Blog Posts

Evolution Of The Chevy Silverado From GMT-400 To GM-T1

The Chevy Silverado has come a very long way from the GTM-400, transforming into what we now know as the GM-T1. Here's its evolution.

Chevrolet trucks have withstood the test of time and exceeded expectations in the process. A long tradition of purpose-driven engineering and holistic development of each versatile platform has contributed to the success of these trucks. Out of all the Chevy trucks, the Silverado is a true star, garnering many Truck Of The Year awards and the loyal support of owners around the world.

The stellar performance of the Silverado also explains its use in diverse applications. Some of its common uses have been as a NASCAR race truck, emergency response and police vehicle, ambulance and tow truck. GM even has a defense division that designs trucks from these platforms specifically for military use. Below are some of the ways the Silverado has evolved in tune with a lineage of Chevy workhorses.

13 The Origins Of Chevy Trucks

Chevy trucks were designed for work and utility purposes. The 1918 Series 490 was the first to be sold, offering the chassis alone with a user-installed cab and body. The light-duty progressed into the pioneering OHV 6cyl engine with 46hp. 1929 marked the origins of closed-cab Chevy trucks and a further evolution of the engine into the straight six "Cast Iron Wonder". By 1954, Chevy's "Advance design" line featured an engine with 112hp and 200lb-ft. of torque.

12 Historic "Task Force" Series

The Task Force series was important in the evolution of Chevy trucks, which included the first wrap-around windshield and the addition of the OHV V8 engine. This small-block produced 238lb-ft of torque at 2000rpm. Chevy added both exterior and interior updates to the vehicle's clean, sleek aesthetic.

11 First Generation C/K (1960-1966)

Some of the models in the first generation C/K truck included the Apache, Fleetside, and C10. Trucks that were 2WD featured the "C" designation while "K" models were 4WD. The primary changes in this generation featured independent front suspension as well as a redesigned body.

10 C/K Trucks From 1967-1972

In an attempt to prevent rust buildup, Chevy added an improved type of sheet metal to these trucks. Suspension was upgraded from leaf springs to coil spring/trailing arm rear suspension. 1968 marked the 50th anniversary of Chevy truck production, and a special anniversary package with gold-white trim was offered.

9 1973-1987: Third Generation C/K Trucks

The square body era of C/K trucks had a "rounded-line design". Four new body styles were introduced, including the Chevy Fleetside/Stepside and the GMC Wideside/Fenderside. The Eaton auto-locking rear differential was offered as an option. Out of the various trim models including the Cheyenne, the Silverado was the top package of the time. Modernized amenities were offered such as power windows and locks and rear defroster options. By 1978, over 1.3 million Chevy trucks had been sold.

8 Introduction Of The GMT-400 Platform (1988-1998)

Beginning in 1988, Chevy trucks were built on the GMT-400 platform, and weight designations of 1500, 2500, and 3500 were added.  Drivers could activate 4WD through the cab using the Insta-Trac system. Independent suspension with torsion bars replaced front leaf springs in the Chevy 4x4 in 1988.

7 GM Trucks Are Popular Classics

These trucks have been widely praised for their ability to clock insane mileage on the odometer without producing any major mechanical failures. GM even has a "Chevy Truck Legends" program for owners with 100,000+ miles on their trucks; The club has thousands of members nationwide. Many of the trucks have over 1,000,000 miles on them and are still going strong.

6 Sierra & Suburban Models Are Closely Related To The Silverado

Apart from the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado being manufactured by two different GM divisions, the main differences between the trucks are mostly aesthetic. The Suburban is the full-size SUV variant with mechanical components that are essentially the same.

5 GMT-400 Classics Are The Most Modded Chevy Trucks

The Silverado's versatile platform proves to be relatively easy to mod. Body mods are varied and the truck can perform well lowered or lifted sky-high into a monster truck. Their mechanics and structure make them easy to work on. These trucks see their fair share of engine and performance mods ranging from GM LS swaps to full Cummins Diesel conversions.

4 The First Generation Silverado, GMT-800 (1999-2006)

The first generation of production Silverados was run alongside the Sierra line as heavy duty (HD) trucks. They were both built on the GMT-800 platform, while vehicles such as the Escalade and Hummer H2 were built on other variants of the 800 series (820, 830, 806). The V8 engines were offered in sizes of 4.8, 5.3, and 6.0L. At this point, Chevy was incorporating consumer comfort and more luxurious interiors into a solid work truck platform.

3 GMT-900, The Second Gen Edition (2007-2013)

The GMT-900 platform had a frame with hydroformed components and a novel front coil-over suspension with splayed rear shocks. Hydraulic engine mounts were added along with the addition of a 6L80 transmission. Heavy Duty models were bolstered with high strength steel, using a 6L90 transmission.

2 The Third Generation (2014-2018) Saw Major Updates

Kicking off 2014 with another Truck of the Year award, GM improved stability and endurance by using high-strength steel and structural improvements on the K2XX platform. In addition to the 4.3L V6 and 5.3/6.3L V8s, the massive 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 was offered. Models such as the Sierra HD All Terrain included Rancho shocks, skid plates, and the standard Eaton auto-locking rear differential for enhanced off-road control.

1 2018-Present: A New Era For The Chevy Silverado

These models progressed to the GM-T1 platform.  2020 models feature an impressive blend of comfort, durability, and power. It offers 6 engine choices, ranging from a 2.7L turbo to a including a 6.2L V8, all with Hydra-matic 10-speed transmission. The 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 has 420hp and a stunning tow capacity of 13,400lb. There are 8 fully-fledged trim options for any application and 3 unique special editions that have a flawless look.