The
Chevrolet full size pickup is probably the most important vehicle
in GM's entire lineup of cars and trucks. It's the second best selling
vehicle in the US, after Ford's F-150 pickup, and its profits contribute
mightily to GM's bottom line. So when you see the Chevrolet Cheyenne
concept debut early next month in Detroit you will see more than
just a pie-in-the-sky dream truck. You will be witness to GM's efforts
to remain right at the top of the full size truck segment in the
face of increased competition from Ford, Dodge, Toyota and newcomer
Nissan.
The
Cheyenne is rumored to be a pretty good preview of the next full
size Chevy pickup (GMT900) and the innovations this next generation
truck will carry to make it the most capable and competitive pickup
GM has ever offered.
What's
known at this point about the Cheyenne is that it makes quite a
few useful enhancements to the cargo box. The box appears to be
integrated seamlessly with the cabin, apparently helping to stiffen
the truck and reduce noise, vibration and harshness while driving.
A dual-folding tailgate opens fully for complete and quick access
to the bed and there are hidden storage bins beneath the bed floor
and inside the rear quarter panels. Other illustrations show a side
access panel located just behind the cab, similar to that seen on
the Fox
Racing Silverado concept from a few years back.
Like
its namesake from the 1970s, the Cheyenne returns Chevy pickups
to softer body lines from the angular appearance of the current
Chevrolet Silverado. It also gives the Cheyenne a character distinctly
different than the design direction recently taken with other full
size pickups.
The
interior could best be described as REI chic with a rugged, upscale
appearance. Able to take on work or play and look good the entire
time.
If
the Cheyenne is any indication, the 2003 North American International
Auto Show will indeed be remembered as a revolutionary year for
full size pickups. And we'll be there to bring it to you January
5th - 7th.
