GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, has debuted its cutting-edge “Next Gen” tactical vehicle prototype at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition. The new vehicle, based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2, is on display at Booth #7809, Hall D, showcasing advanced technologies aimed at enhancing the capabilities of U.S. military forces.
Equipped with GM’s 2.8L Duramax® turbo-diesel engine, a 12-module battery pack, and drive motors for both front and rear axles, the Next Gen vehicle offers innovative “Silent Drive” and “Silent Watch” features, making it ideal for stealth operations in high-threat zones. These capabilities, combined with onboard power systems, support high-energy sensors, communication devices, and essential Soldier equipment, giving troops a tactical edge during critical missions.
“Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “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 a competitive advantage over our adversaries. Our Next Gen mobility solution can be customized and fielded now.”
Key tactical features of the Next Gen vehicle include low acoustic and thermal signatures for stealth operations, exportable power to support mission-critical systems, and extended range capabilities. The vehicle is designed to be autonomy-ready, offering both manned and unmanned operation options, and it is adaptable for add-on armor to meet diverse mission needs.
John ‘JD’ Johnson, Vice President of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division, highlighted the vehicle’s potential. “Next Gen’s ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel,” said Johnson. “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.”
The Next Gen vehicle is available in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations and is optimized to support multi-mission capabilities, such as command and control, network extension, counter-unmanned aerial systems, anti-armor operations, and casualty evacuation. It also provides sustainment benefits like reduced fuel demand, compatibility with existing JP8 fuel infrastructure, and lower maintenance needs due to its streamlined propulsion system.
In addition to the Next Gen vehicle, GM Defense is showcasing its Stable Tactical Expeditionary Electric Power solution and Infantry Utility Vehicle, featuring elements of the U.S. Army’s Human-Machine Integration – Formation initiative. The display includes the U.S. Army’s Infantry Squad Vehicle and other light tactical utility vehicles equipped with mission kits.
AUSA 2024 attendees are invited to explore GM Defense’s advanced tactical solutions firsthand, as the company aims to demonstrate the capabilities that could soon be fielded to support the U.S. military’s evolving mission requirements.
