The wraps are off the “Next Gen” tactical vehicle that’s built by GM Defense. The prototype truck is based on the Chevy Silverado 2500HD ZR2. It pairs a 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel with a 12-module battery pack. Among other things, this enables Silent Drive and Silent Watch technologies.
The Next Gen Tactical Vehicle Boasts Low Acoustic And Thermal Signatures
The idea with Silent Drive and Silent Watch technologies is to make the vehicle harder to detect. The technologies allow stealthy movements through high threat zones. Additionally, this setup enables low acoustic and thermal signatures. Instead of an always-on engine sending power through a transmission and transfer case to axles, the Next Gen’s engine charges the batteries, which then power a drive motor on each axle. The truck can be driven on all-electric power, with the engine off. This system is similar to the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger. GM Defense notes that the system reduces fuel demand and can use the existing JP8 fuel infrastructure. Furthermore, it says that there are lower maintenance requirements due to reduced parts and subsystems in the propulsion system.
Onboard Power, Manned Or Unmanned, And More
Onboard power of the Next Gen tactical vehicle can support high-energy-demand sensors. It also has exportable power that’s capable of charging mission systems. And GM Defense says the vehicle has a “tactically significant range with extended mission duration.” The design allows for the vehicle to be either manned or unmanned, and it can be fit with add-on armor. It has active and passive safety features, including 360-degree camera capabilities, four- and five-point seat belt harnesses, and rollover protection. The company offers the truck in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations, and it provides multi-mission capabilities. These include command and control, launched effects, network extension, counter unmanned aerial systems anti-armor, casualty evacuation, and more.
Tactical Advantages
Steve duMont, President of GM Defense notes the truck’s tactical advantages. “Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies. This rugged and highly capable diesel-powered vehicle offers tactical advantages, such as Silent Operations, exportable power, and increased range with extended mission duration. Our warfighters deserve the latest technology that industry can offer in order to gain and maintain competitive advantage over our adversaries. Our Next Gen mobility solution can be customized and fielded now.”
The Vice President of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division, John “JD” Johnson, says, “Next Gen’s ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel. Customers need to drive this highly capable vehicle to see, feel, and hear the benefits. Next Gen fundamentally changes the discussion around modern mobility through the tactical benefits delivered by its propulsion system, including its ability to address the power gap in the formation. This highly capable tactical vehicle leverages billions of dollars of investments GM has made in R&D and innovation to enhance warfighter capability. We encourage customers to test drive it so that we can get these capabilities fielded immediately.”
The Bottom Line
Electrification is working its way into military vehicles. In addition to the Next Gen Tactical Vehicle, we’ve recently seen AM General’s Humvee Charge concept, which is a plug-in hybrid. Also, the Electric Light Reconnaissance Vehicle that’s built on GM’s Ultium platform. It’s going to be interesting to see what comes next.