At GMC, we specialize in bringing innovative technologies to market that enhance capability and elevate the driving experience. There’s no better example of our commitment to leveraging advanced technology than the Sierra with eAssist, available on two- and four-wheel drive Sierra 1500 SLT crew cab pickups.

EFFICIENT FOUNDATION
We started by taking an already advanced drivetrain and made it even more cutting edge. As it stands, Sierra’s 5.3-liter V-8 engine boasts direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management, and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission – all technologies designed to deliver the perfect combination of fuel efficiency and power when needed most.

The Sierra with eAssist builds upon that recipe by adding the lightly electrified eAssist system, which includes both a compact induction motor and an air-cooled, 0.45 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

When a conventional vehicle comes to a stop – for example, at an intersection, or in bumper-to-bumper traffic – the engine typically does not stop running. Running the engine during these periods is inefficient, as it doesn’t result in any vehicle movement.

A SOLUTION THAT SAVES FUEL
Sierra’s eAssist system provides a solution that doesn’t require the driver to take any additional action, nor sacrifice comfort or convenience. Once the engine is at operating temperature, the eAssist system can smoothly bring the engine to a halt once it senses the driver bringing the truck to a stop. The battery pack then provides ample power to keep vehicle systems – including lighting, heating and cooling, electrical accessories, and more – fully powered and operational, as if the engine were running.

As soon as the driver moves his or her foot off the brake pedal, the induction motor instantly restarts the engine, allowing the Sierra with eAssist to accelerate off the line like any other vehicle. The driver never needs to plug in or manually recharge the eAssist battery, as regenerative braking recovers energy during braking and converts it to electricity.

eAssist’s induction motor can also provide a small boost – up to 13 horsepower and 44 lb-ft – of power. This can be particularly useful when accelerating from a stop or while towing a trailer, and also benefits normal driving around town. The added power of the motor allows Sierra’s Active Fuel Management system to run the V-8 engine in four-cylinder mode for extended periods of time, and further reduce fuel consumption.

Sierra with eAssist also builds upon the Sierra’s aerodynamically-efficient shape by incorporating a standard soft tonneau cover and automatic grille shutters, which close at speeds over 30 mph. These changes improve Sierra’s aerodynamics by 6 percent, and optimize fuel consumption.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES, INSIDE AND OUT
As the Sierra with eAssist is based on a two-wheel drive SLT crew cab with the Premium Plus package, advanced technologies extend beyond the drivetrain. High-Performance LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, and LED tail lamps are included, as are Intellibeam technology, which automatically dims headlamps when oncoming traffic is detected. Sierra SLT eAssist also includes front and rear park assist systems, a rear vision camera, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Keep Assist.

Inside, a Bose premium audio system is paired with GMC’s IntelliLink system^† with 8-inch diagonal color touch screen with navigation^†, which also provides both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity^†. Additionally, Sierra’s center console features wireless phone charging^†, which allows compatible devices or phone cases to recharge without using a dedicated charger or cable.

Other premium appointments on the Sierra with eAssist include heated and vented leather-appointed front bucket seats, a heated steering wheel, 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, six-inch rectangular chrome assist steps, a spray-on bedliner, and eAssist badging.