-wheel drive in extended-cab versions.

Adding a CNG package should help decrease the Silverado lineup's already low ownership costs, which recently earned the truck praise from auto industry analyst Vincentric. After considering factors like depreciation, fees, financing, repairs, maintenance, fuel and insurance, Vincentric declared the Chevy Silverado as having the lowest combined cost of ownership among full-size trucks.

"The Silverado has done well in Vincentric's ownership reports for several years running now, so this year's result is no fluke," Smith noted. "Chevy trucks, whether they run on gasoline, diesel or compressed natural gas, offer real savings that help business owners and their workers keep money in their pockets and unmatched capability at their work sites."

About Goodwin Chevrolet Oxford:
A part of the Goodwin Motor Group that has served customers in New England since 1932, Goodwin Chevrolet Oxford is committed to delivering only the best automotive experience at its Maine Chevy dealership. They provide a relaxed atmosphere where car shoppers can browse an extensive inventory of new and used Chevy vehicles and have their questions answered by an expert sales staff. Call them at 866- 844-1459, visit them online at www.goodwinoxford.com or stop by their dealership, located at 1606 Main Street in Oxford. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoodwinChevroletBuick.