Pickup trucks have always been a major component for any successful full-line automaker here in the United States, and, even though sales are down, it doesn't seem likely this will change any time soon. What will change, though, are the kinds of expectations truck buyers will have for their new rigs, and that includes improved fuel economy without a reduction in capability.
In order to meet these seemingly diametrically opposed objectives, General Motors will reportedly invest hundreds of millions of dollars into its truck platform in an effort to add a few precious miles per gallon to its fullsize Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups.
Included in the fuel-saving technology may be more than just tweaks to the engines and transmissions. For instance, Automotive News reports that The General has been working on an innovative grille that would boast electronically-operated openings that could improve aerodynamic efficiency when maximum engine cooling isn't needed. Such a system was first seen in concept form on the Cadillac Provoq crossover from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show.
